If your family likes visiting places with a lake or a river, it might be a great idea to invest in your very own canoe. Gliding swiftly across bodies of water in a beautiful canoe is an easy and enjoyable way of experiencing the great outdoors. They were used by wilderness explorers and Native Americans before for trade and exploration. Today, more people are enjoying the designs and materials of canoes for touring, racing, camping, and other similar recreational activities.
Choosing the best canoe for you and your family can be a challenging task, especially since there are so many options to select from. Here are a few information you need to know so you can purchase the right one:
Choosing a canoe type
There are several types of canoes to choose from. The first one is recreational canoes. They are easy to paddle and are perfect if you like flat water paddling. They’re an excellent choice for people who enjoy birding, fishing, photography, and general paddling. They’re very stable and easy to control, but they’re not as agile as the other canoe styles.
The second type you want to look into, is versatile or multi-purpose canoes. They are built to handle whitewater rivers, but they can still be enjoyed on calm lakes. They have great maneuverability and more capacity compared to recreational canoes. You can also opt for high-volume canoes that can handle heavier loads.
River canoes are for adventure-seeking people. They are abrasion and impact-resistant, which makes them perfect for running rapids. They also have high sides to protect you from splashes.
Choosing the right size
The dimensions of your canoe can help you decide which one to purchase. You must consider the people who will be using the boat before purchasing it. For example, if you’re planning to purchase a canoe for family of 5, choose one that can accommodate all members and their gear. Consider the activities you want to use the boat for as well.
The most popular canoes are in the 16 to 17 range. Longer ones are easier to paddle over lengthier distances once you get them up to speed. If you’re planning a long touring trip, look for a boat at least 17 feet in length.
It is also important to note that the wider the boat, the more stable it is. If it is narrow, it is easier to paddle. You should also remember that you can keep the water out of your canoe and increase its capacity by opting for tall sides. However, keep in mind that taller sides make the boat susceptible to the wind.
Getting value for your money
Most outdoor shops start gearing for the winter season at around the first of October since the unsold boats have to be stored. Because of this, prices go down. You might want to consider buying blemished canoes since it is common to scratch it even with your very first use. Wood-strip canoes usually retail for up to $3,000, which can be a fair price if they’re purchased from professional builders.
Purchasing the perfect canoe can be daunting, but with a little research and canvassing, you’ll be able to get the one that will suit you and your family’s needs. Now, all that’s left to do is to bring it to a nearby lake and enjoy it!
