Trip Advisor Pro

Kayaks and paddles are a favorite outdoor recreational item, popular among all family members. They come in lots of different styles and designs. The range of choice mind spinning. Sit-on-tops are a large selling design suitable for both entry level novices as well as seasoned kayakers.

The name is self-explanatory really. This most prominent feature of this design is that it has only a mild depression on the deck rather than a fully hollow cockpit. One factor to consider is that the paddler legs are fully exposed since there is no hood cover. This might be a problem for some people in terms of wind and sun.

Approximate dimensions for a solo paddler sit-on-top might be length 3 meters, width 0.75 meters and weight about 18 kilograms supporting a maximum paddler weight of 150 kilograms, depending on the specific brand. They are generally suitable for all members of the family.

Sit-on-top models are made both for solo and tandem adventurers. There are models designed for both day trips and extended, multi-day touring treks. They are mostly designed for sheltered water courses such as estuaries, canals, rivers and lakes. Some open water models are also available. Also, some combined paddle-pedal models are available that are particularly popular among long distance tourers as well as bird watchers and quiet water fishing enthusiasts.

Accessories for touring, pedal kayaks include a dodger that protects the lower body against wind and water spray as well as providing shade. The dodger attaches to the kayak and operates like a small tent. Bungee cord ties the dodger to fittings secured along kayak. Small internal battens provide shape to the dodger. Velcro is used to seal the dodger. The entire unit folds to allow easy entry to and exit from the kayak.

Premier touring models have finely designed hulls to improve tracking so that the paddler can maintain a finely tuned course. This smooth, flowing hull with a flared bow is quick through the water and cuts through chop. They come equipped with extra storage areas, both sealed and netted.

One useful accessory worth highlighting is a dodger. It is particularly suitable for premier pedal, touring kayaks. It provides lower body protection against sun, wind and spray. It attaches to the kayak and lifts and folds like a tent. Bungee cord ties the dodger to the kayak on fittings installed on the rails. The dodger fits just forward to just aft of the kayaker. A Velcro fastener closes the dodger. The dodger folds to provide kayak entry-exit. The dodger installs in minutes and packs into a small stow bag sized about 15 centimeters by 70 centimeters and weighing under 1 kilogram (about 2 pounds).

To recap, sit on tops are a popular design for adventurers looking to equip themselves with their own kayaks and paddles. Basic models can cost several hundred dollars with better equipped kits costing up to over a thousand dollars. Premier paddle and pedal models designed for extended touring can cost several thousands of dollars. So these units are not cheap but they can be great value. Most brands provide warranties against faulty manufacture as well as extended normal use warranties. The units can be expected to provide many years of virtually maintenance free outdoor enjoyment and pleasure.