Kayaks have, in recent years, made a comeback as one of the best outdoor sports and hobbies. And, unlike canoes, kayaks offer individuals a more action-packed experience, generally moving faster and quicker through the water.
However, with the popularity of kayaking growing, there may be certain terms that may seem foreign and unusual, even to seasoned kayakers. One such term is decked kayaking. Below, we are going to review what is a decked kayak and how a decked kayak differs from other forms of kayaking.
Understanding What is a Decked Kayak
A decked kayak, in short, is simply a sit-in kayak. Decked kayaks differ from a sit-on-top kayaks and are generally a personal preference as to which one you should choose. However, it is important to note that decked kayaks, that is a sit0in kayak, is a more traditional kayak and typically the more popular choice for newer kayakers.
Similarly, a decked kayak offers greater control of the paddle and offers a more enclosed space around a kayaker’s lower body. Both the control and the enclosed space can make a decked kayak a more attractive choice and one in which newer kayakers may feel more comfortable steering.
Differences Between Decked Kayaks and Sit-on-Top Kayaks
As we mentioned above, a decked kayak is simply a sit-in kayak and is a more traditional kayak style. However, a sit-on-top kayak is a newer kayak style that does not offer the lower-body security offered by sit-in kayaks.
When it comes to choosing which kayak style is best for you, it really comes down to personal preference and choice. However, below, we’re going to review some of the main differences between decked and sit-on-top kayaks.
To begin with, decked kayaks offer the user an open cockpit, wherein they will climb into the kayak, placing their feet and legs beneath the deck. This style is more traditional and allows kayakers to brace their knees off the inside walls of the hull to assist with their paddle strokes.
In addition, decked kayaks offer a skirt, which is simply a piece of cloth which wraps around a kayaker’s waist, tightening the kayaker to the inside and acting as a barrier between the kayakers lower-body and the water beneath them. This is particularly helpful in colder water and for cold weather kayaking.
If you are worried about getting your lower-body wet, then a decked kayak is your best option. However, be sure to note that if your kayak does flip, you will find yourself completely soaked from the water. Also, if you do happen to flip your kayak, don’t worry about being stuck. Kayaks are built and designed to allow the kayaker to “pop” out easily in case of tipping.
While flipping a kayak is difficult, it can and does happen. That is why you should never carry any personal items or electronics which can get damaged from the water with you on the kayak. That is also why we always encourage any kayaker to utilize a waterproof case with them, which will protect your personal items and electronics from being submerged into the water.
A sit-on-top kayak, however, does not have a dedicated space to place yourself in. Rather, you will be seated on top of the kayak, exposed to the elements. And with each paddle, wave, and splash, you will find yourself getting more and more wet.
However, sit-on-top kayaks are gaining popularity among the kayaking community. For starters, sit-on-top kayaks are simply more fun during warmer months. The splash of the water, while avoided during colder months, may be a welcome reprieve during the summer.
Similarly, with a sit-on-top kayak, you are more easily able to jump into the water for a quick dive or swim. As the kayak will not be holding you in place, you are more freely able to move around, jump into, and jump back on to the kayak with ease.
Lastly, sit-on-top kayaks are a great option for anyone nervous about tipping. If you do tip on a sit-on-top kayak, it is much easier to flip the kayak to proper positioning and to climb back on. Although it might not be done in the most stylish of manners, it is definitely easier to do so on a sit-on-top kayak.
However, do note that a sit-on-top kayak is more difficult to steer with power and force than a decked or sit-in kayak. Due to the reduced leverage and your inability to utilize your knees for added support, you will need to rely on your own upper-body strength to paddle and steer the kayak.
How to Choose the Right Kayak for You?
While choosing the right kayak for you may seem like a straightforward a relatively easy choice, choosing the wrong kayak can lessen the fun and make your experience more difficult. In general, there are a few choices to consider before purchasing a kayak.
The first, and perhaps most important, is style. Will you be kayaking in a warmer or colder climate? Do you mind getting wet? Do you want more control and power over the kayak, or would you rather have more freedom and flexibility in how you move?
Depending on your own personal preference, you can choose between a decked kayak or a sit-on-top kayak. Again, there is no wrong answer, but it all really depends on what you are trying to achieve by purchasing one.
Secondly, when it comes to deciding between a decked kayak or a sit-on-top kayak, price is almost always a factor. However, from our own research, both styles are generally within the same price point. This makes choosing between the two a bit easier as you will only be spending a bit extra for either.
Lastly, you will want to consider use. If you plan on using a kayak on larger lakes and open waterways, then you should opt for a longer, narrower kayak. Similarly, if you are looking to kayak longer distances, then a longer, narrower kayak is your best bet.
However, if you are looking to leisurely kayak, then you should consider a kayak that is shorter and wider. These kayaks will give you more room to sit-in or on and will be easier to maneuver and steer.
Best Decked Kayaks to Buy Right Now
Please note, we here at Ball Are Life are part of the Amazon Affiliate Program. This means we may receive a small commission from any purchases made via our links below. While we appreciate the added commission, it in no way impacts our ratings or reviews. Simply put, we never recommend anything we would never use.
Lifetime Payette Decked Kayak – the Lifetime Payette Decked Kayak is our personal recommendation for the best decked kayak on the market and for good reason. At an affordable price point, this kayak offers a deep center console, providing you with ample space to sit, recline, and stretch on longer kayak trips. With an included paddle and a lightweight design, you’ll be able to transport this kayak with ease.
Pelican Performance Decked Kayak – if you’re looking to take your kayaking experience up a notch, then the Pelican Performance Decked Kayak is for you. With superior agility, excellent tracking, and world-class stability, this kayak gains speed quickly while maintaining control in an effortless manner. Though a bit pricier than some other kayaks, you’ll have a blast with its deep V hull and 12-foot-long design.
Aqua Glide Noyo Inflatable Decked Kayak – the Aqua Glide Noyo Inflatable Decked Kayak is a great option for beginners who are looking for a decked kayak that is easy to store, carry, and setup. With an inflatable design, you can carry this kayak with ease and with a superior skirt design, you will remain dry and secure while seated inside. However, this kayak is designed for recreational use only and should not be used on rougher, more turbulent waters.