The Kayak versus paddleboard debate wasn’t really a thing until the current rise of paddleboarding. The majority of paddlers debated the merits of canoes and kayaks, paying little attention to the newcomers known as paddleboards. But today, in the year 2020, I seldom see more paddleboarders than kayaks on the river or at the beach.
However, before you get on the stand-up paddling bandwagon, think about the paddleboard versus kayak debate and weigh all of your choices. Before searching on Google’ inflatable paddle board near me, here are some things to consider while choosing between a paddleboard and a kayak.
#1. What will you be paddling, and where will you be paddling?
If you’re thinking of buying a kayak or paddleboard for the first time or moving from one to the other, you probably already have a plan for where and how you’ll use it.
At the beach, having fun…
Both sit-on kayaks and paddleboards are great for families since youngsters (and adults!). Paddleboards are considerably more portable to and from the beach.
Expeditions on the river…
Both kayaks and inflatable paddle boards are excellent for extended days on slow-moving rivers. On longer excursions, paddleboards usually have a bit more capacity for carrying supplies.
Visiting the shore…
Kayaks and paddleboards are also great for exploring the coastline if the weather is calm and you stay close to the shore.
Excursions to the open sea…
Sea kayaks are ideal for this since they are long, quick to paddle, and feature a completely enclosed cockpit where you can keep your belongings.
#2. Weather & climate
Paddleboards, in general, are more influenced by the wind than kayaks. The wind may also make the water rough, which creates balance for paddleboarders much more difficult. If you plan to paddle mostly in windy and wild conditions, a paddleboard may not be the ideal option.
#3. Comfort
This is a highly personal matter. While some individuals like to spend their days resting in a kayak, others find sitting in the same posture for extended periods very unpleasant. Paddleboards are designed to be paddled while standing. SUPs appeal to people who lack flexibility or are uncomfortable sitting for extended periods.
#4. Setup
Paddleboards and hard shell kayaks need no setup time. On the other hand, inflatable kayaks and paddleboards require around 10 minutes to inflate and attach fins, paddles, and other accessories. Paddleboards are usually faster than surfboards.
#5. Storage
Hardshell kayaks and paddleboards need a lot of storage space, which may be found inside a garage or shed or in a safe location in your garden. Inflatable kayaks and paddleboards take up much less storage space.
#6. Transportation
Hard-shell kayaks and paddleboards need roof racks and a vehicle to transport. On the other hand, Inflatables may simply be transported in a backpack and tossed into the trunk of your car.
#7. Versatility
If you’re not sure how, when, or where you’ll use your paddleboard or Kayak, though, choosing something flexible is a good idea. Kayaks provide a bit more flexibility in terms of the kinds of water and circumstances in which they may be paddled.
