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Top 10 Best Touring Kayaks of 2024 — Reviews & Top Picks

If you’re planning to move your water adventures out to the open sea, you need touring kayaks. Deep water is what this type of vessel was originally designed for, but they’re great for bays and lake touring too.

Touring kayaks are bigger and stronger than the ordinary types to handle strong currents of the open waters. They also come with different accessories to make your travels safer and easier. Since your safety is of the utmost concern when it comes to any water adventure, touring kayaks are especially designed keeping your safety in mind.

Today we will share what we found after reviewing the best touring kayaks that today’s market has to offer. We’ve also added an in-depth buying guide so you can easily make an informed buying decision.

10 Best Lightweight Touring Kayaks Reviews

01 Perception Conduit Sit Inside Kayak (Overall Best)

Perception Conduit Sit Inside Kayak

The Perception Conduit Kayak has a heavy-duty construction that makes it perfect for touring flat and ocean waters. The mechanical parts are corrosion-resistant, so you have no issue when riding on saltwater.

Inarguably, Perception Kayak is one of the most durable touring boats available today. It has a high-density polyethylene single-piece body, proof of leakage, UV, abrasion, and impact.

The length and width measures at 13 feet and 26.5 inches, so it packs a lot of storage space for long trips. Having a sit-in design and spacious cockpit, you’ll notice that this boat is easy to enter and exit.

The bungee cords on the front and rear will secure the more significant equipment you want to carry. Still, the large dry storage compartments at the bow and stern will protect your gear from the elements.

To ensure you enjoy premium comfort out there, the Conduit features a thick seat and adjustable backrest. The quick-adjust footrest makes it suitable for average and taller paddlers. You’ll also notice the cockpit perimeter padding protects your legs.

We found this boat was more stable, responsive, and easier to paddle than other models we tested. Also, the Conduit’s versatility and performance made it perfect for learning the rudiments of ocean kayaking.

Another exciting feature of this boat is the ergonomic handles for easy carry. The 295-pound weight capacity means it can accommodate a single paddler and plenty of gear. This package doesn’t include a skeg and paddle pair. But that shouldn’t bother you considering its other advantages at this price range.

Specifications

  • Length: 13 feet
  • Width: 26.5 inches
  • Item Weight: 51 pounds
  • Max Weight Capacity: 295 pounds

Pros

  • Large cockpit
  • Comfort seat
  • Adjustable backrest and footrest
  • Excellent speed and stability
  • Easy to track and paddle
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • No paddles included

Our Verdict

The Perception Conduit is an excellent entry level touring kayak for the price. It’s light, responsive, stable, and performs well in different environments. The large cockpit and adjustable footrest mean you can grow with this boat until your skill improves.

We simply love everything about this Conduit boat – the reason it is our first choice. We highly recommend it for anyone looking for optimum comfort without having to break the bank.

02 Perception Expression 11.5 (Best Day Touring Kayak)

Perception Expression 11.5

The Perception Expression is also of UV and impact-resistant material, which makes it more durable. But it’s 11.5 feet long, meaning the Expression is a bit shorter than our top pick. This boat weighs 44 pounds, and the streamlined construction makes it easier to store and carry. Besides, it has a manageable size and weight, so, this kayak will be pretty stable on the water.

It also has a spacious waterproof storage compartment at the rear to keep your favorite gear. You’ll also appreciate the front and rear bungee system for securing large loads. But if you don’t like the cords, you can replace them with bright color lines which are more visible.

Like our first choice, the Expression also offers ultimate comfort. With a 25.75-inch width, this Perception kayak features a roomy cockpit that’s easy to get in and off. The cushy seat with seatback allows you to spend long hours paddling without experiencing backaches.

Users can quickly raise, lower, or tilt the backrest per their height. The padded and adjustable thigh braces provide excellent support and comfort. These user-friendly specs allow paddlers of all skill levels to ride the kayak with ease.

Another impressive feature that was pretty helpful for us was its Tru Trak Skeg system. This device located under the cockpit keeps the boat in a straight line despite the waves and wind. Still, the open skeg slot allowed the blades to deploy and retract at any time.

But, we would be happier if the cockpit had a bottle holder. We had to check online to learn how to use the skeg since no user manual came with it.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 139 x 25.8 x 14.5 inches
  • Weight: 44 pounds
  • Max. Capacity: 250 pounds
  • Material: High-density Polyethylene
  • Style: Sit-in

Pros

  • Tru Trak skeg
  • Easy-entry cockpit
  • Large dry storage
  • Cushy and adjustable seat
  • Thigh braces
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Front and rear bungee cords

Cons

  • No instruction manual included

Our Verdict

The Expression version is an outstanding kayak for the price. It’s light and easy to transport, while the thigh braces connect you to the boat. Besides, the retractable skeg makes paddling easier, even in thick waves and currents. Overall, this is one of the best touring kayaks today and will provide ultimate satisfaction.

03 Intex Explorer K2 Kayak (Best Inflatable Touring Kayak)

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

The Intex Explorer is excellent for the kayaking enthusiasts who want to take their boats wherever they go. This compact touring vessel weighs under 35 pounds, so it is easy to set up and transport. The valves at the sides make inflating and deflating fast and straightforward.

Made with Vinyl, the K2 is rigid with an I-beam floor, which provides fantastic comfort. The three separate air compartments allow the boat to float if one section gets punctured. It was surprisingly durable as we used it for a year without any need to repair it.

The Intex K2 boasts a removable skeg that keeps the boat stable in harsh weather conditions. It also features two inflatable seats with backrests. The seats are adjustable, and you can remove them to create extra storage space.

Still, when you take out the chairs, two people can comfortably sit on the inflated floor. It also has a large cockpit, which makes re-entering easier.

Luckily, the K2 has a max weight capacity of 400 pounds, and can comfortably handle two paddlers. The bright yellow appearance makes you highly visible to avoid a possible collision with other vessels.

Each side of the boat features a grab line and handle for your convenience. We liked the included pump as it was powerful and inflated the boat in less than 10 minutes. Still, the paddles have an excellent design and were easy to handle.

It’s worth mentioning that this K2 model doesn’t have dry storage.

Specifications

  • Kayak Weight: 30.6 pounds
  • Max Load Weight: 400 pounds
  • Size: 123 x 36 x 20 inches
  • Air Chambers: 3
  • No. of Riders: 2

Pros

  • Heavy-duty vinyl material
  • Three air chambers
  • Detachable seats
  • Easy to inflate and deflate
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Yellow finish for extra visibility

Cons

  • No storage chamber

Our Verdict

The K2‘s low price makes it an excellent option for any beginner. It’s easy to store and transport. Whether you’re paddling alone or with a partner, the K2 has everything you need. If you don’t want to spend a fortune on a touring kayak, this model is perfect.

04 Perception Carolina 12

Perception Carolina 12

The Carolina 12 is especially designed with a 39.5 x 21.6-inch cockpit to boarding more comfortable. The 12-inch length, V-shape hull, and soft chine offer a stable ride on the coastal waterways. It’s easier to load on a truck while still providing enough storage space for your essentials.

A high quality polyethylene material is the reason for its long lifespan. With the adjustable soft seat, you can comfortably sit as you paddle all-day. The two dry storage chambers and bungee system mean you can pack any equipment for your needs.

Of course, this is an excellent choice for paddlers who want to go with cameras, cell-phone, and laptops.

The Carolina 12 doesn’t come with a rudder system, but there’s a hole for one. Even without a rudder, we had no problem tracking or steering this kayak. Since this boat has a narrower hull, it was stable and easy to paddle.

The weight capacity is manageable, making it perfect for people weighing between 100 to 200 pounds.

Specifications

  • Length: 12 feet
  • Deck Height: 14.5 inches
  • Width: 26 inches
  • Weight: 49 pounds
  • Max. Capacity: 275 pounds

Pros

  • Excellent stability and performance
  • Durable construction
  • V-shape hull
  • Comfort seat
  • Adjustable footrest
  • Generous storage

Cons

  • No rudder included

Our Verdict

The Perception Carolina 12 is excellent for those who want to spend long hours in the coastal waters. With high stability, premium comfort, and ease of maneuvering, this boat is worth the price.

05 Perception Joyride 12

Perception Joyride 12

The Joyride 12 is another fantastic sit-in touring kayak from the Perception production line. This boat has an impressive 350-pound weight capacity, which is a lot for a one-person vessel.

The Perception boat also comes with an ample rear dry storage which you can keep your valuables. It also has a front bungee system to secure your items.

Another outstanding feature is the phone holder that allows you to take tour photographs. It also has a cup holder for easy access to your drinks. This means you can stay hydrated all-day as you paddle in the hot sun. The predrilled mount slots come handy when you want to install fish rod holders.

The Joyride 12 has front handles that you can use to drag or chain it to a tree. The seat comes with extra lift underneath for you to adjust the height. Besides, the seating has superior cushioning for extreme comfort. Generally, it will boost your confidence as it feels like you’re in a reclining chair.

At 54 pounds, this kayak is easy to transport, and the cockpit design makes getting in more straightforward. We were surprised at its speed despite the length and design.

Specifications

  • Length: 12 feet 2 inches
  • Weight: 50 pounds
  • Width: 27.25 inches
  • Weight Capacity: 350 pounds

Pros

  • Cup holders
  • Accessories mount
  • Selfie slot
  • Thick-padded seat
  • Adjustable footrest
  • Handles

Cons

  • No paddle included in the package

Our Verdict

Overall, the Perception Joyride 12 is a dependable touring kayak that offers top-notch comfort. This one doesn’t have plenty of storage space like our top pick. Still, this Perception model is an excellent buy for anyone looking for a robust boat for a weekend tour.

06 Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak

Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak

Looking for the best touring kayaks under 1000? This Elkton version might be yours. The 10.1 feet Steelhead Kayak is excellent for explorers and anglers with interests in versatility and performance. This kayak features a heavy-duty 1000D plastic construction that can take on calm or choppy waters.

It’s also very tough as we saw no mark on the body despite paddling on rocky shorelines. Still, the inflatable floor was large enough for two riders and supports a standing position.

The Steelhead boasts extra storage options at the bow and stern areas, including a front bungee system. It has side carry handles and different mounting points for your fishing gear. With the removable skeg, you won’t have issues with steering this boat.

The Elkton Kayak has a cushioned seat that won’t hurt your butt even after hours of paddling. What’s more, you can adjust the seat position to suit your height and there’s enough space to move your legs.

Whenever water entered the boat, all we did was to open the drain plugs. Besides, cleaning up this kayak was easy for us as the drains easily remove any leftover water. The package also included a hand pump, storage bag, and two paddles.

This Elkton version comes with a 1-year warranty coverage against factory defects. Again, you can return the boat within 30 days if the performance is below expectations. But, this kayak doesn’t have straps for securing the paddles when not in use.

Specifications

  • Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
  • Kayak Weight: 40 pounds
  • Material: PVC
  • Size: 10’10” x 3’3”
  • Warranty: 1-year

Pros

  • 400-pound load capacity
  • Drain plugs
  • Heavy-duty plastic
  • Solid floor
  • Equipment mount
  • Plenty of storage
  • Easy to setup

Cons

  • No paddle holder

Our Verdict

This Steelhead version among the best kayaks for the money. It comes in at a decent price point and still has space for your fishing gear. So, we recommend this model for anyone looking for a multipurpose inflatable touring kayak.

07 Perception Carolina 14

Perception Carolina 14

Looking to enjoy the benefits of owning a more extended and narrower touring kayak? The Carolina 14 is up for grabs. The extra length of this 14-foot boat gives it excellent speed, tracking, stability, and efficiency. With this Perception version, you can cover long distances and enjoy a hassle-free ride on the water.

The cockpit provides enough comfort for long trips. With the ample sitting area, padded seat, and adjustable footrest, you won’t regret your session. The bulkhead flotation feature makes this vessel buoyant, enhancing your safety in an emergency as a result.

You’ll appreciate the dry storage hatches and the bungee cords at the bow and stern. This means you can carry enough supplies to last you for days. Weighing around 53 pounds, the Carolina 14 will be easy to load to your truck.

The Carolina 14 doesn’t come with a rudder system, but we didn’t need one. This Perception kayak is very durable as we didn’t have any big issue for the years we used it.

Specifications

  • Length: 14 feet
  • Width: 24.5 inches
  • Deck Height: 14.5 inches
  • Weight: 53 pounds
  • Max. User Capacity: 300 pounds

Pros

  • Excellent tracking even without a skeg
  • Quick and stable
  • Suitable for open water and canals
  • Plenty of storage
  • Comfort cockpit

Cons

  • Paddles sold separately

Our Verdict

The Perception Carolina 14 is durable and has plenty of features to meet your comfort needs for an all-day ride. Though the Carolina 14 came in at a slightly higher price, it was still worth the extra bucks. Hence we recommend it for anyone looking for the best touring kayaks for daily adventure.

08 Driftsun Sculpin Rotomolded Sit-in Kayak 12.5ft

Driftsun Sculpin Rotomolded Sit-in Kayak 12.5ft

This Driftsun touring kayak is loaded with features to give you a thrilling adventure. Luckily, it’s one of the most affordable boats on the market. Let’s look at the reasons we like it.

It’s 12.5 feet length, and 55-pound weight makes the Driftsun kayak suitable for beginners. The combination of a V-shaped hull with impact-resistant plastic makes it responsive and quick for advanced paddlers. In other words, this unit is designed for paddlers of all skill levels.

The Driftsun integrates a SmartTrack rudder that helps you to track and turn your boat quickly. What separates this rudder system from other ones we’ve listed is you can retract it remotely.

The lightweight and ergonomic paddle are easy to handle as you glide through the river or ocean.

On the front side is a small dry storage unit while the larger compartment is at the rear. This means you can keep your essentials handy for a whole weekend trip. You’ll notice the covers are efficient and pretty easy to open or close. The boat’s bungee systems also offer extra storage options for your supplies.

The sit-in and deep cockpit design mean you’ll stay dry when you’re on the open sea. You’ll also appreciate the spacious cockpit whenever you attempt to re-enter the boat. Besides, the cushy seat makes you stable and comfortable throughout all riding conditions. The only issue is that it doesn’t come with a footrest.

Specifications

  • Length: 12.5 feet
  • Weight: 55 pounds
  • Height: 13.75 inches
  • Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
  • Width: 26 inches

Pros

  • Durable, fast, and responsive
  • Suitable for paddlers of all skill levels
  • Small and large watertight storage
  • Rod holder and paddles included
  • Spacious cockpit

Cons

  • No adjustable footrest included

Our Verdict

This Driftsun model is quite impressive and comes in at an unbeatable price point. Overall, an excellent choice for paddlers looking for a reliable boat for rough and calm waters.

09 Wilderness Systems Tsunami 165

Wilderness Systems Tsunami 165

Designed for long day trips, the Tsunami 165 is the longest and most expensive touring boat on our list. It’s 16.6 feet long, which gives this boat the perfect combination of stability and speed. Once the Wilderness kayak is on hi-speed, you’ll notice it takes less effort to maintain the pace. This design also makes it suit all categories of paddlers.

The Tsunami 165 has a lot more storage space than any other model we’ve listed. Besides having plenty of bungee cords, it has one front dry storage and two rear dry compartments. This means you can take enough food, water, and gear for multi-day trips. The water bottle storage keeps your liquid within reach but also stays hidden for easy entry and exit.

Another impressive feature of the Tsunami 165 is the padded seat and footrests, which keeps you relaxed. There’s also plenty of cockpit space to allow bigger paddlers to get in and out with ease. The replaceable skid plate prevents damage to the hull when you drag. Still, two soft handles make pulling or carrying more comfortable.

Weighing at 66 pounds, we found this Tsunami 165 was a bit heavy to lift or takedown from the truck.

Specifications

  • Length: 16.6 feet
  • Width: 23-3/4 inches
  • Deck Height: 15 inches
  • Max. Capacity: 350 pounds
  • Weight: 66 pounds
  • Paddler Size: Medium

Pros

  • Waterproof hatches
  • Adjustable seat and braces
  • Rudder system for easy tracking
  • 16.6 feet long
  • 350-pound weight capacity
  • Adjustable footrest
  • Easy to control

Cons

  • A bit expensive
  • Heavy

Our Verdict

Overall, Tsunami 165 is excellent for those looking for a kayak with plenty of storage options to carry the needed supplies. It can handle anything from touring to fishing on calm or rough waters. Though it costs a fortune, it’ll be worth the effort.

10 Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125

Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125

The last touring kayak on our list is the Tsunami 125. What separates this one from the Tsunami 165 is its shorter length. Besides, this one doesn’t have as much storage space as our previous choice, but you can still pack a bunch.

Meanwhile, the Tsunami 125 features the front and rear dry storage points. Also, there are two mesh pockets on the deck for keeping smaller items. The bottle holder is easy to reach but keeps the container from view for easy access to the cockpit.

Measuring at 12.6 feet and 26 inches, this boat is hard to tip over, making it perfect for beginners. That said, whether you’re in the river or lake, this vessel has got you covered. The Tsunami 125 features a specialized chine hull, making it highly stable and efficient on the water.

This Wilderness kayak comes with a padded seat that you can adjust for your convenience. Besides supporting your back, the seating cover and foam is breathable to keep you fresh. This boat is lightweight, weighing at 51 pounds, and can hold up to 300 pounds. The bungee deck has a reflective surface to make you highly visible and safer on the sea.

The Tsunami 125 performed as expected, but we’d be happier if it came with a rudder system.

Specifications

  • Length: 12.9 feet
  • Width: 26 inches
  • Height: 15 inches
  • Max Capacity: 300 pounds
  • Weight: 51 pounds

Pros

  • Water bottle storage
  • Front deck mesh pockets
  • Breathable seat
  • Replaceable skid plate
  • Two dry storage hatches
  • Reflective bungee cord for safety

Cons

  • No rudder system

Our Verdict

The Tsunami 125 is an excellent kayak, perfect for paddlers who intend to spend their day in slow-moving lakes and rivers. It comes in the high-price range but does have a lot of extras that suit the price. Meanwhile, if still looking for the best touring kayaks to buy, you can’t go wrong with this model.

Best Touring Kayaks Buying Guide

Best Touring Kayaks Buying Guide

1. Materials

Your kayak makeup is pretty essential as it determines the boat’s speed, weight, and durability. Here are the most standard materials for crafting touring kayaks.

  • Polyethylene plastic

This popular choice is cheap, durable, and resistant to scratches. A polyethylene plastic kayak can easily shatter upon massive impact, so avoid riding in rocky areas. Meanwhile, storing it indoors or away from UV rays will prolong its life.

  • Polycarbonate or ABS plastic

Also affordable but a bit more scratch-resistant than polyethylene plastics. With a glossy finish, polycarbonates offer a smoother glide through the water, making your paddling easier.

  • Fiberglass

A more expensive option, fiberglass kayaks are lighter, durable, and rigid. They’re not affected by UV rays but aren’t immune to impacts.

  • Wood

Wood touring kayaks are hard to find these days, but they’ll cost a fortune if available. They’re among the best you can buy because of their ease of paddling and efficiency.

2. Length

Longer boats are faster and can accommodate more equipment. But shorter kayaks are lighter, and the short hull makes them quicker to turn. Overall, your kayaking style determines the perfect length to buy. If you want to spend more time in the sea, for instance, you should look for a more extended size.

3. Width

The boat’s width affects its stability and speed. Of course, broader types are more stable, while narrower kayaks are faster.

4. Depth

Deeper kayaks allow you to stretch your legs and offers much storage room for your gear. Wind will have little effect on shallow boats.

5. Max Weight Capacity

Each kayak can only carry a given load at a time. So, make sure your total weight and equipment don’t exceed the kayak’s loading capacity. As a rule of thumb, choose a boat with a 100-pound capacity more than your weight.

6. Hull Shape

This refers to the boat’s body design. Commonly used hulls are v-shape, flat, and round.

  • V-shape Hulls

These types are stable, and that makes them perfect for touring kayaks. V-shape acts like a skeg and offers better tracking.

  • Flat Hulls

Flat hulls offer better stability when sitting, but they’re also less efficient when you paddle. Thus, they are rarely used as a touring kayak.

  • Rounded Hulls

These U-shaped boats are the least stable but perform well against large swells.

7. Skill Level

Generally, beginners prefer shorter and wider vessels because they’re stable and comfortable to enter or exit. But longer boats offer less drag, but harder to turn, making them suitable for advanced riders.

8. Transporting

You should consider how you intend to transport your kayak before you buy it. Of course, the primary issue of concern is weight and size. That said, you need to choose between a kayak trailer or roof rack.

A kayak trailer can carry any boat size, and you can use it with any car with a hitch. So, if your boat is 15 feet and more, opt for a trailer. If not, a roof rack is preferable.

9. Stability

You need more excellent stability when you set out, so, pick a boat with a flatter hull. But, be prepared to sacrifice quicker turning.

10. Comfort

Since you’ll spend long hours out there, you must buy one that offers a comfortable fit. The best luxury touring kayak should have a broader cockpit and options to adjust seats, footrests, and straps.

11. Chines

A chine refers to the boat’s shape when viewed from one end. This shape describes the link between the kayak’s side and the bottom. Chines come in many designs, but the commonest is hard and soft types.

  • Hard chine

 This design is like a right angle and allows quicker turning but less speed.

  • Soft chine

This one has a rounded corner that gives the boat a smooth glide.

12. Cockpit Size

As said earlier, your boat’s cockpit dimensions play a crucial role in your comfort. Kayaks with smaller cockpits are more comfortable to control and offer better protection against cold. A larger cockpit provides greater comfort as you can quickly move your legs but harder to steer.

That said, an 11-inch deck is ideal for average users. But taller paddlers should pick models that are at least 13 inches deep.

13. Sinkage Level

A kayak’s sinkage level measures how low it sits in the water. Knowing this value can increase your chances of success as you won’t exceed its load limit. That’s because more weight makes the vessel sink too low, making it flip too often.

14. Skeg

This fixed rubber found at the kayak’s bottom helps it to move in a specific direction. Most touring kayaks come with adjustable skegs that you can control from the cockpit.

15. Hatches

Hatches refer to the doorway to the boat’s watertight compartments. They should be sturdy and secure to protect your equipment from rain or saltwater.

16. Bow and Stern

Another name for your boat’s front area is bow and rear is stern.

17. Tracking Fins

Tracking fins also help the boat to travel straight in solid surf and wind. Unlike skeg, tracking fins are not retractable.

18. Rudder

Generally, you adjust the rudder with your feet to steer the boat.

19. Seat

We suggest you buy a kayak with a customizable feat. Besides being long-lasting, the chair should feature a backrest, straps, and footrest for extra comfort.

20. Storage

If you plan to spend more days in the sea, you need enough storage space for your consumables and gear. Some of the best-rated models have extra storage options like hatches and bungee cords.

21. Budget

Remember that touring kayaks are more robust and advanced, which makes them expensive. But you can still set your budget by avoiding models with high-end, comfortable features. Meanwhile, be prepared to spend around 600 to 2000 bucks on a decent model.

Touring Kayak vs Sea Kayak – What’s The Difference?

A touring kayak is suited for calm waters like rivers so it won’t withstand large swells. But a sea kayak is longer and narrower, which makes it fast and easy to paddle. This unique hull’s shape of a sea vessel offers it more excellent stability to handle the waves.

Most sea boats sit a little lower in the water, which improves its glide in unfriendly weather conditions. Of course, their narrower dimensions mean ocean kayaks are harder to turn. Another thing that separates sea kayaks from others is their unique sit-in design.

Unlike sit on top types, this one gives more freedom to explore the sea. That’s because the elements do not limit you.

Care & Maintenance Tips

Kayaks are easy to manage, but proper care will make them last longer. Here are a few tips to help keep your boat in good shape.

  • Keep it clean

Maintain the habit of rinsing your kayak with fresh water after each use. This prevents dirt buildup that could cause bacteria growth or mar your boat’s looks. Besides, if paddling on saltwater, washing with freshwater will protect the metal parts from rust.

  • Proper storage

Many kayaks can’t withstand prolonged sun exposure, hence needing to keep them indoors or apply a sun protectant. For outdoor storage, dry the inside, then use a cockpit cover to keep the rain off. To prevent oil canning cases, you should store your boat on its edge using a specialized hanger.

  • Replace worn bungee cords and deck lines

After years of repeated exposure to the elements, your deck lines and ropes will weaken. Once this happens, the best action is a replacement.

  • Clean the footpegs

The sand buildup will make the footpegs hard to adjust. So, regular cleaning will make them slide easily and comfortable to use.

Safety tips for kayaking

The key to preventing a bad experience and staying safe is to plan against danger. Here are a few things you can do whenever you want to paddle in rough waters.

  • Choose the right clothes for the weather conditions. If paddling in cold water, for instance, wear a thick suit to keep warm. On a hot day, wearing a breathable material will help. You should also protect your skin from the sun by wearing a hat and long sleeves.
  • Consider wearing a helmet if kayaking in rocky water, rapids, and fast-flowing rivers.
  • Choose a kayaking location that suits your skill level. It’s safer to start-up in stable or shallow water then move to a rougher area when your skills improve.
  • Practice re-entering from the water before going on a long trip.
  • Check your gear and ensure everything works well before you hit off.
  • Use reflective tapes and wear bright clothing as you venture into a high-traffic area.

It’s Time to Wrap UP

Now that you’ve gone through our reviews of the best touring kayaks, hopefully, you’ll now be able to make the right choice. Generally, touring boats have plenty of storage space, allowing you to carry everything needed.

If you’re short on cash, the Intex K2 is the best pick. This kayak is lightweight, durable, and easy to transport. It also has two comfort seats for stress-free paddling, and the skeg makes it easier to control.

For those looking for a longer boat for river or ocean kayaking, the Tsunami 165 is perfect with ample storage space for a multi-day trip. For the ideal balance between speed, stability, and comfort, thePerception Conduit is a decent option.

In all our picks, we focused on models that’ll offer you comfort, durability, and excellent performance. As long as you know your budget, skill level, and paddling area, you can find the right fit.

FAQs

1. What Is the Difference Between a Recreational and Touring Kayak?

Ans. Recreational kayaks are for short rides in calmer waters. Since they are made of less durable materials, recreational boats are generally cheap. Their shorter length makes them easier to turn but a bit harder to track. Still, they have less storage space for a long trip.

In terms of shape, recreational kayaks have broader hulls that make the more stable but easily affected by wind. You can start with a recreational boat then upgrade to a touring kayak.

Touring kayaks are longer and faster, but difficult to turn. They have plenty of storage space, which makes them perfect for longer trips. Traveling boats are generally narrow, which adds to their speed but hard to stabilize. Overall, touring kayaks are more durable and versatile, allowing you to ride in rougher waters.

2. What’s the Right Length of a Women’s Kayak?

Ans. Women should opt for one in the 11 to 13 feet range. That’s because they’re fast and \easier to steer than the more extended models.

3. How Fast Should I Get When Paddling?

Ans. On average, your pace will be around 3 to 4 mph. But if you’re on a race, you can reach up to 7 to 9 mph.

4. How Can I Balance My Kayak?

Ans. The major challenge with balancing is in how you pack your gear. For example, if one side is heavy than necessary, your boat might tip over. So, despite what you carry, ensure you spread the weight evenly.

5. Should I Always Wear a PFD?

Ans. We expect that every paddler should wear a life jacket or PFD at all times. Of course, this will keep you floating if you tip over.

6. Will I Get Wet When Kayaking?

Ans. It’s impossible to stay dry on the sea, but you’ll be less wet with a sit-in kayak.

7. Longer or Shorter Kayak – Which Is Better?

Ans. For touring kayaks, more extended models are better because they’re faster, more stable, easier to paddle and track better.

About the author

Jeremy Stevens

Jeremy has been obsessed with bodyboarding and surfboarding ever since he was a kid. He always wanted to be part of this sport for his love of this sports. Having received his degrees in Economics, he had to change his track and eventually got himself into the watercraft manufacturing industry. As an insider he’s had the opportunity to monitor and keep track of the latest trends and designs.

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