Kayaking Basics

Different Styles Of Kayaks - Surf Kayaks

While kayaking has long been used for touring and racing, there are new events starting up all the time. One of the newest type of kayaking events is surf kayaking. Surf kayaks are used for this event, and they are generally designed to be small, easily maneuverable kayaks. These kayaks are then brought out to the beach and used on the surf - that's right, the goal is to actually surf except with a kayak instead of a surfboard.

As a result, surf kayaks are designed to have a planing hull. The result of this is that when the kayak hits a wave, it is pushed high above the surface of the water. Therefore, the kayak can be used to surf back down to shore. Most of these surf kayaks are similar to other small specialty kayaks in that they are designed just to be easily maneuverable, but they are not necessarily easy to use.

Surf kayaks should only be purchased by people who already have a lot of experience kayaking. This is due to the fact that there are a lot of injuries that can be sustained if you are out in a surf kayak and do not know what you are doing. You should also make sure that you have a lot of experience with your particular surf kayak before you go out to use it surfing, as well. This is due to the fact that every different model of surf kayak will have different features and will handle differently. You should make sure that you are able to use the kayak that you want before you get out on the water.

Surf kayaks are also known by other names. For instance, if you're looking for surf kayaks you may also want to look for rodeo kayaks, rodeo boats, or rodeo decked boats. Most of these boats are under 9 feet long, although some of them can go as large as three and a half meters. It's recommended that you get used to using the smaller sizes of surf kayaks for kayak surfing, however.

If you enjoy whitewater play boating, then you should definitely look at some surf kayaks. This is a new kayaking activity for people who enjoy extreme kayaking sports.

Types Of Surf Kayaks

There are several types of surf kayaks to choose from, depending on what you want to achieve on the water. The main types are: 

Freestyle Kayaks

Also called Playboats or Rodeo Kayaks. These kayaks are designed to perform tricks like loops, cartwheels, spins and aerial maneuvers. These tricks are performed on river features like waves and holes.

Creek Kayaks

Are designed for high volume rivers and technical river running. They are able to turn fast in technical rivers. The big cockpits provide for easy entry and exit. They also have storage for gear for extended kayak trips.

River Running Kayaks

These are considered the SUV’s of kayaks. These kayaks work well as both downriver and playboats.