The touring kayak is a great choice for beginners because they are so versatile.  These kayaks are good for both day-trips and longer trips because they are designed to hold more gear than other types of recreational kayaks.  The touring kayak may be a little more expensive than other types of kayaks.
New Wilderness Systems touring kayak
 New Wilderness Systems touring kayak
$509.28
Necky Looksha 14 Day Touring Kayak from Overstock!
 Necky Looksha 14 Day Touring Kayak from Overstock!
$465.00
Wilderness Systems Pamlico 100 Touring Sea Kayak *NIW*
 Wilderness Systems Pamlico 100 Touring Sea Kayak *NIW*
$172.50
Northwest Cadence Ocean touring kayak
 Northwest Cadence Ocean touring kayak
$1,000.00
$1,600.00
14 ft Georgian bay touring kayak by ClearWater Design
 14 ft Georgian bay touring kayak by ClearWater Design
$677.99

Kayak Information


  • Kayaks are made from an assortment of different materials. Surf kayaks are almost exclusively fiberglass and white-water models are often made from plastic. Kayaks are fairly inexpensive to rent at almost any major river or lake facility. Kayaks are commonly called canoes although they have different histories and designs.

    Kayaks are classified Kayaks are classified by their intended use. There are five primary classifications: whitewater, surf, touring/expedition, light touring/day tripping and general recreation. Kayaks are boats that look like small canoes but have covered decks and are also easy to carry. Kayaks don’t use fossil fuels so they do not damage the environment.

    Kayaks are actually small boats whose decks are covered and come with a double blade paddle to propel the kayak. There are basically three different types of kayaks; rigid kayaks, folding kayaks and inflatable kayaks. Kayaks ordinarily have much less material above the waterline and are therefore not as susceptible to the wind.

    Kayaks range from 6 ft to 12 ft. The 6 ft models are commonly known as play boats and can be used to perform tricks. Kayaks are very small and sleek with room for only one or two people. You sit on the floor of the kayak which makes it less prone to tipping in high winds or white water rapids. Kayaks come in single, double, and occasionally three person models.

    Fiberglass boats are lighter, but more expensive and more fragile. Kevlar boats are light weight and incredible strong, but are the most expensive type of kayak. Fiberglass is mid-weight and relatively easy to maintain and repair. However it is more expensive than plastic, can crack on impact, and surface scrapes require occasional maintenance.