Since the kayak was invented, it has evolved a lot. With the new models, we can see many innovations and features added to this type of boat. There are even kayaks designed with a pedal-powered system, so you don’t have to paddle anymore.
Not a long time ago, I didn’t know it was a thing. But after some research, I’ve found that pedal kayaks aren’t as new as I thought. If you also just hear about them, you’re at the right place. Let me share everything you should know about this type of kayak.
What Is A Pedal Kayak?
A pedal kayak is a small boat powered by a pedal mechanism instead of the standard paddle. This concept allows the driver to use his legs to move forward, which provides more strength and free hands during the ride. So it’s a hybrid design between a kayak and pedalboat to benefit from the best of both worlds.
With that said, this new revolution in the kayaking world isn’t ideal for everyone. Like anything else, it has benefits as well as drawbacks. Now let me help figure out whether or not a pedal kayak is what you need for your paddling (or maybe I should say pedaling?) adventures!
How Does A Pedal Kayak Work?
Most pedal kayaks work by pushing the pedals down with your feet in a circular motion as you would do with a bicycle. Then, it will transfer your pedaling force into a propeller under your boat that rotates to move forward on the water. So a pedal kayak works just like a motorized system, but it’s powered by your pedaling.
Apart from the standard bike-style models, you also have the Hobie ones. Even though the concept is the same, they work slightly differently.
With the second type of pedal kayak, you have to push the pedals forward and backward. This motion will make two fins move sideways underwater to create forward propulsion.
Hobie kayaks work more like how fish propel themselves through the water. On the other hand, bike-style models are similar to pedalboats. The only differences are the pedaling movement and the motion of the propeller.
A kayak doesn’t only need a way to go forward on the water. It also requires something for maneuverability and control. Otherwise, a boat in which you can’t decide where it goes would be pretty much useless.
That’s why pedal kayaks generally have a steering and rudder system to go backward or turn when needed. It’s often very easy to use and requires only one hand to change your direction. But some people still keep a paddle stowed on the boat in case they need it.
Pros & Cons Of Pedal Kayak
With a new propelling system, your experience in the water won’t be the same. Kayaking is a whole new activity if you don’t have to paddle anymore. Thus, let’s see what pedal boats will change positively and negatively in this sport.
Pedal Kayak Advantages
A foot-powered boat has a couple of interesting benefits. The first major one is to free the hands of the kayaker. With the pedals, you won’t anymore need a paddle to move on the water.
It can be extremely convenient in a variety of situations. You want to cast your fishing rod, take a picture, drink water, or keep your arms dry and rested? Well, a pedal kayak will be much more appropriate than a standard model.
The paddle can also be a source of problems sometimes. I don’t know if it’s just me, but I drop mine quite often in the water. Without anything to control the kayak, I won’t go far, and it can be tricky to recover my paddle.
Pedal kayaks have a propelling system integrated into the boat. So you can’t drop or forget it, and many people find this hands-free design much more convenient than when they had to paddle.
The traditional accessory used to maneuver your boat might also restrict you from kayaking in certain areas. Whether the waterway is too narrow or not appropriate for paddling, most pedal boats might allow you to explore nature with fewer restrictions.
Another advantage is the speed because pedal kayaks are surprisingly way faster than standard ones. In my head, I only have the souvenirs of how slow a pedalboat can be. Therefore, I wrongly assumed this propelling method wasn’t effective.
But pedal systems generate a lot more force than a paddle with less effort. Most of them are designed to increase your efficiency and create momentum. Their location under the boat also makes the propeller or fins push through more dense water to improve your speed.
Since our legs have some of the strongest muscles in the human body, they are more appropriate to propel you on the water than your arms. That’s why most people can kayak faster and for longer with a pedal-powered system than a paddle.
One thing many kayakers love about foot-propelled designs is their ease of use. Practically anyone can learn how to use them in a few minutes. Assuming you already know how to pedal on a bike, it’s easy.
What’s different is that you will sit in a more vertical position, and you’re on the water. Since most pedal kayaks are very stable, you don’t even have to keep your balance as you would on a bicycle.
On the contrary, paddling can require a lot of practice. I’ve done it for several years, my dad used to own a kayaking school, and my technique is still far from perfect. So a pedal system is typically more appropriate for beginners.
Finally, kayaks with pedals often have a lot of features to improve comfort and convenience. They can have seats with optimal back support, an adjustable height, or extra padding. A foot propulsion method located under the boat also reduces splashing, noise, etc.
Pedal Kayak Downsides
Although you don’t need to deal with the paddle if you opt for a pedal system kayak, it also has drawbacks. To do a fair comparison, you can’t look at completely different boats. So I will compare those kayaks with normal and fishing sit-on-top models.
The first problem with the pedals is that it takes up a lot of space. With the mechanism integrated into the boat, you won’t have as much room for storage as a traditional kayak. It can also obstruct your feet, so this design isn’t always more convenient and comfortable.
One environment in which pedal kayaks are not suitable is shallow waters. Depending on the model, the propeller or fins under the boat might restrict your adventures. It requires more maintenance and preparation too.
Compared to paddling, pedaling is slightly less quiet although it’s better than a motor propeller. My biggest concern about this type of kayak is the price. You will have to pay much more if you want a pedal propulsion system.
It can increase the cost of the boat by $1000. Thus, all the benefits a foot-propelled kayak has to offer are expensive. But it can definitely be worth the investment in some cases.
Finally, some people decide to carry a paddle anyway. So you might end up dealing with both of their issues even though you pay the extra money. That’s why it’s essential to make sure a pedal kayak is really what you need.
In my opinion, a foot-powered mechanism also denatures the sport. Kayaking comes with paddling, and I think we should keep it that way. Using a paddle to navigate might have some drawbacks, but it’s part of what makes this activity fun and challenging.
Pros
- Hands-Free Navigation.
- Allow You To Kayak Faster & Longer With Less Effort.
- No More Paddle To Deal With.
- Beginner-Friendly.
Cons
- Pedal Systems Are Bulky.
- Less Space For Storage.
- Require More Interaction & Maintenance.
- Expensive.
Pedal Kayaks FAQ
Now that you know the benefits and downsides of pedal kayaks, you probably have many other questions about them. I was in the same situation, so I did my research. Let me share with you some useful information I found on foot-powered boats.
What Are Pedal Kayaks Used For?
Pedal kayaks are mainly used for fishing and other recreational purposes. They can be extremely convenient to maneuver your boat with one hand (or no hands at all) while casting and reeling in a fish.
A foot propulsion system will allow you to keep your focus on fishing instead of paddling. Both require your attention and your hands, so you can do them at the same time. That’s why most pedal kayaks are designed for this outdoor sport.
Then, any other activity in which you need to use your hands will also benefit from them. For example, a foot-driven kayak would be ideal for wildlife photography. Apart from that, some people simply prefer to pedal than to paddle.
Nonetheless, this type of kayak isn’t suitable for rough water. You might be able to use one in a bay or calm sections of the ocean, but not in whitewater. Pedal boats are designed to do well in flat water.
Is A Pedal Kayak Good Exercise?
Pedaling a kayak at a brisk pace for long periods can provide you with an excellent workout. You can even go against the wind or add drift socks (underwater parachutes) to exercise more. The less efficient your pedal kayak is, the more energy and calories you will need to burn for moving forward.
Bike-style kayaks will offer a similar workout experience to stationary pedal machines. On the other hand, exercising on a Hobie pedal kayak feels more like a stepper. Either way, most pedal-driven boats can allow you to stay fit and enjoy nature at the same time.
I’ve found a lot of information about using pedal kayaks for exercise on this thread of the Hobie forum.
Why Are Pedal Kayaks So Expensive?
Pedal kayaks generally cost more than standard kayaks because the pedal system is expensive, and they generally have a lot of additional features. They are also often designed for a specific use, such as fishing, which can explain their high price. So pedal kayaks are expensive because they offer more value than paddle models.
Learn more about kayak prices!
Is A Pedal Kayak Worth It?
With all the benefits of a pedal kayak, it can be worth the extra money for some people. As long as the foot-driven system will improve your experience on the water and you can afford it, you should get one. However, a pedal kayak might not be worth the investment if a traditional one is appropriate for your needs.
How Fast Can You Go On A Pedal Kayak?
Most pedal kayaks have an average speed of around 3.5 to 4 knots. (4 to 4.5 mph) Some of the fastest models can reach up to 7 knots. (8 mph) Therefore, they are faster than standard kayaks, which move at a pace closer to 2.5 knots. (3 mph)
As I’ve already told you, pedaling faster and longer is also easier because our legs are typically way stronger than our arms. So pedal kayaks provide more speed and allow you to keep going for long periods.
Can You Add Pedals To Your Kayak?
Depending on the kayak design you have, it might be possible to add a pedal system to it. H2 Pro-Ped is a company that makes pedals and propellers for standard sit-on-top models. You can also try to modify your kayak by installing the Impulse Drive Pedal System on it.
Last Thoughts About Pedal Kayaks!
Finally, there are a lot of things to know about foot-powered kayaks. They can be extremely convenient and well-suited for specific uses, but don’t forget the drawbacks of their hands-free design.
A pedal system might be worth the extra money if it’s really what you need and suits your budget. Now you have to weigh the pros and cons to figure out whether or not you should get one of those kayaks.
I hope my article has helped you learn more about them. The best way to know what you prefer between paddling and pedaling is to try both. You will then be able to invest in the right kayak for you and have fun with it.
Here are some pedal models you should consider!
- Old Town Topwater 106 PDL (Fishing Kayak)
- Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 (Fishing Kayak)
- Ocean Malibu Pedal Model (Recreational Kayak)
See You On The Water!