Choosing a White Water Kayak

A white water kayak is made for the roughest water in the world. White water kayaking isn’t for beginners. You need skills in river kayaking and rapids before attempting a class 4 whitewater trip. The most important component for a great trip is the right kayak. It must be made for rough water. Kayaks are made in a variety of materials including wood, plastic and fiberglass. An inflatable is a better alternative for many reasons. They are portable, light weight and less expensive. It can be deflated and carried in a backpack.

The best inflatable whitewater kayaks depend on the level of activity they will be used for. The size and length that is best depends on the kind of kayaking you are planning. The most common type is river running. Kayaks for river running are long, up to ten feet. If you take longer trips, look for a style with plenty of room to store your camping gear. Most are one man kayaks, but Sea Eagle makes a good, two person inflatable kayak with plenty of room for gear.

Playboating

Playboating is a more extreme version of kayaking. Rather than traveling the river, as in river running, you stay in the same general area and rapids. Kayaks made for this type of white water excursion are a foot or two shorter and more narrow on each end. The design makes it easier to maneuver for doing tricks in the rapids.

Creeking

Creeking is the version that is done in the roughest rivers worldwide. The experience is the most intense of all whitewater classes. The best kayaks for creeking are about the length of a playboat, but have a more rounded shape. This allows the kayak to turn faster. These designs are the easiest of all white water styles to tip over. For this reason, an inflatable is the best choice for creeking.

Compare Inflatable Kayaks Here

An inflatable kayak offers several advantages in all classes of whitewater. They are more buoyant and easier to paddle than other styles. You will find you have more room to carry gear and the vessel is easier to carry. The stability of inflatable material makes them less prone to tipping. In the end, the kayak you choose has to be the best for your needs. Check the ratings to be sure the one you choose is suitable for your activity. If possible, test drive it before you buy. Your comfort is the most important factor; you don’t want to end up with something that literally, doesn’t fit.

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