How to Compare Kayak Specifications

Kayaks are available in a wide range of colors, materials and sizes. Kayaks are divided into three categories: recreational kayaks, sea kayaks and whitewater kayaks. Consider which type of kayaking you plan to do and then compare specifications among other kayaks of that type.

  1. Kayak Materials

    • A sit-on-top recreational kayak made of composite materials.

      Kayaks are made from a variety of materials. Sea kayaks can be made of carbon, Kevlar, fiberglass, plastic or wood. Whitewater kayaks and recreational kayaks are usually made of plastic. Plastic is the most durable, but it is also the heaviest of the materials. Carbon is lightweight, but it is the most fragile.

    Hull Weight and Weight Limits

    • The kayak must be able to support your weight.

      When comparing kayak models, you will see specifications for dry weight or hull weight. This is the weight of the empty kayak without any gear on the boat. Remember that it is also the weight that you will be carrying or loading on your vehicle.

      Weight limit is the maximum weight the kayak can safely carry without jeopardizing the safety of passengers or the flotation limits of the kayak.

    Kayak Length and Cockpit Measurements

    • Kayaks are available in a wide variety of lengths and widths. Sea kayaks are the longest; whitewater kayaks are the shortest. The width of the kayak will determine your speed and maneuverability. Recreational kayaks are wider for added stability. However, they are not efficient for speed or for long kayaking trips.

      Cockpit specifications are important, as this is where you will be sitting. Width and internal space for your legs and feet should be considered in your comparisons. Recreational kayaks have a much larger cockpit area. Whitewater kayaks have the smallest leg and feet areas.

    Kayak Variance in Sizes Per Type

    • A long, narrow kayak is for racing.

      Kayaks within each category also vary by length and width. There are shorter, wider whitewater kayaks for different water speeds and maneuvering tactics. If you plan to go whitewater kayaking, then compare internal deck height and length, as a taller person may struggle to fit his feet and legs comfortably while kayaking.

      Sea kayaks vary in length and width, depending on the type of trip that is planned: 1 to 2 hour, half a day, full day or overnight excursion. Long, narrow sea kayaks allow greater speeds, but they have limited hull space for storage and will feel unsteady to a beginning kayaker. Wider sea kayaks have more storage space, will feel more stable to beginners and are better for long day trips or overnight excursions.

    Kayak Extras to Consider

    • Kayak hatches provide air space for flotation and gear storage.

      Other kayak specifications are important, such as buoyancy and storage options. Certain types of whitewater kayaks may require a float or foam insert in the stern to assist with float height.

      Sea kayaks offer a variety of options for storage, amount of hatch space and deck tie downs. Determine if storage space is necessary, based on your kayaking needs. Steering or rudder mechanisms are available as options on recreational or sea kayaks.