Category: Educational

Portaging a kayak is the act of carrying it from point A to point B and if you’re not well-prepared, sometimes, it’s not fun to do this. It could be as simple as carrying your boat from your car to the water or allowing you to explore new areas by carrying it further or between two bodies of water.

While portaging can be physically demanding and time consuming, with practice and proper technique, it can become second nature. I’m going to give you some advice on how to make portaging easier so that you can enjoy more of what paddling has to offer.

What Supplies And Equipment Should You Take When Planning To Portage?

When portaging a kayak, it is important to be prepared with the right gear and supplies. Before setting out on your journey, make sure you have the basics, at the very least so you don’t have a lot to carry.

The basics should include a life jacket, your phone, some sunscreen, snacks and water, a first aid kit, dry bags for keeping essentials dry and safe from the rain or water splashes, and a whistle to alert others in the immediate vicinity if you’re in danger.

Keep it as light as you possibly can since you’ll also be carrying your kayak.

How To Properly Lift And Carry Your Kayak

Before lifting and carrying your kayak, it is important to ensure that you have the right equipment and know how to use it safely. Always make sure to wear protective gear for your feet and hands, including non-slip shoes and gloves.

Be aware of your posture while lifting as this can reduce the risk of injury. My cousin hurt his back lifting something once because he didn’t lift with his legs.

You should keep your back straight and bend at the knees as you lift your kayak up off of the ground. If possible, try to get help if you’re lifting a heavier kayak. This will allow you to balance the weight more evenly between two people.

If there are handles on either side of the kayak that are meant for carrying, make sure to use them for stability when transporting the boat. Make sure you take breaks when needed to avoid fatigue and injuries. Never drag your kayak if you’re alone because you could damage the bottom, but if you know ahead of time that you’ll have to, you should install a skid plate first.

Remove extra equipment and empty out any water that might have gotten into the kayak because this will make the boat heavier to carry. Taking these safety precautions can help reduce injuries caused by improper techniques.

Why Would You Need To Portage Your Kayak?

As I mentioned above, it can be as simple as carrying your kayak from your car or truck over to the water or for even simpler reasons. You may have to carry your kayak on land to avoid a low-head dam or maybe you’ll be on one lake and will want to transfer to another lake.

Or perhaps you could find yourself spotting dangerous debris or rocks in the river ahead and you need to carry your kayak past that point to continue. You might be annoyed at the crowds at one spot and want to find a more peaceful area. These are just a few examples of why you’d have to portage your kayak.

What Type Of Kayak Is Best For Portaging?

When it comes to choosing the right kayak for portaging, there are several factors to consider. For starters, selecting a lightweight kayak would be ideal.

Look for models made with materials such as carbon fiber or Kevlar, which have a higher strength-to-weight ratio than traditional plastic kayaks.

Pay attention to the length of the kayak; shorter models are typically easier to maneuver while portaging over land but longer kayaks can provide better tracking and stability on open water.

I use an inflatable kayak when I’m going to the lake because it’s super easy to carry and I’m alone most of the time. I’ve also used folding kayaks which have a strap you can use to carry them with.

Having a kayak with built-in handles can make portaging a lot easier also, especially when you’re with someone else. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes allowing for maximum comfort and convenience when portaging.

Some are designed with an ergonomic grip which makes them easier on the hands than traditional T-handles.

Do Your Research About The Route You’ll Be Taking

When portaging a kayak, it is important to become familiar with the route you are taking before you start. A good way to do this is to scout the area either on foot or from a kayak. I’ve gotten myself into unexpected situations and portaging a kayak wasn’t fun by any means!

Scouting the area will allow you to become familiar with the obstacles and challenges that lie ahead such as rapids, logs and rocks, and areas where water levels might be too low or high. It also helps you to plan your route more effectively and choose the best way to carry your kayak around them.

When scouting the area for portaging, look out for any changes in the terrain; even slight deviations can have an impact on how you approach each section of the route.

Breaks are essential if you’re portaging your kayak a nice distance. Be sure to note potential places you could stop for rest and take in some spectacular views along the way.

Check out sources such as historical records or maps of the area which can provide helpful hints about navigating difficult sections of land or water, avoiding nearby hazards.

Finally, always give yourself plenty of time when portaging so that you don’t rush through sections which require more attention. I’m extra careful and take my time because, well, why rush when I have the whole day?

Final Thoughts

Portaging a kayak is a must for kayakers who love discovering new areas or who must get around obstacles in the water. It can help you explore new waterways, access hidden gems and have more meaningful experiences on the water.

With practice and preparation, portaging your boat will become second nature and open up endless possibilities to enjoy all that our aquatic resources have to offer. Don’t forget to always use good safety practices when lifting or carrying your boat, as well as keeping track of any gear stored in it while you are moving around on land.

Before I end this, I’d like to say that if you absolutely can’t carry a kayak and want to explore different areas, you could always use a kayak cart. You can just roll it along with you with the help of a handle, providing that the path allows for this and it’s not unstable terrain.

Kayaking is a thrilling experience but it can be risky if you are not equipped with the right kayak for river paddling. I’ve been kayaking for over 8 years and can tell you from experience that having the right kayak for the right situation (type of water) is extremely important.

If you are looking for the best kayak to traverse a river, there are many factors that you need to consider. You need to choose a kayak that is appropriate for your level of experience and the type of water you will be paddling in.

But worry not: I’ll make it nice and easy for you. In this article, I’m not only going to recommend the best kayaks that I have tested over the years for river kayaking specifically, but then I also detail what makes a kayak suited for those waters.

Which Kayak Is Best For Paddling in the Rivers?

If you are looking for our top recommended river kayaks, I will present them below. If you are searching for a guide on what to look for in a solid kayak that is designed for rivers, check out my detailed guy after my recommendations.

Here we go:

#1. Perception Pescador Pro 12

This kayak is designed for performance and stability. With its high volume and wide beam, it excels in rivers with fast-moving currents. It also has a great storage capacity with several hatches and bungees.

#2. Perception Wildnerness Systems Tarpon 105

It is a great kayak for river paddling with excellent tracking and maneuverability, thanks to its rockered hull design. The cockpit has plenty of room and it is quite stable, so you won’t have to worry about tipping over.

#3. Dagger Stratos 14.5

It has a rockered design with plenty of volume and stability, making it perfect for river paddling. The two rubberized carry handles make transportation effortless.

#4. Wilderness Systems Radar 115

This is an ideal kayak for larger paddlers or those looking to take longer trips down the river. It offers excellent tracking and stability in both flat-water and moving water.

#5. Old Town Vapor 10XT

It is a great all-around kayak with plenty of features for river paddling. It has high maneuverability and tracking, which makes it ideal for tight turns and currents.

How to Select the Best Kayaks for Use in Rivers

If you want to shop in person for a kayak, then you need to know exactly what to look for when it comes to a kayak that performs well in rivers. Here are some things you should be aware of or decide before you go in to check them out:

#1. Type of Kayak

When it comes to kayaks, there are three main categories: recreational, touring, and whitewater kayaks.

For river paddling, whitewater kayaks are the best because they are designed for maneuvering through rapids and have better maneuverability. They are short and their design makes them more stable in fast-moving water.

The second best option is recreational kayaks because they are easy to maneuver and perfect for flat water. They also have a wide range of sizes, colors, and features that make them ideal for beginners.

#2. Kayak Shape

Kayak shape is also a crucial factor to consider when selecting a kayak for river paddling. Ideally, a kayak with a rounded hull is suitable for paddling through fast-moving rivers as it allows for easy maneuverability and turning ability.

Flat-bottomed kayaks are generally more stable but tend to be slower, and they struggle to carve through strong currents.

#3. Kayak Material

Kayaks are made from various materials such as plastic, fiberglass, polypropylene, and composite.

For river paddling, you need to choose a material that is durable, impact-resistant, and lightweight so that you can easily transport it to the river. Polyethylene is the most popular material for river kayaks because it’s lightweight, durable, and affordable.

#4. Kayak Size

The size of the kayak is another factor to consider when choosing a kayak for river paddling.

A smaller kayak is more suitable for river paddling because it is more maneuverable and can easily navigate through tight spaces. However, if you are traveling long distances, a bigger kayak may be more comfortable and provide more storage for your personal gear.

#5. Safety and Comfort

Safety should always be your top priority when kayaking on a river.

Look for kayaks that offer comfortable seating and padded backrests for prolonged paddling and foot braces to keep you secure in the kayak in case of any turbulence.

Also, I can’t stress how important safety equipment is so make sure that your kayak has enough room for a personal flotation device (PFD) and a helmet and a few other things.

What is the Difference Between a River Kayak and a Lake Kayak?

River kayaks are designed specifically for navigating rapids and turbulent waters. River kayaks have more features to help them maneuver quickly, such as shorter hulls and rounded shapes.

Lake kayaks, on the other hand, are typically longer and narrower, making them better suited for lake paddling because they offer increased speed and tracking capabilities in flat water conditions.

What is the Difference Between a River Kayak and a Creek Kayak?

River kayaks and creek kayaks are both designed for navigating turbulent waters, but there are some key differences between the two.

Creek kayaks tend to be shorter and wider than river kayaks because they need to maneuver through tight spaces in creeks. Additionally, creek kayaks usually have higher sides to provide more stability when paddling on narrow waterways.

How Long Should a River Kayak Be?

The length of your river kayak will depend on several factors, such as your body size, the type of water you are paddling in, and the activity you plan to do.

Typically, a river kayak should be between 10-12 feet long for recreational paddling, but if you are an experienced paddler or doing a long-distance trip, a longer kayak may be better suited for your needs.

What Style of Kayak is the Most Stable?

Flat-bottom kayaks are the most stable style of kayak and ideal for recreational paddling.

These kayaks are wide and have flat bottoms, which offer great stability on calm water conditions. However, they may be less maneuverable in turbulent waters due to their wide shape.

Is River Kayaking Dangerous?

River kayaking can be dangerous if you are not properly prepared with the right equipment and techniques.

Make sure to assess the river conditions before paddling, know your limits, and always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and a helmet. Also, make sure to learn proper paddling techniques to help you navigate rapids safely.

Are Sit-On-Top Kayaks Good for Rivers?

Sit-on-top kayaks can be good for river paddling. Sit-on-tops offer a higher degree of stability and are ideal for calmer waters or slower moving rivers. However, they may not be suitable for navigating rapids due to their lack of maneuverability.

Conclusion

Knowing how to choose the best kayak for river paddling is essential to make your paddling experience fun and safe especially when it comes to kayaking in a river where the water can be rough!

You’ll want to pay attention to your own needs and select a kayak that is suited for rough waters. With that said, hopefully, my recommendations will help you out, as I’ve tested river kayaks for close to a decade.

Are you torn between the idea of paddleboarding and kayaking but not sure which one is harder? Well, you are not alone. With both water sports activities offering endless fun on the water, it’s essential to know what you’re up for before you dive in.

A lot of people who indulge in kayaking will at some point also check out paddleboarding (or vice versa). People who love one water activity or sport will typically try out other ones. Let’s dive into which one is easier and which one is harder.

Significant Differences Between Paddleboarding and Kayaking

Both activities involve navigating the water with a paddle and require a certain level of strength and balance. However, there are some significant differences in how each sport is executed, which makes one more challenging than the other.

#1. Standing vs Sitting

Paddleboarding requires keeping your balance while standing and maneuvering the board with your paddle while kayaking requires coordination between both arms to steer the kayak and maintain stability.

This, in turn, makes paddleboarding a little harder than kayaking, as it demands both physical and mental strength to stay balanced and in control. If you’re not good with balancing or your core is weak, you may have a hard time with paddleboarding.

#2. Stability

Another significant difference between paddleboarding and kayaking that affects difficulty especially for beginners, is the type of board and kayak.

Paddleboards are designed to be wider and more stable than kayaks, making it easier for beginners or those with limited experience to maintain balance.

As for kayaks, they can be less stable due to their narrow design and high center of gravity, which means it can be more challenging to stay upright and steering requires more effort.

However, this doesn’t necessarily make kayaking harder than paddleboarding, as experienced kayakers can maneuver their kayaks with ease.

#3. Type of Water

The type of water you are kayaking or paddleboarding on can also affect the difficulty level.

For paddleboarding, calm and flat waters like lakes and bays make it easier to maintain balance and control the board. But if you plan to paddleboard in the open ocean, you’ll face the challenges of the waves, currents, and wind and engage your core even more!

As for kayaking, depending on the type of kayak and skill level, you can navigate different water types including calm rivers, open waters, and rapids.

Ultimately, the difficulty of the water will depend on the skill level of the rider and the type of water they are planning to traverse.

#4. Exercise Levels

When it comes to upper body workouts, both paddleboarding and kayaking are great exercises.

Paddleboarding engages more muscles in your body especially the core, back, and legs, since you are standing and constantly balancing.

As for kayaking, it requires more focus on the arms, shoulders, and upper back, as you use the paddle to propel the kayak forward.

While both sports offer a good workout, the type of muscles worked can vary depending on the activity.

They both leave me sore and give me a great workout.

Is it Hard to Balance on a Paddleboard?

Yes, it can be hard to balance on a paddleboard especially if you are a beginner, if you don’t have any experience, or you have a hard time with balance. It takes some practice and patience to develop the balance and strength needed for this activity.

Your core muscles are what will help you to stay balanced and have better control over your board. It can be helpful to practice on land first by doing exercises like squats and planks that target the core muscles.

I personally had a very hard time with paddleboarding the first handful of times I tried it because I’m a very klutzy person and staying balanced is hard for me but once I got used to it, I love to go paddleboarding at least once a week!

What Muscles Do You Use Kayak vs SUP?

When it comes to the muscles used in kayaking vs. paddleboarding, they are quite different. While both activities engage your upper body, arms and core, the motion of each sport utilizes different muscles groups.

In kayaking, you use your arms and shoulders to propel yourself forward with a two-handed paddle and rotate from side-to-side for steering. Your core muscles will also be engaged as you twist and move your body to maintain balance in the boat.

On the other hand, paddleboarding requires more of a rhythmic motion with one-handed paddling and engaging your legs for additional stability. Your arms, shoulders, back and core are all used while paddleboarding but your abs and glutes get an extra workout since you need to remain upright in order to control the board.

They both involve balance, coordination, strength, and endurance so it really depends on your personal preference as to which one is harder for you.

What Burns More Calories Kayaking or Paddle Boarding?

Both kayaking and paddleboarding are great full-body workouts that will help you burn calories. However, when it comes to which one burns more calories, the answer a bit complex.

The number of calories burned depends on a variety of factors such as your weight, age, height, activity level, etc. as well as the type of water you are kayaking or paddleboarding in, the speed and duration of your activity, and how hard you are pushing yourself.

In general, a a person can burn around 500-800 calories during an hour of moderate kayak paddling.

For paddleboarding, the calorie count will depend on whether you are prone or stand-up paddleboarding. Stand-up paddleboarding is more physically demanding and thus, burns more calories than prone.

It is estimated that an hour of moderately-intense stand-up paddleboarding can burn up to 1000-1200 calories depending on the factors mentioned earlier.

Summary

To summarize, paddleboarding and kayaking are both exciting water sports with unique difficulty levels. I enjoy both of them and I advise you try both of them!

Lastly, did you know that now you can get a paddleboard that converts into a kayak? Yep! That way, if you love paddleboarding and wanna get into kayaking, you can purchase a hybrid!

Are you in search of a versatile kayak and paddleboard hybrid? If so, look no further. Kayak paddleboard hybrids make getting on the water easy and convenient.

I’ve been paddleboarding and kayaking for over 8 years and own a few different SUPs, kayaks, as well as kayak paddleboard hybrids and I’m stoked to bring you this article!

What is a Kayak Paddleboard Hybrid?

A kayak paddleboard hybrid is a multi-purpose watercraft that can be used as both a kayak and a paddleboard. It is designed for people who want to have the flexibility of switching between two different activities without buying two separate watercrafts.

Benefits of a Kayak Paddleboard Hybrid

One of the main benefits of a kayak paddleboard hybrid is the versatility it provides. You can use it both as a kayak and a paddleboard based on your preference and activity.

Another significant advantage is that it is easy to transport and carry. You can easily put it on a car roof rack, and it fits inside many types of vehicles. This is the best part: I can carry one main item and get two big uses out of it!

Lastly, kayaking paddleboard hybrids are wider than regular kayaks which makes them more stable and easier to balance on. This feature makes them easier for beginners to learn and it provides a smoother ride for all experience levels.

Types of Kayak Paddleboard Hybrids

There are three main types of kayaking paddleboard hybrids: the sit-on-top, sit-in, and inflatable hybrids.

The sit-on-top is more common, and it is the easiest to get in and out of. The sit-in provides a more traditional kayaking experience, and it offers more protection from cold water.

The inflatable is the most convenient and portable featuring its lighter weight and compact storage size (and is easiest to carry!)

Kayak Paddleboard Hybrid Features to Consider

When choosing the best kayak paddleboard hybrid to meet your needs, you should consider features, such as length, width, weight limit capacity, and storage options.

You should consider the materials. Fiberglass and polyethylene are common materials used in the construction of paddleboard kayaks because they are lightweight.

Are Hybrid Paddle Boards Any Good?

Yes, hybrid paddle boards are pretty awesome!

Hybrid paddleboards offer the best of both worlds: the stability of a kayak and the flexibility of a paddleboard. They are easy to transport, making them ideal for people who want to enjoy different activities without investing in multiple water crafts.

Not only that but they also provide a smoother ride than traditional kayaks because of their wider design, allowing for more stability.

Plus, they come in different types so you can find one that suits your needs. All these features make a hybrid paddle board a great choice for any water activity enthusiast.

What Are the Best Kayak Paddleboard Hybrids?

Here are the top 3 recommended kayak paddleboard hybrid options:

#1. Bluefin Cruise 10’6″

This hybrid paddle board is an excellent all-around option, featuring a fiberglass construction and a weight capacity of up to 400 pounds. It has adjustable footrests and two handles for easy carrying.

#2. Perception Hi Life 11’

This hybrid paddle board is designed for stability and maneuverability, providing a comfortable ride in any water condition. It features an inflatable design with a weight capacity of up to 275 pounds.

#3. Wavestorm 9’6″

This hybrid paddle board is great for beginners and recreational paddlers. It has a foam core construction and a weight capacity of up to 200 pounds.

What is the Best SUP to Convert to a Kayak?

The best SUP to convert into a kayak is the Advanced Elements Strait Edge Angler Kayak. If for some reason you don’t like the above three I have recommended, then this is a fourth one that is an great choice.

It provides a great conversion experience with its comfortable seating and adjustable foot braces, plus it has gear straps and fishing rod holders for mounting accessories.

This hybrid also comes with an optional rudder system that helps you maneuver in any water environment. It’s made of durable material that won’t fade or deteriorate in the sun, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. For those looking for a versatile SUP-kayak hybrid, this is an excellent choice.

Is a Kayak Seat Worth It On a Paddle Board?

Yes, a kayak seat is worth it on a paddle board if you plan to use it as a hybrid. It provides additional support and comfort when paddling in the sitting position, so it can help make your experience more enjoyable.

Some kayaking seats are designed with backrests that provide extra lumbar support for those who need it.

Laslty, a kayak seat can help make your hybrid paddle board even more versatile as it will allow you to switch between sitting and standing positions while paddling.

Can You Convert Any SUP into a Kayak?

No, not every SUP can be converted into a kayak.

To ensure that you are getting the best hybrid experience possible, you should look for an inflatable or foam-core SUP that has been specifically designed to convert into a kayak.

These boards have adjustable foot braces and other features that make it easier to transition between paddle boarding and kayaking.

Make sure to check the specifications of your board before you make a purchase as not all SUPs are suitable for conversion. I’d hate for you to waste your money.

Do I Need a Leash On My Hybrid Kayak Paddleboard?

Yes, it is recommended that you use a leash when using your hybrid kayak paddleboard. A leash helps ensure that your board does not drift away from you if you fall off, and it can reduce the risk of injuries or accidents.

Most hybrid kayak paddleboards come with leashes included but if yours does not, you should consider purchasing one separately. It is important to understand how to use your leash properly and safely for the best experience on the water.

What is the Difference Between a Kayak Paddle and a SUP Paddle?

The main difference between kayak paddles and SUP paddles is the length.

Kayak paddles are longer than SUP paddles, which makes them better suited for long-distance strokes while SUP paddles are shorter, making them more suitable for small or short strokes.

Also, the blade of a kayak paddle is typically wider than that of a SUP paddle, allowing for more power when paddling. Kayak paddles also have a bent shaft, while SUP paddles usually have a straight shaft.

Both types of paddles can be used on hybrid kayak paddleboards. I personally prefer the kayak paddles.

Conclusion

I hope this article provided you with valuable insight into the world of kayak paddleboard hybrids.

With their convenience, versatility, and stability, they are an excellent choice for people looking for a multi-purpose watercraft.

I love both water activities and often head out to La Jolla with my hybrid board!