Stay Afloat in These Sporty Kayaks This Summer

Whether you live in New England or the Pacific Northwest, watersports season is upon us. And what better way to enjoy the great outdoors than relaxing on a calm lake or pond in a comfortable kayak? Or, if still water isn’t your thing, now is a great time to hit the white water with a sporty and sleek kayak for one.

However you do it, you’ll want a high-quality boat that will keep you buoyant, comfortable, and moving at your own pace. We scoured the market to find the best kayaks for all paddlers.

The Best Kayaks

What to Consider

Before buying a kayak, consider the following details:

• Occupancy: Decide how many people you’d like it to sit. The most common sizes for kayaks are one or two people, though some larger models with an open frame can seat a third child or pet. Bigger boats are going to be heavier and more cumbersome to carry, but you may need to buy multiple kayaks if you opt for a solo boat.

• Frequency of Use: It’s also important to consider how often and how you’ll transport the kayak. If this is a boat that will constantly be going in and out of your car, or you’ll looking to regularly tote it over land, it’s nice to get a lighter boat. Inflatable and foldable kayaks are also great for transport.

• Extra Features: If you plan to use your kayak for a specific activity, such as fishing, you’ll want one with plenty of gear storage to stow your catch and attach your rods. Other features you may want to look for include carrying handles, dry storage hatches, fishing rod mounts, and removable seats.

Whether you’re looking for your next fishing perch or you want to introduce a young kayaker to the fun of paddling and maybe a capsize or two, these are the best kayaks available this season.