Where in the boat do you want to sit?
- Sit-in kayaks move fast, track straight with covered cargo compartments. Good for paddling to a destination and in cooler conditions.
- Sit-on-top kayaks are easy to get on, self-draining and less confining. Best for easy flowing waters and warmer conditions.
What category of kayak is best for you?
- Recreational: Affordable, stable, easy to use and simple to turn. Best for shorter outings.
- Day touring: Sleeker and more efficient. Easier to transport and handle than touring models but often pricier.
- Touring: Ideal for long distances, tracks and handles wind and currents well with more storage—but at higher cost.
- Specialty: Includes folding, inflatable, tandem and pedal-powered models. Great for limited storage or specific activities like fishing.
Where do you want to paddle?
- Calm waters (lakes): Any sit-on-top or recreational sit-in kayak is a fun choice.
- Flowing rivers (no technical rapids): Choose a short, stable recreational or day-touring model.
- If dealing with wind, waves, currents and tides: Look for a sit-in touring kayak with a rudder or fin. A sit-on-top is a good choice if you don’t mind getting wet.
Read full article: How to Choose a Kayak
