Kayaks

[Gareth1974]

There are lots of waterways - canals and rivers - close to where I live, and I like the idea of buying a kayak so I my 8 year old son and I can go for some trips out on the water.

I don't know a great deal about kayaks, however I'm drawn towards a rigid sit on top 2 man kayak. But am I being too dismissive of inflatable kayaks? One thing that could be a factor is the weight of a rigid kayak, as I'd have to lift it on to the car roof-rack by myself.

Anyone out there with any knowledge of the subject who can give me some advice?

[Burrow01]

Topic was discussed not so long ago

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

[Flippin' Kipper]

Ridged sit on tops are probably fine, but make sure you both have buoyancy aids and helmets, too many recreational kayakers drown every year on flat water not wearing a BA. Also make sure you are aware the dangers of (even small) weirs. You may also need a waterway license to go on canals.

[Blackpuddin]

Mrs Blackpuddin and I got an Intex inflatable two-seat (+ a dog!) canoe from Amazon a month or so ago when they were on at £71, they're £100 now but still a bargain IMO. Easy to inflate, packs away nicely in its own bag so you don't need roof bars, and very stable with the skeg they supply. Interestingly we took it for its maiden voyage on the canal at Devizes with a couple of pals who were on the Feelfree situpons. They offered me a go of one of theirs at the end of the day and I immediately fell into the canal trying to execute a sharp turn. Gave two old dears sat on a bench a good laugh.