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LIforrelaxin · 09-01-2011, 01:23 PM

As suggested a by FLL a longer kayak can make some differences in ones paddling experience... I have both a 13' and a 15' and the characteristics are different. However there are many things that one has to keep in mind.

1) wieght --> longer kayak is heavier... it handles waves better but it is heavier to move around and transport on land

2) maneuverability --> the longer Kayak isn't as easy to move around and go in and out of tight spaces with... A rudder can help but not as much as people think

3) comfort... the longer streamline Kayak are tight... As a man of size I had to hunt for a longer kayak that was comfortable for me... Most of the smaller Kayaks have larger opening and are more comfortable and easier to get in and out off.

4) Stability... My 15' kayak is tippy... it doesn't bug me but it does some people. The smaller kayak as a rule are wider, and offer more stability for this reason....

Just some thoughts.... everyone's ideal Kayak is different. It all about characteristics...

09-01-2011, 01:23 PM	#9
LIforrelaxin Senior Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Texas, Lake Ray Hubbard and NH, Long Island Winnipesaukee Posts: 2,875 Thanks: 1,037 Thanked 892 Times in 524 Posts	Kayak Length As suggested a by FLL a longer kayak can make some differences in ones paddling experience... I have both a 13' and a 15' and the characteristics are different. However there are many things that one has to keep in mind. 1) wieght --> longer kayak is heavier... it handles waves better but it is heavier to move around and transport on land 2) maneuverability --> the longer Kayak isn't as easy to move around and go in and out of tight spaces with... A rudder can help but not as much as people think 3) comfort... the longer streamline Kayak are tight... As a man of size I had to hunt for a longer kayak that was comfortable for me... Most of the smaller Kayaks have larger opening and are more comfortable and easier to get in and out off. 4) Stability... My 15' kayak is tippy... it doesn't bug me but it does some people. The smaller kayak as a rule are wider, and offer more stability for this reason.... Just some thoughts.... everyone's ideal Kayak is different. It all about characteristics... __________________ Life is about how much time you can spend relaxing... I do it on an island that isn't really an island.....