Picking the right kayak makes for the best kayaking experience based on a number of factors. They include the environment, weather and even your own ability. And there are almost as many different styles and types available as there are differing needs and requirements.
Ocean/fishing kayaks are designed for stability. A flat-bottom concept allows for this principle, giving greater dependability to fisherman and kayakers exploring waters with higher swells. This design is also great for stability for fisherman while casting.
In exchange for this unwavering design component- and because they sit atop the water- ocean/fishing kayaks are much slower in the water and tend to wag back and forth with each paddle push. This design implements a smooth ‘U’ shaped, rounded chine and surrender the ‘V’ shape to kayaks with more dynamic design.
River kayaks with ‘V’ shaped hulls offer a much more dynamic experience. They also allow the kayaker to push through water with much less effort. They subsequently offer a much quicker ride through the water, cutting through smoother, less volatile waters. The ‘V’ shape gives the kayaker more stability and resistance from the kayaker’s paddle push, giving a much more unwavering course.
Touring kayaks offer the same benefits of a ‘V’ shaped hull and unwavering resistance. But with the longer design, and more room for cargo and deck hatches, touring kayaks are great for camping and longer tours in more pristine water conditions.
With both river and touring kayak designs, with the ‘V’ shape sit-in-water design, the kayaker surrenders stability in the water. Not advisable for choppier conditions, kayaks with ‘V’ shaped hulls for quieter water conditions. This is especially applicable to conditions found on rivers and bays, whereas the ‘U’ shaped designs are more sea faring for swells found on the sea and larger bays.