5 Reasons Why Kayaking is the Most Inclusive Paddlesport
(photo courtesy of Bonafide Kayaks)
Of all the paddlesports out there—canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, whitewater kayaking, packrafting—kayaking is the most inclusive.
Recreational kayaking has been the most popular of the paddlesports for several years, according to the Outdoor Industry Foundation. And during 2020 and Covid-19, that popularity has exploded as people have been getting outside more than ever.
Of course, kayaks aren’t the end-all for water sport lovers. Each type of boat has its distinct advantages. But kayaking tops the other paddlesports because it’s so inclusive of ability, age, accessibility and entry price.
1. Rental Kayaks are Everywhere
For those who want to try kayaking, it doesn’t take long to find an outfitter that rents them. Anywhere there are bodies of boatable water you’re likely to find rental opportunities for kayaks.
2. Kayaks Fit Every Budget
Entry-level kayaks are cheaper than entry-level canoes, paddle boards, whitewater kayaks and packrafts (assuming we’re talking about ones that’ll last more than a season or two!).
And you can buy a very decent mid-level kayak for the same price as an entry-level everything else.
3. Kayaking is Easy for All Ages to Learn
Canoeing takes a certain skill level to be able to steer well and enjoy it. Paddleboarding take time to get the hang of standing on an unstable surface while using specific paddle strokes. Whitewater kayaking is another level altogether.
But even children as young as 5 or 6 can learn to kayak with ease, as long as they’re on a small, safe body of water. You don’t need to be athletic, have good balance or learn any special strokes to start kayaking and enjoy it.
(photo courtesy of Nick Wittman)
Because of the option of tandem kayaks, kayaking is very popular among groups who work with people with disabilities, too. It’s a wonderful way to get people on the water who ordinarily wouldn’t be able to go alone.
4. For Those Who Struggle to Get In a Kayak, They Can Get On a Kayak Instead
People with bad hips or knees don’t have to be left out of kayaking. If it’s too hard for them to get into a traditional sit-inside kayak, there are plenty of sit-on-top models out there. These are just as easy to paddle and are great for recreational kayaking.
5. Kayaks Works on Any Body of Water…and in Wind
There are kayaks designed for flat water, moving water, whitewater and big water. From the neighborhood pond to the ocean, kayaking is possible and enjoyable.
Kayaks handle the wind better than canoes, SUPs and packrafts, too. They have a low profile on the water and you’re sitting low on the water. The wind doesn’t catch a kayak like it can a canoe or packraft, or a person standing on a SUP.
(photo courtesy of Paddle Tales)
We think ALL paddlesports are wonderful in their own way. If you’ve never tried any of them, start with kayaking. It’ll give you an easy win and may just be the beginning of a lifelong friendship with the water.
We want to answer your questions about kayak paddles! Contact our friendly Customer Service team today: 715-755-3405 • [email protected]
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