CWTA - Kayak Basics - Different Styles Of Kayaks

Connecticut Water Trails Association

Table Of Contents

Connecticut Water Trails

Basic Concepts

Paddling Resources

Kayaking Basics

Different Styles Of Kayaks

Connecticut Water Trails Program

Kayaking Basics

Different Styles Of Kayaks - Folding Kayaks

Folding Kayaks originated from those built by Arctic Indians in northern areas of North America, Siberia and Greenland. They began as wood frames covered in seal skins which made them watertight and lightweight. Fashioned on the same principals as their Arctic ancestors, today they're engineered with a lighter frame enclosed in a durable puncture resistant PVC skin.

What is different about the designs for this type is the collapsible frame making it easy to carry and store. These are comparably as sturdy as hard shell kayak designs because of the high grade durable materials used.

These are very versatile, used for recreational paddling, touring, fishing, etc., and have ample storage.

The size varies between 8' to over 17'.
They actually assemble very quickly depending on the design and manufacturer.
They have a hard bottom that is inserted into the cockpit.
They are manufactured as single or tandem models.
They fold into a case that contains the framing, PVC cover and even the collapsible paddle.
Best of all, it fits inside the trunk of a car.

This is a nice choice for those who have space and weight concerns - they travel wherever you go, even on an airplane!

Folding kayaks are based on the original Inuit kayak designs. Essentially, all folding kayaks are a thin fabric over a lightweight frame. These frames can be made out of wood or aluminum, and some of them are even made out of a combination of the two. Some of these kayaks even have air pockets built into the hull which makes them even harder to sink than the original kayaks.

Folding kayaks are also very useful because they can be stored in less space than a regular recreational kayak. This is due to the fact that after use, you generally take the kayak apart. If you're looking for a type of kayak that is even more convenient in this way, you may also want to check out the inflatable kayaks. These kayaks just need to be deflated before they are stored.

In fact, both folding kayaks and inflatable kayaks have the major advantage of easy storage. These kayaks can be kept in far less space than is usually needed for a regular kayak. As a result, you probably will not need to spend money to rent storage lockers for your kayak - you can instead bring it home and store it easily in your garage. Another benefit of this is that inflatable and folding kayaks will generally last longer than other types of kayaks since they will usually be stored correctly.

Some people may be concerned about buying folding kayaks due to the fact that they fold up. However, you should not worry. These kayaks are just as sturdy as most other kayak designs since the frame has been designed specifically to be strong. Not only are these kayaks durable, but they have even been used on such daring kayak trips as crossing the Atlantic!

Folding kayaks have also been the choice for military groups that have needed small, lightweight boats. Of course, the folding kayaks that were used in the military had metal frames, but you can still count on the kayak you buy to be sturdy and stable in the water.

Essentially, if you are looking for lightweight, easy to store, and stable recreational kayaks, then folding kayaks are probably the right choice for you.