Get Started Paddling

There are four categories of kayak: recreational, light touring, touring and fishing. A beginning paddler should start with a recreational boat on calm, small waters like ponds or slow moving rivers. When your skills develop or you get interested in longer trips—even overnight excursions—you can graduate up to a light touring or touring model. For the angler, there are stable, fully equipped fishing kayaks designed to help you catch fish.

Commonly known as SUPs, these resemble a surfboard but are designed to be paddled like a canoe or kayak while standing. There are two kinds of SUP: planing and touring. Planing boards look most like a surfboard and can be used for fitness paddling, SUP yoga and surfing. Touring boards feature a streamlined displacement hull with a kayak-like bow that slices through the water efficiently. Touring SUPs can be used for long distances, overnight camping trips and racing. Within each style there are inflatable boards that pack down when deflated for easier travel and storage. SUPs are generally the lightest type of craft we offer and are easier to carry and transport.

Simple, classic and timeless, canoes are the most stable (and heaviest) watercraft. They’re a great choice if you like to carry a lot of gear, passengers or even a dog when you paddle. They’re best on lakes, ponds and slow-moving rivers. Some are designed for fast-moving whitewater rivers but that is something you can tackle when you’re an advanced paddler.

Taking a class before buying is a great way to learn some key paddling skills and to try out a boat.

The first rule for paddling is to dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. If you take an accidental plunge, you want to be ready to stay warm. A wetsuit or drysuit is necessary if water temperatures are below 60° F. Above 60°, wear synthetic layers that also protect you from the sun. Finally, a good hat and pair of polarized sunglasses round out your paddling outfit.