what size kayak do i need what size kayak do i need

Assuming you are referring to a kayak paddle and not a canoe paddle, there are a few things to consider when determining what size paddle you need for your 32 kayak. The average recreational kayak is about ten inches long. The upper body doesnt have much effect on the size of kayak you need, except maybe with the weight capacity. This Kayak has plenty of room for two people plus gear while still being manageable for one person to paddle solo if necessary.For someone who is 6'0" tall and weighs 200 lbs., we would recommend an 11'6" long tandem sit-in Kayak like the Wilderness Systems Pungo 140T Tandem Sit In Recreational Kayak. The opening width needs to be a perfect fit for your size. For instance, if you want a recreational kayak and your legs are long, go with a 12-foot kayak. The kayaks weight limit is indicated by the manufacturer. These are simply average figures. Decks provide shelter from the environment (waves, spray, precipitation and hot sun) but can make a kayak more difficult to enter and exit. They're More Agile and Easier to ManeuverAnother advantage of an 8-foot kayak is that they're more agile and easier to maneuver than their larger counterparts. So give a proper look at the length as well as at the width to assure the stability you want. Reviews of the 7 Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers for Boat, What Kayak Size Do I Need? Composite recreational kayaks are harder to find, but one lightweight option is Oru Kayak, which manufactures folding (think origami) kayaks in lengths of 10, 12 and 16 feet from ultralight corrugated plastic. Kayaks are sized differently based on what they are designed to do. So like many other people, you may be wondering, what size kayak do I need?. Once you know what type of kayak you want, and the length/width range, it is time to narrow that down. First, you'll want to decide what type of kayaking you'll be doing most often. Once you've decided what type of kayaking you want to do most, it's time to consider your own physical dimensions.Are you tall or short? It will require more force. We will help you to easily find the best kayak that suits you. So above 180 pounds and taller than 510 paddlers can right-sized paddle this Kayak easily. The second question you need to ask is "What type of kayaking will I be doing most often?" So youll not only need to consider your overall height, but will also need to find a kayak that suits your waist width, hip size, thigh width, foot size, and leg lengtha boat that your lower body can fit comfortably. Tall people will need more legroom, but you dont necessarily need to buy the longest kayak. For those between 5'5" and 6'2", we recommend an 10-12 foot kayak.These kayaks offer good stability and tracking for intermediate paddlers. You just have to look for the one with a wider hull design as they offer the stability required for fishing. Once you have those answers, it's much easier to select the right kayak.Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding on kayak size: - Kayaks generally come in three different sizes: short (under 12 feet), medium (12-14 feet), and long (over 14 feet). Choosing the right kayak cockpit size is important for both comfort and performance. This is a question that is frequently asked by kayakers of all levels of experience, and the answer can be a little b Skip to content Often, 12-foot-long kayaks provide enough room and stability for average-sized people. For those over 6'2", we recommend a 12-14 foot kayak. Enough storage capacity to let you comfortably and securely carry the belongings you will need on your trip. The typical average length kayaks8 to 12 feet for a recreational kayak or 12 to 14 feet for a day touring kayakwill work well for a 6-foot-tall person. Short kayaks are more stable because of the length-to-width ratio. A small cockpit would measure about 24 inches long and 18 inches wide (typical of an old-school sea kayak). It is typically done when kayaking for exploration and enjoyment. These kayaks have amazing stability almost the same as an 8-foot boat. The perfect kayak for a 5 foot person depends on a variety of factors, including the type of kayaking you plan to do, your budget, and your personal preferences. This If youre a smaller person consider the smallest kayak size in this category, which would be about 15 feet by 22 or 23 inches wide, for most efficient paddling. For instance, if she wants to use the kayak primarily for fishing or photography, then stability might be more important than speed. The length should be long enough for easy tracking and maneuverability, which depends on the kayak type. The width should be wide enough for stability, but this ranges anywhere between 20 to 30 inches. And the weight and volume should be at least 125 pounds more than your body weight, along with the gear youre carrying. kayaksreport.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.comAmazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. They are built for stability, useful for when you have to struggle with your big catch. Matched blades mean that both ends match the same angle. You will head out to do longer trips. Lower volume is faster where high-volume is slower and the smoothness of the kayak also differs same. You'll be able to easily navigate around rocks and other obstacles without having to worry about tipping over. We are committed to guiding paddlers during kayak selection, first trip, and in enhancing their paddling know-how. Some even come with rotatable sits that you can place facing each other and pass your fishing time without getting bored. The depth of the kayak is also something to consider, as a deeper kayak will offer more stability than a shallow one. With appropriate training, day touring kayaks are a versatile option for lakes both small and large, provided theyre used in modest conditions with light winds and small waves. No problem! If you are taller, the opening should be long enough for you to get into the cockpit without knocking your knees and ankles against the kayak. Sit-on-top are open so they have a small sealed storage hatch. Your longer trips will need a wider boat. Not only does it enhance comfort, but it also promotes safety. A kayaks weight limit is between 250 and 300 pounds. These boats are generally 6-12 feet long. Or with a partner? But it is not the only one. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates. Touring Kayak width 22" to 25". They are also not the best for stability. Kayak Types and Paddle Lengths Like your torso height affects the length of your paddle the type of your kayak is also an important factor that reflects when you choose the paddle length for you. This sizing is specified for kids and the newbies of kayaking as they will need something that is easy to handle. Because lakes vary in size, from small inland bodies of water to the massive Great Lakes, its hard to narrow down a specific best size kayak for lakes. However, a good rule of thumb is the smaller the body of water, the smaller the kayak. Width is a critical dimension in determining weight capacity. Touring? Next, types of Kayaks:Recreational Kayaks . These are designed for the casual paddler interested in recreational activities on a lake or flatwater stream.Touring Kayaks . Sea / touring kayaks are built to stroll through water for longer miles. Tandem Kayaks . Tandem Kayaks are typically 13 to 20 foot in length with a beam / width of 30 to 34 inches. Fishing Kayak . The low-volume is for someone who is more than a novice, wants to get deep into kayaking. Assuming you are referring to kayaks designed for recreational use: A kayak designed for a 6ft person will have a cockpit that is large enough for the average-sized adult. Investing in a touring kayak should also mean taking certified training to learn efficient paddling and rescue techniques. You will find scupper holes in the hull of almost every sit-on-top. How to Increase Kayak SpeedIncrease Your Trolling Motor. A trolling motor will make your kayak experience easy and blissful by adding the speed element. Choose Your Paddles Wisely. Get the Right Hull for the Job. Smoothen the Kayaks Bottom. Invest in a Long Kayak. Get Creative with Gel Coats. Use Sweep Strokes Properly. If you are new to kayaking, then a wider kayak can be a good beginners choice as you grow accustomed to being on the water. If youre wondering how to measure kayak cockpit size, the basic rule considers length and width. Why Do You Need the Right Kayak Paddle Size? However, some of them are much longer as long as 16 feet. When it comes to kayaks, one size does not fit all. But if youre below 6 inches in height, a kayak thats less than 12 foot long will just be fine. Dont forget to check out the feathering of your paddle, too. So a boat will either be low, medium, or high volume. Paddling location also matters: smaller bodies of water, especially twisty rivers, demand shorter, more maneuverable kayaks. What size kayak do I need if I weigh 300 pounds? Often, smaller adult-sized recreational kayaks are perfect for larger children and youth. But what if you want to go kayaking but don't have anyone to go with?Or maybe you live in an area where there aren't many people around to paddle with. So if youre a first-time kayaker, you will benefit from a wider kayak. What is your weight? It is not easy to know whether a kayak is suitable for your height without using it. When you feel yourself to be more than a beginner in kayaking after the experience and comfort in any journey you will want to try out more of it. This volume also affects how much a kayak can hold. Kayaks come in a wide variety of lengths ranging from six feet to even sixteen feet. Finally, those who really want to invest in a good paddle might want to look into carbon-fiber ones. Kayak paddles usually come in separate pieces of either two or four. Kayaking can be a great recreational activity, but choosing the right kayak size is essential. And the compact size they have gives you an easy transport facility. Finally, we have whitewater kayaks, which are about as long as recreational ones. If youre looking for a boat thats faster and glides more efficiently through the water, as well as feeling somewhat sportier and less like a bathtub, a day touring kayak might be the right size of kayak for you. The shortest length of kayak available out there ranges between 8-9 feet. Several kayak manufacturers produce cheap, six-foot-long kids kayaks that work great for children under 5 feet tall and less than 100 pounds in weight. You will get a feel of what you want. The smallest kayak size in the recreational kayak category is about six feet; several manufacturers offer cheap sit-on-top models at this length which are meant for children under 12 years ofage. You will be in the water for hours. Are you looking for a kayak but don't know which size to choose? The task of lugging a heavy kayak could be an annoyance or an injury waiting tohappen. What size kayak do you need?Basic kayak paddle techniquesKayak safety tipsKayak locations, 1317 Edgewater Dr Suite 4704Orlando, FL 3280. As their name implies, touring kayaks are meant for multi-day trips in more exposed water conditions, including use on the ocean. Kayaks have different widths depending on the purpose they serve. Like any outdoor equipment, everything else being equal a light kayak costs far more than a heavy one. Normally the shorter kayak you will buy the easy you will feel to maneuver it. To take a step backwards, the weight limit of a kayak is determined by its volume. Your kayak cockpit opening width should be at least 20 inches wide to accommodate your wider waist and hips. This makes 8-foot kayaks among the most stable. They usually range from 180 to 250 centimeters. Often, your style of paddling will determine the best type of deck to choose. Touring Step 2: You should hold the paddle 40 cm apart using both hands. Feathered blades mean that they are rotated at different angles. And in sit-on, as people sit on top of boats, this doesn't need any search for extra facilities. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Best Pedal Kayak: Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R. Hobies been making kayaks for over 20 years. What size kayak do I need if I weigh 300 pounds? Analyzing kayaks from the perspective of these simple values is the goal in choosing the right size kayak for your body type and paddling aspirations. Is a 10 Ft Kayak Big Enough? High Volume: its a substantial, spacious volume. Tell a fellow kayaker you use a 72.22" paddle and you'll probably get a blank stare. Out of this huge range of sizes available, you may question yourself "What size kayak do I need?". If you are thinking of sea kayaking then sit-inside will be a great choice, cause now you know waves will not stop you from a dry ride. For recreational purposes, a kayak with 100-350 litres is ideal. And some of the kayaks of 14-foot length aids with tracking with a permanent or retractable skeg means a worry-free long trip. During kayaking exercises, the propel part that you hold is a shaft, and the part that offers you support when pulling is the blade. You wont have much fun if you have to cramp up your legs the entire time. The negative matter is that your backside will always be wet while you are paddling. Step 1: Familiarize yourself with the structure of the kayak paddle since; it has two blades close to the paddle shaft. For most people, a medium sized cockpit will be the best choice. If you want to get the lightest boat possible consider composite (fiberglass or Kevlar) construction; a day touring kayak of this style would have an average weight of 35 to 40 pounds, whereas a longer composite sea kayak tips the scales between 40 and 50 pounds. If you have long legs, you may want a longer kayak so that your knees aren't constantly bumping into the sides.Conversely, if you have shorter legs, a shorter kayak will be easier to maneuver and won't feel so cramped. If you have a kid with you or an amazing partner whom you can't leave alone for a trip get a tandem kayak rather than a solo kayak. The longer it is, the faster youll travel. Kayak Sizing Guide | What Size Kayak Do I Need? If you are taller than 56, then And if you anticipate having multiple people in your kayak at times, opt for a larger size so everyone can comfortably fit. How do I choose the right kayak? What Size Kayak Does a 5 Foot Person Need? Kayak Width & Stability Are wider kayaks more stable? 14-foot of size means large storage that ultimately defines longer paddle trips. In the case of sit-ins if you have a decent fit and enough room to get in and out easily with the space facility for your legs and thighs, then it will be more than enough. Now, for the most part, people under 6 ft. in height will fit in conventional sit-in kayak cockpits. Recreational kayaks are commonly made of toughand heavyrotomolded plastic; this style of kayak frequently has an average weight of 50 to 60 pounds (a light recreational kayak would fall in the 40-pound range). Meanwhile, fiberglass blades are considered mid-range in price and performance. Narrower and shorter kayaks are easier to maneuver in tight spaces such as rivers and creeks. The first question you need to answer when choosing a kayak is "What kayak size do I need?" Are you looking for a touring, recreation, whitewater, or fishing kayak? And even if youre getting a sit-on-top kayak, as long as you are tall, youll still want a kayak with a low deck to compensate for your natural higher level of gravity. These specifications contribute to the stable feel and easy handling of a recreational kayak; while these boats wont win any races, theyre meant to be maneuverable for beginners with minimal paddling skills. Its hard to pinpoint an exact kayak size for this size of person. The volume reflects how your ride will be. The kayak you choose should be based on your height, weight, and paddling experience.If you're a beginner or shorter paddler, a smaller kayak will be easier to maneuver. __CONFIG_colors_palette__{"active_palette":0,"config":{"colors":{"f3080":{"name":"Main Accent","parent":-1},"f2bba":{"name":"Main Light 10","parent":"f3080"},"trewq":{"name":"Main Light 30","parent":"f3080"},"poiuy":{"name":"Main Light 80","parent":"f3080"},"f83d7":{"name":"Main Light 80","parent":"f3080"},"frty6":{"name":"Main Light 45","parent":"f3080"},"flktr":{"name":"Main Light 80","parent":"f3080"}},"gradients":[]},"palettes":[{"name":"Default","value":{"colors":{"f3080":{"val":"var(--tcb-skin-color-13)","hsl":{"h":197,"s":0.59,"l":0.49}},"f2bba":{"val":"rgba(51, 159, 199, 0.5)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":196,"l":0.49,"s":0.59}},"trewq":{"val":"rgba(51, 159, 199, 0.7)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":196,"l":0.49,"s":0.59}},"poiuy":{"val":"rgba(51, 159, 199, 0.35)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":196,"l":0.49,"s":0.59}},"f83d7":{"val":"rgba(51, 159, 199, 0.4)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":196,"l":0.49,"s":0.59}},"frty6":{"val":"rgba(51, 159, 199, 0.2)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":196,"l":0.49,"s":0.59}},"flktr":{"val":"rgba(51, 159, 199, 0.8)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":196,"l":0.49,"s":0.59}}},"gradients":[]},"original":{"colors":{"f3080":{"val":"rgb(23, 23, 22)","hsl":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09}},"f2bba":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.5)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.5}},"trewq":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.7)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.7}},"poiuy":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.35)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.35}},"f83d7":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.4)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.4}},"frty6":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.2)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.2}},"flktr":{"val":"rgba(23, 23, 22, 0.8)","hsl_parent_dependency":{"h":60,"s":0.02,"l":0.09,"a":0.8}}},"gradients":[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__. Though the width, volume, storage, and other things you will need in your kayak will help you choose the one you may need, there are some other considerations you need to look upon. If you are shorter than 56, then a 12-foot kayak is best for you. You should try several boats and see how comfortable you are. Many people find that a 10 ft kayak is the perfect size for their needs. 210 cm Paddle: 26 to 28 inches. Check out this guide on kayak sizes for some recommendations! One thing that tall people struggle with is legroom (or lack thereof). A kayak that is too small will be uncomfortable and difficult to paddle, while a kayak that is too large will be unwieldy and may even capsize.To determine the best size kayak for a 5-foot woman, it is important to consider her height and weight, as well as what she plans to use the kayak for. Recreational kayaks are distinguished by short and wide dimensions, which meet the needs of beginner and casual paddlers in sheltered water conditions. The average kayak size in this popular category of kayaks is 10 feet long by 28 inches wide. A six-foot kids kayak is a great option for introducing your child to kayaking. However, some other factors work while considering the purchase of your kayak beyond the lengths. These kayaks are easy to handle and maneuverable. But the kayak should also provide enough legroom and volume, enough space for any extra gear, and adjustable footrests for foot comfort during the trip. While plastic is more affordable, they are not that durable. They are narrower, too, ranging from 22 to 25 inches wide. On the other hand, if you're planning on doing some serious fishing or camping from your kayak, a larger model might be better suited to your needs. Recreational kayaks have wider openings compared to most boats designed for speed. If you're taller than that, then it's always a good idea to test a 12 to 14-foot kayak to get a feel for the fit , Getting an unnecessarily long paddle, on the other hand, will add strain to your arms and decrease your control. So, if youre a novice kayaker wishing to paddle short distances, a short kayak will be easier to handle. if youre over 60" then it might help to choose either a 12- or 14-foot You will get a more stable and maneuverable facility from a sit-on-top than you will get in a sit-in. A shorter length (say 10 feet for a recreational kayak or 13 to 14 feet for a day touring kayak) will be the easiest to handle for those with limited paddling skills. Like narrower boat ensures speed wider boats ensures stability. So, if you are looking for a recreational kayak, this is the range you should focus on. Sit-inside kayaks' wideness means more room in the cockpit affecting your comfort and fits in the kayak. That is why your weight, waist and thigh width, leg length, foot size, and overall height are critical factors when choosing a kayak for your upcoming paddling venture. With a High-volume kayak, you can start paddling anytime. Your lower body is the one that has to fit inside the kayak. Kayak paddles are available in a selection of various lengths. It is also one of the oldest methods of water transportation, having been used by the Inuits thousands of years ago. WebIn general, a 230 cm kayak paddle is perfect for average size and height kayakers. Some kayaks are designed for smaller or larger people or for carrying heavier loads, so its important to consider your individual needs when choosing a kayak. This comprehensive guide is aimed at helping you find the perfect kayak size for you. A longer cockpit gives you sufficient room for your legs. A larger paddler can choose a wide craft for larger legroom in the cockpit. Is a 9 foot kayak too small? If you're taller or heavier, or if you have previous paddling experience, a larger kayak will provide more stability. The extra feature it offers is additional storage capacity. For this reason, you should get a kayak that is on the longer side in the categories mentioned above. Additionally, if you wear a spray skirt while paddling a sit-in then you will get a more warm ride keeping the gears stored in the cockpit dry. The perfect kayak for a 5 foot person depends on a variety of factors, including the type of kayaking you plan to do, your budget, and your personal preferences. WebA kayak is more stable and easier to turn if its wider and shorter, but it may sacrifice speed. Those new to kayaking probably dont fully understand the importance of getting the right paddle size. However, as your child grows they will require something larger. With all of these factors in mind, as well as knowing proper kayak paddle sizing, we are confident you will be able to find the best option for you. What Size Kayak Does a 5 Foot Person Need? Its a great size for paddlers that use a low-angle, relaxed and smooth style of paddling. You will experience a short adjustment period if youre changing from a straight to a bent shaft and vice versa. By definition, a sea kayak is most appropriate for the ocean. Book online now to reserve your kayak. Get the one that is right for you and doesn't risk you. The size makes them maneuverable and easy to handle in extreme conditions. - The weight capacity of a kayak is important to consider if you plan on carrying any gear or supplies with you. Kayaks can become heavy because of the weight they can carry. So obviously their lengths also vary. Thats why a 12-foot boat is called a great choice for day kayaking trips. It is large enough to provide good stability and tracking, but still small enough to be maneuverable. A sea kayak has a weight limit of 350 pounds and a sit-on-top kayak has a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds. And the tips outlined above will help you make an informed decision. They have even higher gunwales that stop water splashes before they can reach the cockpit. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. It allows people to be in nature and enjoy the excitement that it has to offer. That is why we encourage paddlers to consider their height as they choose their kayaks, particularly if they are beginners. Hence, you really need to base your paddles length on your height for this one. Are you looking for casual paddles in warm water on sunny days? WebAs for their size, they are shorter, making them more convenient to store and transport. For a 5-foot woman, the ideal kayak size will depend on several factors such as her height, weight, and desired use for the kayak. Fishing kayaks are even wider because of the storage you For a more aggressive, high-angle of attack style of paddling a 220 cm or 210 cm kayak paddle with stiffer blades is better for the average paddler. (A sprayskirt is a nylon or neoprene apron that forms a connection between the paddler and the kayak cockpit and keeps waves and spray out of the boat). So legroom is an important factor. A too small cockpit can be cramped and uncomfortable, while a too large one can make it difficult to paddle effectively. And if you paddle all year round, factor in the times you will be wearing layers of clothes. Plus, perfect kayaks for tall paddlers should not be too large to store and transport. If you're planning on mostly recreational kayaking, then you'll likely be fine with a shorter kayak.But if you're interested in longer trips or more challenging waters, then a longer kayak will give you more stability and better tracking. They need to be because whitewater kayaking requires additional stability. Because of how long they are, maneuvering a touring kayak can be tricky for newbies and petite paddlers. If you only run after features and handle-ability that will not work. Please also note that each kayak can go beyond the measurements stated earlier. There should be enough legroom to allow you to stretch your legs when necessary. Generally, recreational kayaks range from 9 feet to about 12 feet in length and 28 inches to 34 inches in width. Adding weight to the calculation of kayak size further confounds selection, especially if youre short but heavy or tall and light. You see, the right kayak size makes a huge difference while out in the water. 5 inches with a 34-Inch or Wider Kayak: 240 cm paddle Between 5ft. If you're new to kayaking, you might be wondering what size kayak you need. When choosing a kayak, one of the most important considerations is size. we will discuss the different sizes of kayaks and.. So the waist area and inside the area of the cockpit will be the main consideration. Kayaking is definitely a satisfying pursuit. 250 cm Paddle: 34 to 38 inches. This is one of the most popularly used kayaks for its adaptability. They can be categorized into two main types according to the users paddling style: High-angle paddling is a technique that is done with short and precise vertical strokes. If you are three people, the kayak size is between 16-20ft. Make sure to take your time, test various boats, and eventually settle on a kayak that comfortably fit your legs, waist, hips, feet, and trunk. Obviously, taller paddlers should choose a longer boat, regardless of the type of kayak, for comfort. In general, wider and longer kayaks are more stable and can hold more gear than narrower and shorter ones.They are also better suited for open water conditions such as lakes and oceans. Your email address will not be published. Once these factors have been considered, it is also important to test out different sizes of kayaks before making a purchase. If you're interested in fishing from a kayak, the first thing you need to determine is what size kayak you need. A: The length of the kayak you should buy will depend on how tall you are. In this case, a wider and longer kayak would be better.On the other hand, if she plans to use the kayak mainly for racing or whitewater paddling, then a narrower and shorter kayak would be better suited. Required fields are marked *. Kayak cockpit size varies based on the type of kayak. The short lengthy feature adds more stability to them. If youre over 6 inches tall, go for a kayak thats at least 12 foot long. Kayak volume means the boats overall size. If they dont, you better ask. Paddlers with a heavy size typically around 180 pounds and are taller than 5 feet 10 inches can feel their selves comfortable in high-volume kayaks. As you know a whitewater kayak needs to be more maneuverable to rush through the rapids and shorter lengths assure that. At Captain Mikes Kayak Academy, we understand that a paddlers height determines the comfort, safety, and ease of steering a kayak. The answer to this question really depends on what you plan to use your kayak for. If youre new to this practice, read our detailed guide on how to choose a kayak paddle. WebStep #4. If you are shorter than 56, then a 12-foot kayak is best for you. Generally speaking, a kayak should be around 10-12 feet long and 28-34 inches wide. The 10-11 foot kayaks serve the purpose of recreational kayaking. (The width of a kayak is also known as the beam). Choose something in between, say 9 to 10 feet in length with a 28-inch width, if youre looking for a general purpose fishing kayak. Day touring kayaks are somewhat longer and narrower than recreational kayaks, with an average kayak size of 12 to 14 feet long and 24 to 28 inches wide. So, first determine what type of kayak youre looking for. A 9 foot yak is a good choice for beginners. If you're taller than that, then it's always a good idea to test a 12 to 14-foot kayak to get a feel for the fit , Not only do these dimensions create a more efficient boat to paddle, theyre more responsive and better for paddlers who want to develop their skills and progress to more challenging water conditions, or use their kayak for day trips and overnighters. This one isnt hard to figure out because you already know your weight and manufacturers include the weight capacity in the description. Storage is typically limited to stash spots for a If you are an experienced kayaker, a 10 foot kayak will be better because it is faster and more agile.