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If you've never even heard of a sit on top kayak, you're not alone. These kayaks are relatively new to the market, but they've taken it by storm over the past decade. They were originally conceived for ocean paddlers--in fact, they were once simply known as "ocean kayaks". Despite their seafaring roots, they have become incredibly popular with recreational and fishing paddlers, and in this installment of the Kayak Buying Guide, we'll walk you through the differences between sit on top designs and traditional sit inside kayaks, so you can choose which might be right for you. 

Sit inside kayaks are the classic and iconic image of a kayak. A web search for kayak clip art or kayak stock photos brings up thousands of sit inside kayaks, and they seem to be the first thing most folks think of. Sit inside kayaks have several advantages over their top-deck counterparts:

• Control and stability: Since the paddler sits very low to the water line in a sit inside kayak, the center of gravity is more optimized for greater control, maneuverability, and stability. The same level of stability in a sit on top kayak would require either a wider boat or a more stabilized hull shape (we will cover hull shapes in another installment of this guide). 
• Light weight: Since sit inside boats are usually slimmer and don't require the material to make an entire top deck, a sit inside kayak will usually weigh about 10-15 pounds less than a similar sit on top model. If weight is your chief concern, look to a sit inside boat first.
• Warm and dry: A paddler in a sit inside kayak will be less exposed to splash, drip, and wind, resulting in a dryer and warmer ride.
• Accommodation for spray skirts: For offshore paddlers or whitewater boaters, sit inside models often allow for the addition of a spray skirt, which is a neoprene or nylon garment that is worn around the paddler's waist and extends over the entire rim of the kayak's cockpit. Skirts seal a kayak against water and allow more advanced paddlers to roll the kayak upright after a flip.

While sit inside boats have many attributes, paddlers should think about a few considerations before choosing this style.

• Comfort: Sit inside models can feel less comfortable to some paddlers, as they don't allow for seats that are quite as large and supportive as those on some sit on top kayaks. As the seats are lower to the water, those with knee injuries or limited mobility may find them more difficult to get in and out of. Sit inside boats also feel confining to some folks because you often cannot see your legs or where you're putting your feet. Many modern sit inside kayaks offer large, open cockpit designs that help mitigate the confinement factor that some individuals experience. 
• Manual bailing: In the event that you flip your sit inside kayak, it will fill with water that must be removed before you can re-enter. Most folks who are close to shore just pull the kayak to the beach and drain it there, but some also carry bilge pumps or sponges. Remember that water is heavy, and it may take more than one person to drain a large sit inside boat.

Sit on top kayaks can feel more convenient and, in some conditions, safer than their more classic sit inside counterparts. A sit on top model offers the following advantages:

• Self bailing: Sit on top kayaks can be safer for offshore paddlers because of the inclusion of scupper holes. These holes go all the way from the top deck to the bottom of the hull and drain water off the deck. If you flip your sit on top boat, the deck will automatically drain water once you flip it back over.
• Sun and splash: Many individuals prefer sit on tops simply because they are more open to the sun. If your main goal is to get out on nice summer days and enjoy the spray and the sun, sit on tops should be among your first choices.
• Nicer seats: Although some sit on tops have very basic seats, many offer increasingly supportive and cushioned options. Because they don't have to fit inside a small cockpit, seats on sit on top boats tend to sit up higher and offer a lot of adjustment and back support. These are especially helpful to those who find it difficult to lower themselves into and stand up out of sit inside boats.
• Easy exit: Sit inside kayaks are actually very easy to exit in the event of a flip, but some people still feel uncomfortable with idea that they might get stuck inside a boat. While this is actually very rare, and has more to do with improper gear and safety precautions, some folks just feel more comfortable in a sit on top kayak. Greater range of motion and the ability to see one's legs can feel very freeing to anyone who experiences a little claustrophobia in traditional kayaks. 

It's easy to see what's made sit on top kayaks so popular, but consider these potential drawbacks before making your choice:

• Heavy: Since sit on tops need to be wider to achieve stability and also require more material to cover the top deck, they generally weigh a little more than an equivalent sit inside model. On the other hand, they will require less strength when recovering from a flip, because you won't need to deal with the weight of water.
• Less control: As the paddler sits higher, a loss of control is inevitable. Some paddlers find the extra effort to control direction and gain speed to be a major disadvantage in sit on top kayaks. 
• Exposed to the elements: Sit on tops offer no protection from wind, drip, or waves. If you plan to paddle in shoulder season or chilly water, consider how you will stay dry.

We hope this quick guide answers some of the most frequent question we get about the differences between these two types of kayaks, and as always, if you have any questions just give us a call!

Once you’ve got some idea of what type of kayak to look for, the next big decision is what it should be made from. Every class of kayak that we've covered is offered in a variety of materials, each with a unique set of strengths and drawbacks. Here we’ll look at some of the most common materials you’ll find on the market.

Fiberglass: Fiberglass isn’t as common today as it was in the late 20^th century. When kayaks and canoes were first mass produced in the 70s, fiberglass was one of the only efficient ways to make them. It is lightweight and creates a very stiff-hulled boat, which is quite efficient in flat water. One of the biggest reasons for the wane of fiberglass’s popularity is that it isn’t the strongest material out there anymore when it comes to impact and abrasion. When you find fiberglass canoes and kayaks today, they are usually combined with a gel coat or some other material technology to make a more durable craft than pure fiberglass alone. You’ll still find a lot of older pure fiberglass boats on the used market.

Carbon Fiber: Most of what we’ve said about fiberglass is also true for carbon fiber, except that carbon is more expensive and more brittle than fiberglass. It is the lightest material on the market, but usually is only found in specialty craft.

Wood: It’s been a long time since Appomattox River Company has carried a wooden canoe or kayak. Wooden craft are mostly produced by specialty shops and craftsmen today because they are some of the most expensive boats on the market. Wood kayaks are usually made to order, or you can buy plans and kits and make one in your garage if you’re handy and have a few years to spare. Few boaters would argue that wood isn't still the most classically beautiful material in the industry, but it does require exhaustive maintenance and a large up-front cost, which is why it’s not easy to come by anymore.

Inflatables: Ideal for those with limited storage space or transport options, inflatable kayaks conveniently pack down when they’re not on the water. Since their lines tend to be less precise, they are usually a little slower and less maneuverable than rigid kayaks, but they do offer an improved ride and stability in chop or whitewater due to their natural buoyancy and high volume. We don’t carry many inflatable kayaks at Appomattox River Company, but if you do think they are right for you, look for a model constructed with drop-stitch technology and reinforced rails. These will be safer and more durable than those constructed without these features.

Thermoformed Plastic: Thermoformed plastics are used to manufacture a very wide array of kayaks. These can be some of the cheapest or the most expensive plastic boats on the market. At its simplest, the thermoforming process involves taking a sheet of thin plastic, heating it, and vacuuming it to a mold until it sets in its new shape. This process can’t make a whole boat at once, so the top and bottom of the kayak are molded separately and then joined together. This creates a seam right at the waterline, which can be one of the most vulnerable spots on the boat if not done well.

The most budget-friendly kayaks you’ll find are made using this process. They’re often thinner, less durable, and sealed with a simple glue that is prone to leaks. These boats are great for getting a beginner out on flat water, but should never be used offshore or in swift or white water.

On the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find some of the highest-quality lightweight plastic boats made in a similar manner, using more advanced plastics and a meticulous manufacturing process. They can last a long time if properly cared for but are similar to fiberglass in their resistance to abrasion and impact. Some of these are made for offshore paddling, but you won’t find whitewater kayaks made from thermoformed materials.  

Rotomolded Plastic: Rotomolded boats are made by pouring plastic powder into a mold. The mold is then turned while it’s heated and pops out a whole kayak in one piece when it’s done. This creates a boat with no center seam to go bad, and can also make thicker plastic than a thermoformed sheet mold. Rotomolded boats are sturdy and durable and provide an excellent balance of price and performance. Rotomolded plastic is especially prevalent in whitewater boats, because it is extremely resistant to impact and abrasion, which makes it ideal for use in rapids. Because it is thicker, rotomolded plastic tends to be one of the heaviest choices on the market. The lightest rotomolded boat we carry weighs about 35 pounds, but they can go all the way up to 150 pounds. Rotational molding is used for all shapes, sizes, and types of kayaks, so there is a huge variety to choose from in this material. Rotomolded boats are extremely easy to care for, and last a long time when properly looked after. We sell more rotomolded kayaks at Appomattox River Company than all other materials combined.

When we started selling canoes in the 70s, there was no such thing as online ordering. Customers came to Farmville and walked through our warehouse, and our staff found and loaded the perfect boat. Over forty years later, we still love to do that, but with a global pandemic, a nationwide customer base, and an increasing amount of online orders, we realized we need to put some of that information in an easy place, where you can start narrowing down your choices from the comfort of your living room.

We're starting a blog series called the Kayak Buying Guide. In these posts, we'll take apart the process of choosing a kayak and break it down into small, individual topics to help you find your perfect boat. With that said, the people who help you in-store are the same folks who answer our phones (yay, small business!), so if you still have any questions or need recommendations, don't hesitate to give us a call and one of our experts will be happy to help! 

In this first post of the Kayak Buying Guide, we go through the first and most basic questions: why are there so many different kinds of kayaks, and what's the difference? Which one will be best for me?

Well, there are so many kinds of kayaks because there are so many kinds of water and so many kinds of paddlers. Kayaks are usually separated into categories based on what kind of water or activity they are best for. 

Recreational Kayaks: These are the most popular kayaks on the market because they're versatile, easy to use, and usually good for beginners. Recreational, or rec kayaks, are well suited to calm, flat water, like lakes, ponds, and slow rivers. They vary widely in design and features, but they're usually somewhere between nine and twelve feet long, and in the range of 25-35 inches wide, although some are a little narrower. Most rec kayaks weigh between 35 and 70 lbs, so they can be very easy to carry and transport.

They can be sit-inside or sit-on-top style kayaks, and some can can accommodate a spray skirt, which we'll talk about more in the context of whitewater and touring kayaks. Recreational boats are not suitable for whitewater or offshore use. Rec kayaks are excellent for a relaxing day on the water, but don't usually offer exceptional speed, stability, or maneuverability. They're the happy medium that blends comfort and ease of use.

Whitewater Kayaks: Whitewater kayaks are usually short, sturdily-built, and very maneuverable. They're designed to be paddled down rapids ranging from class I to class V, so they're made of thick, heavy plastic and have safety features like positive floatation, bulkheads, and customizable outfitting (we'll talk about all those terms in another guide). You'll usually find a whitewater kayak somewhere between seven and nine feet, although some twelve foot models are popular for racing. Almost all are sit-inside, but a few sit-on-top models are made for class I-II rapids.

Whitewater kayaks have snug cockpits (the part of the boat where you sit) and low backbands so that they can be fitted with neoprene spray skirts. Skirts keep water out of a boat, and enable the paddler to roll the boat after a flip, although this is a skill that takes instruction and practice. Whitewater boats are also outfitted with hip pads, thigh braces, and adjustable bulkheads to give the paddler the most possible contact and control over the hull. They are meant to be nimble so that the paddler can pick between rocks easily, but that means that they are also very slow on flat water and don't hold a straight line well. Even though they're so small, they tend to be heavier than some rec boats because they are thicker and have heavier-duty outfitting. 

Touring Kayaks: Touring kayaks are used for multi-day open-water trips. They're almost always sit-inside and usually somewhere between fourteen and seventeen feet, and the longer the kayak, the longer trips it's capable of. These kayaks are very speedy and efficient, but are designed more for performance and safety than for comfort. Like whitewater boats, a touring kayak usually has a small cockpit, a low backband, and thigh braces, so the paddler can control, steer, and roll the kayak. These boats are also meant to be outfitted with spray skirts. Some touring kayaks feature drop-down rudders or skegs, two varieties of steering mechanisms that make kayaks more efficient. A touring kayak usually has a deep V-shaped hull, which often rounds out on the edges, and sharp bow and stern, and you often find a keel (raised ridge) running from front to back, or at least at the ends. 

Fishing Kayaks: Fishing kayaks are exactly what they sound like. They usually offer very supportive frame seats and other comfort features for folks who will be out on the water for a while. Most fishing kayaks are sit-on-top styles between twelve and fourteen feet long, and are designed to be very stable. In fact, you can stand up in most modern fishing kayaks. They are usually wider than recreational kayaks, and have a more pontoonized, or W-shaped hull design. In addition to comfort and stability, fishing kayaks usually feature high weight limits, lots of storage space, and fishing-specific accessories like rod holders, gear tracks, tackle box pockets, and transducer mounts. While they are incredibly stable, more stability usually means a slower and heavier kayak. Some of these fishing kayaks can weigh over 100 pounds. They are the best options for people who will spend a lot of time sitting and waiting for a fish and need the features and accessories to build the ultimate angling rig. 

Crossover Kayaks: Crossovers are more of a miscellaneous category, because there are just so many different types. Some crossovers offer good performance in both flatwater and moderate whitewater, and some are kayak/canoe or kayak/paddleboard hybrids. Manufacturers are coming up with a lot of great hybrid designs these days, so if you can't decide what you'll be doing, or you live by a river that's 70% flat but with a few class II rapids, look to a crossover kayak to find the right mix of features.

Yoga. Fishing. Shooting rapids. What can’t you do on a paddleboard these days? From 14’ touring boards to 5’ play boards, it seems the options in what was once a small recreational category are expanding faster than ever. The world of stand up paddling is growing so fast, it’s hard to keep up, so here are our best ideas for the SUPers on your list. You should find a few good suggestions here for any type of SUP fan.

BIC 10’ Cross Tough-Tec: $660

For someone looking for a great first board, the Cross in Tough-Tec is a perfect place to start. Anyone who’s rented a paddleboard a few times has probably paddled a BIC Cross, as they are favorite with outfitters. They’re stable, predictable, and reassuring, and this trim ten foot version is easy for smaller paddlers to carry. Bic’s Tough-Tec material can stand up to a lot, so you don’t have to worry if you accidentally skim over the occasional rock. Ideal for flatwater rivers and lakes, the Cross is an affordable, quality choice for those ready to break away from rentals.

Badfish Monarch: $899

If you’re shopping for a college student or apartment dweller, or someone who doesn’t drive, take a look at the Badfish Monarch, a versatile, high-quality inflatable that packs down into its own backpack for easy transport. The Monarch glides across flat water and holds its own in riffles and chop. Drop-stitched Exoskeleton construction makes this board rugged and durable. The best part? Everything you need to get started is included in the box. The Monarch is sold with a paddle, leash, and pump, so just throw your PFD in the bag and you’re good to go.

Astral Airbelt: $119.95

Speaking of throwing your PFD in a bag, that’s pretty easy with the Astral Airbelt. It’s packable, lightweight, and ultra-low-profile. The Airbelt is worn around the waist, so it’s completely out of the way when you don’t need it. In the event that you do, simply pull the inflation cord and the belt transforms into a buoyant air bubble. Pull the neck strap over your head and tighten, and you have sufficient floatation for most flatwater swims. Note that inflatable PFDs are only suitable for warm, flat water and confident swimmers, and the CO2 cartridge must be re-armed after a deployment.

Astral Loyak: from $85

Grip is essential for SUPers, so the Astral Loyak makes a great substitute for neoprene booties. Astral’s G-Rubber provides the ultimate grip on wet boards and rocks, and the minimalist sole allows plenty of flex for maximum control. Tough, water-ready canvas uppers dry fast, so you can go from board to bar in style, even if you forget a change of shoes. Offered in men’s and women’s sizing and colors.

Watersports Warehouse Rack Pads: from $38

Rack pads protect boards against scratches and dents from crossbars. These Watersports Warehouse aero rack pads are offered in lengths from 24” to 36”, and we have another version specifically for round/square bars on older racks.

Yakima Supdawg: $299

For unparalleled loading and carrying convenience, the Yakima Supdawg is a purpose-built solution for up to two SUPs or surfboards. It comes rigged out with integrated rollers for easy side-loading. SKS (Same Key System) lock cores keep the boards and the Supdawg mount secured to a base rack, and the integrated straps feature internal steel cables for added theft protection. Best of all, this SUP mount comes fully assembled out of the box. Absolutely no tools or complicated instructions required!

Badfish Re’Leash $69

For those who want to keep a good handle on their board, make sure they have a safe way to do it with the Badfish Re’leash. This river SUP leash borrows the recognizable quick release toggle found in premium rescue vests and combines it with a snap shackle for quick, reliable releases when necessary. Since anyone needing to release a leash will likely be underwater and unable to see, this leash includes a carabiner that snaps onto the user’s PFD so the quick release ball toggle is always within reach and easy to identify by feel. The Re’Leash is offered in 6’ straight and 8’ coiled versions. Both are equipped with universal Velcro board attachments and offer superb visibility thanks to the bright red materials.

Kokatat X-Jacket: $100

Shoulder weather means higher water and happy paddling, but it also means tough decisions on what layers to bring along. Take some of the work out of that process with the Kokatat X-Jacket, a stretchy, UPF 50+ splash resistant top that stores in its own waist pack. It weighs almost nothing and is hardly noticeable when worn around the waist, but it’s there to respond to chill or bright sun whenever you need it. Designed with SUPers in mind, the X-Jacket packs convenience and performance into one lightweight layer perfect for those cool dawn patrols and euphoric first days of summer.

2020 has been the year of the canoe here at ARC. During the pandemic, canoeing has proven to be a great family activity with a low risk level, introducing all ages to a sport they may never have tried. The short supply of some popular kayaks has led many others to find an escape in solo canoes. With so many people rediscovering the joy of canoeing, we thought we’d add a gift guide this year for the canoeists out there.

Esquif Prospecteur: from $2005

Ideal for two to three people and with capacity for overnight trips up to one week, the prospector style canoe is a classic and versatile craft that will go from lakes to rivers with aplomb. Several leading canoe manufacturers offer modern prospectors based off of the old Chestnut prospector design. Esquif’s model is made from durable T-Formex, a triple layer material that is both lighter and stronger than plastic, but more affordable than expedition-weight composites. Offered in 15, 16 and 17 foot lengths as well as a more whitewater-oriented Sport version, the Esquif Prospecteur is the perfect boat for couples or small families looking for a canoe that can go almost anywhere.

Esquif Adirondack: $1199

The Adirondack is the reinvention of the solo pack canoe, designed for one, but with plenty of gear capacity for any pursuit. Like the Prospecteur, the Adirondack is constructed from Esquif’s T-formex material, which lends it a lighter weight and significantly longer lifespan than a plastic boat. The Adirondack is popular with those who like to paddle with a pet or young child, or who like to load down a boat with camping or fishing gear but still retain the maneuverability and control of a solo craft. The keel on the bottom helps the Adirondack track exceptionally well for such a short boat, meaning it’ll get you from point A to point B faster.

Bending Branches Arrow: $99.95

Any good canoe needs an excellent paddle. The Bending Branches Arrow is beautiful, versatile, and up for anything. At only 23 ounces, it’s a lightweight paddle made extra-durable with Rockguard protection at the edge. The ergonomic pear-shaped grip retains your hands’ natural warmth in cold weather, and won’t heat up in the sun the way metal paddles do. Basswood, red alder, and maple create an exceptionally good-looking paddle that excels in almost any water. It’s a great upgrade from an outfitter-style paddle, and it’s offered in multiple lengths to fit any paddler perfectly. Before ordering, check out Bending Branches’s sizing guide for the most accurate fit.

NRS Ion PFD: from $79.96

The Ion is low-profile enough to allow for full cross-body range of motion, making it perfect for canoeists. The super-soft foam forms to the body for hours of comfortable wear, and fleece-lined handwarmer pockets are such a relief on a chilly day. An easily accessible front tab provides storage for a river knife. Buckle entry makes for easy on and off, and graded sizing offers a fit for any paddler.

GCI Sitbacker: $39.95

Traditional bench seats are practical and durable, but they’re not always the most comfortable. Give the best of both worlds with a GCI Sitbacker. It’s a simple accessory that buckles onto a bench seat to provide back support and extra cushion. It locks closed during portages, and can be removed to the shoreline or beach for a comfortable stadium seat when you’re ready for a break.

Level Six Shoreline Boots: from $52.59

Lighter and more packable than traditional wellies, the Level Six Shoreline boots will protect your feet on muddy portages and stow easily when you’re back on the water. These waterproof natural rubber boots are available in three colors and men’s and women’s sizing.

 

Darby Extend-A-Truck: $129

A truck bed extender is the easiest way to transport long canoes. The Darby Extend-A-Truck mounts on any 2” receiver hitch, and telescopes to the necessary height for bed cargo or roof-mounted boats. When not in use, it comes apart to store flat behind a seat.

 

Kokatat Sunwester Hat: $47

A good sun hat is essential for long days on the water and at camp. The Kokatat Sunwester features UPF 30 protection and an adjustable drawcord around the dome to help tailor the fit. A built in chin strap and floating brim help ensure it won’t get lost on a windy day.

Kokatat Jetty Jacket: $165

Not many flatwater canoeists want a restrictive dry top, but splash protection is essential in spring temps. The Kokatat Jetty Jacket provides excellent splash resistance with a ¼ zip closure and hood, and a neoprene waist and splash cuffs. It’ll seal out paddle drip and rain drops and still vent moisture thanks to Kokatat’s signature Hydrus fabric.

Rumpl Stash Mat: $79

Muddy riverbanks are no match for the Stash mat. With a comfy faux-suede upper and waterproof, stain resistant lower, this mat folds down super small to fit in a camp kit and matches up with a standard size Rumpl puffy blanket to provide waterproof comfort for riverside lunches and fireside dinners.

 

Watershed Mississippi Dry Duffel: $200

For expedition canoeists, the Mississippi is the granddaddy of all dry bags. Its enormous capacity and dependable ZipDry waterproof seal make it perfect for long backcountry expeditions. We’re not kidding—you could fit the kitchen sink in this thing. The ZipDry system eliminates the need for a traditional roll top, meaning more of the bag’s space is actually usable. If the Mississippi is a little too much storage, also consider the Watershed Chattooga bag, which provides all the benefits of the Mississippi in a smaller form.