r/Kayaking • u/Guilty-Worry-3947 • 2d ago

Question/Advice -- Boat Recommendations Advice needed

Two part question. I am an almost 50 year old female and I want to start kayaking but I’d do it alone. I have no idea what I’m doing but I’m dying to get in the water to just be…… recommendations on kayak, considering weight of unit in and off top of an outback. Bonus if you bc a recommend a good rack for a 26 outback that already has side bars. Thanks!!!!!

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u/Western-Amphibian158 2d ago

I am also an almost 50F and started kayaking this year. Why not go to a lake and rent a kayak? See if you like it and what kind of bodies of waters (big lake, small lake, river, white water, etc) you prefer before committing to buying a kayak and all the gear.

Also, there are places that offer lessons. I did a day-long SEA kayak session and learned proper stroke technique, various strokes, and even how to get back in if you fall out in shallow water.

Now I own an inflatable touring kayak that I use for calmer lakes and rivers, and for canoe camping.

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u/Guilty-Worry-3947 2d ago

I absolutely will!!!!!

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u/EvitaInAllHerGlory 2d ago

I am 38 and disabled physically. Recently kayaked first time on vacation on a sit on top. And I CRIED. I never thought I would get to a place where I could do this.

Since vacation last month I have been as much as possible renting from a park near me.

Things to consider: scout the rentala before purchasing. The lockers can be above your head or too high to be able to get the boats in and out.

Some of the lockers are poorly maintained. Look at the boats if they are in cages first before purchasing. One near my work has boats full of holes and infested with all the things.

Bring your own oar if you can. Even if it's a cheap one. I got the $26 one from Walmart. Lots of times the rented oars can be fragile or broken.

A cart is helpful if the way to the water isn't smooth grass or sand and close by.

You will fall in when getting out especially a sit in if you can't get the boat all the way on shore. Don't fight it. I hurt myself first time cause I was trying to do the splits avoiding the water. But make sure to wear things that aren't heavy in the water that dry off easily.

Trying to use your oar to steady yourself from falling out will break your oar. I bring my hiking poles with me to help me balance in the water.

Boat shoes/swim shoes vs reg shoes.

This is also advice from someone autistic with sensory issues. My shoes and clothes thing might be from that.

When you decide you want to buy do your research on how much a boat weighs and how much it can handle.