Kayaks For Her: What To Know When Buying A Women’s Kayak

September 10, 2025

Female paddlers shopping for their first, or next, kayak can be forgiven for wondering where all the women’s models are. Nearly every outdoor pursuit—think biking, backpacking, skiing and even snowshoeing—now has gear made exclusively for women. Is the kayaking industry trailing behind, or are we simply onto a different approach?

The answer lies in understanding the subtle distinction between “best kayaks for women” and “best women’s kayaks.” Search for the latter and you’re likely to come up empty-handed. But ask for the former, and a knowledgeable dealer can guide you toward a range of superb options focusing more on finding a perfect fit than a pretty color palette.

Rather than focusing on gender-specific marketing, or designing one or two boats just for women, the kayaking industry has adopted the approach of different-sized kayaks for different-sized people. Most manufacturers now offer multiple size options across a wide variety of models, from expedition and fitness kayaks to those built for recreational use, fishing and light touring.

Go shopping for a kayak today and you’ll discover thoughtful designs fitting both sexes and all sizes. There’s truly a kayak for everyone—here’s how to find yours.

Shopping for a Used Women’s Kayak?

With patience, attentiveness and a little bit of research, you can find a used women’s kayak that will outperform many new kayaks for a fraction of the price. Used kayaks designed for women are sold both privately and through dealers or outfitters.

Used women’s kayaks will mostly be found in online classifieds like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji. If there are particular makes, models or sizes you know you would prefer, setting an email alert is a handy way to be notified as soon as they become available.

One now-discontinued model of particular note is the Necky Eliza. Fifteen or so years ago, the Necky Eliza pioneered women’s specific design. Since Necky ceased production in 2017, the only Elizas you’re likely to find now will be on the used market.

Another avenue for scoring a great deal on a used women’s kayak is through an outfitter. Outfitters often have end-of-season sales of their rental fleets, and some may even take offers on any boats they have. Renting the boat for a day or an overnight trip is a great way to test-paddle the kayak before buying it. The guides and staff at the shop will be familiar with the boat’s best uses and can help you decide if it will suit your personal needs. If your used kayak needs any new parts, they may also be able to order them.

For more tips on what to look for when selecting a used kayak, read our article How To Buy A Used Kayak.

Buying Advice

The first question that needs to be answered when shopping for a women’s kayak is: what is a women’s kayak?

What is a women’s kayak?

The short answer is, it depends who you ask. In the past, sizing a kayak for an average-sized woman or smaller man meant keeping the same hull and simply lowering the deck and fitting a smaller cockpit.

That isn’t to say there’s never been a kayak aimed squarely at women. As mentioned above, 15 or so years ago, the Necky Eliza pioneered women’s specific design with scaled down proportions to suit smaller, lighter paddlers with narrower shoulders and a lower center of gravity. The designers even consulted a female physician paddler to dial in cockpit ergonomics. With their lighter weight and playful handling, both plastic and composite versions of the boat were hugely successful. So what happened?

Perhaps the Eliza was simply ahead of her time. Necky’s notion of “fitting the boat to the paddler” flew in the face of popular wisdom that longer equals faster, period. The Eliza demonstrated the fastest boat for you is one that a) fits properly and b) has the least possible drag at the speed you normally paddle.

Fast-forward to today’s market. Rather than focus on gender-specific marketing and design, the kayaking industry has adopted the approach of different-sized kayaks for different-sized people. The tremendous range of kayak sizes means there’s no need to brand some models as women’s specific, argues Graham Ketcheson, marketing director for Kayak Distribution, which produces Boréal Design kayaks.

“Smaller people regardless of gender tend to choose a kayak that is smaller, fits them better, and is made of lighter weight material so they can carry and lift it on and off their vehicles,” Ketcheson says. “Larger people choose more voluminous kayaks… I think it can be that simple.”

Dale Williams, a longtime U.S. distributor for Sea Kayaking UK (Nigel Dennis Kayaks) and internationally recognized sea kayaking coach, puts it another way.

“There is such a thing as a kayak designed to optimize certain physical characteristics that are more common among women,” Williams says. “That doesn’t mean these designs would not also work for many men, or that kayaks designed without these objectives in mind might not still work for many women.”

Johnson Outdoors, which ceased production of Necky Kayaks in 2017, still produces a pair of women’s recreational kayaks under its Ocean Kayak brand. The Venus 10 and Venus 11 are sit-on-top kayaks with female-friendly features like a higher seat position, narrower width, lighter weight, and added carry handles for easier lifting and cartopping.

Getting started

woman paddling a sea kayak in golden light — Women becoming more involved in the design process means more boats will be made that better suit women. | Photo: Virginia Marshall

Everyone’s adventures look different. Understanding the type of paddling you want to do is the first step to finding the best women’s kayak for your needs.

The touring kayak market includes everything from 17-foot expedition sea kayaks for those looking to take long wilderness trips, to a wide range of shorter 13- to 15-foot boats for weekend trips on all types of waterways. Known as light touring or day touring kayaks, these smaller boats offer paddlers a lighter, more compact option that is easier to store and transport, and maybe take out on an overnight trip. Recreational women’s kayaks in the 10- to 12-foot range are ideal for casual users and grab-and-go day trips on calmer waters.

Enthusiasts can also find more specialized women’s kayaks for fitness paddling, ocean play, whitewater, fishing, rolling and more.

How well a kayak fits is the single most important factor in how much you will enjoy paddling it. This is especially true for smaller paddlers who fall outside the traditional kayak sizing paradigm.

Most manufacturers now offer a rough size guide with suggested weight ranges for each model. If you’re starting your search online, Mike Patterson, U.S. director of operations for Pyranha and P&H Kayaks, suggests, “Narrow down the hull type you prefer, then look at weight ranges, widths and outfitting adjustability, in that order.”

In the store, put your feet on the foot pegs and your legs under the thigh braces. You should feel comfortable, yet engaged. If the kayak is too tight, you risk being cramped or unstable. If it’s too loose, you will have a hard time engaging your lower body and controlling the boat. Rock back and forth using your hips and determine which size kayak feels the most comfortable. If you’re on the smaller side, look for sizes marked with “LV” for low volume.

The best kayak for women is the one that fits. If none of the sizes feel right, try a different model. A kayak that fits you well will give you more stability and control than a boat that is too tight or too loose.

Ultimately, experts agree, the only way to know for sure whether a kayak is right for you, is to get in it and go for a paddle. Buy from dealers that offer this opportunity (or a great return policy), and try as many styles as you can before committing to a purchase.

Types

There are as many types of kayaks suited to women as there are styles of kayaking. Before you zero in on important factors like size, fit, features and color preference, you’ll need to identify why and where you’ll kayak most often.

These are the most popular types of kayaks for women, and the environments to which they’re best suited:

Recreational Kayaks

Recreational kayaks for women are all about ease of use and value. Whether they are sit-inside or sit-on-top designs, recreational kayaks put a premium on stability. They aren’t as fast as touring kayaks, but they feel more secure on the calm, sheltered waters for which they are designed.

Kayak Hulls—And Why They Matter

Recreational kayaks often offer very basic features and come at an affordable price. In some cases they are just a simple kayak hull with a seat and little else. Better designs incorporate some touring kayak features, like hatches and bulkheads for dry storage and deck bungees for stashing a water bottle. If you plan on paddling farther from shore, choose a sit-on-top recreational kayak that can be easily reentered if you fall out. Most sit-inside recreational kayaks should only be used close to a shoreline with easy landings and minimal exposure to wind and waves, since they lack adequate flotation when swamped and can be difficult to reenter from deep water.

Recreational kayaks come in a wide range of lengths and designs. Few are shorter than nine feet and most are no longer than 13 feet. All are wider than touring designs of similar length.

Women considering a recreational kayak should take a look at designs around 10 to 12 feet long and less than 25 inches wide for a sit-inside, or less than 30 inches wide for a sit-on-top. Boats shorter than this may be lighter and less expensive, but noticeably slower. Those that are wider will be heavier and smaller paddlers will find they feel sluggish and slow to respond.

Carry A Whistle (And A Light For Night Use)

Every paddler should have a whistle attached to his/her life jacket.
Carry a light at night. Consider carrying a distress signal device.

Ocean Kayak produces a pair of recreational kayaks for small women and mid-sized paddlers. The Venus 10 and Venus 11 are women’s sit-on-top kayaks with female-friendly features like a higher seat position, narrower width, lighter weight and added carry handles for easier lifting and cartopping.

Touring Kayaks

Touring kayaks for women are sleek and fast sit-inside kayaks designed for long-distance travel and camping. Common styles of touring kayaks include day touring (or light touring) kayaks and sea kayaks, which range in length from around 13 to 15 feet and 16 to 17 feet, respectively.

Most touring kayaks are fitted with bulkheads and hatches front and rear for dry storage and flotation, making them suitable for trips on more exposed and challenging waters. Many have rudders or retractable skegs to help control direction in wind. Safety features like a continuous deckline running around the perimeter of the kayak are common.

While the average width of a touring kayak is around 22 to 24 inches, touring kayaks designed for women are typically narrower. The wider the boat, the more stable, but also slower, it will be. Since women, on average, have a lower center of gravity, they have less need for speed-sucking stability and can feel comfortable in a sleeker women’s sea kayak.

Day touring kayaks are excellent for aspiring paddlers who want to develop their skills but have no intentions of taking overnight and multiday trips. Day touring kayaks are lighter, more compact and easier to secure on a car’s roof rack than full-sized sea kayaks.

Sea kayaks are often expertly designed for specific applications, such as overnight kayak camping trips or rough water paddling. Take a close look at a women’s sea kayak if you want to develop your skills, explore exposed coastlines and undertake multiday camping trips.

woman paddles kayak on still water in front of scenic mountains in golden light — Because women have a lower center of gravity, they don’t need as wide a boat as a man would to feel stable. Taking advantage of a narrower boat will provide women with greater speed and cause less fatigue. | Photo: Nicholas Spooner

Fishing Kayaks

Fishing kayaks are specialized recreational designs suited to avid kayak anglers. In fact, many of the most popular fishing kayaks are simply recreational kayaks with certain upgrades to on-board accessories and outfitting—like rod holders, livewells and convenient places to store tackle, fish finders and other gear. Most women’s fishing kayaks are sit-on-top designs, which allows for good mobility, ease of landing fish and safety when far from shore.

Some fishing kayaks are wide enough for standing. These designs are typically slower, but their wider beams provide ample stability for sight casting and fighting fish. An added benefit of wider designs is that seats can be mounted higher for more effective sighting and casting.

Pedal drive fishing kayaks are another popular option, allowing a kayak angler to keep her hands free for managing tackle, casting and handling fish. There are a variety of pedal kayak propulsion systems, including those with fins and others with propellers. Since there are no dedicated women’s fishing kayak pedal drives yet, it is especially important for women to try out these kayaks before buying. Ocean Kayak and Old Town brand manager, Julia Winske, urges women to visit their local shop and try using the pedal drive to make sure the ergonomics work for them.

In colder climates, some kayak anglers prefer closed cockpit fishing kayak designs. These kayaks offer less flexibility for fish wrangling, but provide more protection from cold water and air temperatures.

Dress For Immersion, Not Air Temperature

Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry.
Avoid cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans; they retain water and accelerate cooling when wet. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If the water is very cold (60° fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.

Whitewater Kayaks

Whitewater kayaks are specialized designs for running river rapids. Most whitewater kayaks are sit-inside designs with smaller cockpits that can be sealed tightly with a neoprene sprayskirt. They are the most maneuverable kayaks with hulls that are short and rockered (shaped like a banana) to turn on a dime. Some models also feature a flat surface on the hull that planes on a wave like a surfboard, allowing the paddler to perform tricks on river features like recirculating holes and standing waves.

Whitewater kayaks come in a variety of styles, depending on their intended use. River runners are whitewater kayaks intended for covering miles and playing on river features along the way. River runners are usually longer than playboats and creek boats and faster than either on the water.

Playboats are about fun on the water—surfing waves and performing tricks like cartwheels and squirts. They’ll almost always have a planing hull for precise surfing. If you decide to choose a playboat instead of a river runner, remember you’ll be trading plush comfort for play in most cases. Freestyle kayaks are a more specialized version of playboats. Like playboats, freestyle kayaks won’t offer the most comfort for a long day on the water, but they will unlock the potential of any play spot on the river.

Creek boats are designed to make running very steep whitewater safer and easier. You probably already know if you need a creek boat. Women who are comfortable on class III and are interested in challenging themselves on harder water often choose a creek boat to make class IV more accessible and fun.

For women looking to develop the skills to paddle whitewater rivers, the right kayak choice is critical. “User-friendliness is key,” says Emily Jackson, freestyle kayak champion, designer and whitewater brand manager for Jackson Kayak. “Look for comfort, durability and light weight—those three things can make a big difference in your paddling growth.”

Materials

Kayaks are constructed from various materials, including plastic, fiberglass, carbon, wood and vinyl or other materials for a folding or inflatable kayak. Each material has benefits and drawbacks, relating to price, performance and durability.

Plastic kayaks dominate the recreational, day touring, fishing and whitewater markets, with rotomolded polyethylene being the most common material. Rotomolded kayaks are durable and particularly impact-resistant, which is why nearly all whitewater boats are rotomolded. Rotomolding can be used to create an almost infinite range of kayak designs. The toughness of the material makes it a good choice for many paddlers, as does its modest cost.

The biggest downside of rotomolded kayaks is they tend to be heavier than boats made from other materials. If you are looking for light kayaks for women, there are better material options. Rotomolded boats are also a little more flexible than composite designs, so the material isn’t quite as good for high-performance designs like racing kayaks and sea kayaks.

Composite kayaks are made from layers of fiberglass or aramid cloth laminated together with resin. In general, composite kayaks are lighter and stiffer than rotomolded designs. This makes composite a good choice for longer touring kayaks or high-performance racing and fitness designs.

If you are searching for ultralight touring kayaks for senior women to ease the transition from roof rack to put-in, carbon kayaks offer the absolute lightest (and most expensive) option. However, unless they are reinforced with additional layers of gelcoat or a keel-strip, they are not as durable as fiberglass. This is fine if you are paddling in calm conditions, but if you plan on dragging the kayak up a pebble beach it won’t last long.

Thermoformed kayaks fill a middle ground between rotomolded designs and composites. They cost more than rotomolded boats but less than composites, and they’re roughly in between the two materials in terms of stiffness and impact resistance. Many light touring and touring designs are built in this material and offer excellent value. Thermoformed kayaks are a great option if you’re seeking out light kayaks for women at a budget-friendly price.

Wooden kayaks are not as common, but their owners love their classic look and warm aesthetic. They can be designed with high-performance shapes, and the characteristics of wood give them a unique feel in the water. Many of these touring and recreational designs are made with do-it-yourself kits, and half the fun is the project of building the boat. Wooden kayaks are lightweight and beautiful, making them a wonderful option for women who have the time, tools and desire to build their own boat.

Folding kayaks or inflatable vinyl designs prioritize portability. These kayaks store into duffels and are assembled at the put-in. They’re ideal for women who are tight on space, like those living in condos, or for airline travel to exotic destinations. Generally, these kayaks have the advantage of portability at the expense of performance. Look to established companies for folding and inflatable kayaks with better quality and performance.

Design Features

Building the best kayaks for women means getting more women involved in kayak development and design. Happily, the number of female product developers, team paddlers and design influencers is growing.

At Johnson Outdoors, makers of Old Town and Ocean Kayak, women hold key positions across all aspects of the design process, “from consumer insights and industrial design, to production and everything in between,” says Julia Winske.

Sea Kayaking UK (Nigel Dennis Kayaks) made great leaps forward in designs suiting women when advanced-level sea kayak coach and expedition leader, Eila Wilkinson, became involved in their design process. Wilkinson wanted narrower, faster boats that were rough water capable and more responsive to smaller paddlers. Her input led to the design of NDK’s Pilgrim, Pilgrim Expedition and Echo kayaks, which are favorites of diminutive women—and men—around the world.

Progress isn’t limited to touring and recreational kayaking. At Jackson Kayak, women are integral to the design teams for both whitewater and fishing kayaks—two segments traditionally dominated by men.

“We have a wide variety of influences and team paddlers including women, men, kids, teens and individuals with disabilities,” says Emily Jackson. “By casting this wide net, we look for common threads and get as close as we can to the needs of every style and shape of kayaker.”

When it comes to feedback from women paddlers, concerns around weight, comfort and speed are top of the list. So too, is frustration at kayaks that feel heavy and sluggish.

“You could be doing all the right things, but not have the boat respond because it’s too big for you,” says Jackson.

Kayak weight is important for two reasons: a heavy kayak feels less nimble on the water and is slower to accelerate and harder to keep moving at a steady pace; and a heavy kayak is harder to lift and carry. This can make a big difference in how easy it is to get to and from the launch. Women who want the independence of lifting their kayak on and off a roof rack or trailer by themselves can seek out lighter composite and thermoformed materials to save on weight.

The size of a kayak also plays into its weight. But internationally recognized sea kayaking coach and NDK distributor, Dale Williams, says there’s another reason women should seek out narrower and shorter kayaks: speed.

Paddle Sober And Smart

Never mix alcohol and paddling. Coast Guard and state BUI (boating under the influence) laws apply to all vessels. This includes canoes, kayaks, SUPs and rafts.

“The wider the boat, the more stable,” he starts. “But why suffer a wider, slower boat when you’re plenty stable with a narrower, faster one?”

Unlike their typically more top-heavy counterparts, women, on average, have a lower center of gravity and less need for speed-sucking stability. Furthermore, wider boats create more surface area for wind and waves to push them around. All else being equal, says Williams, “The kayak the average man would find stable and controllable, the average woman will find slow and cumbersome.”

A narrower boat is also better suited to most women’s shoulder widths, allowing for an efficient, comfortable forward stroke and easier rolling.

The average woman also has less upper body strength than the average male paddler. It’s for this reason Williams recommends a correspondingly shorter kayak for many women.

Popular wisdom holds that longer equals faster, period. The best kayaks for women acknowledge that this is an oversimplification. The fastest boat for you is one that, a) fits properly, and b) has the least possible drag at the speed you normally paddle.

“Longer boats are only faster when you add more power,” Williams explains. “It’s why ‘getting her a longer boat’ has rarely been the answer for helping mixed sex couples paddle together at the same speed.”

If maximum speed is your objective, a paddler with lower center of gravity and less power can afford to go longer by also going narrower. Williams says this is the design rationale behind NDK’s Echo, at 16 feet, 10 inches long and a trim 19 inches wide.

Ultimately, choosing the best kayak for your needs still means identifying where you paddle most often, then getting on the water in as many models as you can to dial in the perfect fit. Be wary of sales pitches claiming one boat can do it all. No design excels in all types of water, just as there’s no such thing as “one size fits all.”

women paddling kayaks — A smaller cockpit opening will enable women to more easily secure and pull their sprayskirts—and actually be able to reach items on their decks. | Feature photo: Andy Zeltkalns

Outfitting

Outfitting describes the parts of the kayak that directly connect paddler to boat: the seat, back support, hip pads, thigh braces and foot pegs or pedals. Not surprisingly, outfitting plays a critical role in ensuring a good fit and enhancing on-water comfort and control.

Emily Jackson says conscientious outfitting can solve the most common feedback she hears from other women paddlers. “They want to feel more connected to their boat,” she explains. Whether you are looking at kayaks for small women or kayaks for heavy women, the best outfitting can be easily adjusted or customized to improve fit for every size and shape.

Starting with the seat, a woman’s lower center of gravity and often shorter reach calls for a higher seat position. “If you want to make a bigger boat feel more manageable, lift your seat,” says Jackson. Boosting the seat enables the paddler to transfer more power to their strokes and provides an easier reach over the cockpit rim and sidewalls.

While some kayaks may offer an adjustable height seat, you can also customize most kayak seats by adding a cushion or placing foam under the seat pan or liner. Kayaks with a seat that can be moved fore and aft also allow paddlers to trim the boat so it is optimally balanced for their height and weight.

In sit-inside kayaks, the hip pads and thigh grips work with the seat and backband to provide a snug yet comfortable fit. For many women, particularly those with curvier figures, this is a spot requiring special attention. Removable or adjustable hip pads and thigh braces allow paddlers to strike a balance between comfortable seating and a narrower performance fit. DIY types can also shape custom pads from blocks of closed cell foam.

The shape and size of the cockpit will also affect how a kayak fits, and how easy it is to get in and out of the boat. While large, open cockpits are standard on recreational kayaks intended for use in sheltered waters, paddlers touring on more exposed waters are better matched to a smaller oval or keyhole cockpit.

Oval-shaped cockpits vary in size, with some feeling too large for petite paddlers. Keyhole cockpits narrow toward the bow, allowing shorter legs to extend comfortably beneath the deck for a snugger fit. A shorter keyhole cockpit also makes it easier for smaller paddlers to secure or pull their spraydeck. Working with NDK to design their Pilgrim and Echo kayaks, Eila Wilkinson insisted on a shorter cockpit opening for another reason: so she could reach her chart on her front deck.

In addition to kayak ergonomics, a properly fitted PFD and lightweight paddle is key, says Julia Winske. Most life jacket manufacturers offer women’s specific paddling PFDs that are designed to fit a woman’s body by eliminating bulk around the bust. Paddles are sized based on your height and the width of your kayak, meaning women who go with a narrower boat should also choose a shorter paddle.

Wear A Life Jacket

Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Price

Ask five people, “How much is a women’s kayak?” and you will get five different answers. Recreational kayaks are the cheapest option, starting from around $300 for a box store kayak, to around $800 to $1,500 for a recreational kayak from a well-known manufacturer. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for in terms of quality, comfort and performance.

Whitewater kayaks average $1,200 to $2,000. Fishing kayaks can vary tremendously in price, from sub-$1,000 recreational models to $5,000-plus pedal kayaks with all the bells and whistles.

Depending on the material, model and condition, a touring kayak will cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,500. With an increase in price, there will often be an increase in quality, but that does not mean the most expensive kayak is the best for you. Consider your desired use and overall kayaking equipment needs. A good paddle and comfortable PFD will make a huge difference when using your kayak, so consider splurging in those areas instead of blowing your whole budget on a boat.

Where To Buy

Touring, recreational, whitewater and fishing kayaks are available at most local paddlesports retailers and national outdoor chains such as MEC or REI. Outfitters often have used kayaks for sale at the end of the season. Scouring online classifieds such as Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace can yield great deals on used women’s kayaks for those with time and patience.

Cover of the 2023 Paddling Buyer’s Guide This article was first published in the 2023 Paddling Buyer’s Guide. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions, or browse the archives.

Rather than looking for a “women’s kayak,” look for a kayak with particular features better fitting the physical characteristics more common among females. | Feature photo: Ron Watts

Best Recreational Kayaks For 2026

Conor Mihell

September 9, 2025

Recreational kayaks easily make up the largest segment of the paddlesports industry. What exactly is a recreational kayak? They are generally shorter, wider kayaks that focus on stability and comfort for a day on the lake, bay, slow rivers and other sheltered waters. You can buy a rec kayak just about anywhere, from box stores to huge online retailers, sporting goods outlets and niche paddling shops. Regardless of your age, size, budget, fitness level and paddling destination and overall aspirations, there’s truly a kayak for everyone; but you must take the time to do your homework and research the right boat for your situation to make the right selection. A recreational kayak may be a good fit, but making a selection is no easy task when there are hundreds to choose from.

We’re here to help! This article narrows down your options with some of my favorite recreational kayaks in a variety of categories, with an overview of key design, construction and safety features that will keep you happy on the water no matter where you paddle.

Best recreational kayaks: Our top picks

Best all-around recreational kayak: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
Best sit-on-top: Eddyline Caribbean 10
Best budget recreational kayak: Pelican Argo 100X
Best for high-performance: Stellar Compass 11
Best rec kayak for overnight trips: Delta 12.10
Best recreational kayak for kids: Old Town Breeze
Best for travel: Oru Lake

Wear A Life Jacket

Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Best all-around recreational kayak

Wilderness Systems Pungo 120

Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 Specs

Length: 12’2”

Width: 29”

Weight: 49 lbs

Capacity: 325 lbs

Price: $1,099

wildernesssystems.com

Buy from:

WILDERNESS SYSTEMS DICK’S AMAZON

Why I love it

The Pungo is a true classic, an OG recreational kayak that helped define what’s become the most popular segment of paddlesports. I especially admire how Wilderness Systems has kept its timeless design modern, with seat upgrades for comfort and refinements to its hatch system for convenience and safety. Meanwhile, Wildy has remained steadfast to the Pungo’s tried and true hull design, which is versatile and capable for day paddling excursions on rivers, lakes and sheltered coastlines.

The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 was my top recommendation when my brother-in-law was looking for a beginner-friendly kayak to use at his new waterfront home on Lake Superior. It offers reassuring stability and a spacious cockpit that’s easy to enter and exit. The Phase 3 AirPro seating system provides all-day comfort and plenty of adjustability. As a 2022 Paddling Magazine review noted of the Pungo 120 it “sits right in the Goldilocks zone for a wide variety of paddlers.”

Reasons to buy

A watertight rear bulkhead keeps the Pungo 120 floating even if the cockpit is swamped
Time-proven and refined outfitting, including a paddled, ergonomic seat and easy to adjust foot braces
Large cockpit strikes a fine balance between airiness for hot weather paddling and protection from the elements on cooler days

Consider another if

You are on a tight budget
Lightweight is a priority

Bottom Line

A classic sit-inside recreational kayak with widespread appeal.

Best for high-performance

Stellar Compass 11

Woman paddling a blue recreational kayak on a lake. — Image: Stellar

Stellar Compass 11 Specs

Length: 11’6”

Width: 27”

Weight: 30 lbs

Capacity: 330 lbs

Price: $3,465

stellarkayaks.com

Buy from:

STELLAR

Why I love it

I’ve always admired the easy paddling efficiency of Stellar kayaks and the Compass 11 takes cues from the brand’s missile-fast touring models. The Compass 11 features the distinct swede form shape (that is, the widest part of the hull is behind the cockpit) of super fast surf skis, combined with the reassuring stability you expect in a rec kayak. This affords incredible glide and tracking in a compact, 11-foot, six-inch boat. Outfitting is what you’d expect in a touring kayak, with easy-to-adjust Smart Track foot braces and a comfortable seat.

The Stellar Compass 11 is a stark contrast to a rec market loaded with heavy plastic boats and sluggish inflatables. The light and stiff fiberglass layup makes it easy to cartop and launch in the water. Most of all, I love how this kayak takes all the features of a high-end touring boat and shrinks them down to a recreational package, perfect for discerning day paddlers who want to find the abundant rewards of investing in the sport.

Reasons to buy

Unmatched tracking, glide and paddling efficiency for a short recreational kayak
Premium outfitting and lightweight construction
Hatch and bulkhead for dry storage and safety

Consider another if

You’re on a budget
Durability is a top priority
You’re looking for a kayak for overnight trips

Bottom Line

A recreational kayak with all the bells and whistles of a premium touring boat.

Best sit-on top

Eddyline Caribbean 100

woman paddles the Eddyline Caribbean 10 kayak under rosy skies — Image: Eddyline Kayaks

Eddyline Caribbean 100 Specs

Length: 10’

Width: 29”

Weight: 40 lbs

Capacity: 200 lbs

Price: $1,299

eddyline.com

Buy from:

EDDYLINE REI

Why I love it

You notice the stark difference between the Caribbean 100 and rugged yet heavy plastic sit-on top kayaks on both land and water. Tipping the scales at a light 40 pounds, the Caribbean 10 is easier to carry as well as faster to respond to paddle strokes due to its sleek and shiny thermoform construction. Its compact, 10-foot length makes it easy to maneuver for beginners, yet a straight keel line with minimal rocker keeps the Caribbean 10 moving straight on the water with impressive efficiency for such a short boat.

Eddyline is best known for its touring kayaks and some key features have trickled down to the Caribbean, the smallest offering in the brand’s kayak lineup. These include two watertight hatches for day gear, a clever “paddle park” (holder) built into the side carry handles, and easy-to-adjust foot braces. Overall, the Caribbean is a winner for lighter-weight adults and kids. The boat’s premium features make it far more enjoyable to paddle than cheaper boats.

Reasons to buy

Premium build quality, outfitting details and finish make for better paddling performance, comfort and lightweight
Fits smaller paddlers well

Consider another if

You’re looking for a cheap sit-on top for more casual use
You weigh more than 200 pounds (larger paddlers should consider the larger Eddyline Caribbean 120FS or Caribbean 140FS models)

Bottom Line

A can’t miss sit-on top for recreational paddlers: Compact, light and fun.

Dress For Immersion, Not Air Temperature

Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry.
Avoid cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans; they retain water and accelerate cooling when wet. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If the water is very cold (60° fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.

Best budget recreational kayak

Pelican Argo 100X

Pelican Argo 100X Specs

Length: 10’

Width: 28”

Weight: 36 lbs

Capacity: 275 lbs

Price: $349.99

confluenceoutdoor.com

Buy from:

PELICAN WALMART AMAZON

Why I love it

The Pelican Argo 100X is a cheap yet serviceable sit-inside rec kayak that’s available at many box stores. Price and availability are the primary reasons for its widespread popularity, but its paddling performance exceeds its sub-$350 price tag. A vee-shaped keel line and hard “rails” on the edges of the hull contribute to tracking and maneuverability alike. The Argo 100X is a step above the many mass-produced, ill-conceived recreational kayaks that could best be described as pieces of junk.

Outfitting is barebones yet adequate, especially for a kayak that’s only expected to perform light duty. Don’t ask this kayak for too much. Be cognizant of how its basic design and short length impose limits on seaworthiness and speed, and it will deliver paddling fun on sheltered water for years. Its robust rotomolded plastic construction means you can crash into rocks and leave it on the beach all summer long.

Reasons to buy

Cheap and widely available
Fits a wide range of paddlers
Reasonable weight of 36 lbs

Consider another if

Performance is a priority
You’re a smaller person (the Pelican Argo 80X is a better choice for lighter-weight paddlers and kids)

Bottom Line

The best box store sit-inside kayak you can buy.

Best for overnight trips

Delta 12.10

Delta 12.10 Specs

Length: 12’10”

Width: 25”

Weight: 41 lbs

Capacity: 300 lbs

Price: $1,495

deltakayaks.com

Buy from:

DELTA REI

Why I love it

The Delta 12.10 bridges the gap between recreational and light-touring kayaks with a sweet blend of beginner-friendly stability, dry storage and safety features necessary for casual day paddling and embarking on weekend kayak camping trips. Delta was an early pioneer of thermoform construction, and the 12.10’s light, sleek build makes huge contributions to its paddling performance and overall appeal. Thermoform plastic is stiffer and more efficient than comparable rotomolded kayaks, as well as being easier to transport and more responsive to paddle strokes due to its lighter weight.

Besides its top-notch construction, the 12.10 borrows heavily from Delta’s longer touring kayaks. Front and rear hatches and bulkheads offer a lot of dry storage for such a short boat, as well as enabling the kayak to be emptied of water in an assisted rescue offshore. The sea kayak-inspired cockpit size seals well with a sprayskirt to keep you dry, with ergonomic thigh supports for the boat control I expect in an advanced touring kayak. Overall, this is a stable, easily paddling crossover kayak that you won’t grow out of too soon.

Reasons to buy

Fits just about anyone
Light, reasonably tough, easy paddling
Touring-ready features, including front, rear and day hatches

Consider another if

You aspire to go on longer multi-day trips
Your friends paddle longer, faster touring kayaks

Bottom Line

Recreational kayak meets touring kayak in this versatile crossover.

Best rec kayak for kids

Old Town Breeze

Old Town Breeze Specs

Length: 9’6”

Width: 28.5”

Weight: 36 lbs

Capacity: 194 lbs

Price: $449.99

oldtownwatercraft.com

Buy from:

OLD TOWN BACKCOUNTRY AMAZON

Why I love it

The Old Town Ocean Kayak Breeze is a kayak clearly designed for kids, with a slim yet stable profile that makes it easier for smaller-sized bodies to balance and reach the water. There’s no better way to share the joy of paddlesports with youngsters than with a simple, open-deck boat – that’s built by a sit-on top kayak pioneer. There’s nothing to break on the rotomolded plastic hull, no moving parts or sharp edges. It is maneuverable and easy to handle, with good glide to allow kids to keep up. Multiple moulded footrests fit a variety of sizes, from kids to youth and smaller adults. What’s more, it also makes for a fantastic swim platform.

Reasons to buy

Kid-specific sizing
Simple and durable construction
Built in Tag Along system makes it easy for adults to tow tired young paddlers
Convenient carry handles in all the right places

Consider another if

You paddle in cold water or exposed conditions
You want a kids kayak that’s suitable for overnight trips

Bottom Line

Start them right with a playful sit-on top kayak that promises years of fun.

Best rec kayak for travel

Oru Kayak Lake

ORU Lake Specs

Length: 9’

Width: 32”

Weight: 17 lbs

Capacity: 250 lbs

Price: $499

orukayak.com

Buy from:

ORU KAYAK

Why I love it

My skepticism of a 9-foot, origami folding kayak vanished the moment I took my first stroke in the ORU Lake. It’s a fun, comfy, stable and easy to paddle rec boat that’s impossible not to love. The Lake has so many great attributes. For starters, it weighs next to nothing at 17 pounds; it sets up in barely a minute and folds into a manageable backpack size that’s easy to take on a trek, trip or public transit; and the gel seat and adjustable foot bar make for a comfortable ride and fit for those up to 6’4″ and 250 pounds. You can even bring along a medium-sized dog in the large cockpit.

Reasons to buy

Light and compact, appeals to globetrotters and apartment dwellers
Great price for an innovative, beginner-friendly recreational kayak
Agile and fun to paddle

Consider another if

You’re looking for more speed and glide
You wish to paddle in more exposed water conditions
You’re a larger paddler

Bottom Line

A packable rec kayak that’s fun to paddle, convenient and unique.

Education: Get Some!

Take a paddling safety course from the American Canoe Association (ACA), your local paddling shop or outfitter, or other reputable source.
Take a boating safety course from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons® or your own state’s boating agency.
Take on-the-water skills training.

Recreational Kayak Buying Advice

Choosing the best recreational kayak for your paddling dreams takes time and effort. You’re cutting yourself seriously short if you simply make a trip to a box store and grab what’s on sale. Of course, budget is a determining factor in any purchase. But when it comes to kayaks, just like any product, you get what you pay for.

Research and test drive

Take your time, read online reviews, including the trove on Paddling Mag, and shop around. I always recommend buying from a dedicated paddling shop or outdoor store to get the best advice. Many paddling shops also offer the option to try before you buy, which is another top tip to invest in the best recreational kayak for your needs. You can also sign up for a kayak lesson and ask your instructor for their top kayak recommendations. Certified paddling instructors can offer trained expertise in key safety features, such as hatches and waterproof bulkheads, as well as design and construction nuances, which may be glossed over by sales staff.

Choosing for your local waterways

To narrow your selection, think about where you will do most of your paddling (river, lake or coastal waters); be honest about how serious you are about paddlesports (occasional use or a passionate pursuit); and think about what paddling activities you’re most interested in and likely to pursue (kayak angling, downriver paddling, touring or travel). Then, choose between a sit-on top (open deck, ideal for warm weather paddling and kayak fishing) or sit-inside (partial or full deck, best for cooler conditions, day paddling and touring).

Proper fit

Boat fit and comfort are personal parameters that are key to optimizing your paddling experience. At the very least, insist that you sit in a prospective kayak to “try it on for size.” Better yet, put it through the paces on the water at a paddling center or by borrowing a friend’s kayak.

Best recreational kayak brands

How we tested

Full disclosure: I’m a sea kayaker from way back. Years ago, when recreational kayaks first appeared on the market, I thumbed my nose at their short and squat dimensions. But just as rec kayaks have exploded in popularity, I’ve come to appreciate their appeal to paddlers who don’t kayak as demanding of circumstances as I do.

The pivotal moment came about a decade ago, when I (reluctantly) did some research and coached my mom on her first rec boat purchase. Since then, I watched her embrace casual outings at the cottage and amidst the mangroves of her winter home in Florida. It makes me smile to hear her describe the joys of exploring new waters by kayak. I drew on that experience and more in compiling this article, with the hopes that you too can discover paddling at whatever pace you choose.

Why trust us

Don’t ask me how I’ve come to make a career in paddlesports as an adventure travel writer, canoe and sea kayak guide, and outdoor educator. Youthful enthusiasm made me a sea kayak guide in the early 2000s. The trade put me through journalism grad school and kept me afloat as an editorial intern at Rapid Media in 2005, where I wrote my first boat and gear reviews and kickstarted my freelance career. Paddlesports have evolved over the past 25 years, and I feel fortunate to have seen (and tested) it all—and made a living to boot.

Best Paddleboard Seats For 2026

Dan Dakin

September 9, 2025

preson paddles the ISLE Explorer Pro hybrid SUP-kayak — Photo: Joe Potoczak

Standup paddleboards continue to be one of the fastest-growing activities on the water, and for good reason. They’re easy to transport, they’re not particularly expensive to purchase, and they give you an elevated view of the water unlike that of a kayak or canoe. Take a paddleboard out to a clear lake or river on a calm, sunny day and the views below the surface can be spectacular. In over a decade of paddleboarding, my single-most treasured experience remains paddling with manatees in Florida, where I had amazing views of these gentle giants gracefully moving around me.

However, for those with balance issues or who just find spending long paddles standing up on a board too taxing, simply adding a paddleboard seat and switching to a kayak paddle can be a game-changer, and creates one of the most versatile human-powered watercrafts imaginable. Here are a few options that will transform your standup paddleboard into a kayak-style watercraft with versatility and stability.

Best paddleboard seats: Our top picks

Best Inflatable: Thurso Surf Inflatable SUP Kayak Seat
Best kayak-style cushion seat: Atoll Boards Universal SUP Seat
Best for paddleboard camping: Therm-a-Rest Trekker Chair
Most creative DIY seat: Yeti Roadie 15 Hard Cooler

Wear The Appropriate Leash When Stand Up Paddleboarding

Always wear a leash on open bodies of water like lakes, bays, and oceans. Due to the risk of snags and entrapment, leashes should only be worn on rivers if they include a quick release attached to your life jacket.

Best Inflatable Paddleboard Seat

Thurso Surf Inflatable SUP Kayak Seat

Thurso Surf inflatable paddleboard seat.

$79.99 | thursosurf.com

Buy from:

THURSO SURF AMAZON

Why I love it

Stability is everything when it comes to paddleboard seats. The Thurso Surf SUP Kayak Seat is designed top to bottom to make you feel secure and stable on the board.

I love the four-inch thick cushion which gives you the flexibility of going as rigid or soft as you’d like depending on how much air you pump into it. The back has a wraparound-style design that provides good ergonomic support while paddling. And just like a quality inflatable SUP itself, the inflatable seat is made from a high-quality PVC and drop-stick material, meaning that it can handle the abuse paddleboards sometimes go through.

The four adjustable D-ring straps will make securing the Thurso Surf seat to your inflatable board easy, as long as your board comes with D-rings installed. There’s also a rear mesh storage pocket with enough room for snacks, water bottles or even a small jacket.

Reasons to buy

Uses the same standard inflator valve size as your SUP
Easy to install
4” of seat cushion gets you off the board

Consider another if

The 4” seat doesn’t elevate you off the board enough
You don’t have an inflatable SUP, and don’t want to carry a pump just for your seat
You want to quickly add a seat to your board without the hassle of pumping

Bottom Line

The Thurso Surf combines the best of inflatable seats with the best of kayak seats, giving you the versatility to keep you on the paddleboard longer.

Best cushioned kayak-style paddleboard seat

Atoll Board Universal Sup-Kayak Seat

Atoll Board universal SUP seat.

$89.99 | atollboards.com

Buy from:

ATOLL

Why I love it

If you simply want to add a seat to your paddleboard with no fuss and little setup time, a clip-on foam-padded seat is the way to go. You won’t get the added cushion of an inflatable, but the back stability is key.

If you’ve spent any time in a kayak, you will understand the importance of getting the angle of the seat pack just right. Similarly, if you’re adding a seat to a paddleboard, you’re going to want to get the angle exactly where you prefer. With four adjustable upper straps and two down low, the Atoll Board Universal SUP-Kayak Seat gives you the customization you want.

Adjustability is the keyword on this seat, with plenty of straps and four marine-grade brass D-ring clips to secure it in place on your board.

The seatback itself—while looking like a king cobra—gives you a wide surface to lean against while paddling, which is exactly what you need. The back features reinforced nylon backing for lumbar support and an extra layer of durable mesh on the front to allow for quicker drying. The base of the seat is minimalistic, which makes it convenient and light when not in use.

Reasons to buy

Customizable seat back
Fantastic lumbar support
Easy to install and remove
Lots of straps to attach backpacks or waterproof bags to

Consider another if

Extra thick cushion is important to you
You want built-in storage without having to add your own

Bottom Line

The Atoll gives you the back support needed for long days on the board.

Best Paddleboard Seat for Camping

Therm-a-Rest Trekker Chair

Therm-a-Rest Trekker chair.

$64.95-69.95 | cascadedesigns.com

Buy from:

THERMAREST AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY

Why I love it

Many people think that overnight paddling trips require a canoe and large kayak with water-tight storage. However, standup paddleboards with lots of tie-downs, combined with waterproof storage bags, can make for an epic paddling adventure option. Space on the board comes at a premium however, so adding a seat that can double as a sleeping pad is a no-brainer.

Rather than a seat specifically, the Trekker Chair is more of a tool to turn your Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad into a seat. The idea here is that you can use this super lightweight sleeve to fold your inflatable sleeping pad into a comfortable seat for on or off the paddleboard.

It has adjustable straps to change the angle of the seat back. The soft-cushioning features that make the Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads so comfortable at night also make this an extremely comfortable paddling seat.

Reasons to buy

You’re a camper who already owns a Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad
You want a minimalistic seat option
Cushion for your backside is more important than lumbar support for your back

Consider another if

You’re not a paddling camper
You want a seat you secure to your board’s D-rings
You’ve got a bad back and need lumbar support

Bottom Line

The Therm-a-Rest Trekker Chair is the perfect solution for a particular segment for the multi-day paddleboarding crowd.

Best DIY Paddleboard Seat

Yeti Roadie 15

Yeti Roadie 15 Hard Cooler.

$200 | yeti.com

Buy from:

YETI AMAZON REI

Why I love it

Sometimes the simplest solution is also the most versatile and useful. If back support is not particularly important to you, but having a cold seltzer and food on hand for the day is, then using a hardshell cooler as a seat is a simple and useful option. Yeti has long established itself as the best in the cooler business, and the Yeti Roadie 15 hard cooler is the best option for sitting on a paddleboard.

At 14” tall, the Roadie is the easiest option on the knees of any paddling seat because it allows your legs to be in a natural seated position. Although it doesn’t have buckles to attach the cooler to your paddleboard, it does have slots for cam straps, and strapping the cooler to your SUP will do the trick. When you need to transport the seat/cooler when not on the board, the Roadie 15 has a padded shoulder strap.

Reasons to buy

The most natural seating position of any option
Enough cold storage for lots of drinks and snacks
Useful for much more than just paddling

Consider another if

You want any sort of back support
You’re looking for a cheap option
You want something designed specifically as a seat that clips to the board

Bottom Line

This is a surprisingly simple solution many paddleboarders turn to for sitting down and simply packing lunch.

Wear A Life Jacket

Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Standup Paddleboard Seat Buying Advice

Buying a paddleboard seat really comes down to a personal choice on what’s important to you. The first question to ask yourself is what is the biggest issue you’re trying to solve by sitting down, instead of standing, on a paddleboard? For some, it’s back pain. For others, it’s leg or foot discomfort. Some find sitting to be more stable than standing. For each of these priorities, there is a best option.

Those with bad backs should be looking first and foremost at a paddleboard seat that offers lumbar support and lots of adjustability in the seat back angle. You may need to compromise some seat cushion support or storage, but if your back is the biggest hindrance to being able to stay on the paddleboard for any length of time, then something like the Atoll seat or others like it will solve your problem.

For those who need more support for their backside than their back, an inflatable seat or another with robust back support may be the best option.

And from the creative category comes the idea of sitting atop a hardshell cooler while paddling. Plenty of people who like to SUP fish love this option because it gives them a secure place to stow their catch while also having a place to sit down. For others, the idea of lunch on the board or at a remote spot on the river is incredibly appealing. This is where the cooler concept shines.

Best Paddleboard Seat Brands

BOTE
Thurso Surf
ISLE
Atoll Board
Roc Outdoors
Retrospec
Glide
Bluefin

How we tested

The products included in this article were hand-picked through more than a decade of both paddling and product review experience.

Why trust us

Writer Dan Dakin has been a paddleboard racer and adventurer for more than a decade. He was the first person to paddle on all five Great Lakes in a single day, and has paddled or raced down rivers as long as 225 kilometers. These days, he gets as much enjoyment spending hours on lakes and rivers with his kids as he does crossing a finish line.

Feature Image: Joe Potoczak

Everything You Need To Know About Buying A Grumman Canoe

Jake O'Flaherty

September 9, 2025

Feature photo: Weston M/Unsplash

If you began paddling before the rise of plastics, chances are you’ve sat in an aluminum Grumman canoe. These iconic canoes have led many adventurous families, scout troops and Burt Reynolds wannabes on their first canoe trip.

In 1944, Grumman Aircraft Engineering’s Vice President, William Hoffman, conceived the idea to build an aluminum canoe with the same technology Grumman had been using for their aircraft. Presumably, this idea emerged after slogging a waterlogged wood-canvas canoe through the Adirondacks, as aluminum construction lightened the load significantly.

With shaped aluminum panels riveted together, these canoes could be mass-produced and sold at a reasonable price. Without the care and maintenance that wood-canvas canoes demanded, recreational canoeing was suddenly available to the masses.

Wear A Life Jacket

Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Grumman canoes are stable and fairly lightweight, considering how durable they are. The riveted aluminum construction resists warping, scraping, and most punctures. These are ideal canoes for anglers and hunters, or anyone who wants a boat that they don’t need to worry about. The metal construction will last generations. They are a bit noisy and frigid to the touch on cold days but consider a Grumman if that doesn’t bother you.

This article will provide you with everything you need to know about buying a Grumman canoe, whether it’s new or used. You will also find links to view specific models and compare the specifications with other popular canoes. Read on to learn more.

Best Canoe Brands For Tripping, Whitewater, Fishing & More

Best Grumman canoes

Grumman 17′ Square-Stern

Grumman 17 Square Stern

Grumman 17′ Square-Stern Specs

Length: 17’0”

Width: 36.6”

Weight: 85 lbs

Capacity: 825 lbs

MSRP: $2,899 USD

Buy from:

GRUMMAN

Grumman’s 17-foot square-stern model is designed to be equipped with a motor for additional power. The reinforced transom at the back can support a five-horsepower outboard. At 85 pounds, this canoe is 10 pounds heavier than the 17-foot Double-Ender.

Users can paddle it with canoe paddles in areas where motors don’t work as well, like creeping into the weeds or marshy areas. These are good options for hunters, anglers or anyone who wants the extra power boost from a motor.

Grumman Sportboat

Grumman 15 Sportboat

Grumman Sportboat Specs

Length: 15’3”

Width: 43”

Weight: 122 lbs

Capacity: 450 lbs

MSRP: $4,199 USD

Buy from:

GRUMMAN

To dabble in a bit of everything, consider Grumman’s 3-in-1 Sportboat. This 15’3” boat can be paddled like a canoe, equipped with a motor or rowed with oars. At 40 inches, it’s wider than any of Grumman’s other canoes. It will not paddle as efficiently as the Double-Ender, but it is much more stable. This is a good option for families who want to get on the water safely but don’t care how quickly they’ll move.

The transom and extra width account for the additional weight in this 122-pound craft. This is more of a boat than a canoe, but if you aren’t planning to portage it (don’t plan to portage it), the Sportboat might be a good choice.

Grumman Double-Ender

Grumman 13 Double Ender

Grumman Double-Ender Specs

Length: 13’0” | 15’0” | 17’0”

Width: 35.1″ | 35.1” | 36.1″

Weight: 58 | 69 | 75 lbs

Capacity: 585 | 650 | 755 lbs

MSRP: $2,099 | $2,249 | $2,399 USD

Buy from:

GRUMMAN

Grumman’s aluminum Double-Ender canoes are the ones most people are familiar with. These take the traditional canoe shape. They are the best option for prospective buyers who plan on exclusively paddling with single-bladed canoe paddles rather than attaching outboard motors or using oars. These are the lightest canoes Grumman makes as well. You can find a Grumman Double-Ender at 13, 15, or 17 feet long.

The length you choose depends on a few factors, and there are often tradeoffs when deciding which length to buy. Longer canoes get heavier, but they also increase the cargo capacity. You’ll track much better in a 17-foot canoe, but a 13-foot Double-Ender turns more readily.

For this reason, solo paddlers will have an easier time controlling a 13- or 15-foot canoe, while a 17-foot canoe provides ample space for overnight trips for two or outings with a dog. Choose the 17-footer if you’ll always have a paddling partner, the 13-footer if you’ll be solo more often, and the 15-footer for a bit of both.

Shopping for a used Grumman canoe?

Used Grumman or other aluminum canoes are good low-risk purchases. If you are looking for a basic canoe to get from A to B or to leave at the hunt camp, you’ll find Grummans for low prices. As they are so durable, unless they’ve suffered catastrophic damage, it will still probably be fine to paddle even if they’ve been neglected for a while.

When you’re buying a used Grumman, consider where to look, what to look for and how much to pay when you find it.

Where to look

Since they’ve been in production so long and last almost forever, your chances of finding a used Grumman canoe are pretty high. They are especially popular among the hunting and fishing crowd, so you may have good luck searching in smaller towns. You can start shopping for a used Grumman right now by opening up your favorite online classifieds site. On Kijiji or Craigslist, Grumman canoes might be simply listed as “aluminum canoes” or another general term.

Cast a wide net to make sure that you don’t miss these postings. Another strategy might be to post a “wanted” ad on a community page. People may have aluminum canoes sitting in their backyards that they just haven’t gotten around to selling, and in these cases, they would be happy for you to take the boat off their hands.

What to look for

Since these canoes are so tough, most used ones will probably still be seaworthy. You’ll still want to inspect the boat and test it if you can. Flip the canoe over and look for weak points along the hull where it may have been repeatedly scraped and dragged. Two areas to check are the stems, the narrow aluminum plates that cover the seams at the bow and stern of the canoe.

Dress For Immersion, Not Air Temperature

Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry.
Avoid cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans; they retain water and accelerate cooling when wet. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If the water is very cold (60° fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.

If they’ve been bashed enough times they may have cracked, which could mean a leaky canoe. Best to get the canoe into some water and look for any water seeping in. Small holes are easy enough to repair with a bit of solder. Lift the canoe and listen for any water sloshing around in the bow and stern float tanks.

How much to pay

Used Grumman canoe prices will vary significantly depending on their condition and reason for the sale. You might find them for less than $500 if a seller is keen to clear it out. A newer canoe may sell for more, between $800–$1,000.

For more tips on what to look for when selecting a used canoe, read our article How To Buy A Used Canoe.

Grumman canoe buying advice

If you’ve decided that Grumman canoes are the way to go, check out their offerings below. We’ll touch on the three types of canoes they offer and who would enjoy them. Aluminum canoes are rare, and plastic has overtaken metal as the go-to for inexpensive, durable boats, but they still have their uses. While plastic canoes are susceptible to UV damage from the sun, you can leave an aluminum canoe exposed to sun, snow, heat and sleet; it will paddle the same as ever.

Grummans are stable, long-lasting canoes, ideal for recreational paddling, angling or hunting. Your preferred means of propulsion and how many people will be paddling the canoe will determine the best model and length to choose.

Is a Grumman a good canoe?

Grumman makes good aluminum canoes. These canoes are ideal for recreational paddling or paddlers who want a canoe that requires virtually no maintenance.
When did Grumman start making canoes?

Grumman started to make canoes in 1944, as World War II brought an industrial surge through the United States. The company originally made aluminum fighter planes in the war, and took the expertise for bending and riveting aluminum sheets and applied it to canoe building. The result was the first commercially viable recreational canoes.
Does Grumman still make canoes?

Marathon Boat Group owns the Grumman brand now, and they’re still churning out canoes, although with fewer options compared to their peak in the 1970s and 80s. Today, you can find three canoe models in different lengths.
Grumman canoe models

There are three different Grumman canoe models available this year. The Double-Ender is a classic canoe shape. The Square-Stern and 3-in-1 Sportboat are both flat at the stern for mounting outboard motors. Any of the models have optional paint in five colors.

Stay Clear Of All Other Vessels

Know the “Rules of the Road” Navigation Rules that govern all boat traffic and stay out of the way of all other vessels.
Never assume that power boaters can see you. Avoid high-traffic areas whenever possible. Proceed with caution when you can’t avoid paddling near boats. Dress for visibility.

Grumman canoe sizes

Grumman’s “Double-Ender” is available at 13, 15, and 17 feet long and 35-36 inches at the widest point. The Square-stern canoe is 17 feet with a 36 ⅝” beam. The 3-in-1 Sportboat is just longer than 15 feet and 40 inches wide.
Grumman canoe dimensions

Grumman canoe specs vary depending on the model. The dimensions of discontinued Grumman canoes may be found online or by contacting Grumman directly.
Weight of Grumman canoes

Grumman canoe weights range from 58 pounds for the 13-foot Double-Ender to 122 for the 3-in-1 Sportboat.

The weight of Grumman Double-ender canoes is comparable to some polyethylene and fiberglass canoes of equal lengths.

Grumman canoe prices

New Grumman canoes start at $1,500. Prices vary depending on the model and length.
Grumman canoe value

Used Grumman canoes hold their value well because of their long life. Unless it suffers catastrophic damage, the canoe will perform the same as it did when it was brand new. Used Grumman canoe prices will vary. Some may just want to clear the canoe out, while others will list it close to the sticker price. From 50–80% of the original price is fair for a used aluminum canoe.
Grumman canoe dealers

If you’re wondering where to buy a Grumman canoe, use the dealer locator tool. Grumman canoes are sold at independent outfitters, who may also be able to order a canoe in for you.

Compare Grumman canoes

Alumacraft vs Grumman canoe

Minnesota-based boat manufacturer Alumacraft began producing canoes shortly after Grumman. They no longer make canoes, instead focusing on aluminum boats, but you can still find used ones for sale periodically.

An Alumacraft canoe that’s in good shape will still provide the same durability of a Grumman canoe. If you know you want an aluminum canoe, either will meet your expectations. Grumman is a good choice if you’re set on a new aluminum canoe rather than a used one.

Best Pyranha Kayaks For 2026

Jake O'Flaherty

September 8, 2025

Photo: Courtesy Pyranha

Based in the U.K., Pyranha celebrated 50 years in the kayak-building business in 2021. A lot has changed since Pyranha’s 1971 prototypes first hit the water. Legends in the whitewater world, Pyranha whitewater kayaks have run rivers across the globe and have topped freestyle kayaking podiums since the discipline was better known as “rodeo.” You don’t need to be an expert kayaker or planning a trip to Greenland or the Himalaya to enjoy these kayaks—although Pyranha whitewater kayaks can handle the fiercest class V rivers.

Today’s Pyranha catalog features high performance whitewater kayaks, but also recreational and crossover models. They’re built in a new facility in Britain, and kayakers still run the company, designing boats that continue to push the limits. If you’re looking for quality sea kayaks or recreational touring models, check out Pyranha’s sister brands, P&H Sea Kayaks and Venture.

Whether you’re gearing up for another great season, or shopping for your very first river kayak, consider a Pyranha whitewater kayak.

Best Kayak Brands For Fishing, Sea Kayaking, Touring & More

Top picks: Best Pyranha kayaks

Pyranha Scorch

The Pyranha Scorch offers easy handling in tricky conditions. | Feature photo: Paul Robert Wolf Wilson

Pyranha Scorch Specs

Length: 8’10”

Width: 25”

Weight: 50 lbs

Capacity: 145-200 lbs

MSRP: $1,799 USD

Buy from:

PYRANHA

From our review:

“The Pyranha Scorch hit the market in 2021 as a successor to the classic Burn. Billed as a boundary-smashing river runner and creek boat hybrid, the Scorch combines and refines characteristics from three of Pyranha’s latest and greatest hits. After getting it on the river, I can attest, it’s one of the best whitewater kayaks out there today. The Scorch starts with a bow and elongated hull influenced by the 9R, beloved for its speed and squared-off stern. The wide planing hull and sharp edges of the Scorch are pulled from the speedy Ripper, known for its nimble playfulness and carving ability.“ [ Read full review ]

Boat Review: Sea Eagle Travel Canoe 16

Pyranha 12R

Pyranha’s updated Stout 2 outfitting features improved comfort, ergonomics and overall adjustability, and is easily customized. | Photo: Graham Kent

Pyranha 12R Specs

Length: 12′

Width: 24.5”

Weight: 57 lbs

Capacity: 132-275 lbs

MSRP: $1,600 USD

Buy from:

PYRANHA

From our review:

“Longboats aren’t just for the speed-hungry racing niche. These big boats are designed for big fun—they go ultra-fast and are equally at home tackling huge rapids or holding many days’ worth of gear. I already own a longboat, a Liquidlogic Stinger XP. As soon as I heard about the Pyranha 12R, I was intrigued and knew I wanted to paddle it and compare…” [ Read full review ]

Pyranha Ripper

Let it rip in the Pyranha Ripper. | Photo: Paddling Mag Staff

Pyranha Ripper Specs

Length: 8’11”

Width: 25.5”

Weight: 44 lbs

Capacity: 145-210 lbs

MSRP: $1,599 USD

Buy from:

PYRANHA

From our review:

“While some bigger boats take more muscle to get moving, thanks to the combination of light weight and hull design, I get the Ripper going in a hurry. I’m surprised at the speed I can achieve in only a few short strokes. The Ripper has a narrow bow helping punch through holes and keep paddlers on track. Pearson and his design team managed to keep enough volume up there to ride over waves and give my toes a decent amount of wiggle room too...” [ Read full review ]

Pyranha ReactR

Pyranha ReactR Specs

Length: 8’1”

Width: 27.5″

Weight: 51 lbs

Capacity: 155-210 lbs

MSRP: $1,899 USD

Buy from:

PYRANHA

“Ride higher and drier in rapids, scream into eddies faster than ever, and find your line without any limitations. The ReactR is Pyranha’s most innovative design yet, and opens new doors within the world of creek and river running for kayakers of all abilities. In the design of the ReactR, Pyranha has spent significant time developing an entirely new style of hull, with an ideally positioned pivot point and two planing surfaces, one in front and another behind, which the paddler can switch between with ease.”

Shopping for a used Pyranha kayak?

If you’re looking at buying a used Pyranha kayak, there are a few things to consider. First, and most importantly, consider whether the used kayak you are viewing is the best fit for your intended use; our Paddling Buyer’s Guide is a great place to find specs, descriptions and reviews for each model. Next, give the used kayak a thorough inspection, paying special attention to the following areas.

Hull (bottom) and deck (top)

Pyranha makes their kayaks with their proprietary high-density polyethylene (HDPE) blend. HDPE is the material of choice for whitewater kayaks because of its durability. However, every material has a breaking point, and you’ll want to thoroughly check the hull of any used kayak for cracks or punctures. Another advantage of HDPE is that it is more readily repairable than other plastics. Your local Pyranha dealer can hook you up with a tube of plastic weld to fix minor damage yourself.

Cause for concern on the hull or deck might be areas that are excessively faded. Ask the seller how they stored the kayak; HDPE weakens if it is exposed to continuous direct sunlight, and faded or soft-feeling spots on the hull are reliable indicators of sun damage.

Outfitting

The biggest disadvantage of an older used whitewater kayak is likely to be rudimentary outfitting. This includes the seat, backband, thigh braces and foot braces, if present. Modern whitewater (and recreational) kayaks feature more padding and adjustability, quick-dry materials and other refinements that improve fit and comfort.

The outfitting of a used kayak might also be worn out and need replacement. Many fixes or improvements can be improvised with a bit of closed-cell foam, contact cement and ingenuity, or chat with a Pyranha dealer to inquire about replacement parts.

Hardware

The kayak’s hardware is what keeps the outfitting in place. Bolts and washers might wear out over time, especially ones that run through the hull. These can make the foot pegs feel loose, or worse, leak water into the kayak. You may need to replace worn or missing hardware, or add a sealant like Locktite to keep it snug.

For more tips on selecting a used kayak, read our article How To Buy A Used Kayak.

Person paddling whitewater kayak down a rapid — Photos: Courtesy Pyranha

Person walking across log with whitewater kayak strapped to their back

Pyranha kayak buying advice

Thanks to widespread pandemic restrictions, interest in paddling has surged over the past two years, and Pyranha has enjoyed the same success as many other kayak manufacturers. As Pyranha is a medium-sized company, they have already filled all of their orders for the 2022 paddling season. For prospective buyers, this means you won’t be able to complete direct orders.

However, Pyranha is busy churning kayaks out of their British factory, and dealers who placed orders will have boats to sell this year. The best way to get into a new Pyranha kayak is to contact a dealer near you. You can find your closest dealer using the dealer locator tool on Pyranha’s website.

If you’re looking to buy a Pyranha kayak, or any whitewater kayak, it’s important to define the type of paddling you plan to do. Kayak design changes depending on where and how the boat is intended to be used. Although certain models have their strengths, paddlers today want kayaks that can do more than one thing. The lines between once-rigid categories have begun to blur. You’ll find that a lot of Pyranha kayaks are designed for versatility on the river.

River runners

River runners comprise the bulk of Pyranha’s lineup. These longer kayaks are designed for covering downriver distance and having fun along the way. They incorporate elements of both creek boats and freestyle kayaks. The award-winning Pyranha Machno is classified as a river runner but borrows heavily from creek boats; this is a forgiving choice for paddlers who want to travel fast between features on the river.

Also in the river running category, the Pyranha 9R is tailored to aggressive, experienced paddling. This classic design received an overhaul in 2020 and is now tailored to winning whitewater races in the sub-9-foot “short class”. Even if you aren’t racing, this is a fast boat for ripping down local rivers. For even more speed and fun, check out the stretched-out 12R.

The Pyranha Scorch (available in three sizes as well as the speedy 10-foot Scorch X) incorporates a bit more volume and rocker for a boat that carves clean lines and delivers a dry ride while blasting your way down the river. Higher volume whitewater kayaks are more buoyant, enabling them to punch through waves and holes. Rocker describes the amount of upsweep from the mid-section through the ends of the kayak. More rocker equates to better maneuverability and the tendency to ride up and over obstacles instead of through them.

The Pyranha Ripper combines an upturned, buoyant bow with a playful, squashed stern and planing (flat, rather than curved or V-shaped) hull for a kayak that is fast downriver but also supremely surfable on glassy or breaking waves. This is a great all-around kayak that is equally comfortable blasting through big rapids or playing on mid-sized features.

The Pyranha Ozone bridges the gap between the Ripper and the freestyle Jed. Available in three sizes to fit a range of paddlers, the Ozone features a planing hull, lower volume and aggressive edges, so you can surf, carve and cartwheel as you pick your way down the river.

Playboats

The Jed playboat is Pyranha’s freestyle champion. Playboats like this one are best used for surfing and performing aerial tricks on standing waves. These short “spud” boats have low volume and flatter, slicey ends to make it easier to perform freestyle moves. The Jed is a culmination of 50-plus years of whitewater development and expertise.

The result is a boat that consistently wins freestyle competitions in the hands of expert paddlers, but is also friendly for beginner paddlers. Check out an in-depth review of the Jed to learn more.

Photo: Courtesy Pyranha

Crossovers

Crossover kayaks are an exciting development, merging whitewater hulls and performance with touring features and efficiency. The whitewater hull with a drop-down skeg (fin under the stern that aids with traveling straight) gives the Pyranha Fusion II elements of both worlds. Extending the length of a standard river running hull creates space for the Fusion II’s stern hatch, increasing storage capacity and opening these boats up for overnight trips.

Crossovers do everything well but nothing great; these are ideal for short tours or moderate whitewater. Some sea kayakers turn to these nimble designs for surfing and playing in the ocean. The Fusion Duo tandem is for adventurous partners who want to get on the water together; it’s also ideal for introducing a new paddler to easy whitewater.

The Fusion hull is also used for Pyranha’s Fusion SOT, a versatile sit-on-top that can be configured for recreational paddling or equipped with thigh straps for a fun, easy-to-use surf boat.

Recreational kayaks

Pyranha’s only other current sit-on-top offering is the Surfjet 2.0. It’s available as a bare-bones recreational kayak that can be kitted out with surf-ready outfitting like the Fusion SOT or upgraded with comfortable touring features like a padded, high-back seat and paddle park. Or paddle as-is for a fun, simple boat for casual or family kayaking. The high-quality materials and Pyranha’s kayak design experience set this recreational kayak apart from the ones you’ll find on the shelves of big-box stores.

Finally, Pyranha’s Master TG and TG Lite are designed for paddlers new to whitewater. These are great, forgiving kayaks for anyone looking to start paddling or transition from recreational paddling to a bit of easy whitewater. The TG Lite is a downsized version specially designed for young paddlers.

Most Pyranha kayak models come in multiple sizes (small, medium and large) with a size chart listed in the specs. Some paddlers may want to size up or down depending on the rivers they are paddling, choosing a larger size for the additional volume the kayak provides.

Use this as a start, and remember that online research will only get you so far. The best advice we can offer is to always test paddle before buying any boat. The more time you can spend on the water in a similar style of kayak, the better the purchasing decision you will make.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Pyranha kayaks.

Old Pyranha kayak models

Trends come and go, and you might come across a new, discontinued Pyranha kayak or a secondhand kayak that is no longer made. Chances are, we’ve reviewed it in Paddling Magazine. Browse our archives to find reviews of past models.
Pyranha kayaks discontinued

Some Pyranha kayak models have been discontinued, but you still might find them on sales floors or the used market. If there’s an older model that you love but can’t find, chat with your local Pyranha dealer. Many of Pyranha’s newer models inherit characteristics from classic designs, and they can help you find one that fits the same niche on the water.
Pyranha kayak size guide

Unsure what size Pyranha kayak will offer the best fit? Check the size guide provided with each model’s specifications. Most Pyranha kayaks come in Small, Medium and Large iterations. If there’s only one size, check the recommended paddler weight listed in the specs.
How long is a Pyranha kayak?

Pyranha kayak lengths vary between models and slightly between sizes. You may find a six-inch difference in length between the small and large versions of the same kayak model.
Pyranha kayaks price

Prices of Pyranha kayaks vary between models. Compared to other whitewater kayak companies, these are average prices for high-performance boats.
Pyranha kayak dealers

Find a Pyranha kayak dealer near you by using their dealer locator tool.
Where are Pyranha kayaks made?

Pyranha kayaks are made in their factory in Great Britain. The factory also makes kayaks for their sister companies, P&H Sea Kayaks and Venture recreational kayaks.

Photo: Courtesy Pyranha

Pyranha kayak reviews

Paddling Magazine has reviewed nearly every Pyranha kayak on the market. Click on the links below to read unbiased reviews from our team and paddlers who own the kayaks. This can help you decide if the boat is the right fit for you.

How To Pick The Perfect Women’s Paddleboard

Courtney Sinclair

September 8, 2025

woman stands beside paddleboard silhouetted in the sunset — Feature photo: Chilmars/Pexels

The selection of women’s standup paddleboards seems to grow by the day, and with so many choices on the market, this article will help narrow down the options to help you find the best paddleboards for women.

When we say the best standup paddleboard for women, we’re not referring to those paddleboards which are simply a pink or purple remake of a generic model and are marketed as “for women.” We are talking about the actual best suited paddleboards on the market for adventurous moms or cool aunts paddling with kids on board, for women looking to take their fitness on the water or enter a race, and for women who love to SUP with their pup.

We’ll also round up the best paddleboard designs tailored for women who paddle surf, run rapids, enjoy paddleboard camping, paddle out on day trips, relax and enjoy a sunset on their paddleboard, or practice SUP yoga.

Although not all paddleboards are designed with women in mind, with the right information on what to look for, you’ll be able to identify which features and sizing make for the best paddleboards for women. The best standup paddleboard for a woman takes into account her height and weight, her intended use of the paddleboard and any desired features, her strength, and the weight and ease of lifting and carrying the paddleboard. The length, width and volume of the paddleboard, the comfort and placement of the carry handle, and the shaping of the paddleboard all come into play—you deserve to have it all.

It’s also helpful to know what doesn’t work for many women paddleboarders. Here are some of the most common problems with generic standup paddleboards:

The paddleboard is too long for its intended use
The paddleboard has too much volume, making it cumbersome on the water
The paddleboard is too heavy to easily maneuver and load/unload on a vehicle
The paddleboard is too wide for comfortable paddling and carrying
The paddleboard carry handle style hurts the fingers during transportation

Steer clear of these issues by choosing a SUP board that fits you and your paddling aspirations. Read on for buying advice for new and used women’s paddleboards, as well as links to reviews and top paddleboards for women.

Shopping for a used women’s paddleboard?

Shopping used is a great way to save some cash on a secondhand women’s paddleboard, but there are some key things to consider when buying a “new to you” SUP for women.

When looking at used boards, don’t allow yourself to get caught up in what is seemingly a great deal without asking, “Is this the right paddleboard for me?” Ask yourself if the paddleboard were new and at a higher price point, would you still consider it? Does it have the appropriate sizing, functionality, features and weight that is best suited for you and your paddling needs, or is it simply appealing at this price?

Similarly, don’t get caught up in flashy graphics or an eye-catching design without considering whether you’ll be happy with the paddleboard’s performance, and if you’ll be able to carry and lift it easily. Before buying a used standup paddleboard, pick up the board to ensure that it is light and comfortable enough to transport.

The last thing you want to do is invest in a board that is hard to move and lift for securing on the top of a vehicle. It is also worth noting how the carry handle feels in your hand when moving the board, as some designs can be really uncomfortable.

Wear A Life Jacket

Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

The absolute best way to know how a paddleboard feels and performs on the water is to take it for a test paddle. Ask the seller to meet at a location where you can try the board out on the water. Don’t forget to bring a paddle and PFD (unless these are included with the sale) and wear the clothes you plan to paddle in. If a SUP paddle is part of the used package, this is a great added value, but be sure it is sized appropriate to your height and intended use.

For more general tips on what to look for in a used standup paddleboard and how to determine the condition of the used board, read our article How To Buy A Used Paddleboard.

Women’s paddleboard buying guide

Like any outdoor equipment that is advertised as women-specific, some paddleboard manufacturers do a great job of considering real women’s needs and desires, while others simply re-issue generic boards in different colors or graphics. We’ll share what features are better suited to women on average, and how to tell whether a paddleboard is actually appropriate for women or just clever marketing.

As a female standup paddleboard instructor, around 90 percent of my clients are women. Although some of them use women’s standup paddleboards that they love and work well for them, it is also common for women to show up with paddleboards that aren’t exactly the best match. Earlier, I mentioned these common problems with women using ill-suited generic paddleboards:

The paddleboard is too long for its intended use
The paddleboard has too much volume, making it cumbersome on the water
The paddleboard is too heavy to easily maneuver and load/unload on a vehicle
The paddleboard is too wide for comfortable paddling and carrying
The paddleboard carry handle style hurts the fingers during transportation

So now that we know what to watch out for, this leads to the question, “What should I look for in a women’s paddleboard?” Consider these guidelines to narrow down the best paddleboards for women.

Appropriate sizing

In North America, the average height of a woman is 5’4” while the average height of a man is 5’9”. On average, North American men also weigh about 30 lbs more than women. Of course, these are just averages and there will be plenty of variation for both men and women, but let’s use these values to better understand paddleboard sizing.

Most paddleboard designs are unisex—in other words, they aren’t targeted to a particular gender. Yet most of these generic paddleboards are designed at the upper limits, with the average height and weight of a man in mind. You can see how a smaller-than-average woman might find herself with an oversized board.

So how do you size appropriately? There is a sweet spot in terms of paddleboard length, recommended weight capacity and volume. Typically, the weight of the paddler is used to determine the required length and volume of the paddleboard. Here is a general guideline for beginners:

Weight on board	Recommended length
Under 150 lbs	9’6” to 11’
150–225 lbs	10’6” to 12’6”
Over 225 lbs	11’6” to 14’

The volume of a paddleboard is related to its buoyancy, and therefore its recommended weight capacity. It is important to confirm that you are within the maximum weight capacity of the board and have accounted for additional weight such as kids, dogs or camping gear that you may also carry. You don’t want to be too close to the maximum weight capacity or the paddleboard may feel unstable and sluggish.

Performance will also suffer if you are near the bottom limit of the suggested weight range. Instead, look for a board length and volume that puts your weight mid-range in the “sweet spot” of recommended weight capacity.

For reference, at 5’7” and about 170 lbs I had a challenging time handling a board that was 14 feet long, but really enjoyed paddleboards in the 11’6” to 12’6” range.

Intended use of the paddleboard

There are many different ways to enjoy the water through paddleboarding, which means there are many types of paddleboards, each best suited to their different intended uses.

SUP yoga is a popular and growing activity, especially among women paddleboarders. If the main use of your paddleboard is for SUP yoga, ensure that the board width is at least 32 inches for good stability, and that the deck pad is large and well cushioned. Another handy feature is a place where you can attach an anchor, useful for stationary SUP yoga sessions.

For dog moms who love to SUP with their pup, consider paddleboards with a larger deck pad to enhance your dog’s grip and comfort, as well as to protect the board from their nails.

Women who want to use their paddleboard for distance paddles, camping or day tripping should select a paddleboard with tie-downs for securing snacks, water, outerwear and gear.

Paddleboards that have additional carry handles around the sides, front and back are great for women enjoying quality water time with kids. They can hang onto these carry handles from in the water or use them to help themselves back up on the board after jumping in.

Weight of the paddleboard

Heavier paddleboards can be challenging to carry and lift, especially in windy conditions or in handling more delicate paddleboards. It’s well worth investing a bit more in a board that is lightweight, ideally 25 lbs or less, that you are able to comfortably carry. Consider how far you’ll be carrying your board to the water, and how much weight you can safely manage when lifting the paddleboard on top of your vehicle for transportation.

Width of the paddleboard

While greater width adds stability to a paddleboard, there are two reasons why board width is often an issue for women paddlers.

The first is because in order to paddle straight, the shaft of the paddle must be vertical as the blade enters the water. For shorter women on wider boards, this means reaching their arms uncomfortably far to the side of the board to take an efficient forward stroke. Without this awkward reach, the paddle will enter the water at an angle and the paddleboard will turn rather than travel straight.

Wear The Appropriate Leash When Stand Up Paddleboarding

Always wear a leash on open bodies of water like lakes, bays, and oceans. Due to the risk of snags and entrapment, leashes should only be worn on rivers if they include a quick release attached to your life jacket.

The second issue that many women have with wider boards is that they can be difficult to carry. Once again, women who are shorter or have short arms may not be able to easily reach the carry handle in the center of the board. This is often made more tricky when a wide board is also a thick inflatable board.

For these two reasons, it is important to ensure that the width of the board allows for comfortably reaching over the side to put the paddle in the water with a vertical shaft, as well as carrying the paddleboard with relative ease.

Carry handle

The carry handle is an oft-overlooked aspect of the paddleboard that should be noted as a piece of the puzzle that makes up the best women’s paddleboards. Both the location of the carry handle and the style of the handle are important for comfort. “Soapdish”-style handles are recessed within the paddleboard and require you to carry the paddleboard by the tips of your fingers. Grab loop-style carry handles on the deck of the board allow your full hand to wrap around them.

Jodi Bigelow, owner of Ottawa-based Paddlefit, teaches paddleboarding and sells paddleboards to a majority of women clientele. He suggests looking for carry handles that allow the fingers to wrap around and make it easier to carry. “Look for brands that will offset the carry handle off-center,” he adds. “This gives smaller paddlers an option to carry a wider board and not need to have the arm length for a full reach.”

A useful accessory that helps lighten the load of carrying a paddleboard is a shoulder carry strap. Some paddleboards have attachment points along the side where a shoulder carry strap may be fastened to the board.

Visual appeal

You better believe that visual appeal is important for women’s paddleboards. A paddleboard is a big investment and the graphics, design and look of the board go a long way in the enjoyment of your purchase. I bet that if you had a paddleboard with a beautiful design that you love and makes you feel happy, you might even paddle it more often.

If it’s important to you that your board looks super cool or cute, go for it. Enjoy your beautiful board, just make sure that it also performs well. And keep in mind that you can always add aftermarket stickers, graphics and even a colorful new deck pad to spruce up a plain board.

Paddles

It wouldn’t be fair to give you all of the advice on the best women’s standup paddleboards without touching on the best women’s paddles. A quality, correctly sized paddle is every bit as critical to having a positive paddleboarding experience as the board itself.

Don’t invest all of your budget on a paddleboard and then pair it with a big, clunky paddle. Keep a few dollars set aside so that you can upgrade from heavy, entry-level paddles with plastic blades and metal shafts to a lightweight fiberglass or hybrid resin-fiberglass paddle. Your shoulders will thank you.

Adjustable paddles are the best way to go when starting out—they are versatile and can be used by paddlers of different heights by easily adjusting the length. Adjustable paddles also allow you to play around with the paddle length to determine your sweet spot. To determine a rough paddle length, place the tip of the blade on the ground, extend an arm above your head, and adjust the paddle so that the handle hits around your wrist.

Some SUP companies create paddles designed with women in mind, with smaller shafts to suit smaller hand sizes for a more natural and comfortable grip on the paddle. For petite women, a paddle blade size of between 75 and 80 square inches is recommended, while stronger or more aggressive paddlers can use a blade size between 80 and 85 square inches. If a paddle blade is too large, it will be tiring to pull the blade through the water and put a lot of stress on your shoulder.

A note on inflatable paddleboards

For inflatable paddleboards, invest in an electric pump and the appropriate valve adapter, as required. Using a manual hand or foot pump to inflate the board takes about 10 minutes and requires a fair bit of effort and energy. An electric pump will get you on the water faster and easier, and can really improve the paddleboarding experience for all women, but particularly for older women and those with medical conditions which affect strength or energy levels.

Education: Get Some!

Take a paddling safety course from the American Canoe Association (ACA), your local paddling shop or outfitter, or other reputable source.
Take a boating safety course from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons® or your own state’s boating agency.
Take on-the-water skills training.

1...131415...381 Page 14 of 381

Sinking Outdoor Ed

Best kayak paddles: Our top picks

Wear A Life Jacket

Best budget-friendly recreational kayak paddle

Aqua Bound Sting Ray

Aqua Bound Sting Ray Specs

Shaft: Straight; two-piece, four-piece

Length: 200-260 cm

Offset: 0-60 degrees

Blade area: 597 sq cm

Price: $139.95

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom Line

Best High-Angle Touring Paddle

Werner Ikelos

Werner Ikelos Specs

Shaft: Straight, bent; two-piece, four-piece

Length: 205-230 cm

Offset: 0-90 degrees

Blade area: 691 sq cm

Price: $589

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom Line

Best low-angle sea kayak paddle

Sawyer Sea Feather

Sawyer Sea Feather Specs

Shaft: Straight; two-piece

Length: 220-250 cm

Offset: 0-90 degrees

Price: $460+

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom Line

Best all-around whitewater kayak paddle

Werner Sherpa

Werner Sherpa Specs

Shaft: Straight, bent; one-piece, two-piece, four-piece

Length: 185-200 cm

Offset: 0-90 degrees

Blade area: 680 sq cm

Price: $439

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom Line

Best high-end whitewater kayak paddle

Galasport Manic MCQ

Galasport Manic MCQ Specs

Shaft: Straight, bent; one-piece, two-piece

Length: Custom

Offset: Custom

Blade area: 747 sq cm

Price: Starting at $540

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom Line

Know The Local Hazards

Low-cost paddle for beginners

NRS PTK

NRS PTK Specs

Shaft: Straight; one-piece

Length: 197-230 cm

Offset: 45 degrees

Blade area: 632 sq cm

Price: $104.95

Why I love it

Reasons to buy

Consider another if

Bottom Line

Best Kayak Fishing Paddle

Wilderness Systems Alpha Angler

Wilderness Systems Alpha Angler Specs

Shaft: Straight; two-piece

Length: 240-260 cm

TRAK
Why I love it