If you are new to kayaking, you might find it confusing to understand the difference between a recreational and a touring kayak. If so, then you are not alone, we have all been to that place and that is why we have tried to list down the difference between the two so that you can make an informed choice.
Understanding Recreational Kayaks
The recreational kayaks are made of polyethylene, and they can be between 10 to 12 feet in length, and 27 to 30 inches wide. They are preferred by beginners, who use them on a slow moving stream. They are much cheaper than the single touring kayak, as they are made of cheaper materials. They also lack some features present in the touring ones. However, these kayaks are compared to the touring kayaks (as they are made of lightweight carbon fibres). The recreational ones are wider which offers added stability, and thus it is an ideal choice for anyone going to the lakes for fishing or photography.
However, it is to be noted that the recreational kayaks cannot cut through strong currents or heavy winds. You would also not be able to paddle fast sitting in it. They are shorter than the touring kayaks, which makes them easier to turn but they cannot be paddled in a straight line. Thus, it is not an ideal choice for kayakers who want to go for long adventures.
Understanding Touring Kayaks
The single touring kayaks are basically an upgrade of the recreational kayaks. They are longer, thinner, and come with a wide range of features that are absent in the recreational ones. They are the best choice for kayakers who want to paddle fast and further. They have a different hull design when compared to the recreational kayaks. It is because they are designed to tackle strong currents and heavy winds, unlike the recreational kayaks which give more stability and ease of usage. The hull design of the touring kayaks gives it speed in exchange of stability. These kayaks are longer too, which affects their handling- they are difficult to turn but they can easily go on a straight line. They effectively resist changing of course.
The touring kayaks have extra length, which means you would get added storage space. You can store your gear there when you take it for an overnight camping adventure. The space will help to keep your equipment dry.
Which kayak you should invest in depends on the environment where you intend to use them. If you are a beginner who has just started kayaking a lake with no currents then go for the recreational ones. But if you are an experienced one who wants to travel faster and further in strong currents, go for a touring kayak.