kayak question/cost (Austin: coupon, rentals, buying)

[oldtoiletsmkgdflrpots]

Question: do you need to spend a fortune on a kayak to be safe?

I'm asking this here in the Austin forum because I see lot's of place around where people use a and so I'm guessing there are people here with experience...or not.

[atxcio]

You can get them cheap at Academy or Craigslist. I would guess the very entry-level models, along with paddles and life vest would start at around $300-500. If you haven't already, you should try renting a couple of times first to get a feel for what type you like/need. Sit on top or sit inside? Is this for places like Ladybird Lake, or somewhere with rapids? What sort of vehicle do you have to transport it? That will impact what sort of kayak you need to get.

For me, I ended up getting a sit-on-top Ocean Kayak from Austin Canoe and Kayak (they will let you demo kayaks, if you are seriously interested). It was a bit pricier than what you'd find at Academy, but not by too much. In retrospect, I might have considered getting a shorter model that would be easier to load/unload from my SUV. But I would have sacrificed some stability and speed on the water.

[Austin97]

Originally Posted by oldtoiletsmkgdflrpots

Question: do you need to spend a fortune on a kayak to be safe?

I'm asking this here in the Austin forum because I see lot's of place around where people use a and so I'm guessing there are people here with experience...or not.

It isnt really about safety. They are all going to be safe. The more expensive the kayak the lighter the materials (i.e easier to portage, easier to paddle). I have done so many hobbies I would be inclined to rent kayaks first and once you have proven to yourself that you will keep doing it, then buy. Also I would be inclined to buy used. You will probably get a 50% discount buying used.

[sezzam]

I like to try kayaking some day. I get excited each time I see a kayak.

I have seen kayaks with decent specifications at Costco (of all the places). They have a simple one online for $300, including paddles. I'll let the kayakers comment on its safety.

[mark311]

Yes, I definitely agree that renting is the way to go for at least the first 3 times. You can use the coupon linked below to get a two hour rental off-peak for $12. You could go 10 times per year for 3 years with that rental deal and it still wouldn't have paid off to have bought your own.

Zilker Park Boat Rentals - Coupon

[G Grasshopper]

The kayaks at Zilker Park boat rentals are fine, but they have very little back support. If this might be a problem for you, take some kind of cushion, or use an extra life vest for a back support. If you buy your own, you can make sure it works with your back.

[oldtoiletsmkgdflrpots]

Thank you. All good advice. Just throwing around the idea so far.