Kayaks and paddles come in many different shapes and sizes. People wanting to get into the sport will benefit by first getting an overview of what is available in terms of different types of kayaks are available. There is a lot to choose from. Perhaps the most basic kit, but nevertheless one of the most popular, is a sit-on-top kayak. This note concentrates on the sit-on-top kayak.
The key feature of a sit-on-top is that it does not have a hollow cockpit but rather a mild, deck depression without any covering for the lower torso or legs. This makes getting in and out of the kayak a breeze, particularly out on the water after a knockdown or rollover.
Approximate dimensions for a solo paddler sit-on-top might be length 3 meters, width 0.75 meters and weight about 18 kilograms supporting a maximum paddler weight of 150 kilograms, depending on the specific brand. They are generally suitable for all members of the family.
Sit-on-top models are made both for solo and tandem adventurers. There are models designed for both day trips and extended, multi-day touring treks. They are mostly designed for sheltered water courses such as estuaries, canals, rivers and lakes. Some open water models are also available. Also, some combined paddle-pedal models are available that are particularly popular among long distance tourers as well as bird watchers and quiet water fishing enthusiasts.
Sit on tops kayaks are made for as solo and tandem units. They can be used for both short, day trip excursions as well as longer multi-day tours along protected water courses like canals, lakes, rivers and estuaries. They are roomy, stable, and easy to paddle.
There is generally plenty of seating space and good back support that flips up-down. There is enough room for two storage wells with screw hatches, one forward one rear large enough for essentials. Bow & stern moulded handles come as standard. They come with a paddle, typically made from an alloy metal. If you decide on a sit-on-top, consider choosing one with a fixed seat. This feature will prevent the seat from swishing around as you paddle. That movement can be annoyingly uncomfortable and contribute to premature fatigue.
Some sit-on-tops are specially designed for the surf. These models are not appropriate for exploring let alone touring. They do not have a seat, backrest or many storage areas. The paddler sits in a small deck depression. Some models have padded thigh straps to keep the kayak tethered to the paddler. These units are designed for short bursts of paddling speed and on-wave maneuvering. They have a long broad hull section for planning and are totaling self-bailing. They also have hard rails and a surf fin to assist maneuverability.
To recap, sit on tops are a popular design for adventurers looking to equip themselves with their own kayaks and paddles. Basic models can cost several hundred dollars with better equipped kits costing up to over a thousand dollars. Premier paddle and pedal models designed for extended touring can cost several thousands of dollars. So these units are not cheap but they can be great value. Most brands provide warranties against faulty manufacture as well as extended normal use warranties. The units can be expected to provide many years of virtually maintenance free outdoor enjoyment and pleasure.
The key feature of a sit-on-top is that it does not have a hollow cockpit but rather a mild, deck depression without any covering for the lower torso or legs. This makes getting in and out of the kayak a breeze, particularly out on the water after a knockdown or rollover.
Approximate dimensions for a solo paddler sit-on-top might be length 3 meters, width 0.75 meters and weight about 18 kilograms supporting a maximum paddler weight of 150 kilograms, depending on the specific brand. They are generally suitable for all members of the family.
Sit-on-top models are made both for solo and tandem adventurers. There are models designed for both day trips and extended, multi-day touring treks. They are mostly designed for sheltered water courses such as estuaries, canals, rivers and lakes. Some open water models are also available. Also, some combined paddle-pedal models are available that are particularly popular among long distance tourers as well as bird watchers and quiet water fishing enthusiasts.
Sit on tops kayaks are made for as solo and tandem units. They can be used for both short, day trip excursions as well as longer multi-day tours along protected water courses like canals, lakes, rivers and estuaries. They are roomy, stable, and easy to paddle.
There is generally plenty of seating space and good back support that flips up-down. There is enough room for two storage wells with screw hatches, one forward one rear large enough for essentials. Bow & stern moulded handles come as standard. They come with a paddle, typically made from an alloy metal. If you decide on a sit-on-top, consider choosing one with a fixed seat. This feature will prevent the seat from swishing around as you paddle. That movement can be annoyingly uncomfortable and contribute to premature fatigue.
Some sit-on-tops are specially designed for the surf. These models are not appropriate for exploring let alone touring. They do not have a seat, backrest or many storage areas. The paddler sits in a small deck depression. Some models have padded thigh straps to keep the kayak tethered to the paddler. These units are designed for short bursts of paddling speed and on-wave maneuvering. They have a long broad hull section for planning and are totaling self-bailing. They also have hard rails and a surf fin to assist maneuverability.
To recap, sit on tops are a popular design for adventurers looking to equip themselves with their own kayaks and paddles. Basic models can cost several hundred dollars with better equipped kits costing up to over a thousand dollars. Premier paddle and pedal models designed for extended touring can cost several thousands of dollars. So these units are not cheap but they can be great value. Most brands provide warranties against faulty manufacture as well as extended normal use warranties. The units can be expected to provide many years of virtually maintenance free outdoor enjoyment and pleasure.
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