Picking the kayak that’s right for you

There are three basic categories of kayaks, so make sure you’re getting the right one for your adventure.

When we are kayaking various locations people frequently ask us lots of questions: Are they stable? Are they easy to paddle? Are they as much fun as it looks? Can you fish from them?

The answer to all of them is YES.

Many people who know us sometimes ask for suggestions since they know that we spend countless hours each summer in our kayaks

There is no standard answer what type of kayak one should buy. Will Crimmins, manager of the Mountainman Outdoor Sports in Old Forge emphasizes that it depends on what a person wants to do and what type of water they plan to paddle. This will determine the type, length, and material best suited for that person.

There are three basic categories of kayaks: whitewater, touring, and recreational. For most of the people a recreational kayak is the normal choice. These are the type that most of us would use for quiet rivers, small lakes and ponds, and the protected shoreline of larger lakes. Within that category there are many designs, variations, and models to choose from.

Most recreational kayaks range from 10 to 14 feet in length. Longer length means better tracking and efficiency, while shorter ones are more maneuverable. However shorter ones also tend to be wider so they require more effort in paddling and tend to wander from a straight line in paddling. A 12 foot length is a good choice for the average paddler.

Within the longer kayaks there can be a difference in width. Narrower kayaks have more speed and ease of paddling but lack the initial stability of slightly wider ones. It takes a bit more concentration and care to get into the narrower ones without tipping. However, the secondary stability is usually good since you have a low center of gravity, i.e. sitting right at water level.

Kayaks are made of several materials. Most common is polyethylene which is rugged, resilient, and moderate in price and weight. Composites of Kevlar or fiberglass are lighter but less durable and cost more. You can get superlight kayaks made of carbon fiber and Kevlar but the prices are often higher than a ‘70s rock band on a cross country road tour.

Thermoplastics represent a midpoint between the polyethylene and composites in price, weight, and durability. We recently purchased two Hurricane Santee Sport models and are very pleased with them. Hurricane makes it kayaks from Thermolite which is very durable yet weighs about 20 lbs. less than comparable models of polyethylene.

Cockpit sizes vary and larger cockpits make it easier for people, especially larger paddlers to enter and exit. They also make it easier to carry gear such as photo equipment or fishing tackle in front of you.

People often ask about how convenient it is to fish out of a

kayak. Keep in mind that the initial users of kayaks, the Eskimos, depended on them for getting their food. Because of the increased popularity of kayaks and fishing, now there are several specialized models designed just for fishing. Fishing kayaks are the fasting growing niche within this popular sport.

However most recreational kayaks can be easily used for fishing. You can trick out any recreational kayak to be a fishing kayak or you can go for some pre-designed models with larger cockpits, rod holders, etc. Some people fasten rod holders or paddle holders to their recreational kayaks while others prefer removable clips such as those make by Yakima to hold rods and paddles

For general paddling and exploring, consider the factors of weight and width that were discussed earlier. Remember that initial stability, a comfortable seat, and a good back rest are important considerations for anyone who plans to spend considerable time in their kayak.

Your best bet is to test paddle several types and models to see how they handle, how comfortable each is, and other factors such as weight. Mountainman Outdoor Sports (315-369-6672; mountainmanoutdoors.com) offers the opportunity to test paddle different models on the quiet waters of the Moose River. They are the largest canoe and kayak dealer in the state with over 1,000 boats to choose from. Take the opportunity to test paddle several and you will probably join the growing ranks of people who spend much of the summer in their kayak.

Someone was kidding me that there is often advice on paddling kayaks, etc. but nobody ever discusses the basics of getting in and out of a kayak.

Usually you have to plan on getting your feet wet while entering. Under normal conditions wear wading sandals or Crocs and plan on wading out to ankle depth. Kayaks will float in a few inches of water so make sure that it is floating and does not have one end resting on dry ground. The latter case is a recipe for flipping the vessel!

I prefer to grip either side of the cockpit to steady the kayak and then stepping into the center. While keeping your balance you should use your arms to let yourself down on the seat. Some people like the “straddle and plop down on the seat” method.

When getting out, I pull into shallow water on a sandy bottom, lean forward and grip the sides of the cockpit in front of you front with your weight forward. Maintain control to keep your balance and step out while pulling yourself up. There is really no graceful way to exit a kayak.

While paddling your kayak keep a low profile with your paddle and basically reach out ahead with the paddle and dip it just below the surface.to pull yourself through the water. Don’t dig down deeply in the water with your paddle as if you were paddling a canoe. You are not “poling a pirogue down the bayou!”

Kayaks are actually very stable since you have a low center of gravity sitting right at water level. They are easy to paddle, go where other boats cannot go, and are easy to transport. Choose wisely and join the growing ranks of people who have discovered just how much fun kayaking is.

Short Casts

Revolution Rail Company: Are you looking for a different type of adventure this summer? If so, give serious thought to the Revolution Rail which operates out of North Creek, on Rte 28 N. It operates seven days a week with four trips of two hour duration along a section of railroad that was built along the Hudson River to reach the Tahawus Mines. The quad bikes hold either two or four passengers and you pedal at your pace on the railroad tracks along the scenic Hudson River. Guides lead you on the six mile round trip that crosses the Hudson River on a spectacular trestle bridge.

You will get to see and explore a section of the Adirondacks that has never seen passenger traffic. After checking in at the North Creek station you are transported by shuttle to your starting point for trips that start at 10:30 am, 12:30, 2:30, or 4:30. It is a great trip and my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our experience last autumn. The trips are popular so don’t delay in making reservations. Contact Revolution Rail Company at 518251-2345 or info@revrail.com

While you are there be sure to check out the charms of North Creek (northcreekny.com) and nearby Gore Mt.(www.goremountain.com)