Paddling a kayak is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. But before you can enjoy paddling, you need to have the right kayak. If you’re planning on paddling with someone else, then you’ll need a tandem kayak. Tandem kayaks are designed for two people to paddle together, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes. Here are the top 11 tips for choosing tandem kayaks:
Determine the Type of Kayaking You’ll be Doing
Are you interested in exploring lakes and coastal regions? Then a recreational sit-on-top kayak may be right for you on your relaxed kayaking tour. These tandems are easy to enter and exit and are a good choice for families or for taking a relaxed kayaking tour.
Recreational sit inside tandem kayaks are a great choice for lakes, ponds, and other mostly calm water environments. They tend to be wider and offer good stability. If fishing is your thing, you can upgrade to a model equipped with pedals.
Inflatable tandem kayaks are growing in popularity because of their light weight. Their flexible frame makes them a good choice for recreational river rafting.
For more adventurous paddlers who plan to cross large, open waters, a tandem sea kayak is the best fit. Paddlers use spray skirts, wet/dry suits and proper safety gear with these longer, sleek sit inside kayaks, which cut through the water with ease.
Consider the Size of the Kayak
Tandem kayaks come in a variety of sizes, from 12 feet to 22 feet. The size of the kayak you need will depend on several factors, including your height, weight, and the type of kayaking you’ll be doing.
Be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications to make sure they’ll accommodate your height and weight. Wider kayaks tend to be more stable, but the tradeoff is they don’t track as well in the water. Narrower kayaks will generally propel through the water more quickly, and in a straighter line, but they are more tippy.
Choose the Right Materials
Tandem kayaks are usually made from one of three materials: rotomolded polyethylene, a fiberglass composite, or an inflatable rubber-like material. Polyethylene kayaks are the most affordable, but they’re also the heaviest. Inflatable kayaks are the lightest, but they tend to be more expensive. Composite kayaks are lighter than polyethylene, but are the most expensive
Decide How You Want to Paddle
Tandem kayaks can be paddled by one person or by two people. If you plan on paddling by yourself most of the time, then you’ll want a kayak that’s designed for solo paddling. These kayaks have a center seat that allows you to paddle in the middle of the kayak.
If you plan on paddling with someone else most of the time, then you’ll want a tandem kayak that has two seats, one in front of the other. These kayaks are more stable and easier to paddle than solo kayaks, but they’re also wider and heavier. These kayaks are more stable and easier to paddle with than solo kayaks, but they’re also wider and heavier. They’re also helpful in group situations when a less experienced paddler can be paired with a stronger paddler.
Consider the Storage Options
Tandem kayaks have different storage options depending on their size and style. Some tandem kayaks have a storage compartment, called a hatch, in the front and back, while others only have one storage compartment in the back. Others have space under the bow and stern. If you plan on carrying a lot of gear with you, for example on a weekend camping trip, then you’ll need a kayak with plenty of storage space.
Think about Transportation
How are you going to transport your tandem kayak? If you have a large vehicle, like an SUV or truck, or you have a kayak roof rack, then transporting your kayak will be no problem. But if you have a smaller car, then you’ll need to choose a tandem kayak that’s easy to transport.
Inflatable kayaks are the easiest to transport, as they can be deflated and folded, but they’re also somewhat expensive. Hard-shell kayaks are more difficult to transport, but they’re also less expensive.
You should also consider how you’re going to transport your kayak to the water. A small handful of kayaks come with wheels, but most need to be carried to the water’s edge, which can be difficult if they’re large and heavy. A kayak cart is a helpful accessory to have on hand.
Choose the Right Accessories
There are a few essential accessories you’ll need for your tandem kayak, including paddles, a life jacket or kayak vest, and a storage bag. You may also want to purchase a kayak seat or a kayak stabilizer. A stabilizer, also known as outriggers, provides added stability and decreases the likelihood of tipping over, which gives novice paddlers great piece of mind.
The best way to find the right accessories for your tandem kayak is to talk to an expert at your local kayak shop. They can help you choose the right paddles, life jackets, and other accessories for your kayaking needs.
Consider the Price
Tandem kayaks range in price from $500 to $2000+. The price of the kayak will depend on the materials, size, and features. If you’re on a budget, then you’ll need to choose an affordable kayak. But if you’re looking for the best possible kayak, then you’ll have plenty of options.
The best way to find a tandem kayak that’s within your budget is to shop around. Compare prices at different stores and search online buying guide.
Read Online Reviews
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to read some online reviews. This is a great way to learn about the pros and cons of different tandem kayaks. Pay attention to what people are saying about the stability, comfort, durability, and performance of the kayaks you’re considering.
It’s also a good idea to read reviews from people who have the same kayaking experience as you. If you’re a beginner, then reading reviews from experienced kayakers won’t be helpful.
Talk to Other Kayakers
If you know someone who owns a tandem kayak, ask them for their opinion. They may be able to tell you things that you can’t find in online reviews. And they may also be able to give you advice on where to buy a kayak and how to transport it.
There are also a number of kayaking forums online where you can chat with other kayakers. This is a great way to get unbiased opinions about different tandem kayaks.
Rent Before You Buy
If you’re not sure which tandem kayak to buy, then consider renting one first. This will give you a chance to try out different kayaks and see how they perform. You can also ask the person who rents the kayak for their opinion.
If you’re feeling creative, you can set up a SUP as a Kayak before you decide to invest in a new kayak.
If you decide to buy a tandem kayak, be sure to buy from a reputable dealer. You should also make sure that the kayak comes with a warranty. This will protect you in case there are any problems with the kayak.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tandem kayak can be a daunting task. But if you take the time to do your research, then you’ll be sure to find the perfect kayak for you and your paddling partner. Follow these tips, and you’ll be certain to discover the best tandem kayak for your needs.