Differences between a canoe and a kayak
While a canoe and a kayak serve the same general purpose and, to the casual observer, may look very similar, they differ in a number of ways. Those differences include the cockpit design, the level of stability, the ease of maneuverability, the seating position and the paddling method. The purpose of this article is to point out the pros and cons of canoes and kayaks so you learn which is best for your needs.
Canoes
A canoe is a long and narrow boat with an open design, which makes it easier for operators to climb in and out. It may be paddled by one or two individuals and the bench-like seats are mounted higher up, so sitting in a canoe is similar to sitting in a chair. The open cockpit also means the canoe has ample room for equipment and supplies, if needed. Because of its wide design, a canoe is more stable in the water than the average kayak.
The paddle used for operating a canoe has one blade and it requires learning a special kind of stroke, a J-stroke, to keep the canoe going forward in a straight line. A J-stroke is done on only one side of the boat. Because of this, and the fact that a canoeist sits higher up above the water, there’s less of a chance you’ll get wet.
The average cost for a canoe ranges from roughly $500-$1,500, with higher-end models costing as much as $3,000.
Canoe pros
Due to the open cockpit design, it is easier to get into and out of a canoe than a kayak.
A canoe is designed to carry more gear (and often more people) than a kayak.
When paddling a canoe, not only can you more easily see your surroundings, but you tend to not get as wet as you do in a kayak.
A canoe is typically more stable than a kayak, making it much harder to capsize.
Canoe cons
A canoe is typically larger and requires more effort to paddle than a kayak.
Canoes are not as nimble as kayaks and will require more room to course correct.
The average canoe is heavier and harder to transport than the average kayak. It often requires two people to carry.
Best canoe
Aire Traveler Canoe: available at Backcountry
This high-end inflatable canoe is designed for the serious hunter or angler. It has a thick base to support heavy loads and a motor-compatible design to allow for faster travel, if preferred. It is best for calmer waters and it can be deflated for easy transport and storage.
Kayaks
A kayak is much smaller and lighter than a canoe. While there are many types, the typical design features a closed cockpit and a single operator. It can be difficult and time-consuming to climb into these types of kayaks because you seal yourself in with a waterproof skirt. When you sit in a kayak, you are usually at the bottom of the boat and your legs are out in front of you. Because of the smaller, narrower design, kayaks are much more prone to tipping.
Alternatively, there are sit-on-top and inflatable kayaks, which are closer to the design of a canoe and offer greater stability and the option of having more than one passenger.
Unlike a canoe, a kayak paddle has two blades – as you paddle, you alternate sides. This, along with the smaller size of a kayak, makes it a much more nimble watercraft than a canoe. Unfortunately, it also makes for a wetter journey.
The cost for a kayak can range from roughly $250-$1,500.
Kayak pros
It takes less effort to paddle a kayak than it does to paddle a canoe.
A kayak has greater maneuverability than a canoe, making it a much better option in moving water.
A kayak is much smaller and easier to transport than a canoe – one person is all it takes to carry a kayak.
Entry level kayaks tend to be more affordable than entry level canoes.
Kayak cons
Kayaks are often less stable than canoes, which means they are easier to accidentally capsize.
It is difficult to climb into and out of a closed cockpit kayak.
Because of its smaller size, you cannot carry as much gear in a kayak as you can in a canoe.
Best kayaks
Field & Stream Blade 97 Elite Kayak: available at Dick’s Sporting Goods
If you want to go out fishing all day long, this is the kayak that you should consider. The comfortable padded back seat and knee pads help the operator have a luxury paddling experience. There is a small dry-storage hatch for essentials and camera mounts on the front for capturing action footage. The built-in beverage holders are an appreciated feature.
Pelican Mustang 100X Kayak: available at Dick’s Sporting Goods
This top-selling kayak is a favorite among fishing enthusiasts. It has two flush-mount rod holders, ample storage for gear and it is manufactured using impact-resistant materials. It is designed for maximum stability and features a smartphone holder in the cockpit.
Intex Challenger Kayak: available at Amazon
For the individual who is seeking an inflatable budget kayak. This no-frills affordable model supports up to 220 pounds and it is made out of rugged vinyl. It comes with an 84-inch aluminum paddle, a repair patch and a high output manual pump.
Should you get a canoe or a kayak?
Whether you purchase a canoe or a kayak comes down to personal preference and how you plan on using the boat. A canoe is best for the person who enjoys traveling with a friend and prefers a more stable craft that can carry a sizable amount of gear on relatively calm waters. A kayak is best for the person who needs to have greater maneuverability for navigating choppy waters or exploring smaller areas such as creeks and marshes. A kayak can also be transported by one individual who doesn’t require a lot of gear.
Allen Foster is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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