Exploring with touring kayaks brings adventure lovers a unique joy. They offer top-notch performance and comfort. This makes them perfect for long trips on sea or inland waters. It’s easy to find the right one because many models cater to different needs.
Day touring kayaks can cost from $500 to $2,000 USD. Their price varies due to the model, material, and outfitting. Despite being shorter, under 15 feet, than some kayaks, they excel in performance. They are usually sleek with a V-shaped hull, ensuring good control even though they are less stable at first.
Stores like REI and MEC are great for buying touring kayaks. Their knowledgeable staff can help decide on the best kayak for you. Among the top choices are the Fathom by Eddyline with a 4.5-star rating and the Delta 16 with a 4.7-star rating from 13 customers.
Key Takeaways
- Touring kayaks optimize paddling performance and comfort for adventure seekers.
- They are generally shorter than 15 feet and cost between $500 and $2,000 USD.
- REI and MEC are popular stores to buy touring kayaks with expert staff for advice.
- Top-rated models include Eddyline’s Fathom and Delta’s 16 touring kayak.
- Design features may include V-shaped hulls and secure bulkheads for better control.
Introduction to Touring Kayaks
Touring kayaks are perfect for adventures on rivers, lakes, and the sea. They are fast, stable, and have lots of room for gear. Whether you’re exploring the sea or enjoying water sports, these kayaks meet your needs.
Choosing a touring kayak involves looking at its material, weight it can carry, and length. You can find kayaks between $1,500 and $2,900. For those starting out or more experienced, shorter kayaks around 14′-16′ are a good choice. They include brands like Dagger, P&H, and Valley and are perfect for a great paddling time.
Touring kayaks vary based on how they are built and their main use. Sit-on-top kayaks are good for casual outings on lakes and easy rivers because they’re stable and simple to use. Sit-in kayaks are great for activities like day tours, thanks to their speed and space for gear.
Types of Touring Kayaks:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Recreational Kayaks | Stable and easy to maneuver, ideal for flatwater activities. |
| Day Touring Kayaks | More efficient and pricier, offering better control in rough waters. |
| Touring Kayaks | Long and efficient over distances, with ample cargo space and higher price points. |
| Specialty Kayaks | Includes folding, inflatable, tandem, and pedal-powered models for specific needs. |
For a kayak that fits you perfectly, go for a fiberglass one with a skeg. Look for comfort in the cockpit. But remember, kayak demos are off from November to February. Knowing these details helps you make the most of your kayaking adventures and water sports.
Top-Rated Touring Kayaks for All Skill Levels
Choosing the perfect kayak can be hard, but there are many top-rated touring kayaks out there. They meet the needs of all paddlers, from newbies to the very experienced. You’ll find diverse kayak options in the market.
We checked 35 reviews on 29 unique touring kayaks. This gave us great insights into what paddlers love. Here’s what we found:
- Current Designs Double Vision Tandem: 2 reviews
- Perception Expression 15.0: 2 reviews
- Seaward Kayaks Chilco: 1 review
- Eddyline Denali: 1 review
- Perception Expression 11.5: 1 review
- Necky Eliza 15 with Rudder: 1 review
- Necky Manitou 14: 1 review
- Jackson Kayaks Journey 14 With Rudder: 1 review
The Perception Expression series really caught our eye. It’s reliable and good for both fun trips and serious paddling. With so many designs, you can find what you need, be it stability, speed, or room.
Explore more top-rated touring kayaks here.
Key features like strong builds, comfy seats, and plenty of space are a big draw. So, you might go for a flexible model like the Necky Manitou 14 or the high-tech Jackson Kayaks Journey 14 With Rudder. Either way, your time on the water will be better.
Picking the right kayak means thinking about what you need. From all-around recreational kayaks to more focused choices, the best touring kayaks have something for everyone. They cover all the different needs people have for paddling.
High-Performance Touring Kayaks for Advanced Paddlers
Advanced paddlers find top-notch performance in high-performance touring kayaks. These kayaks mix stability, speed, and fine control well. They are made to handle tough waters with ease, perfect for those experienced in kayaking.
Sea Ghost 130
The Sea Ghost 130 by Vibe Kayaks shines in the touring kayak category. It’s known for its unmatched stability and plenty of room for storage. For long trips, it’s a dependable choice. Its design works great in different types of water, a key feature for adventurers.
- Stability: The kayak maintains excellent balance, even in choppy waters.
- Storage: Spacious compartments allow for essential gear storage.
- Performance: Optimized for long-distance paddling.
Slalom Kayaks
Slalom kayaks meet the unique needs of competitive paddlers. They focus on agility and precise handling. These kayaks are great for executing advanced paddling moves in competitions.
| Kayak Model | Brand Name | Customer Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Fathom | Eddyline Kayaks | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 25 reviews |
| Delta 16 | Delta Kayaks | 4.7 out of 5 stars | 13 reviews |
| Equinox | Eddyline Kayaks | 4.8 out of 5 stars | 35 reviews |
| Edge 14.5 | Riot Kayaks | 4.6 out of 5 stars | 38 reviews |
| Tsunami 145 | Wilderness Systems | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 103 reviews |
| Castine 140 | Old Town Canoe and Kayak | 4.4 out of 5 stars | – |
| Stellar 18′ Touring Kayak (S18) | Stellar Kayaks and Surfskis | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 29 reviews |
In the table, we see different touring kayak models for advanced users. Each offers its own special features. When picking a kayak, it’s important to look at your kayaking style, where you’ll be using it, and what you value in a kayak.
Lightweight Touring Kayaks for Easy Transportation
Lightweight touring kayaks make traveling with your boat easy. They are perfect for those who love exploring new paddling spots. With these kayaks, you can easily get to places others might find hard to reach.
The Stellar 12′ (S12) Recreational Kayak is a great example. It’s 12′ (3.67m) long and holds up to 300 lbs (135kg). This kayak is light but very strong. It weighs just 29.8 lbs (13.5 kg) and comes in many colors, like Red, Orange, and Blue.
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is also a good choice. It’s 12′ 2″ and can carry 325 lbs. It costs $1,219. It’s easy to transport, scoring 6.0, so it’s not too hard to carry around. The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 is a bit smaller at 10′ 6″. It costs $1,119 and can hold 325 lbs. Its transport score is 5.0, which is not as easy but still okay.
The Old Town Vapor 10 is 10′ 0″ with a 325 lbs capacity, and its transport score is 7.0. This makes it very easy to move. A super light option is the Eddyline Skylark, costing $1,749. It’s 12′ 0″ long, with a 295 lbs capacity. It’s very easy to carry, with a score of 8.5.
| Model | Length | Capacity (lbs) | Price | Overall Score | Ease of Transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stellar 12′ (S12) Recreational Kayak | 12′ (3.67m) | 300 | Alpha: $5,095, Excel: $3,595, Advantage: $2,995 | N/A | N/A |
| Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 | 12′ 2″ | 325 | $1,219 | 76 | 6.0 |
| Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | 10′ 6″ | 325 | $1,119 | 74 | 5.0 |
| Old Town Vapor 10 | 10′ 0″ | 325 | N/A | 67 | 7.0 |
| Eddyline Skylark | 12′ 0″ | 295 | $1,749 | 81 | 8.5 |
Choosing a light kayak makes your trips more fun and easy. It ensures you can visit new places without a hassle. Lightweight kayaks let you enjoy many different waterways without limit.
Touring Kayaks for Long Trips
The right touring kayak is key for long paddling trips. Models with good kayak storage capacity and comfortable seating are a must. They keep your gear organized and easy to reach.
Storage Capacity
For long trips, ample storage is essential. The Delta 16 by Delta Kayaks and the Tsunami 145 by Wilderness Systems excel here. They can hold camping gear, supplies, and personal items.
Comfort
Choosing comfy seating is crucial for touring kayaks. The Equinox by Eddyline Kayaks has a 4.8-star rating for its comfy seats. The Edge 14.5 by Riot Kayaks is known for its supportive, adjustable seats.
For weekend trips, the Castine 140 by Old Town Canoe and Kayak is a great pick. It offers a cozy seat and adjustable footrests.
| KAYAK MODEL | RATING | REVIEWS | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta 16 by Delta Kayaks | 4.7 | 13 | Ample Storage Capacity |
| Tsunami 145 by Wilderness Systems | 4.5 | 103 | High Storage Capacity |
| Equinox by Eddyline Kayaks | 4.8 | 35 | Comfortable Seating |
| Edge 14.5 by Riot Kayaks | 4.6 | 38 | Adjustable Seating |
| Castine 140 by Old Town Canoe and Kayak | N/A | N/A | Weekend Tourer |
Paddlers can have a blast on long trips with these top-rated kayaks. They offer both the space and comfort needed for a great adventure.
Affordable Touring Kayaks Best for Budget-Conscious Adventurers
If you love adventure but are watching your wallet, affordable touring kayaks are perfect for you. They offer great quality and performance. They are perfect for both new and seasoned kayakers. You can have fun without spending a lot.
Reasonably Priced Options
Looking for an affordable kayak doesn’t mean you have to give up on quality. The Intex Challenger K1 costs about $135 and it’s worth every penny. It has a cargo net for your gear. This is great on both short and long trips. The Oru Kayak Inlet, at $899, is pricier but still a good deal. It’s light and easy to carry, great for all kinds of waters.
Value for Money
It’s smart to look for great value when choosing a kayak. Affordable kayaks often have features that you’d find in expensive ones. For example, the Old Town Malibu 9.5 kayak has smart storage and is quite affordable. Then there’s the Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R at $1,799. It’s a top pedal kayak with lots of space. This shows you can get a good, budget-friendly kayak that meets all your needs.
| Kayak Model | Price | Weight | Length | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intex Challenger K1 | $135 | 27 lbs | 9′ | Front cargo net |
| Oru Kayak Inlet | $899 | 20 lbs | 10′ | None |
| Old Town Malibu 9.5 | $499 | 50 lbs | 9.5′ | Center accessory hatch, front & rear storage wells |
| Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R | $1,799 | 75 lbs | 10.5′ | Rear cargo area |
Touring Kayaks for Beginners
When picking touring kayaks for beginners, focus on stability and easy control. These kayaks are made to help new paddlers learn the paddling basics with fun.
The Equinox by Eddyline Kayaks stands out, getting 4.8 stars from 35 reviews for its user-friendly design. The Delta 16 by Delta Kayaks is also popular, with a 4.7 rating from 13 reviews, showing it’s great for new kayakers.
The Tsunami 145 by Wilderness Systems is a top pick, with a 4.5-star rating from 103 reviews. It strikes a good balance with features that help with paddling basics. Riot Kayaks’ Edge 14.5 is another strong performer, with a 4.6 rating from 38 reviews, offering stability for beginners.
To find the right kayak, doing research and trying them out are key. Check reviews and use resources like [Paddling.com](https://paddling.com/learn/best-touring-kayaks) for deep insights. Starting with these kayaks will make learning to paddle fun and fulfilling.
Which Touring Kayak is Right for You?
Choosing the right touring kayak means understanding many things. You should think about your skills and where you’ll be kayaking. Each kayaker has their own goals. Picking a kayak that suits these goals will make your experience better.
Consider Your Skill Level
To select a touring kayak, start with your skill level assessment. If you’re new, you’ll do well with a stable, easy-to-handle kayak, like a recreational one. They’re perfect for slow-moving waters. For more experienced kayakers, look for kayaks that offer more control and speed.
| Kayak Type | Skill Level | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Kayaks | Beginner | Stable, affordable, easy to maneuver |
| Day Touring Kayaks | Intermediate | Sleeker, more efficient, moderate cargo space |
| Touring Kayaks | Advanced | Highly efficient, ample cargo space, higher prices |
Paddling Environment
Knowing your kayaking environment is also key. Some kayaks work better in certain places. If you’re looking to paddle on rough waters, choose a day touring kayak. They track better. For quiet trips on lakes, pick a recreational kayak.
Below is a list to help choose the best kayak for your environment:
| Kayak Type | Environment | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Inflatable Kayaks | Calm, shallow waters | Most models save storage space, suitable for shore paddling |
| Folding Kayaks | Diverse environments | Compact storage, easy handling, suitable for apartment dwellers |
| Tandem Kayaks | Family outings | Stable, economical, limited flexibility |
Choosing the right kayak makes a big difference. It meets both your skill level assessment and the paddling environment you’ll be in. Think about your paddling goals to find a kayak that fits your needs and the water you’ll be on.
Conclusion
Finding the best touring kayak is critical for a great adventure on the water. Whether you care about how fast it goes, how comfortable it is, or if you need it to be easy to carry, the perfect kayak is waiting for you. It will make your time on the water memorable.
Touring kayaks offer different designs and features to fit your paddling style and where you’ll be kayaking. They are generally 16-17 feet long, making them fast but also easy to control. For example, kayaks like the Current Designs Karla LV & Sisu LV and Norse Embla and Ask provide different speeds, stability, and storage.
It’s important to match your kayaking skills and goals with the right kayak. Whether you’re new and need something stable, or you’re an experienced paddler chasing top performance, there’s a kayak for you. Thinking about what you want from the kayak and how its design affects performance will help you choose the best touring kayak.
Understanding your personal preferences and needs is key in selecting the right kayak. Whether you want it to be fast with less effort, have more space for your gear, or easy to transport, you can spot the best kayak for your needs. Focus on what you value most, and you’ll find a kayak that enhances your water adventures.
FAQ
What are the benefits of using touring kayaks for adventure kayaking?
What features make a touring kayak suitable for long trips?
Are lightweight touring kayaks less stable than heavier models?
What should beginners look for in a touring kayak?
What are the top-rated touring kayaks for advanced paddlers?
Can budget-conscious adventurers find affordable touring kayaks?
How should I choose the right touring kayak for my needs?
What distinguishes a high-performance touring kayak?
Why is comfort important in a touring kayak?
What makes touring kayaks different from recreational kayaks?
