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How expensive are kayaks?

Prices on kayaks range wildly. The cheapest kayaks may cost under $100, while the priciest models can cost well in excess of $1,500. It all depends on the features of the kayak and its build.

What are the best kayaks out there?

Depends on what your needs are. We have a few roundups:

What are the best paddles out there?

We have a few options to offer. Have a look at our paddle buyer’s guide as well.

What kind of accessories can you buy for your kayak?

There are plenty of things that you may enhance your kayak with, including motors, fish finders, transducers, spray skirts, seat cushions, and many other items.

Do you need lessons to kayak?

It’s good to obtain some basic knowledge of kayaking before your first trip. You may learn everything on your own, but if you work with an experienced instructor, you will learn things that you probably never would have thought about.

If you have an experienced buddy though, you may ask them to teach you how to kayak and what you should keep in mind.

Do you need a license for a kayak?

This will depend on your state regulations, but you generally don’t need a license if your kayak doesn’t have a motor.

Do you get wet when kayaking?

You will get wet even if paddling in a sit-in kayak. You should wear a dry top or a cagoule to stay warm. You need to dress warm, especially if it’s cold out there. The human body loses heat several times faster in water than in air.

Is kayaking safe?

Kayaking is a relatively safe activity, but there are a few precautions that you will need to take. We have a more in-depth post on the risks of kayaking, so check it out. We also have a few kayaking safety tips for beginners and non-beginners.

Is it easy to tip a kayak?

More than you may expect. With that being said, a wider kayak is less likely to capsize. No matter how stable your kayak is though, make sure to practice exiting your kayak after capsizing.

Which kayak type is better, sit-in or sit-on-top?

These kayak types have their distinctive pros and cons. Sit-in kayaks keep you warm and don’t allow too much water to get inside, while sit-on-top kayaks allow a little bit more freedom of movement and have more room for gear. Choose one or the other type depending on your needs.

Can you use a kayak for fishing?

Yes, and kayaks can be pretty good at fishing! Compared to canoes, kayaks offer better maneuverability and are a bit more suitable for shorter trips or when you expect a smaller catch.

Are kayaks better than canoes?

In some areas, kayaks are indeed better than canoes. In others though, canoes are clearly on top. Check out our kayaks vs canoes comparison for a more detailed overview.

Should I paddle in the rain?

If you are a beginner, you probably shouldn’t kayak in the rain. Rain can decrease your visibility significantly, and it’s very important to see where you are going. Not only that, but rain may be accompanied by wind and thus waves, and your kayak could become too difficult to control in stormy weather.

If you do decide to kayak in rain, make sure to wear rain gear (e.g. a rain jacket).

Should I kayak with children?

Probably not with infants, but once your kid is a couple of years old, you may take them with you. Do remember to buy a lifejacket for your child and ensure that they wear it all times while out on the water.

Is kayaking difficult?

Not at all. Kayaking is quite an accessible activity, and it doesn’t take much skill. With that being said, you should not underestimate the dangers of kayaking and wear a lifejacket at all times. And you should also paddle with someone else, preferably someone more experienced than you.

Is kayaking strenuous?

No, kayaking is quite a low-impact activity. Thanks to this, it can be practiced by individuals of any age. For more in-depth information on the health effects & benefits of kayaking, check out our post.

Is kayaking a good workout?

It isn’t as calorie-burning as running, but it’s a pretty good activity to keep yourself fit with. Moreover, kayaking is a fairly low-impact activity, so you could paddle even if your joints and muscles aren’t too healthy.

Can kayaking burn fat?

It can, but it’s not as effective at fat burning as running or cycling. This depends on how actively you paddle and how long, as well as on your diet.

Do I have to be in shape to paddle a kayak?

Kayaking does require some effort from you, but you don’t have to regularly exercise to enjoy the ride. But you will probably feel muscle soreness for a few days after your first kayaking trip!

Do I need any kind of special equipment for kayaking?

Yes, there are many things that you need to have to get started with kayaking. You need a kayak, a kayak paddle, and a lifejacket at the very least. There are many other items that you may want to have with you on your trip, as outlined in our kayaking checklist.

Do I need a kayak spray skirt?

If you have a sit-in kayak, then you may want to get a spray skirt. Check out our spray skirt guide to find out about the rationale behind a spray skirt, as well as learn what to look for in a kayak skirt.

What should I wear while kayaking?

You need to dress for the weather. There are some specific things that you could do in warm or cold weather which we describe in our dressing guide.

Do I need to wear a specialized swimsuit?

In warm weather, you can wear just about anything. In cold weather though, you may want to wear a swimsuit. For specific recommendations, check out our dressing guide.

What shoes to wear when kayaking?

You may wear anything that stays on your feet, including sneakers, sandals, or water shoes. It will all depend on the weather and your needs. Check out our kayaking shoes guide to find a few suggestions on kayaking footwear.

Do I need to know how to swim to kayak?

You don’t need to know how to swim, but you really should. You will feel more comfortable in the water.

Do I have to wear a lifejacket while kayaking?

While it’s up to you, we and many other experienced kayakers assert that people should wear a PFD at all times whether they are kayaking, canoeing, or doing any other type of water activity.

How to carry my kayak on my car?

We have a detailed post on kayak transport, so check it out for a step-by-step guide.