When buying a new kayak a few things should be considered before the actual purchase is made. The most important question, to ask is what am I actually looking for? If unsure try renting several different types of kayaks. This approach will help to give you a specific idea on the design and paddling style that most fits your needs.

Realize that different waters require different kayak types. Are your pleasures calm waters, such as ponds, rivers or lakes, or more extreme such as whitewater kayaking? Hard-shell kayaks, often called, sit in kayaks are often the most popular. This style offers efficiency along with use in variable conditions and is almost always the best choice. There are other styles which can be found also, that can meet the specific needs that are required by some paddlers. Is your choice a long lasting durable kayak? Then the recommendation would be for a hard shell kayak. Or do you prefer an easy to carry less expensive kayak? Then a recommendation of a plastic kayak could be made. Kevlar can be a good choice, simply because of the durability factor which is greater than plastic. However Kevlar kayaks are somewhat expensive.

Are you going solo or with a partner? Single paddlers require a kayak that, for practical reason, is portable and easy to carry. Tandem kayaks for group paddling allow for more options when purchasing. One-person kayaks are just as the title states, enough room for only one person, and are the most popular. However double kayaks are available that can fit up to 4 people.

Consider the level of stability that you require. Understand that the feeling of tipsiness that the boat has is the primary stability, and will influence the ease of entering or exiting your kayak. While paddling the final stability will become realized while the boat is going through the water. With this in mind assessing your kind of activities will determine the type of kayak to purchase.

Educating you and understanding the many options that are available will help to avoid a purchase that does not fit your requirements, leaving you disappointed and your kayak wasting away from lack of use. So take your time and look at all the options available to you. On the Internet there is a wealth of information on kayaking, use it to educate yourself in making the right decision. Remember that anybody can enjoy kayaking, whether young or in your golden years, the trick is finding a kayak that fits your needs