Kayaks
The choice of kayak designs is closely related to their use. When you buy a kayak, for example, you can choose between a family version and a more sporty version. A canoe for long trips and a kayak for sporty trips, possibly in white water. Canoes are open at the top, while kayaks usually have the opening covered to protect you from the water and allow you to stretch your legs in a narrower boat. The two types of boat also differ in terms of the paddle: canoes are usually propelled with one paddle, while a kayak can also be propelled with a double paddle. The word canoe is a generic term for both types of boat, which are available as single or two-seaters.
If you decide to buy a kayak online, you can often save money. The most important thing is always that the boat is of excellent quality, regardless of whether it is an inflatable or fixed model. Beginners and kayak novices in particular often opt for short and bulky leisure kayaks. However, the paddling and manoeuvring techniques are very limited and quickly force the experienced paddler to opt for a more sophisticated boat. Narrow, well-built models are particularly suitable for coastal tours.
A sea kayak has very good handling characteristics and offers a high degree of stability on the route profile. It takes a lot of practice and experience to make the most of these advantages. A bilge pump should be part of the basic equipment. The most commonly used material for making kayaks is UV-resistant polyethylene. Kayaks that are used on large lakes and rivers, i.e. on stagnant water, are also predestined for coastal hikes in bays. They are usually up to 4.50 metres long.
An inflatable kayak is ideal for trips with the whole family. Thanks to their small footprint, they can be easily stowed in the vehicle, whereas all other models have to be transported on a roof rack. Thanks to the inflatable floor made of PVC or fabric, each with its own valve, these boats are very stable and safe. The other, heavier boats are usually made of PE or fibreglass. Polythene is much more stable and even grounding does not lead to severe damage.