TYPES AND SIZES OF KAYAKS & CANOES
TYPES OF KAYAKS: Sit-In or Sit-on Kayaks.
Most recreational kayakers in Greene County tend to prefer the "sit-in" type of kayak. Here are a few key differences. Choose what's best for you.
GREENE COUNTY 2018 POLL
RECREATIONAL KAYAKS
SIT-IN OR SIT-ON KAYAKS PREFERRED BY RECREATIONAL KAYAKERS
SIT-IN OR SIT-ON KAYAKS PREFERRED BY FISHING KAYAKERS
SIT-IN Kayaks
KAYAK SIZES
RECREATIONAL SIZE FOR STREAMS, CREEKS & LAKES
Most kayakers in Greene County tend to prefer the 10' kayak for local streams, creeks and lakes. In general the longer the kayak the easier and faster it will track through the water. The shorter the kayak the more easier it will maneuver in the water. One trait will trade off with the other so choose whats best for you.
RECREATIONAL SIZE FOR RIVERS & LARGER LAKES
If you plan on using your kayak primarily on the river or larger bodies of water where more distance will be covered by paddling you may want to consider a 12' or longer kayak. Longer kayaks tend to track better, make your paddling more efficient, and your kayak faster.
KAYAK SIZE FOR FISHING
Although most kayaks for fishing tend to be a bit longer in the 11'-12' range your size considerations are the same as recreational kayaks. Shorter for more maneuverability and longer for speed and tracking. Consider where you will be fishing and choose what's best for you.
Have something to add to this page? Contact us.
Most recreational kayakers in Greene County tend to prefer the "sit-in" type of kayak. Here are a few key differences. Choose what's best for you.
GREENE COUNTY 2018 POLL
RECREATIONAL KAYAKS
SIT-IN OR SIT-ON KAYAKS PREFERRED BY RECREATIONAL KAYAKERS
- 80.5% SIT-IN TYPE KAYAK
- 19.5 SIT-ON TYPE OF KAYAK
- 64% 10 FOOT KAYAKS
- 24% 12 FOOT KAYAKS
- 5.5% 9 FOOT KAYAKS
- 5.5% 8 FOOT KAYAKS
SIT-IN OR SIT-ON KAYAKS PREFERRED BY FISHING KAYAKERS
- 61.5% SIT-ON TYPE OF KAYAK
- 38.5% SIT-IN TYPE KAYAK
- 30% PREFER 10 FOOT KAYAKS
- 60% PREFER 12 FOOT KAYAKS
- 10% PREFER 14 FOOT KAYAKS
SIT-IN Kayaks
- Offers an area to brace your knees for stronger paddle strokes for better control of your kayak.
- Better protection from wind and water on cooler days.
- Offers a level of protection from splashing water while paddling. Some sit-in kayaks also offer a "skirt" option to enclose the cockpit from the elements.
- Better options to stow away items for your trip. Most offer dry waterproof compartments for your trip items.
- Also offers a level of protection for you and your items from tree branches or other things when floating near tight sections.
- Harder to flip back over and re-enter should you go overboard.
- Sit-on top kayaks can be more user friendly for first time kayakers.
- Usually easier to get in and out of the kayak.
- Easier to slide off into the water and climb back on if that's your plan.
- You will get wet while simply paddling.
- Travel items must be tied down to the deck and will be fully exposed to the elements.
- Most SIT-ON kayaks have scupper holes to allow water that has splashed into your kayak to drain out. This also allows water to enter the kayak more often.
- Often used around calmer waters.
- Can usually pack more gear.
- Great for 2 or more people.
- Easier to transport.
- As with most things you get what you pay for. If this is your only option do your research and get a quality inflatable kayak. Nothing worse than having to cut your trip short in the middle of nowhere from un-repairable damage.
KAYAK SIZES
RECREATIONAL SIZE FOR STREAMS, CREEKS & LAKES
Most kayakers in Greene County tend to prefer the 10' kayak for local streams, creeks and lakes. In general the longer the kayak the easier and faster it will track through the water. The shorter the kayak the more easier it will maneuver in the water. One trait will trade off with the other so choose whats best for you.
RECREATIONAL SIZE FOR RIVERS & LARGER LAKES
If you plan on using your kayak primarily on the river or larger bodies of water where more distance will be covered by paddling you may want to consider a 12' or longer kayak. Longer kayaks tend to track better, make your paddling more efficient, and your kayak faster.
KAYAK SIZE FOR FISHING
Although most kayaks for fishing tend to be a bit longer in the 11'-12' range your size considerations are the same as recreational kayaks. Shorter for more maneuverability and longer for speed and tracking. Consider where you will be fishing and choose what's best for you.
Have something to add to this page? Contact us.