I am looking to buy a kayak for my wife to paddle as I swim in a calm lake. I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions as to size, features, etc as I know nothing on this topic. I don't need anything fancy or for rough(er) water, just fairly simple.
Thanks in advance.
I have the advanced elements inflatable double kayak-- We love it. It really handles like a regular boat and sets up in 15 - 20 minutes. Good for NYC living in limited space.
They have a lot of different models. The things are still kind of heavy when in the "suitcase" (ours is about 65 pounds) but if you have bikes on the roof of the car -- where would you put a rigid kayak?
I have looked at the Foldboats -- they look good too but are pretty expensive.
We had a test drive of the advanced elements before buying -- I'd recommend that to be sure it works for you (I insisted we see it inflated from the case, due to a traumatic experience in my childhood with an inflatable boat, but that's another story.)
www.advancedelements.com/
I have a Wilderness Systems Pungo 14 (14'). Its really a good go between an everyday and touring the lake we have a cabin on. I can paddle in it all day and it has a ton of storage. However, its long and a bit cumbersome to carry and turn on the water. For a beginner I'd recommend a 10-12'.
I got mine here. They have a decent site you can look through
www.theoutsideworld.net/.../
Also, if anyone has experience with the folding/collapsible models (Folbot, Pakboat, Klepper, etc.), I'd be interested to hear your impressions. Does one sacrifice quality for convenience?
Make sure you buy a lightweight paddle. It makes a significant difference. Also make sure you buy one with a good, well adjustable seat.
+1. Its an investment, but worth it.
Like Lump mentioned, the Pungo is nice. A buddy of mine has the Pungo 120 (12'). The longer boats will track a little straighter in general, but they are heavier. Sit-on-top versions are even heavier than that. My friend says the Pungo has a decent V-hull so the shorter ones track well for a short boat.
If you have an REI around, it may be worth it to rent a boat or two- they do that at some stores. But be warned: that same friend of mine rented two at once and bought both :)
Also, if anyone has experience with the folding/collapsible models (Folbot, Pakboat, Klepper, etc.), I'd be interested to hear your impressions. Does one sacrifice quality for convenience?
I sacrificed quality for convenience :)
Actually I bought a really cheapo inflatable last year. Now all I need is an inflatable person to paddle it for me!
Sit on top kayaks are easier to get in and out and wetter. I see them used for lots of escourts. Remember if you ever need her help dont grab the center of the kayak from the side as you can turn it over. Grab the front or back. Google Catalina channel swim and you will see their site with some sit on top escorts over the years. The Ocean Kayak is a good one. They paddle these things all the way across the Catalina Channel 26 miles! Of couse thats nothing to swimming it. As I said a 300 dollar Perception 9-10 ft will work and be fun A good life jacket is a must. Light strong paddles make them easier to go..A used kayaks will save a lot of money if you can find one.
