Buying a Used Kayak

Kayaking as a sport is increasing in popularity. The opportunity to get some healthy exercise in the beautiful outdoors is often too attractive to pass up. There are very few recreational sports that allow for a great upper body workout, so kayaking is on the rise.

Of all the recreational water sports, kayaking is really the most intimate. Just the water and you forming a relationship that can be spiritual or adversarial. Whichever the case, kayaking is undeniably more popular.

If you are already smitten with the sport of kayaking then it might be time to purchase a boat. A kayak can be an expensive investment and a new boat is the most expensive alternative. Just like a good used car, a good used kayak can be purchased at an reasonable price giving you high quality at entry level pricing.

First, determine what type of kayak you need. Kayaks come in five classifications based on intention of use: expedition styles, day touring and general recreation, whitewater and surf models. In each of these classifications you will see folding, inflatable and rigid kayak models.

Rigid kayaks are made of several materials. A plastic kayak is the most durable, least expensive and heaviest option. Wood kayaks are often beautiful. Many kayakers build wood kayaks from a kit, but they do need regular maintenance. The fiberglass kayak is the most expensive option and the lightest style. They can be damaged more easily than the other two options but are the easiest to repair.

You need to decide which classification of kayak you need. The class will determine some important features like storage capacity for longer excursions. The weight of the boat may be an issue if you will always be handling it alone. Storage of the kayak when not in the water might lead you toward the folding canvas or inflatable style.

Inspect the potential purchase carefully looking for any damage that would preclude it from consideration. Check for uneven patches and divots in the hull surface. fiberglass repairs can be covered with paint so check for surface paint discrepancies. A patched inflatable kayak should be considered carefully as these repairs can be tricky. Plastic boats while very durable are very hard to fix. You will want to avoid a plastic hull that looks unsound or repaired.

Don't be afraid to look at the big name high quality used kayaks. You may find a real bargain that is well worth the investment. Unless you are planning to compete, race or learn some tricks, a used kayak can be a better investment than a new one.

By: K.L. Amadio

If you're going out on the water, you've got to wear original kayaking art for paddling. See Puple Arts for fun kayaking t-shirts and "Get your Art On!" K.L. Amadio is a freelance writer and webmaster of Taekwondo-Network, your place for everything tae kwon do.

Article Directory: http://www.articlewisdom.com

Please Rate this Article

5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 

Not yet Rated