# Which canoe or kayak to choose?

For starters, kayaking is thinner than canoeing, making it easier to transport if you live far from a waterhole. They are easy to transport and there are many different models for every discipline of kayaking.

As for transport, there is this new technology of INFLATABLE KAYAKS that can be transported in a shoulder strap or in a backpack and inflated with a pump (electric or manual) that the rigid canoe does not offer.

However, for storage, the canoe is more popular because it has more volume inside compared to the kayak. Whether inflatable or referred to as a sit-on-top, storage space is limited, and so is the number of people. On-top kayaks accommodate a maximum of 3 people and one child.

In general, therefore, the big difference between a kayak and a canoe is capacity and shape. Prefer a kayak for occasional to regular excursions if you don't live near a water point, a canoe if you can. Move easily with lots of material.

# How many different kayaks are there?

In the Calm Waters family you will find sit-on-top, recreational, touring, inflatable and paddle boat kayaks.

1 What is a sit-on-top kayak?

The sit-on-top kayak is a so-called closed cockpit kayak because you don't climb in but on top, this type of kayak is convenient for beginners because it's easy to put on and take off multiple storage compartments (for bags) waterproof or waterproof tanks), they are wider than, for example, touring models and mostly smaller, giving them more stability and a more practical start.

This type of father kayak of about 18 kilos for the little ones, which can be easily transported alone or accompanied, is completely rigid. So plan on living not far from a water point or have enough to transport it on the roof or a trailer.

Sit on tops are kayaks for short trips of around 2 hours but you can of course last longer depending on your stamina but prefer narrower and longer kayaks to improve speed and stay on course. (The tours have a so-called rudder so that a straight course can be maintained).

The only downside is that the sit-on-top, which happens to be above the water level for the user, may not be ideal if you want to stay dry as you're often not all the way down from the boat wet from splashing, invigorating in the Summer, pretty uncomfortable in winter.

You will find river kayaks that have more bits and pieces on the kayak and allow you to be more comfortable with a fishing rod. Ask Valwix for more details if you want to get one.

2 Is the inflatable kayak reliable?

An inflatable kayak is a kayak that inflates and deflates at will, so people who don't live near a water point or who can't move a rigid vehicle can use a similar Casi product as some models to move it usually in a backpack, and to take with you on a hike.

The inflatable kayak is considered a "toy" by purists, but make no mistake, the inflatable kayak can be very resistant and efficient depending on the model and brand.

The inflatable kayak usually comes with a hand pump, paddle, bag and seats. It's a powerful tool and easy to use. It requires a little more preparation before launching and inflating (choose an electric inflator for less effort). Prepare the seats and oars.

Inflatable kayak: the right choice

Not all inflatable kayaks are created equal. It is therefore necessary to check a certain number of criteria before deciding:

Weight: The lightest inflatable kayaks weigh 7kg and some that can carry multiple people can weigh 25kg. This is to be considered for transportation and navigation, usually the longer the better the construction and the better the durability;

Capacity: one, two or four seater inflatable kayaks can carry up to 3 adults and 1 child;

Storage: Inflatable kayaks are usually sold with their carrying case. Some brands have even developed an included carry sack.

the material: it is advisable to give preference to inflatable kayaks made with the high pressure drop stitch. This material, already proven in other areas, enables the production of strong, rigid and lightweight kayaks with performance similar to rigid sit-on-top kayaks. ;

Hull: There are inflatable kayaks with a reinforced PVC hull coating, the molded deep V shape of which gives them very good guidance and better water penetration.

Therefore, prefer the high-pressure models for unparalleled grip and glide. Entry-level models cannot offer you the same glide quality and durability.