Kayak vs Paddle Board (Water sports at its best)

Water sports are gaining a huge following nowadays. If you are considering in going into paddling, you’ll be needing to choose the important gears and equipment to go about it. Will it be a paddle board? A kayak? maybe both?

These two paddling sport activities are becoming more in demand and gaining more attention now. A lot of people love the water so much that they would want to spend an ample time in it!

Both these sports involve paddling and there are also differences between the two. Let us have a quick run through what both water sports are.

A paddle board is also known as a SUP. It’s actually a good form of exercise and core strength building. It’s a surf style board that you use standing up with a paddle. Paddle boarding is one if not the most popular water sports today.

It comes in different uses, sizes, shapes and function. You can do yoga, surfing, racing, touring and recreational paddling using your SUP.

A kayak is a small boat like transportation in the water. It offers more storage and for longer exploration in the water. Kayaking had been in existence for a long time and is considered a traditional water sport. It uses a double-sided paddle to propel in the water. Like a paddle board, it comes in inflatable or solid ones. You can also use a kayak in a variety of ways. You can use it in fishing, racing, recreational use and whitewaters too.

Let’s compare them. How are they different from each other?

• The first evident difference is how they look. A paddle board is a board with a flat surface while a kayak looks like a small traditional boat.

• A paddle board can be flexible but a kayak is better at handling different water conditions. 

• Standing up while paddling requires having a much higher sense of balance and gravity whereas, you are sitting down while you’re kayaking.

• You have a higher chance and tendency to fall off a paddle board as compared to a kayak.

• A paddle board is lighter than a kayak. It would be easier to get back on a paddle board since it is more resistant to overturning in the process.

• Paddle boarding unless you’re surfing is better on calmer and flat water.

• The kayak has more storage area unless you have a bigger paddle board.

• A lot is demanded in SUP. It’s a harder task to use your legs and core more while paddling standing up as compared to paddling while sitting down in a kayak.

• In terms of going around and seeing the surroundings, a kayak would be better. A kayak can bring you around with much ease.

It would be in your discretion of which will be suited for you best. If you want a more adventurous and thrilling time in the water, a paddle board is an exciting option. SUP is a harder exercise too in a cooler way. The kayak will be a regular choice for a fun way to paddle and do sightseeing too.

But wait, there’s a good news, there are paddle boards that you can also convert as a kayak. You get to use it as a paddle board and can switch using it as a kayak anytime! Then that is an awesome way to really maximize what real fun is.

Please check our links below for our Paddle board articles.

The Complete Guide to Blow Up Paddle Board

An in depth look at Paddle Boards

Advantages of an Inflatable Kayak

Kayaks can be a solid one with a hard shell and an inflatable one. There are people now who prefer an inflatable kayak. Here’s the advantages of getting an inflatable kayak:

• It’s more portable and easier to store than a hard shelled kayak.

• A solid kayak is heavier and thus less strenuous to carry and lift.

• An inflatable wouldn’t scratch or damage your car unlike a solid one that can rub and scratch your car.

• You need a bigger vehicle or a trailer to transport a solid kayak.

• An inflatable kayak can be stored anywhere and you can put it in a bag and take it anywhere.

• With an inflatable, dings and scratches are a thing of the past. However they are susceptible to punctures so care must be taken to avoid sharp objects. A rigid kayak can be easy rinsed off and cleaned while an inflatable must be folded up and packed away.

• Since an inflatable kayak can be kept in the trunk or back of your SUV you don’t have to worry about it being stolen when you park your car. Keep it with you at all times so you can be ready to go at a moment’s notice.

• Inflatable kayaks can be used for just about any use that a hard shelled kayak can be used for: FishingGeneral RecreationSurfingTouringCampingWhitewater

• An inflatable is light enough to be carried by most any one. They can be transported to the launch point win a backpack.

Different Types of Inflatable Kayaks

With the abundance of inflatable kayaks and becoming more available, there are more types being manufactured with more innovative features and advanced technology. Here’s an almost complete and detailed list of the different types of kayaks.

Self Bailing Kayaks

An innovative way to drain the water through holes and a port at the bottom of the kayak. This type of kayak is called the self bailing kayak. Good for white water kayaking using this inflatable self bailing kayak.

The ports on the bottom allow the water to drain out by itself as it as leaves the kayak dry. These types of kayaks is minus one fin for tracking hence it don’t do very well paddling on a lake or river.

Sit on Top Kayaks

The sit on top kayaks don’t have any enclosed cockpit. You just need to sit on top of the kayak. This type is recommended best for fishing because you have ample movement space for reaching out for your all your fishing gears. Good for recreational paddling too!

Sit Inside Kayak

This type of kayak is the one that is typically seen. You just sit inside and you are in a confined compartment like seat. You’re mostly stay dry in this kind of kayak. It’s best suited for rougher water conditions. Can be used for recreation paddling as well.

Canoe Type

It’s look like just any other normal canoe. This inflatable kayak has a wider built and much higher height of the walls. The seats are sunk deep in the kayak. It’s roomier and good for fishing.

Standup Paddle Board that is convertible into a kayak

Obviously, this is not one of your kayak types but most paddle boards can be converted into a kayak by just adding a seat and the gears. It became a popular option because of its adjustability. It can be used for a workout, fishing, racing, surfing and even rafting.

Whitewater kayaks 

These kayaks are purposely built for whitewater paddling trips. They tend to be more expensive but takes pride in its high performance level.

Sea kayaks

 These kinds of kayaks are produced for paddling in an open water. They can be very expensive but an extremely awesome one.

Fishing kayaks

A lot of people especially men are into fishing. The fishing kayaks have added features that will serve its purpose.  These features includes a rod holders, rudders and lots of gear storage. These are often sit on top type and style of kayak. 

Inflatable Kayak Specifications

A very good thing about kayaking is you can do it by yourself, as a tandem or as a group up to 3 people. There are a wide range of kayaks good for 1-3 people or even up to 4 people.

A good strategy is to buy a tandem kayak. You can put aside the other seat if you’re going solo.

There are a lot of perks if you buy a tandem kayak instead of a single one.  Some of the advantages are as follows:

• It will be cheaper to buy a two-seater kayak
• It’s more fun to paddle a kayak together
• You can rest and your companion can still continue paddling
• It’s a way to bond
• It will be easier to have an extra hand when carrying the kayak

But there are disadvantages too in tandem kayaking. And these are the probable downside:

• You must always take someone with you
• You must have a teamwork
• You cannot go on your own and do your stuff
• It’s a bit longer than the usual kayak

At the end, I would still suggest a tandem kayak because you can take of one seat and you can use it solo and you’ll have more space. Economically, you will be saving too. Just in case there are days you want to bring someone along.

These kayaks are extremely rigid with an inflatable kayak drop stitch construction and they are very rugged and durable.

What are Inflatable Kayaks made of?

There are commonly used materials for inflatable kayaks that’s why they’re super tough and durable. Here are these amazing materials:

PVC or polyvinyl chloride is the most commonly used in inflatable kayaks. PVC is typically bonded to nylon for extra tear resistance. It’s UV resistant too.

Nitrylon is a combination of nitrile synthetic rubber. It’s environmentally friendly than PVC. This natural rubber is bonded to polyester fabric. It is very ultra-tough and it’s puncture resistant compared to PVC. It has the resistance to abrasions.

Hypalon is more UV resistant than PVC but is pricey. It’s harder to work with during production but it’s also more abrasion resistant than PVC or Nitrylon. Some manufacturers combine PVC with a Hypalon coating to make it less expensive.

Different Kayak Lengths

Kayaks can measure from 6 feet up to 14 feet. They offer different results and functions based on their lengths.

Short kayaks are from 8 to 12 feet. They are able to move quickly but slower and harder to paddle straight.  Short kayaks are great for river paddling such as whitewater and for quicker paddling.

Long kayaks measures from 12 to 15 feet. They are more competent, faster and easier to keep in a straight line. Longer kayaks tend to have better stability and more room for gear. They’re the best bet for longer days of paddling.  Also best for kayak anglers who want a roomier and more spacious kayak. It has the stability on open water too.

Why a kayak needs a rocker?

A boat, a SUP and a kayak all have something in common.  They all have a rocker. A rocker is defined as the curvature of the hull as it rises to the bow and stern. As the old belief and saying goes: the more rocker the canoe has, the more maneuverable it's going to be. An ample rocker helps for quicker turns.

Mostly kayaks will have a rocker.  The rocker aids the paddler to make turning easier and making the kayak less resistant to turning. Having more rocker is desirable in rougher water as it will smoothly cut through the water. The water will less likely go inside the kayak.

While if you’re touring in your kayaks having less of a rocker is much better and advisable. A flatter touring kayaks leave more of the boat underwater at the bow and stern which helps in tracking better and keeping the boat in a straight line.

Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak

Image source: intexcorp.com

This is a super tough kayak made from laminated PVC with polyester core. It’s lightweight and highly resistant to damage caused by abrasion, impact and sunlight. It’s very rigid and stable 

with a high pressure spring loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation. This nice looking kayak comes with 2 removable skews for deep and shallow water, 2 floor mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders and 2 adjustable bucket seats. It has a removable and adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories, like GPS systems, fish finders, swivel and fishing rod holders.

What’s more, its storage space in bow and stern with stainless steel d-rings for tying down dry bags and gear. 

Specifications:

• Length: 12’ 7” long
• Width: 3’ 1” wide
• Height: 18” high
• Maximum weight capacity: 400 lbs.
• Passengers: 1-2

Pros:

• The Excursion Pro is so easy to set up
• It has a load capacity of 400 lbs
• Comes as a complete package
• It is lightweight and easy to transport
• It Features a 3-ply super tough construction
• Has 2 Rod holders
• With an adjustable inflatable seat with backrest
• Comes with 3 separate air chambers
• Includes an inflatable booster pad for elevated seating
• Features an adjustable footrests
• Has mounting bracket for fishing accessories

Cons:

• Low-quality oars
• Not great for choppy waters  

Best Inflatable Kayak

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Ultralite Inflatable Kayak

Image source: advancedelements.com

This inflatable kayak comes with a built-in aluminum ribs define the bow and Stern and improve tracking. Definitely a lightweight and has a simple inflation chamber design combined with light-weight materials making it an Ultralite kayak. It’s durable and made from 3 layers of material for extreme puncture resistance. Has a performance, looks and paddles similar to a rigid hard-shell kayak, with the portability of an inflatable. It’s compact and there’s no roof rack. Just pack it in the trunk of your car or fly it to different destinations.

Specifications:

• Length: 10’ 5” long
• Width: 32” wide
• Height: not available
• Maximum weight capacity: 225 lbs.
• Passengers: 1

Pros: 

• Built well
• High quality 
• It blows up easily 
• Has a firm and rigid shape. 
• The quality of the seat very good
• The foot support is a nice touch 
• Lightweight 
• Very easy to take down
• Very good on calm water

Cons: 

• It could use more padding on bottom support and floor support
• No pump with gauge is provided
• It becomes unstable on anything over a 6" to a foot of chop  

Best Inflatable SUP and Kayak

Freein Stand Up Paddle Board Inflatable SUP

Image source: freeinsup.com

This a highly reviewed inflatable that can be converted into a kayak. It can Quickly be converted from a Stand Up Paddle Board to a seated Kayak by clipping the seat to the preinstalled anchors, then swapping out the paddle handle for the second blade.It’s Lightweight and portable. The paddle board alone is only 18lbs and can easily be carried with the installed handle. Built as an all-around board that provides balance, control and maneuverability while the top pad provides a great grip in wet conditions.Has a complete accessory kit including an convertible single/dual blade floating paddle, double action hand pump, travel backpack, 10’ coiled ankle leash, and a  repair kit.

Specifications:

• Length: 12’ 7” long
• Width: 31” wide
• Thickness: 6” high
• Maximum weight capacity: 257 lbs.

Pros:

• 2 in 1, a paddle board and is convertible into a kayak
• Comes with a kayak seat
• It’s easy to inflate with an adapter and plugged into a car
• Affordable and economically easy on the pocket
• Durable

Cons:

• Harder to inflate manually  

Best Inflatable Kayak for a Solo Paddler

BIC Sport NOMAD HP1 Inflatable Kayak

Image source: bicsport.com

It’s a high performing inflatable with room for one adult. Has a revolutionary proprietary high pressure floor and integrated keel system for hard shell tracking performance. Can be used to paddle as an open hull kayak or attach the deck cover for the feel of a traditional sit-inside kayak. Has a complete system package including the hull, pump, backrest and transport and storage bag. This is the ultimate, lightweight, transportable, efficient performance inflatable kayak

Specifications:

• Length: 14' 5.2" long
• Width: 31.5"wide
• Maximum weight capacity: 440 lbs

Pros:

• High-performance sea kayak 
• Has a high pressure hull floor for maximum rigidity
• Features an elevated tip sections for increased glide and paddle comfort most especially in rough waters
• Has a removable and flexible spray deck for total protection in extreme weather conditions
• Has a huge amount of storage space for equipment inside the kayak
• Comes with a comfortable back rests 
• Has an adjustable foot rests 
• Includes a watertight back-pack storage bag
• Easy to carry

Best Hard Shelled Kayak

BIC Kalao Deluxe Kayak

Image source: bicsport.com

I’ve included a non-inflatable in the list. This hard shelled kayak can accommodate up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. Has a Tri-hull design for optimum speed, comfort, and stability. It comes with the twin sheet technology for a lighter, more durable, easier-to-paddle kayak. Awesome features include a safety grab lines and rear storage deck/straps standard and an integrated footrests for comfortable paddling.

Pros:

• No problem carrying three adults. 
• Stable in the water
• No danger of tipping
• Very durable
• Solid

Cons:

• Sometimes hard to track
• Easy to oversteer

How to Choose the Right Kayak Paddle

Choosing a kayak paddle will be quick easy since kayak paddles are relatively the same. They will only differ in the paddling you’ll be doing.

High and Low angle Paddles

High-angle kayak paddles are designed for kayak paddling that has more push in every stroke. The high angle paddles is a way a kayaker dips the paddle in the water in an almost vertical way. It’s done with the control hand high above the boat. High-angle paddle blades are wider to provide a better digging to the water.

Low-angle kayak paddles are designed for a more relaxed phasing. It’s designed with a longer and lighter blade and shaft.  Low angle paddles are less stressful on the body and can be used for longer kayaking trips.

Blade materials

Can you how the paddle blades are offsetting each other? The term for that is a feathering angle, which is made doable by a locking ferrule.

There are three types that are widely used materials for the blades of a kayak paddle. These are:

• Plastic paddle blades - They are the cheapest and also the heaviest. Plastic blades are strong and durable. The downside is, they do flex and it can be instrumental to lose your ability and capability in your strokes. It can also be vulnerable to crack and break on rocks or rougher surfaces.

• Fiberglass paddle blades - They are the in between option and offering a good blend of affordability, durability and lightweight performance. These blades are prone to chip, but it wouldn’t usually crack.

• Carbon-fiber paddle blades - They are extremely lightweight, strong and very rigid. They can provide the best performance for all kinds of kayaking activities. These high-quality blades will make you paddle faster ad they are not prone to crack easily. They are the most expensive among the three options.

Shaft Design

The Paddle shaft also come in different materials.  Some are made with aluminium and it’s commonly used for budget kayak paddles. Although aluminum is strong and lightweight, fiberglass and carbon shafts have a better edge and lead here.

Shafts have two orientation, either it’s straight or kinked. Most paddlers usually begin using a straight shaft. I will sometimes offer a narrower shaft where the user grips the paddle. This might add to the stress level but it will allow better control. After a while, they would shift to a kinked one.

A kinked or crooked shaft is designed to be more lenient of poor technique. It reduces the stress on the hands and joints by adjusting to the paddler’s grip. A lot of paddlers preferred this shaft.

Adjustability

Most recreational paddles can come and be broken apart into two or more pieces. The whitewater paddles are often one piece for more push in each stroke.

Most paddles these days come with what’s known as a ferrule. It’s a shaft that can be twisted and be locked in different positions. This allows for the blades to be offset. This known as feathering. It can cut down on wind resistance and greatly contributes to a better style in paddling. The expensive paddles offer more feathering angles and innovative locking mechanisms.

What’s the right length of paddle?

As an accustomed principle, the wider the kayak and the taller the person is, the longer the paddle should be.

While here are underlying facts, there’s no real principles to back that up because each one is different.

Here’s a guideline in general:

*Data from Aqua-Bound Paddles sizing chart

Try to find and search the best paddle for you. A paddle that makes it easy and comfortable for you to use. A smaller paddle is most lightly to weigh less. But see what will be best for you.

Best Budget Kayak Paddle

Leader Accessories Marine Aluminum Kayak Paddles

Image source: leaderaccessories.com

This easy on the pocket and best budget kayak paddle has two pieces aluminum construction.

It’s a lightweight with molded plastic blades. Comes with these features: enforced push-button connection, feathered blade design and three locking positions.

Pros:

• Great buy for the money
• Quality is great
• Easy to Use
• It functions well
• It’s easy to break down and adjust
• Ideal for most kayak use
• Comes in bright colors and it’s easy to see 
• Has drip stoppers
• Comes with hand grips that are rubberized

Cons:

• Too short at 87 inches
• The grips to have a little more cushion 

Best Whitewater Kayak Paddle

Werner Desperado Carbon-Reinforced Whitewater Kayak Paddle

Image source: wernerpaddles.com

This is a great carbon fiber reinforced paddle with an injection molded nylon blades available at an affordable price for beginner whitewater paddlers. The dihedral allows for smooth and stable forward paddling. It’s a 1-piece fiberglass shaft that is made with recycled material and has an asymmetrical blade shape. It’s not heavy and super light. Has an additional perks with an ovalized hand grips for the no-look paddle orientation. Its well-balanced shape allows for a more powerful and efficient strokes when going through waves. 

The one-piece paddle shaft is made with Werner’s bomber strength fiberglass, which offers lesser weight and durability to keep your arms from being tired. 

The Desperado’s mid-size carbon-fiber injected blades are lightweight and stiff, and their well-balanced shape allows for powerful, efficient strokes when bounding over waves. The one-piece paddle shaft is made with Werner’s “bomber strength” fiberglass, which offers lightweight durability to keep your arms from tiring out. For an experienced paddler, it offers

A much lighter swing effort and has greater resistance from impact.

It’s one of the best fiberglass kayak paddles for whitewater. Having the perfect blend of great performance and affordability.

Pros:

• Ultra lightweight
• Super affordable
• Great performance
• Has an ovalized hand grips for the no-look paddle orientation
• Good for beginners and experienced whitewater paddlers

Cons:

• No negative reviews so far

Best Kayak Paddle Leash

Kayak Paddle Leash

A highly rated and one of the best kayak paddle leash. Made durable nylon, this paddle leash is super elastic and durable. It has a plastic hook that is also strong and durable. Good thing is it’s adjustable and can extend up to 67 inches. There is a spring stopper that will help you adjust the cord easily to your desired length. Very reliable and dependable to use as a paddle leash. This super stretched leash can connect the paddle to the kayak tightly. It will prevent the paddle from getting out of  hand, and is perfect for buoyancy aid, canoeing, snorkeling, rafting, fishing rods, scuba diving, cycling! 

Very convenient to carry because of its Ultra-lightweight size plus it’s super easy to store and carry. The package includes 2 paddle leash in black.

Pros:

• Affordable and worth the small cost of a cord
• It's great if you want to rest or eat and not having to worry about where your paddle is
• The lanyard cord is long and elastic
• The spring stopper that is made of plastic is very easy to attach to the paddle

Cons:

• The cord is better if it’s a little more thicker 

Best iSUP Kayak Seat

iROCKER Inflatable Paddle Board Kayak Seat

Image source: irockersup.com

You can separately buy this iSUP kayak seat.  Made from the highest quality material for that needed back support. It’s designed to make sure it can provide the maximum comfort and durability with this seat. Has 4 straps and clips, 2 on each side, used to keep the kayak seat secure at all times to your paddle board.

Pros: 

• Very easy to adjust
• It’s extremely comfortable
• It’s thoughtfully engineered and well-constructed using quality materials
• Very durable

Cons:

• It might not be compatible to your inflatable. Do check first.

What’s the final answer?

What’s more stable?

Kayaks are more stable since you need to stand on a paddle board. 

While there’s still a chance of overturning in these kayaks, especially in rough water, it’s still most unlikely in comparison to a paddleboard.

What’s easier to maneuever?

It’s clearly both have their own characteristics in this area. They are both maneuverable in their own ways.

What’s easier to transport?

Paddleboards are much easier to transport than kayaks. Paddle boards are generally lighter and more compact tan a kayak.

What’s more durable?

Kayaks are more durable because they are made from more durable materials that can go through whitewater rapids and can take those beatings and bumps. Most paddleboards have fins on their underside and it can be damaged in not so deep waters.

Who has more storage?

Kayaks can store more gears and things and can keep it dry. If you buy a wider a bigger paddle board, that’s the only time you can have more storing area.

What’s better for my health and body?

Paddleboards are better for one’s core. SUP is a low impact workout for your core, arms, and legs. Many fitness and yoga enthusiasts use their boards as a normal part of their exercise routine. If you want something to give you a more comprehensive workout, paddleboards will do the trick.

Kayaks also help to work out your arms and occasionally your legs. Most people go kayaking mostly for recreational purposes and sightseeings. 

What’s cheaper?

Although both are almost priced the same. The price will be dependent of the type, model and quality you’re purchasing. In this one, it would say a kayak. There are cheap kayaks but if you’ll go with the over-all value, a kayak will cost more in the long run inclusive of the gears and add-ons. 

What a wonderful way to enjoy the water through kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. A great way to enjoy life and living it to the fullest.

I am confident it will give you an uplifting and a rewarding experience whatever you chooses or if you would embrace both water sports.

Keep those paddles paddling for a long time!