Thesis: Kayaking is an activity with many options for different types of water.

 

I. There are four types of kayaks.

A.     The first kind of kayak is the touring kayak.

1.      It is designed to go far and straight.

2.      It is able to carry large weights, such as camping gear, in addition to a paddler.

3.      It is used primarily for long distances.

4.      It is most commonly made out of plastic or fiberglass.

a.      Fiberglass models have a fragile gel coat that easily damages.

b.      Plastic models are considered more durable, but hard to repair.

5.      They are usually 14 feet or longer, with a width of around 2 feet.

6.      Most models cost over $1000.

B.     The second type is the recreational kayak.

1.      This kayak is the most common seen on Cape Cod.

2.      Most are made out of molded plastic composite, but can be found in fiberglass.

a.      The plastic used in kayaks is called memory plastic because dents are removed by lying out in the sun.

b.      The plastic ‘remembers’ original form after several days of sun.

3.      For the most part they are inexpensive, under $1000.

4.      They range in lengths from 8 to 17 feet.

C.     The third type is the sit-on-top kayak.

1.      This type is not always considered a kayak since it does not have a cockpit.

2.      They are commonly used on the west coast and Hawaii for surfing.

3.      They are made out of molded plastic.

4.      Prices range from $400 to over $1000.

D.     The last type is a whitewater kayak.

1.      They are physically short and stubby, no longer then 8 feet.

2.      They are used in the Olympics.

3.      They are not very common on Cape Cod due to lack of whitewater rivers.

4.      They are also made of molded plastic.

E.      The best time to purchase kayaks is in the fall.

1.      Stores that sell kayaks and gear need the space for winter sports and gear.

2.      Summer demo models need to be cleared out since they won’t be used next summer.

II.  When kayaking, don’t forget your safety gear.

A.     A Coast Guard approved life jacket is required.

B.     A plastic safety whistle should be attached to your life jacket.

C.     If you are whitewater kayaking, you will also need a helmet.

III.  If you are kayaking in cool water, you may want some comfort accessories.

1. A paddling jacket is a very wise investment.

1.      They are made out of waterproof material.

2.      It will have taped or sealed seems to keep water out.

3.      The openings usually have neoprene gaskets to form tight seals.

4.      An inexpensive jacket can be had for around $100, but more technical ones can get up to $500.

2. There are many more accessories that you may need or want.

1.      A fifteen-dollar paddling leash will keep your paddle from floating away in the event of tipping.

2.      A spray skirt sized to your kayak will keep water out of the cockpit.

1. Some models seal with paddling jacket neoprene gaskets.
2. A lightweight paddle will help prevent your arms from tiring quickly.

1.      Inexpensive paddles usually are made of plastic coated aluminum and cost less then $150.

2.      Super lightweight models are made out of titanium and fiberglass, but cost around $300.

3.      Paddles aren’t sized in relationship to the paddler’s height or the boats length.

4.      Paddle length is dictated purely by preference.

5.      Paddles range in length from 90cm to 220cm.

 

Conclusion:  Even after the initial investment in a kayak has been made, much more money can be spent on safety and comfort accessories.