Have you ever wondered what is the difference between canoeing and kayaking? If the answer is yes, continue reading this article where you will find all the differences between these two types of boats illustrated.
A lot of people donโt make a difference between canoeing and kayaking and thatโs fine. We too, sometimes use these words somewhat interchangeably. But when you have to choose a boat often, confusing canoe and kayak can play tricks on you. At first glance, kayaks and canoes may seem very similar, but if you take a closer look at these two types of watercraft, you will notice 5 differences.
The structure of the boat
Not all boats are the same: a transatlantic liner is not a raft, and a dinghy is not a speedboat. This also applies to canoes and kayaks.
The canoe has a pointed bow and stern and usually has the deck open. When you get on this boat, you donโt have to wear the classic kayakersโ โskirtโ. Of course, the open deck has its pros and cons. If paddling a canoe is more comfortable, especially on a very hot summer day, beginners will easily embark on the water.
The kayak has a different structure. It has the deck closed, and only the bow is pointed. The kayak angler should therefore wear a skirt. Letโs say it would be because there are also kayakers who prefer not to wear protective skirts. It is possible to embark on the water with a kayak, but it is much more difficult. Because the kayaker sits in a cockpit, which is much narrower than the interior of a canoe.
Is everything clear so far? Good! You can already correctly distinguish the kayak from the canoe. But besides that, there are 4 other differences
The shape of the blades
The kayak paddles have double blades, generally curved. The paddles used for canoeing have a single flat blade. The second difference between canoeing and kayaking is here. But the difference is not minimal. The best way to understand how double or single paddles can make a difference in paddling is to try both kayaking and canoeing.
Although the posture inside the canoe and the kayak may seem similar, in reality, the movement to be made to paddle is completely different. Also, one of the first exercises for kayak learners is to roll over and bring the kayak to the surface with a single, very vigorous paddle. This is also possible with canoeing, but itโs a different dynamic.
You have just discovered a second difference between canoeing and kayaking. So if you find someone offering you kayaks with a single-blade paddle, you know they are offering you a type of paddle that is not suitable for the boat you have chosen.
The weight of the boat
The kayak is lighter than the canoe, thanks in particular to the thinner line. Letโs say in principle because different kayak models can achieve different weights. The situation becomes more complicated if we compare inflatable kayaks with rigid kayaks and rigid canoes.
Canoe is therefore heavier. The difference in weight is evident in the way these two types of boats float. A good kayak always floats at the water level. The wider and heavier canoe generally sinks a bit more. If you live by a river where in the morning you usually see kayakers or canoeists practicing in all seasons and in all weathers, you can easily see the difference in buoyancy.
Boat speed
In the water, the same rules do not apply as on land, except for one: lightness means speed. Kayaks are boats that can be used on the water designed to be faster than canoes. Thanks to their conical structure and light hull.
The canoe is a boat designed for more stable navigation. In reality, these two types of boats are not designed for sports competitions, but for moving on waterways and for fishing. The competitive use of kayaks and canoes is fairly recent.
Then โ we add โ a lot depends on the level of fitness and technique of those who practice kayaking or canoeing. A good kayaker can reach good speeds even in a canoe, and vice versa compared to a beginner or those who use the kayak for fun rather than competition.
The session
Weโve left this difference between canoeing and kayaking for last as itโs the best-known and most cited. The different form of canoeing and kayaking requires two very different types of sessions.
Canoe users can kneel on the hull or even paddle in a semi-kneeling position, as well as in a seated position with their legs slightly bent. This type of seat is not suitable for kayaking, mainly due to the much narrower hull. The only possible position in a kayak is to be seated with the legs stretched forward.
Should we go canoeing or kayaking?
The differences between canoe and kayak are very important both for the paddle and speed, stability, and weight of the boat. Often, the choice of the kayak rather than the canoe is made by chance or also because the sportsman feels a particular โfeelingโ towards one of these two boats.
Canoeing and kayaking both have advantages and disadvantages, but we prefer not to comment on the latter, leaving our readers free to choose the boat they like the most.
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