Kayak Types

Kayak types define the hull or body style used for recreational paddling in calm water such as ponds, flat water rivers, lakes, protected ocean bays and salt marshes. Each serves a different paddling purpose.

Click on the different types below to learn which one meets your paddling plans.

Sit-On-Top Kayak  Stable, easy to get in/out of, used for recreational paddling and fishing.

2 Person Kayak - Tandem Kayak  Designed for two paddlers - recreational to sea kayaking.

Inflatable Kayak  Versatile, can be broken down for easy transport or storage.

Folding Kayak  The hull and deck fold in sections for easy transport or storage, very durable.

Light Touring Kayak  Faster, only slightly less stable, ample storage for day trips on protected to more open waters.

Sea Touring Kayak  Versatile, used on exposed coastal waters to protected bays, offers speed and ample storage.

Fishing Kayak  These are outfitted for fishing, anglers can happily reach shallow spots - also see Pedal Kayaks.

Kid Kayak  Sized for kids or smaller paddlers.

Pedal Kayak  Versatile and stable, with a pedal mechanism as an alternate paddling method, ideal for fishing - has a rudder and some designs include rigging to convert to sailing kayaks.

Because this site is dedicated to kayaking for beginners, I have not covered whitewater "play boats" or surfing kayaks - these require advanced skills and special safety training.