Long boats glide farther per stroke than shorter boats, which makes them easy to paddle in a straight line. They are ideal for long stretches of flatwater and for cutting through waves in deep water. The extra length also provides additional storage space without compromising handling; the same would not be true for additional width. If you would like to take your kayak on long-distance day trips or multi-day, backcountry paddling adventures, a long touring boat is your best choice.
If you would like to learn to run swift and rocky waterways, you will need a whitewater boat. The short length and other design features of playboats, creek boats and river runners are ideal for quick turns and other maneuvers needed to safely navigate turbulent waters. These boats, however, are sluggish on flatwater, and they cannot fit much gear.
The mid-size recreational kayak has some characteristics of both the longer and shorter boats. It turns more easily than a touring boat, which makes it ideal for exploring and fishing, but not quite agile enough for real rapids. They have far more storage space than a whitewater boat, and will do well on extended trips on slower moving rivers and in tidal currents--places where you wouldn't want to bring a whitewater boat.
--Linda Basilicato
No comments:
Post a Comment