I would argue that many folks who own Rec kayaks have never tried a touring kayak, and after their first test paddle of one, they will likely never go back - for serious paddlers, Rec. boats are supposed to be a starting point, not an end, especially if they have some basic instruction and are properly fitted. That’s been my experience - the extra glide and better tracking gets people addicted. Once folks feel the difference in a touring boat, it will persuade many paddlers to find the room and the extra money for a longer, faster and safer boat. I am glad to see that there are some more kayak models available now, that are sort of hybrids, with characteristics of both, in hopes that some will upgrade to touring boats eventually.
As an avid touring kayak paddler, I agree 100%! A recreational kayak simply cannot compete with the glide, efficiency, and overall performance of a touring kayak. However, recreational kayaks do have a feeling of stability and comfort that makes them very appropriate some a beginner paddler just testing the waters.
Certainly! It's worth bearing in mind that even with float bags a recreation kayak will take a lot of bailing to dry out, but then at least a self rescue might be possible.
Very helpful. Thanks for breaking down some of the basic features/considerations for a noob like me. Cheers!
Happy to help!
I would argue that many folks who own Rec kayaks have never tried a touring kayak, and after their first test paddle of one, they will likely never go back - for serious paddlers, Rec. boats are supposed to be a starting point, not an end, especially if they have some basic instruction and are properly fitted. That’s been my experience - the extra glide and better tracking gets people addicted. Once folks feel the difference in a touring boat, it will persuade many paddlers to find the room and the extra money for a longer, faster and safer boat. I am glad to see that there are some more kayak models available now, that are sort of hybrids, with characteristics of both, in hopes that some will upgrade to touring boats eventually.
As an avid touring kayak paddler, I agree 100%! A recreational kayak simply cannot compete with the glide, efficiency, and overall performance of a touring kayak. However, recreational kayaks do have a feeling of stability and comfort that makes them very appropriate some a beginner paddler just testing the waters.
Is there value in adding an air/ buoyancy bag to a recreational kayak? So you could potentially/hopefully get back in on the water?
Certainly! It's worth bearing in mind that even with float bags a recreation kayak will take a lot of bailing to dry out, but then at least a self rescue might be possible.
😣 Promo'SM