Frequent Questions
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There are a bunch of folks who had similar questions about some basic issues so I've listed them along with specific questions other readers have asked. I hope you find this helpful.
Q. Heather, US - wants to know the location of the photo on the "Kayaking Awareness" page.
A. Heather, there are beautiful locations like that throughout the waters of the United States. Unfortunately, that photo was purchased so I do not know it's exact location. Glad you've started paddling. You'll be snapping photos of your own adventures soon - they're especially nice to look at in the winter!
Q. Henry, SC, US – Is debating over choosing open cockpit or a closed cockpit to use on weekend trips along the coast of S.C.
A. Henry, an open cockpit is easier to enter and exit, but they will also carry a lot of gear. Because they are a molded closed form (like a balloon) they are naturally buoyant. Some Sit-On-Tops have a weight capacity of up to 800 lbs., now that’s a lot of gear. Gear has to be carried in a gear bag anyway to keep it dry – so where you store the gear is less important than finding a kayak that is comfortable for you. Same principle with the inflatable kayaks. The Sea Eagle 420 Explorer inflatable will carry about 850 lbs., it does provide some protection to the paddler in open water and it’s lightweight. Touring kayaks are designed for long paddles, and open water. They have a closed cockpit, track straight, provide protection from waves in open water and are typically heavier to carry. Surprisingly, they don’t all have a large weight capacity so that’s something you may want to keep an eye out for. I suggest you figure out how much gear weight you plan on then paddle your way through the kayaks in the Paddling Shop - compare the features, especially the weight capacity (not just paddler weight). This will steer you closer to the kayak that is right for you. And as always, wear your PFD and have kayak safety training. All the how to and where to info is here. Have a great time Henry!
Q. Pam, US - is wondering if a kayak is stable enough to take her Springer Spaniel with her.
A. Pam, to paddle happy with your pooch you want the stability of a kayak that has a wider open cockpit and preferably a flat bottom to accommodate the both of you. Next you will need to train your dog to stay put and not move about. Short, shallow excursions will help you and your dog get used to the restriction of movement. Now, if she's a "bird dog", that will take some additional training. Prepare to get "dumped" with some safety training classes - to find one in your area click here Most importantly - both you and your buddy need a lifejacket (unlike the photo above - I just like this picture). Yes, dogs are natural paddlers but a lifejacket aids the physical exhautsion, especially if your pet panics. You can find a "Ruff Wear - Float Coat" for a dog at:
I hope you and your friend paddle happily for many years.
Q. Andy, US - is wondering if a new kayaker can paddle alone. He also wants some help positioning his vehicle where he doesn’t have to paddle upriver.
A. I would advise anyone new to kayaking to paddle with an experienced friend. I also recommend finding calm water to gain some experience. (See Kayaking Safety) You can jump start your experience by taking a class, you can find one in your area right here Paddling with a friend also answers your second question. If you have 2 vehicles, you park one vehicle at the take out area and one at the put in area. Paddling friends are great to have! After you gain more experience paddling upriver, you can then challenge yourself to getting back to your put in area. Q. Blake, US - is looking for a Houston area reference for lessons and kayak rental.
A. In Area 3 of my Paddling Lessons, I've listed a great location in Houston. They have ACA Instructors, a variety of schedules for paddling and safety lessons ... Southwest Paddle Sports - their phone: 281-292-5600. Also, in the Houston area there is a meetup group - you can find them on: www.meetup.com/Houston-Kayaking/
This is a smart start - paddle safe, paddle happy and let them know who sent you! Q. Dominick, US - asks if raising the seat on his kayak will help accomodate his legs.
A. Thanks for your question. Raising your seat will change the proportionate weight balance of the kayak. Kayaks are designed to carry weight in the middle of their overall length, and low - at the waterline really. Raising the weight will create an imbalance and you will surely overturn the kayak. I suggest you try a kayak with a wider cockpit opening or a sit-on-top. This will allow ease in entry, exiting and you will be able to stretch your legs out more comfortably. This is how you should be paddling. You can try out different types of kayaks at a demo day (you can read about them here) or sometimes, local kayak retailers have a "trial pond". Whatever you do, don't give up kayaking. Good luck. Q. Lois from the US has recently learned to swim and wonders if she is ready to kayak on an upcoming vacation.
A. Lois, the question you need to answer honestly is: can you swim well enough to save youself should you overturn the kayak? If you feel you're ready, I suggest paddling a lake before a moving river. Also, spend some more time swimming between now and your vacation. And you know the #1 rule ... wear your pfd - your safety is your first responsibility. Have a wonderful vacation. Q. Deborah from the US is looking for kayaking classes in Ohio.
A. Deborah, I found a couple in the Cleveland and Lakewood areas. I've posted them in "Area 4" on Kayaking Lessons, you can click here. Thanks for your inquiry, I hope these are in your area. Q. Brad, US, is searching for a Tandem Pedal Kayak.
A. Sorry Brad, I searched too and couldn't find one. Not sure they make them. You'll just have to make due with two Pedal Kayaks! Q. Kem from the US is having difficulty finding the right sprayskirt for his Prodigy 12 Kayak.
A. Kem, I did a little digging and found a sprayskirt fit chart - you can find it at: perceptionkayaks.com, then click on the link: Sprayskirt Fit Chart. I may be wrong but I believe Prodigy is now known as the "Perception" brand. Regardless, measure the cockpit on your kayak first - measure the opening front to back and side to side, then check the chart. This should help - happy paddling! Q. Jon from the US is looking for a sit-on-top tandem kayak to also accommodate diving and fishing.
A. I looked at the Sit-On-Tops, there are three that may interest you, but I found one offered by REI that also sports the angler features you're looking for - Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL Angler seems to suit all your kayaking purposes. Here's the link: Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL Angler Sit-on-Top Kayak . If you do consider purchasing at REI, check out their $20 membership, it'll save you a few bucks. Have fun paddling, diving and fishing! Q. Ann from the US asks if there is a way to enter and exit her kayak from a dock that is considerably higher than her reach?
A. I suggest the addition of a dock ladder. Typically, dock ladders are simple to install, some models have rails to further aid your balance. There are a few different kinds, so here is one example: Welded Aluminum Ladder - Dock Ext Kit 2 Step Alm . Another alternative is to build a simple ladder and attach it to the dock. Q. Weezer from the US offers some tips to find paddling locations -
A. In addition to Paddling Locations, Weezer suggests "... an atlas or gazetteer of the area (Delorme prints great ones) for roads, topo, access locations, etc. Or, go online to your state's Fish and Game - they usually have charts of the waters and (free) access points. And as always, don't forget the sunscreen, a hat and your COMMON SENSE!" Thanks for sharing! Q. Mike from the UK asks if there are any aids to help a kayak paddle in a straight line?
A. Flat bottom or wider kayaks tend to be more difficult to paddle in a straight line. Wind can also affect the track of your course. In either instance, this can be overcome by installing a rudder from a kit. You'll want to look for one that will fit your brand of kayak. Amazon carries a few, here's an example: Sevylor® Rudder for SVX100DS SVX200DS SVX500 DS ST5100T . If Amazon doesn't carry one for your kayak, Google the manufacturer of your kayak and call them for their recommendation. This should set you on a straight path! Q. Vickie asked what is the difference between a flat bottom or rib bottom kayak?
A. The two are very different issues. A flat bottom refers to the shape of the hull bottom. A flat bottom provides more stability though it will move slightly slower than a rounded or "v" shaped bottom. Generally, the "flat" in flat bottom refers to the bottom area of the cockpit section where the primary weight is. From there, the hull flairs up and out to the waterline to give it the stability. Ribs are the framing element of some kayaks that are made of wood, fiberglass and the combined materials of folding kayaks. They are the repeated sections that form the structure over which the hull material is fastened. Ribs shape the hull and give it structure. Q. Jeff asked about storing paddling clothing and gear in a garage?
A. The protected shelter of a garage is a great place to store kayaks and gear. Just make sure it is clean and dry before storing it. I suggest clothing and small gear be wrapped or place in a plastic container with a lid that closes tight to keep small critters such as mice and bugs from nesting in them. For more "how to" info, see: Kayak Care. Q. Dan asked if a permit is necessary when kayaking on waterways?
A. Boating permits are regulated by state and local authorities. Some states, counties or townships require a permit for kayaks. Depending on where you plan on paddling, you can find out if you need one by calling your local or state authority. Q. A good question was asked by Fred - how much weight allowance should you consider when purchasing a kayak?
A. It's probably best to consider your weight plus a margin for gear that you will take along. If you primarily will be paddling day trips, your regular safety gear, extra clothing, food and water should be considered. If your paddling will include extended trips including camping, then logically, you will need to consider the extra weight of the additional gear. If you will be paddling in shallow water where the depth of the hull would be an issue, it would be wise to choose a kayak with a slightly greater weight allowance because it will sit higher on the water and handle easier. To sum it up, your weight plus estimate the extras you'll be carrying along (including your dog if he's going to join you) is a good way to estimate the weight allowance when purchasing a kayak. Q. When paddling a tandem kayak, if the front paddler rests, how do they resume the paddling rhythm?
A.There is no set rule here, however, the rear paddler has a visible advantage when resuming and coordinating the paddle strokes. There is less movement and break in rhythm if the rear paddler coordinates his stroke with the front partner. Likewise, when the back paddler rests - he or she still has a visible and balance advantage when they resume paddling. This is one good reason for the back paddler to be the stronger paddler. Like any good relationship, each partner contributes to the teamwork and both have double the fun! . . . Click on: 2 Person Kayak. Q. I want to buy a kayak that can be a single or tandem . . . is there one?
A. Yes, when looking for your tandem kayak, look for one that has a removable second seat then the position of the single seat can be adjusted toward the center converting it for solo paddling. Click on: 2 Person Kayak. Q. When is kayaking season?
A. It depends on the weather particular to your area. More importantly, it depends on the water temperature. Why? because you don't want to be paddling in water temperature below 60 degrees. You can learn about water temperature for your area in How To Kayak - look under the section: "Things to really be aware of."
Q. I've never heard of a Pedal Kayak, is it anything like a paddle boat? (my favorite question)
A. Nope, it's a really cool kayak, you can see it in a video - Click on: Pedal-Kayak. Q. How do you take care of a plastic (polyethylene) kayak and how do you clean it?
A. You can find all the how to's for kayak care here: Kayak Care. Q. What the easiest way to carry a kayak on a car roof? Are there inexpensive roof racks?
A. You'll find this information in Roof Racks - check it out. Q. Many asked about kayak stands - what are they about?
A. See the details in Kayak Care - you can purchase "Sea Horses" or if you're handy, make them. Q. What size kayak should I buy? What's best for a beginner and does it go by my height?
A. There are a few factors to determine the kind and size of kayak that's just right for you, here's where you'll find out about it: How To Buy A Kayak . Q. How do I know if a lifejacket fits right - and what brand should I get?
A. There's a whole page just about Kayak PFD's - paddle through it and you'll know all about them. Q. I've been thinking about an inflatable kayak because I don't have any storage, how strong are they, will it last?
A. There are some really tough inflatables, they will last for years and resolve your storage problem, see for yourself and check out the video - here: Inflatable Kayak. Got questions? Just ask: Feed Back Whether you're planning to paddle with a group or with (ahem) you're best friend - get a Smart Start, read all the basics, and then come back and read some more. To learn more about kayaking, there are some great DVDs
loaded with instruction - Click Here.
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