We strongly believe that paddling can be done by everyone. We believe that paddling is for everyone, and we are happy to see people of all ages and races out on the water.
It's amazing to be able to ride a kayak or paddleboard along. To witness a sunset from the water. To spend quality time on the water with your loved ones. Whoever wants to experience this should not miss it.
Choose the Right Size Paddleboard/Kayak
Kayaks and paddleboards now come in an enormous range of lengths. They also come in different widths. This gives you many options for stability, comfort, and easy entry.
Be sure to read the specifications of any boat before you decide to buy one. Manufacturers always include a limit on the weight of every boat that they sell.
A good rule of thumb is to allow a buffer of 20%-30% for total weight capacity. This includes you and all gear, including your dog or child.
For example, someone weighing 300 pounds would want a boat that can bear a total load of not less than 360 lbs, with no gear, or 400 lbs, with 40 pounds of gear. If you lower that buffer percentage, stability will be affected.
Paddle boards and kayaks can be longer and wider than shorter boards.
Make sure the Kayak Is Comfortable
Many trusted paddle shops will allow you the opportunity to test your kayak before you purchase. If possible, ask them to set up several models on the floor for your inspection so that you can assess how much room you have to move around and also to be able to sit comfortably. Make sure you are comfortable and that the seat fits well.
A sit-on-top model is an option. Kayaks for fishing are particularly stable because they are both wide and long. If that's something you love, you can even get up on many of these kayaks. It's easy to just get on and go with a sit-on-top.
Recommended reading - The best kayak for big guys.
Packraft
The pack raft is another option, especially if it's something you enjoy the idea of being able to stuff into your bag, store it off-season, or take it along with you on a bicycle trip.
These inflatable wonders may weigh less than 10 pounds but can still carry several hundred pounds. Our recommendation is to only choose the top packraft manufacturers. They are designed for rugged use in backcountry conditions.
Alpacka Raft has a great example. Their Caribou model, weighing only 5 lbs, can carry 400 lbs. The Forager is 13 lbs and has a huge capacity of 1,000 pounds. There are many models available.
Find a PFD to Fit You
The best safety gear for paddling is a Coast Guard-approved life jacket or personal flotation device.
A lot of PFD models are equipped with D-rings and zipped pockets. This makes it easy to carry chapstick, maps, or other small items around.
What about Rentals?
There are plenty of outfitter and rental options available if your boat and gear don't belong to you.
You don't want to leave anything up for chance. They should know whether you will need more legroom or a larger cockpit. If you are interested in sit-ontop kayaks, ask about their options.
Ask about the length of their fleet, its width, and how stable it is. Ask if the company has plus-size paddles and if you are allowed to bring your own. If you're very tall, make certain they have a paddle long enough.
Here are some fitness tips for all Paddlers
Paddlesports like canoeing/pack rafting, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are all just that. They are as physically demanding as other outdoor sports like hiking and backpacking, biking, climbing, and biking.
It is vital that you are at least basically fit for outdoor activities. This holds true regardless of size or weight.
For better balance, you will need to have stronger legs and back muscles. This will help you get in and out of a kayak/packraft more easily.
You'll be able to paddle longer with less effort by strengthening your core and arms. It will make it easier for your to return to the water on your paddleboard if you need. Cardio fitness allows you to work hard with less effort.
It is easier to transport your kayak when you are fit. You can either bring your kayak to the water from your vehicle, or you can inflate your inflatable paddleboard with a manual pump.
You can make it much easier with overall fitness, which also means less chance of injury. It doesn't necessarily mean that you need to be training hard for the Olympics. It is recommended that paddlers keep at least a moderate level of fitness so they can enjoy the paddle adventures to the maximum extent.
Happy paddling
