The modern world has forced a new approach to kayak designs. Nowadays, there are kayaks made with special consideration for women. There are many different things that a woman would like in a kayak. Shorter and lighter kayaks are common as they are easier for women to carry.
These kayaks are also designed to meet the proportions of women. Such would include smaller builds, lower centers of gravity, and sometimes wider kayaks might be necessary. In this guide, I will look at how to get the best kayak for women and review the top models in the market.
Quick Picks: The Top-Rated Kayak for Women
Table could not be displayed.
In a hurry? Check our best pick above, or keep reading for product reviews and buying guide!
Types of Kayak for Women
1. Sit-On-Top Kayaks
These kayaks are easy getting in and out of. There is no cockpit; thus, there is a probability you can get wet. The chances of tipping over if you are a newbie are high. However, re-entering this type of kayak is easier.
2. Sit-In Kayaks
These are the kayaks you put your body inside a cockpit. The cockpit provides space for the legs. They are more stable than the previous ones and quite difficult to control.
3. Inflatable Kayaks
They require a pump to inflate them before use. People love them since they are light and very portable.
4. Recreational Kayaks
These are the kayaks made for once-in-a-while trips. They are quite cheap, but not the poorest of choice. They are mostly made from polyethylene and thus durable.
5. Touring Kayaks
Such kayaks are designed for long trips. The design and shape make them appropriate for paddling long distances with gear.
6. Whitewater Kayaks
They are meant to deal with rough waters. They are mainly used for shorter distances. They are the opposite of touring kayaks.
How to Choose the Best Kayak for Women
Below are different factors you should consider when purchasing a kayak for women.
Price
This is important because you wish to get value for your money. The cheaper kayaks are for people who do not wish to invest much in kayaks. You may be going for kayaking trips once a year.
Cheaper kayaks may be made with low-quality materials. So, take your time to research more about the various options available.
For those that wish to access more kayak features, they should for the moderate to expensive kayaks. They are made of durable materials, thus lasting longer.
Weight of the Kayak
Most women would like a lightweight kayak for ease of portability. The worst can be when there is no one to help carry it from the car to the water and vice versa. So, you should therefore go for a kayak that you can comfortably carry.
Dry Hatches
This is specifically important for women who carry a lot of things. You will need a dry hatch to carry things like a wallet, cellphone, and snacks. Such things should not get wet.
Stability
The larger kayaks tend to be more unstable than the smaller ones. The smaller ones are easy to maneuver and control. It is best recommended you go for a medium-sized kayak. A 10 feet long kayak is enough and probably the best.
Other factors like the size of the cockpit or cockpit design also affect the stability of a kayak.
Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is important for women who would like to go camping or fishing. Not all kayaks have the ability to carry such extra gear. You should go for a kayak with enough space and weight capacity to carry your fishing or camping gear.
Durability
Everyone would want a durable product. Polyethylene kayaks have proven to be more durable than the others. This is because it can withstand abrasion, abuse, and resist UV-rays from the sun. Inflatable kayaks are less durable but easily portable. Well, each type would have its pros and cons. So, pick based on your needs.
Product Reviews of the 5 Best Kayak for Women
Emotion Kayak has been producing some fantastic kayaks over the years. This model has been made available for customers who love speed.
The kayak offers plenty of storage room for your gear. The rear tank well is large and has a lacing to keep your goods in place. There is also a storage hatch beneath the deck for added storage. You may be looking to also go fishing or camping, the extra space allows you to carry the gear.
High-density UV-resistant polyethylene plastic is used to make the kayak. You have to always look for something durable and stylish also. Polyethylene offers all of the above. It makes the kayak last long and also gives you the confidence that you are safe.
When it comes to performance, it is a top option. It tracks well, and it is still very easy to handle. That is a dream for any woman beginner in kayaking. Its smaller size makes it easy to turn when you want it to. The speed is also improved, which is attractive.
It is compact and stable, thus kid-friendly. If you are a woman with a kid, the kayak allows you to have some fun time with your kid. It is also safe provided you wear your life jackets.
The kayak model weighs around 4.5 pounds. Since it is light, the kayak will be easy to transport. Plus, it fits easily on top of a standard saloon car.
Pros
- It is stable
- Durable
- Has enough storage space
- Quite fast
Cons
- It lacks a dry compartment
The recreational kayak is lightweight, weighing around 39 pounds. This makes it easy to transport. The T-handles at the rear make it easy to carry the kayak as you transport it. Having a weight capacity of 275 pounds means it can carry any woman and her gear without sinking.
There is a storage hatch with a bungee cord and a storage platform with a mesh deck cover for storage. You can store all your gear plus some extra things such as fishing gear.
The shallow V Chine design is good for stability and maneuverability as well as giving very high performance. You can handle the kayak easily in this case.
The kayak provides high-level comfort. There is a bottle holder at the cockpit table so that you can take your favorite drink while on a kayak trip. Molded footrests provide comfort landing for your feet. There is also a padded seat with an adjustable backrest. A drain plug prevents water infiltration.
It is constructed from strong materials like polyethylene. Such materials are UV-resistant and last long. The outer layer has bright colors which are UV resistant. The colors also allow you to be noticed easily when in the water.
Pros
- Lightweight thus, any woman can carry it
- Durable
- High-level comfort
- It offers plenty of storage
Cons
- Lacks rod holders
If you need a comfortable kayak, then this model is quite it. The cockpit is large and open so that you can sit comfortably. The adjustable padded seat with high back support also makes long rides more comfortable. There is also a water bottle holder.
The kayak is lightweight since it weighs 25 pounds only. This makes transportation easier. The two carrying handles at the front and rear also make transportation easier. With a weight capacity of 250 pounds, it can hold different sizes of women and their gear without sinking.
There is room to store your gear. The rear storage chamber is covered to allow you to store your items. It is also lockable with laces to keep your goods safe.
Rugged UV-stabilized High-Density Polyethylene is used to make the kayak. The material is durable, allowing you to stay with your kayaker longer.
Pros
- It is durable
- Provides comfort
- Offers enough storage
- Lightweight
Cons
- Limited to just kayaking
This single-person inflatable kayak is designed best to handle class IV whitewater. It is therefore recommended when you are going to kayak in a river. It can also be used on flat water.
It is made from a tough PVC material which makes the kayak durable. The hull is abrasion-resistant when fully inflated. You should not worry about punctures and scratches. This is especially important when kayaking on rapids that have rocks underneath.
D-rings are used to tie down the seat and the luggage. The seat is padded to provide comfort, and it can be securely attached to the D-rings. The storage space is not that much. However, there is some space behind the seat where the gear can be tied to the D-rings.
The bow and stern handles will allow you to carry the kayak into the water with ease. In addition to that, the kayak can fit in a carry bag that comes with it. With just your bag, you can go kayaking.
The paddler should be stable in this kayak. It is also easy to handle and direct it to wherever you want to. You only need a hand pump to fully inflate this kayak. In a few minutes, you will already be in the water.
Pros
- Easily inflatable
- Very portable
- It is durable
- Easy to maneuver
Cons
- Lacks enough storage space
The short and light design of this Perception Kayak makes it easier to maneuver for a woman. You will also be able to advance from being a beginner to a pro in such a kayak. It gives you confidence.
In terms of stability, this kayak comes out on top. The stability will allow you to enter and leave the kayak. Such may be important if you want to take a swim and come back.
The back and front bungee storage compartments offer plenty of room for storing essentials. The bungee cords help keep the gear in position. You can also carry extra gear like fishing gear. With a weight capacity of 300 pounds, you can carry all the gear and yourself comfortably.
Multiple footrest positions help improve paddling stability. The padded adjustable seat will go soft on your back, especially during long rides.
This kayak is versatile as it can be used in various water bodies. You can use it in slow-moving water, ponds, lakes, or coastal areas. It also accommodates different sizes of paddlers, from kids to adults.
It weighs 46 pounds which is fairly light. One woman can carry such, or if you need help, there are comfortable handles for easy transport.
The bright orange color has its advantages. You will get to be recognized easily when on the water for your safety. It is also important when being rescued.
Pros
- It is stable
- The kayak is lightweight
- Features bungee cords
- Versatile
Cons
- Lacks a backrest
FAQs
Which Kayak is the Best for Beginners?
Recreational kayaks are often the best for beginners. They are simple and have balanced features which are easy to learn.
Note that beginner kayaks are meant for flat water paddling. Do not use it in rapid waters. Start by going on slow waters before you are brave enough to challenge yourself.
How Would I Keep my Gear Secured?
There are certain expensive items that you would need to keep safe. The cord lacings in most kayaks keep the gear in position. However, they will not protect them from splashing water. Waterproof cases can come in handy here. You can keep your wallet and phone then clip them onto the boat.
Which Kayak Best Suits Shorter Women?
A shorter kayak with a lower deck profile can be a great choice. This is the best as it gives the woman a satisfying view and a feeling of added height. You would therefore paddle without overreaching.
Should I Go for Kayaks Specifically Designed for Women?
This is quite a big misconception. We should accept that we are built differently, and we may not be of the same size. Some women will not feel comfortable in the preferred shorter boats because of their size. For this reason, go for a kayak that you feel comfortable in.
Conclusion
Women indeed require kayaks that are designed differently. Take a look at the factors you should consider before buying a woman’s kayak. Different kayaks are suited for different functions. The final thing to always note is that not all women’s kayaks will suit all women. Some women may be uncomfortable in women’s kayaks. If you find a male Kayak that is comfortable, fits, and suits your taste, go for it.