Types of Touring Kayaks
Touring kayaks are designed to offer excellent performance in calm and rough waters, ideal for paddlers who want to explore more distant shores or cover long distances. Sea kayaks, racing kayaks and recreational kayaks are the three main types available. Each type is designed with specific features for maximum performance.
Sea Kayak
Sea kayaks are the best choice for long-distance trips on open ocean or inland waters. They have a long waterline for tracking, a pointed bow for slicing through waves, and a large cockpit for easy entry and exit. Rudders or skegs are also usually included to help the paddler stay on course and plenty of storage space is provided.
Racing Kayak
Racing kayaks are designed specifically for speed with sleek designs that feature sharp edges to cut through the water quickly. Comfort is also taken into account with comfortable seating positions and adjustable foot pegs.
Recreational Touring Kayak
Recreational touring kayaks are great for those who want to explore lakes, rivers, estuaries, bays or coastal areas without sacrificing comfort or speed. These boats have comfortable seating positions with ample legroom as well as plenty of storage space so you can bring all your gear along.
Inflatable Touring Kayak
Inflatable touring kayaks provide an alternative to traditional hardshell models. These lightweight boats can be packed down when not in use but easily inflated in minutes when it’s time to hit the water. Inflatable touring kayaks offer good performance and stability on calm waters but may not be suitable for rougher conditions.
Benefits of Touring Kayaks
Touring kayaks are the ideal choice for anyone wanting to explore and travel in comfort. With their sleek designs, touring kayaks offer a great combination of speed, agility, and stability. Here are some of the benefits these boats offer:
Speed
Touring kayaks are designed for fast movement through the water, enabling paddlers to cover longer distances quicker. The streamlined shape of touring kayaks makes them more efficient than other types of kayaks, requiring less effort while reaching higher speeds.
Stability
Touring kayaks provide excellent stability on the water due to their wide beam and generous length. This makes them perfect for long-distance travels or open-water paddling where conditions can change quickly. Additionally, they offer increased capacity for cargo so you can bring all your camping gear with you.
Comfort
Touring kayaks provide comfort during extended paddling sessions with their ergonomic design. Padded seats and adjustable footrests ensure comfort while adjustable thigh braces add support when leaning into turns or waves.
Versatility
The versatility of touring kayaks make them great for all kinds of paddlers. Whether you’re a beginner looking to enjoy a leisurely trip down the river or an experienced racer seeking a fast boat for long distances, there’s a touring kayak that will fit your needs.
What to Consider When Choosing a Touring Kayak
When looking for the best touring kayak, there are multiple factors to consider such as the type of water you will be paddling in, your budget, and your paddling style. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect touring kayak for you.
Types of Water
The water conditions you plan on paddling in will influence what kind of kayak you should choose. For example, if you plan on paddling in calm rivers or lakes then a recreational kayak will do the job nicely. However, if you want a more challenging experience and plan on taking on whitewater rapids then you’ll need a whitewater kayak.
Budget
Your budget is also an important factor when selecting a touring kayak. If you’re just starting out or are looking for an entry-level model then it’s best to look for an inflatable or polyethylene plastic model as these tend to be more affordable than other materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber.
Paddling Style
The type of paddling style that suits your needs is also something to consider when choosing the best touring kayak. Do you want something light and maneuverable that can be used in tight spaces? Are you looking for something big and stable for long-distance trips? Answering these questions can help narrow down your options.
Size and Weight Capacity
Your size and weight capacity requirements will also influence what kind of touring kayak is right for your needs. If you’re smaller or lighter in stature then a smaller boat may work better for you. On the other hand, if your body type is larger or heavier then it’s probably best to opt for a larger boat with higher weight capacity.
Storage and Maintenance Tips for Touring Kayaks
Touring kayaks are designed to handle the rigours of long-distance travelling, but require special care to remain in good condition. Before storing your touring kayak, give it a thorough clean and dry it off completely to prevent mould or mildew from forming. Try not to leave your kayak out in direct sunlight as this can damage the hull over time. If indoors, make sure you place your kayak somewhere with plenty of ventilation and keep it elevated off the ground on a rack or stand.
Regular maintenance is key when caring for a touring kayak – check all parts are in working order and repair any damage quickly. Inspect the rudder system regularly and lubricate moving parts if necessary. Check for water penetration or leakage after storage or trips through rough waters and repair immediately.
Keep accessories well-maintained too – check straps and buckles are in good condition, clean out any debris from hatches or compartments before storing away, replace paddle blades if needed, and service electric motors regularly according to manufacturer instructions.
FAQs About Touring Kayaks
Are you interested in touring kayaking? Get all the information you need here with our FAQs about touring kayaks. Learn about the differences between touring kayaks and other types, what materials they are made of, features to look for when buying one, and how much they typically cost.
What Is the Difference Between a Touring Kayak and Other Types?
Touring kayaks are usually longer than other types such as recreational or whitewater models. This gives them greater speed and tracking ability as well as more storage capacity for items like camping gear, food, and clothing. The cockpits of touring kayaks tend to be larger than those of other styles for more comfortable seating.
What Type of Material Are Touring Kayaks Made Of?
Touring kayaks are typically constructed from fiberglass or plastic. Fiberglass is strong and durable but can be heavier than plastic models. Plastic models tend to be lighter and easier to transport but may not be as strong or durable.
What Features Do I Need To Look For When Buying a Touring Kayak?
When selecting a touring kayak consider factors such as length, width, weight capacity, storage capacity, and hull design. Longer kayaks offer better tracking ability but may be slower in turns. Wider models provide more stability but may also be slower. Weight capacity is important if you plan on carrying heavy gear; look for models that can safely hold your gear without compromising performance.
How Much Does a Touring Kayak Cost?
The cost of a touring kayak will vary depending on size, brand, materials used, and features included. Generally speaking prices range from around $500 up to $4000 or more depending on what you’re looking for.