| A couple of decades ago there were two to | | | | aluminum. Their prices are usually high, but they |
| three models of Kayaks available. Don't be | | | | tend to last longer, and are also quite easy to |
| surprised if today you go in the market to find 50 | | | | store. |
| different ultra specialized Kayaks. | | | | Inflatable boats provide good portability and |
| The obvious first question is what type of | | | | storage space. They are generally the least |
| kayaking will you do? Basically there is river, lake, | | | | expensive kayaks you can buy. Kayak enthusiasts |
| and sea kayaking. River kayaks are very short | | | | for whom storage and transportation is a major |
| and tough boats meant for maneuverability and | | | | issue will find a good option in these boats. |
| the abuse of whitewater rapids. Sea kayaks are | | | | Another choice to ponder is whether to choose a |
| sleek and light and are designed for cruising. Then | | | | single-passenger or double-passenger kayak. Both |
| there are general kayaks that can be used on sea | | | | have their own advantages and disadvantages. |
| lakes. | | | | For a fun family adventure, the double kayak is |
| There are three basic types of kayaks as far as | | | | perfect. It is fast and stable but lacks the |
| structure and materials are concerned. | | | | maneuverability of a single Kayak. |
| Rigid kayaks are made of plastic, wood or carbon | | | | After deciding on the style of kayak you want to |
| fiber. These are usually the most affordable and | | | | purchase, price becomes a big factor in |
| are they are the most popular too. Plastic boats | | | | determining exactly which model to buy. A basic |
| are tough and reliable but once damaged can be | | | | entry-level plastic kayak can be found for as low |
| very difficult to repair. Fiberglass boats are more | | | | as $250. Fiberglass boats can cost from |
| expensive than plastic but damage is easily | | | | anywhere around $900 to $2500. Other plastic |
| repaired, they are also quite light. | | | | models can run as high as $1700. If you want to |
| For kayak enthusiasts who appreciate aesthetics | | | | go for the more exotic kayaks they would cost |
| and beauty, you might want to look at some | | | | you a little more. Inflatable boats start at about |
| wooden boats; they are carefully crafted and | | | | $125 and go up to about $2000. Folding boats |
| very beautiful kayaks. There are kits available for | | | | have a huge Price variation, in them and they can |
| folks who are prepared to build their own. | | | | cost anywhere between $1500 to $5000. |
| A folding kayak is usually made of wood or | | | | |