RE: [Paddlewise] Intro & recreational kayaks

I think there are a few to keep in mind here. When choosing a kayak, 
think about what you ultimately want to do with the kayak and how 
long that is going to take. If what you want to do is paddle around 
the family lake, or stream, fish and enjoy the water, then I think a 
rec kayak is a fine choice. If you think you will be undertaking some 
vigorous paddling, maybe some camping and multiday trips, than a more 
"standard" boat would make more sense. If you are thinking of 
paddling with other kayakers and they are paddling sea kayaks, then 
you definitely want a faster boat. Try and be honest with yourself. 
Remember that in the end, this is recreational for all of us (all of 
the sustenance hunters on the list aside).

Part of the problem is that as a beginner, there is really no way to 
compare boats. Even when you do get a chance to test paddle the boats 
there just isn't that kayaking "boat-sense". Of course, an easy 
solution is to buy what everyone else is paddling. Seems around these 
parts, everyone and their cousin is now paddling a Romany and a lot 
of them are beginners. When in doubt ask ask ask. Ask people on the 
list. Ask at the shop (and also ask what their experience is 
kayaking), ask random paddlers. Find out why people paddle what they 
do, what they like and what they don't like about their boats. When I 
got my first boat, I had limited paddling experience (a three day 
course), and based most of my decision on aesthetics. It turned out 
to be a good decision. Lucky me.

I think one of the best things a newcomer to the sport could do is to 
buy a used boat from one of the many outfitters around. I have 
purchased a couple of used boats and have always been happy with the 
decision. A used boat is going to be much cheaper, and you won't feel 
as bad if the boat doesn't work out and you feel you need to get 
something else after the season is up. Here is the states, a nice 
used fiberglass boat can be had for about $1,000. The plastic boats 
seem to go in the $500 - $1,000 range. Outfitters generally don't 
have the fanciest boats, but they do generally get good sturdy boats. 
Here is my secret tip. Most outfitters also sell their guide and 
instructor boats, this is where you'll find some nice bargains and 
some fancy boats as well.

Getting that boat sense takes a little while. After a season of two, 
you'll be able to go to a boat demo and have a better sense of what 
works for you.

-Patrick

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