If you’re just getting started with kayaking, there are many things you have to know. First of all, you must figure out what type of boat you need to enjoy this water sport. In general, a recreational kayak is the most appropriate option for beginners.
But you might not understand what it exactly is and how different it is from other kayaks. We all have been there, and it’s not a problem because I’m here to help you out. So let me share with you everything you should know about recreational kayaks!
What Is A Recreational Kayak?
A recreational kayak is a type of boat designed for casual paddling adventures on calm water. It can measure between 8 and 12 feet in length while having a width ranging from 27 to 36 inches. Meant for recreational activities, these kayaks are stable, easy to maneuver, and convenient for beginners.
You should also know that rec boats make up most of the kayak market. So, you will definitely come across them while shopping for your paddling equipment.
Now you may wonder why they are popular and if it’s the right option for you. Well, here’s more information about recreational kayaks!
Different Types Of Recreational Kayaks!
Right off the bat, you must understand that every model is unique. Although recreational kayaks have similar features and construction, they won’t offer the same paddling experience. In general, they separate into two categories.
There are the sit-on-top and sit-inside recreational kayaks. As their name suggests, the difference is about the cockpit. Sit-on-top models have an open deck on which you can sit, while sit-inside ones have an enclosed cockpit where you can slide your legs in.
Each boat design has pros and cons. For sit-on-top recreational kayaks, the main advantage is their convenience and increased stability. They are easy to get in and out, won’t fill up with water in case of capsize, and provide more freedom of movement for your legs.
On the other hand, an open cockpit doesn’t protect your lower body. Sit-inside recreational kayaks have the benefit of keeping your legs dry and warm. They can also increase the control and support you have while paddling in the water.
The Average Recreational Kayak
Leaving the cockpit design aside, most recreational kayaks are similar. For the dimensions, they are generally medium-sized and wide for stability. Usually made from thick polyethylene plastic, they are durable too.
A typical recreational kayak is around 10 feet long, 30 inches wide, and has a large opening or an open deck. Such a conception makes it very stable, easy to maneuver, and performant in flat water. Thus, a rec boat is an excellent option for beginners and for paddling in lakes.
Recreational Kayak Overview:
- Dimensions:
- Length: (8-12 ft)
- Width: (26-32 in)
- Features:
- Large Cockpit Opening.
- Wide Hull.
- Available In Sit-On-Top Model.
- Cup Holders.
- Etc.
- Pros:
- Highly Stable.
- Versatile.
- Simple To Use & Maneuver.
- Easy To Get In & Out.
- Affordable.
- Cons:
- Slow & Not Performant.
- Little To No Storage Room.
- Don’t Offer The Best Paddling Experience.
With the average recreational kayak in mind, you may wonder how different it is from other types of boats. They all have a design specific to a certain purpose. So let’s see what makes it unique compared with the sea, touring, whitewater, and fishing models.
What Is The Difference Between Touring/Sea & Recreational Kayaks?
The main difference between recreational and sea/touring kayaks is the design. Recreational models are much shorter and wider than sea/touring ones. So they offer more stability and maneuverability in flat water. On the other hand, sea and touring kayaks are very long and narrow to track better and go faster.
In other words, they aren’t meant for the same environment. Recreational kayaks are ideal for calm and small bodies of water. Sea and touring kayaks have features to perform well in open water, such as large lakes and the ocean.
For example, they usually have a rudder or a skeg for tracking straight, even with currents, waves, or strong winds. When it comes to recreational kayaking, stability and ease of use are generally more important than performance on the water.
Thus, both kayak designs have pros and cons and do better in a specific environment. If you don’t know which one is right for you, it will mainly come down to where you plan to go paddling, your kayaking experience, and what type of adventures you’re looking for.
Sea/Touring VS Recreational Kayak Overview:
| Sea/Touring Kayak | Recreational Kayak | |
| Dimensions | Width: (20-24 in) Length: (14-18 ft) | Width: (26-32 in) Length: (8-12 ft) |
| Hull | V-Shaped | Flat, Rounded or Pooton |
| Cockpit | Sit-Inside | Sit-On-Top & Sit-Inside |
| Features | Back-Band, Foot/Thigh/Hip Braces, Two Bulkheads, Sealed Hatches, Perimeter Lines, Bungee Cords, Rudder/Skeg, Etc. | Large Cockpit Opening, Small Hatches, Bungee Cords, Cup Holders, Etc. |
| Pros | Fast, Track Well, Handle Waves & Offer Storage Room. | Highly Stable, Versatile, Simple To Use, Maneuverable, Easy To Get In & Out & Affordable. |
| Cons | Unstable & Not Versatile. | Slow & Not Performant, Little To No Storage Room & Don’t Offer The Best Paddling Experience. |
Now that you know recreational kayaks are designed for paddling in flatwater, it doesn’t mean you can’t use them in another environment. Theoretically, you can use any type of boat in any water condition. But let’s see if it applies in reality.
Can You Take A Recreational Kayak On The Ocean?
You can take and use a recreational kayak on the ocean even though it’s not ideal for such water conditions. However, it won’t be as enjoyable and safe as with a sea kayak. Paddling in the ocean with a boat that doesn’t handle waves well and might not stay afloat in case of capsize is quite risky.
I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have no choice or the water is very calm. You should also stay near the coast, avoid long trips, and stick to calm spots like bays. Otherwise, using a recreational kayak in the ocean is too dangerous.
What Is The Difference Between Fishing & Recreational Kayaks?
In general, fishing kayaks are wider than recreational models, have a sit-on-top cockpit design, and provide more space for storage. Another difference is their additional features, such as rod holders, open hatches, a comfortable seat, and other add-ons to make the boat as appropriate as possible for fishing.
For the hull, recreational kayaks typically have a rounded or flat bottom part. On the other hand, fishing boats often have a pontoon hull for more stability on the water. Some models even allow anglers to fish while standing up, which isn’t possible on most standard rec kayaks.
Overall, recreational and fishing boats are very similar. They both perform well in flat and calm water, but one is designed for a specific activity while the other is more versatile. You could fish in a regular kayak, but the experience won’t be the best.
Fishing VS Recreational Kayak Overview:
| Fishing Kayak | Recreational Kayak | |
| Dimensions | Width: (30-42 in) Length: (10-14 ft) | Width: (26-32 in) Length: (8-12 ft) |
| Hull | Pooton or Flat | Flat, Rounded or Pooton |
| Cockpit | Mainly Sit-On-Top | Sit-On-Top & Sit-Inside |
| Features | Pooton Hull, Rod Holders, Space For Gear, Etc. | Large Cockpit Opening, Small Hatches, Bungee Cords, Cup Holders, Etc. |
| Pros | Extremely Stable, High Capacity, Comfortable & Convenient For Fishing. | Highly Stable, Versatile, Simple To Use, Maneuverable, Easy To Get In & Out & Affordable. |
| Cons | Not Versatile, Don’t Offer The Best Paddling Experience, Slow & Not Performant. | Slow & Not Performant, Little To No Storage Room & Don’t Offer The Best Paddling Experience. |
What Is The Difference Between Whitewater & Recreational Kayaks?
The boat you will need to paddle in a river or a lake won’t be the same. Recreational kayaks perform well in flat water, but in rapids, it’s another story. Whitewater boats are generally shorter, slightly narrower, and have different hulls.
Compared to recreational kayaks, their bottom part is generally more rounded with a higher bow rocker (curvature on the nose) to be more stable in whitewater. It can also be flat for planning on waves. They only come in a sit-inside design with a short opening to put a spray skirt on.
So whitewater and recreational kayaks are very different. One is designed to go down rapids and run rivers, while the other is meant for spending a relaxing day on a lake. Since flatwater and whitewater are completely different environments, they require a specific type of boat.
Whitewater VS Recreational Kayak Overview:
| Whitewater Kayak | Recreational Kayak | |
| Dimensions | Width: (22-28 in) Length: (6-10 ft) | Width: (26-32 in) Length: (8-12 ft) |
| Hull | Rounded or Flat | Flat, Rounded or Pooton |
| Cockpit | Sit-Inside | Sit-On-Top & Sit-Inside |
| Features | Spray Skirt, Foot Braces, Back Support, Etc. | Large Cockpit Opening, Small Hatches, Bungee Cords, Cup Holders, Etc. |
| Pros | Stable In Whitewater, Extremely Maneuverable, & Way More Fun (In My Opinion). | Highly Stable, Versatile, Simple To Use, Maneuverable, Easy To Get In & Out & Affordable. |
| Cons | Won’t Do Well In Flatwater, Not Versatile, Little To No Storage Room & Feel Tippy. | Slow & Not Performant, Little To No Storage Room & Don’t Offer The Best Paddling Experience. |
What Are The Best Recreational Kayaks?
Once you understand what a recreational kayak is and how different it is from other types, it’s time to find the right one for your needs. As I already told you, several models are available, and each of them is unique. Thus, here are some things you should consider.
First, you should know why and where you will use your recreational kayak. The main purpose of your purchase and the place you plan to go paddling will help you figure out what boat is best for you.
After that, you should have a good idea of what you’re looking for. Otherwise, you will be largely overwhelmed by all the options available. So decide whether you prefer a sit-on-top or sit-inside cockpit design, need room for storage or not, and if you want specific features.
Then, it’s time to analyze the recreational kayaks on the market. You can look at their construction, material, comfortability, performance, etc. As with anything else, the best way to understand whether or not you like something is to try it.
Fortunately, many kayak shops offer free demos to help you find the right boat. Nonetheless, it can be complicated to know what products to look at with all the options out there. So here are some recommendations for recreational kayaking if you don’t know where to start!
- Best Recreational Kayak Overall → Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
- Best Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak For Beginners → Ocean Kayak Scrambler 11
- Best Inflatable Recreational Kayak → AdvancedFrame Convertible
- Best Recreational Kayak For The Money → Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10
- Best Tandem Recreational Kayak → Ocean Kayak Malibu Two
How To Get Started With Recreational Kayaking?
There are many ways for beginners to dip their toes into this fun activity. You can borrow a recreational kayak from a friend, rent one from a shop, or even take a class. However, it’s relatively easy to learn the paddling basics on your own.
As long as you have the proper gear, a safe place to go, and some common sense, everything should be alright. A few hours of practice on the water is plenty enough to get started.
If you enjoy this paddling sport, you can get yourself a recreational kayak and the essential equipment. That way, you will be able to head out on the water whenever and for as long as you want.
Last Thoughts About Recreational Kayaks!
Finally, recreational kayaks are boats used to paddle in flat water for pure leisure. So they are well-suited to spend a relaxing day on a lake and get into kayaking. Either way, this type of kayak will allow you to have fun, exercise, and enjoy nature.
I hope my article has helped you understand everything you should know about recreational kayaks. We have covered it all, from a simple definition to how you can get started. Now it’s time to get one and prepare yourself to be ready for your first (or next) paddling adventure.
See You On The Water!
