Many people new to the sport are confused by the difference between a touring kayak , and a recreational Kayak . Many people think that a recreational kayak is simply a cheaper touring kayak. Some of them may be right, but touring kayaks can cost more because they are constructed with better materials and have more features.

The price difference is not the only factor. Recreational kayaks are built for a different type of paddler. It’s crucial that you select the best kayak for your budget and the conditions in which you plan to paddle.

What is a recreational kayak?

They are typically made of polyethylene and range from 10 to 12 feet in length and up to 30 inches at the cockpit. Beginners and people who prefer to paddle on lakes or slow-moving streams are the main users of these kayaks.

Recreational kayaks are cheaper than touring kayaks. They are made from cheaper materials . Polyethylene is usually cheaper and lacks some features which make touring kayaks easier to maneuver, such as rudders and skags. Recreational boats tend to be heavier because of the cheaper materials. Touring kayaks are usually made from lightweight composites or carbon fiber.

The recreational kayaks also have a few inches more width than the touring models, giving them an extra bit of stability. It’s a great feature for beginners, as well as for those who want to take photos or fish from their kayak and don’t wish it to rock while they fiddle with the equipment.

The extra width has some drawbacks. For example, the boat will not be able “cut through” heavy winds and strong currents as effectively as a narrower tour boat. This extra width will also cause more drag and you won’t have the ability to paddle as quickly in a recreational boat. It also contributes to the weight.

Recreational kayaks tend to be a foot or so shorter than touring ones. They are easier to turn with their shorter length, but they also have a reduced ability to track. This could also be a downside for those who wish to use their kayaks for extended trips.

What is a Touring Kayak?

As they are longer, thinner and have more features, touring kayaks appeal to kayakers who want a kayak that can go faster and further.

The hull is one of the most significant differences between touring kayaks and recreational kayaks. Touring kayaks are made to be easy to handle and stable, while recreational boats are designed for stability and ease of use.

If you flip both boats over, the touring kayak will have a more aggressive hull profile compared to recreational kayaks’ flatter profile. This hull shape is a compromise, as it provides speed at the cost of stability. Inexperienced paddlers may feel that touring kayaks are “tippy”.

The extra length of touring kayaks has a significant impact on their handling. The longer the kayak, the harder it is for it to turn. However, it’s also easier to travel in a straight-line. Touring kayaks have greater inertia, and they are more resistant to changing direction.

This extra length will also give you more space to store your gear, something you may need if you plan to use the kayak for an overnight camping trip. This extra space is usually equipped with bulkheads that keep equipment dry, and limit the amount of water in the kayak if it capsizes.

What Kayak is Right for Me?

Most people who aren’t looking to spend a lot of cash on a recreational kayak will be interested. As long as you don’t plan to take the kayak out on rough or fast-moving water, you can probably get away with a less maneuverable but more stable hull.

Paddlers looking for comfort will also enjoy recreational kayaks. Their larger cockpits make them feel less cramped and allow for easy access to stored items like fishing equipment, photography gear, or even just lunch.

A touring kayak is a better option if you are looking for a boat that can be used in many different ways and has a lot of space. A good touring boat may seem expensive but it’s a piece of gear you will likely keep for quite some time. It could even end up saving you money in the long term.

It all comes down to where you plan to use the kayak. It’s hard to find a boat that works in all conditions. It’s better to pick a boat that can handle the worst conditions. A touring kayak may not be comfortable in a glassy water, but a recreational boat might be dangerous in rougher waters.