by weekendkayaks |
Last Updated: May 9, 2020 Well, if you really love spending quality time on the water then you need to invest in a quality kayak. There are so many kayaks out there and selecting the best one is always the problem. Well, no problem with that as shortly you will know the best touring kayaks to choose from.
What is a kayak?
This is a boat that is created to paddle is open waters, for example, lakes, rivers, and oceans. They have gained popularity over the last couple decades as a leisure activity and sport.
Kayaking is a great way to get out on the water quickly and for a relatively low cost compared to other watercrafts. Most kayakers also like how close you are to the water. On hot summer days there is nothing better!
There are several types of kayaks including sit in and sit on. There are also fishing, ocean, recreational, and touring kayaks.
Kayaking can also be a great form of exercise that is more fun than running on that boring treadmill.
Uses of a touring kayak
Mainly, a touring kayak is used as a boat especially in sports and recreational activities. It is made for kayaking long distances that are straight. They aren’t made for turning fast. This is why most touring kayaks are longer than most others.
If you are wanting to kayak on fairly calm waters and plan to go long distances this is the type of kayak for you. They will allow you to travel at high speeds with minimal effort.
Key features of a good kayak
- The material it is made of.
- The general weight. It should be light for easier movements in the water
- It should be affordable.
- It should be spacious for everyone
- It should be adjustable.
You will need a reliable kayak regardless of whether you are a pro or an amateur. As you know, Kayaks can be really fun especially if you have mastered the art of paddling ion water. It doesn’t matter if you are doing it in a lake, ocean or sea, it is always fun. With that said, here are the top best touring kayaks:
1. Riot Kayak Edge
Having a slim neck profile, this is a kayak that you cannot fail to ride. It is so beautiful that you can control and has smooth handling when taken to any environment.
This type of kayak is so comfortable and you will feel safe when riding it. You will worry less because it’s designed to keep you safe. Additionally, it is so light so that it can balance on water and transport enough weight.
Furthermore, it has drain plugs, an adjustable padded seat, and a spacey leg room. This gives you more fun.
Other features offered by this type of kayak include reflective lifelines, sliding foot braces, front compartments having a double density hatch cover, integrated thigh braces, pilot rudder system, a shock code storage containing safety straps, paddle hooks, and a security bar.
When it comes to measurements, this kayak measures 14.5 feet by 22.5 inches and finally 12 inches. It also weighs 60 pounds. On the other hand, the cockpit weighs 36.5 by 19.5 inches and the hatch is about 15.75 by 8.13 inches. This is a top representation of good workmanship and it is affordable,
Pros
- It has a slim deck line and a slender bow
- has a weight of 60 pounds.
- Has a pilot rudder system
- Made up of a high-quality polythene
- Well fitted custom seat.
Cons
- The seat is not so comfortable
- Not good for people who have bigger feet
2. Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak
Well, if you are searching for a light touring kayak which you can haul on your own then this foldable kayak is the best for you. It is good, light and has the ability to float on water well. It is also cheaper when you compare it to most kayaks.
It is also so responsible has a good turning ability. You can steer it through the heaviest of currents with ease. It has a comfortable seat and its foot straps are very easy to adjust.
Additionally, it is easy to assemble and disassemble because of its fewer parts. Its manufacturers made it based on the previous Oru folding kayak. Only that this is a better version it and it’s very easy to use.
Its length, as well as contouring, makes it be fast and sporty. Additionally, it spacious for a stash gear. It is also so easy to transform into a boat. This is a great kayak for fishing, sailboats and back country trips.
Pros
- It is fast and sporty
- Easy to assemble and disassemble.
- Lightweight and available in orange and white
- A double wall made polypropylene
- The rolling size of 33 by 12 by 29 inches
Cons
- Not very spacious for legs
- Its foot brace is so funky
3. Old Town Castine 140
With this type kayak, be ready to experience a good balance and it is best suited for medium sized paddlers. It has an active and comfortable seat that is made up of a low profile backrest which in turn increases the comfortability of the paddler.
Some of the outstanding features in this kayak include a removable track storage, an adjustable thigh and foot braces, a bow and stern, carrying handles among others. If you are in need of a rudder, then this kayak can be fitted with one for you thus ensuring that there is enough control in challenging conditions.
This kayak is 14 feet and has a total weight of 375 pounds and and a lifetime warranty. The paddle is sold differently.
Old town as a company is the largest and oldest manufacturer of kayaks and canoes. This company has been there for over a century inventing boat after boat as they shoe a true quality of workmanship in their products.
Pros
- Has a lifetime warranty
- The rudder can be fitted if you want
- It is spacious
- It has comfortable seats and backrests
Cons
- not that fast in water
4. Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145
If you are looking for something that is well designed for you regardless of whether you are a pro or an amateur, then the Wilderness Systems kayak is the best one for you.
This pretty kayak a width of 25.5 inches, a length of 14 feet and 6 inches, and a deck height of 15 inches. Its maximum load is about 350lb and the cockpit measures 35.75 x 20 inches. The kayak is so light and very easy to carry. Additionally it is portable and has extra gears.
Pros
- It is lightweight and easy to carry
- Has the fishing rods
- It is portable and carries extra gears
Cons
- The cockpit is lower for larger individuals
5. Riot Kayak Brittany
Last but not least, we have the Riot Kayak Brittany. It features a retractable skeg as well as a pilot rudder system. Because of its small size, it is so fast on the water.
Also, it is stable and very responsible. The seat comfort is comfortable and the back band is good and you will not feel any pain. You will need lesser effort to keep up the speed.
Those low decks are so efficient, especially in windy conditions. Its rudder is the best one for beginners. The Brittany measures 16.5 ft by 21.5 inches by 12.5 inches/ Its weight is about 50 pounds. On the other hand, the cockpit is 31.5 inches by 18.75 inches and has plenty of room.
Pros
- It is an award-winning kayak
- Has a retractable skeg
- It has a higher performance
- Weighs 512 pounds
Cons
- It is a bit heavy on one side
Wrapping it up
There you have it, the best touring kayaks of 2019. These type of kayaks can be a bit of an investment so it is vital you pick the right one for your needs. We really like these kayaks the best because they are well built and proven to hold up over time.
Which touring kayak is your favorite? Leave a comment below!