There's a big difference between a quality kayak and the kayak you find in the nearest supermarket. There are a handful of kayak brands that are known for quality construction, materials and maneuverable design, and these are typically things you don't notice at first glance. That's why we've put together a short guide to help you differentiate between the 'supermarket kayak' and 'the real deal' so you can spend time enjoying nature on the water instead.
The kayak seat test
It's easy to test, it's simple, and perhaps so simple you might underestimate it, check out the kayak seat! Whether the purpose is long or short trips on the water, it's important that comfort is top notch. Supermarket kayaks often use a cheap plastic material that is neither stable, durable nor comfortable for the spine. Kayak seats come in many different lengths, and ultimately it comes down to the purpose of your kayak sails. The tall kayak seat can be incredibly stable and often the preferred choice for long trips. If you're into more 'exciting' trips where you need to be more dynamic and agile, then a lower kayak seat is preferable. The low kayak seat doesn't offer as many restrictions and you get more room for fluid movement among higher waves. If you want to make sure your kayak seat 'breathes' and isn't still wet and damp on your next trip, it's worth paying attention to the material it's made of. A functional kayak seat will often be made of neoprene, mesh, and rubber, as these are quick-drying, keep moisture down, and just make your back feel more comfortable. The kayak seat can make a huge difference to how long your trip will be, and if you don't sit properly, it can quickly affect your back.
Test the hull
Kayak construction can have a big impact on your maneuverability and directional stability on the water, so it's good to be able to recognize a kayak construction that doesn't lack the finishing touches. Getting into a kayak with splintering edges can be a major annoyance, and it also often means that the kayak has been assembled in several parts and not molded in a single form. Plastic splinters can be sharp and are typically the first indication that the kayak has several places in the structure where water could potentially enter over time.
7 types of kayaks to look out for outside the supermarket
There are literally a multitude of kayak types, so we've compiled a short list that summarizes what to look for outside the supermarket.
The sea kayak
The sea kayak is intended for the heavy trips on the sea. The sea kayak is typically designed with 2 watertight bulkhead compartments. The sea kayak has a significant jump in shape, which keeps it significantly more stable in waves.
The touring kayak
The touring kayak is versatile and is used for short trips as well as long trips and exercise tours. The Turkajak is ideal for trips that require a little speed, as it has a slimmer stem than the Kapkajak and a flatter bottom around the middle.
Kapkajakken
The Kapkajakken is designed for competition purposes. The kapkajak is best suited for fast sailing, and it can actually be a problem to keep your balance in a kapkajak without rowing or sculling. The shape is characterized by a long waterline and narrow bottom, which is really designed for speed.
Recreational kayak
The recreational kayak is ideal for short trips at low tide. Due to the kayak's lack of watertight bulkhead compartments at both ends, it is also often used by hunters and divers who need a kayak that is easy to handle.
Sit on Top kayak
The Sit on Top kayak is often found in Danish summer cottages. The kayak has plenty of stability and as the name suggests, it is characterized by 1 or 2 seats that extend over the edge of the kayak. The Sit on Top kayak is exemplary if you want an alternative to the canoe.
Perception
At One Open Sky you can find a large selection of kayaks, including the well-known Perception kayaks, which without a doubt cannot be compared to the "supermarket kayak". Perception has been making kayaks for more than 40 years, and to this day the mission is still to give the many kayakers the greatest joy on the water. Perception makes kayaks that can handle all kinds of conditions, and common to them all is their renowned comfort, safety, and durability, which will always be among our 'go to' favorites on the water. Perception has made a brilliant feature on the quality difference you can expect when you buy a "supermarket kayak" instead of "the real deal".
If you have any questions, requirements or just want to know more about the right kayak, you can always drop by for a chat in Herning and Copenhagen. You can also read more about the considerations you should make in relation to clothing and neoprene equipment for kayaking.
