With all the different kayak sizes, it may be tricky to decide which would work best for you. However, length is critical when choosing your perfect kayak! Is a 12-foot kayak better than a 10-foot kayak, and what are their differences and similarities?
While 10-foot kayaks are slower, they offer more stability than 12-foot kayaks. For beginners, a 10-foot kayak would be best. A 12-foot kayak will work for light paddling but is better for more experienced kayakers. These two kayaks have little similarities, as they are for different audiences.
Choosing the perfect kayak is essential, as it will last decades if you care and look after it correctly. Wondering which is best between a 10-foot and 12-foot kayak and how to make the best choice?
Read on to find out!
10-Foot Kayak Vs. 12-Foot Kayak Similarities and Differences
Between the 12-foot and 10-foot kayaks, there are several differences and similarities in specific categories. Let’s dig into these differences and similarities to help you make the best choice according to your needs:
Transport And Portability
Though the 12-foot and 10-foot kayaks are constructed from lightweight materials, their distinct sizes cause notable weight discrepancies. The 12-foot kayak is heavier than the 10-foot kayak, making it more challenging to transport from one place to another.
In addition, a 12-foot kayak is much harder to load and unload than a 10-foot kayak. This is because of its significant size, making it unsuitable for quick and easy portability.
Carrying a 12-foot kayak requires driving an SUV or truck or using a trailer.
The 10-foot kayak’s smaller size makes it easier to transport than bulkier models; some people can even carry them on their own.
As a 10-foot kayak is smaller and more compact in its design, it makes it relatively easy to transport or carry to a designed space.
Speed
For some people, speed matters greatly, as this factor could determine how quickly an area can be explored. For example, speed kayakers want a 12-foot vessel because it is sleek and narrow, meaning it can quickly cut through the water.
This means a 12-foot kayak can cover a larger area in less time.
However, due to the difference in length in a 10-foot kayak, it can not keep up in terms of speed.
In other words, if you’re looking for a speedy kayak to discover new rivers or lakes, a 12-foot kayak would be the ideal one for you.
Stability
How stable your kayak remains when you’re first learning how to kayak can be of great help. Because a 10-foot kayak comes with a broader design and ample space, it will ensure better stability, no matter the conditions of the water.
If you’re a beginner, you will be happy to hear that you can quickly become more acquainted and experienced in the kayaking world using a 10-foot kayak!
When it comes to a 12-foot kayak, its narrow design could cause them to become more challenging in terms of stability.
A 12-foot kayak is ideal for people with few years of experience.
Ease Of Use
Ease of use becomes essential when looking at the area where you will be using your kayak. Due to the shorter length and smaller size of a 10-foot kayak, it would be much easier to move and use on more narrow streams, such as small lakes, ponds, or river sections.
However, the narrow design of a 12-foot kayak will cut through the roughest of waves and is easy to use on a lake, deep rivers, and even the ocean!
What To Consider When Choosing A 10 Or 12-Foot Kayak
Now that you know the differences between a ten and 12-foot kayak, it becomes clear that what you need will depend on your wants and needs. Furthermore, you will also need to consider some personal aspects when looking for the perfect match.
Let’s weigh the most important factors that may influence the length of kayak you will need:
Consider The Length
The length of your kayak will significantly affect how comfortable you are. You don’t want to stuff your long legs into a smaller kayak if it’s a sit-in type of kayak.
If you are taller, it may be worth considering a sit-on-top kayak. If you’re taller and want a sit-in kayak, a 10-foot and 12-foot kayak will suffice!
Think About Your Storage Room
Before you purchase a kayak of any size, you need to know where and how you will store it. Think about the space needed for both a 10-foot and 12-foot kayak.
If you’re planning on storing them in your garage, you must consider other factors, such as transporting them onto your vehicle or inside your vehicle if you do not own a kayak rack.
If space is the only thing worrying you, decide on the kayak that will fit your space best!
Consider The Gear You Carry On The Kayak
How much gear you own and how much you will be traveling with every time you go on a kayaking adventure will significantly impact the length that will be best for you.
If you have a bunch of gear that needs to travel with you and your kayak, a longer, 12-foot kayak will offer you much more storage space.
Consider What Type Of Kayaking You Will Practice
What type of kayaking you want to practice can quickly dictate the length you need. This is because different venues and styles will demand different kayak lengths.
If you’re planning on kayaking in whitewater or want a kayak for your fishing trips, a 10-foot kayak will serve you best.
However, if you’re planning on going out into the open ocean, where oceans could become rougher, a 12-foot kayak will be the ideal companion for your adventures!
Final Word
When you choose between a 10-foot and 12-foot kayak, you have several factors to consider to ensure you make the perfect choice for yourself. A better choice would always be a 12-foot kayak due to its versatility.
However, if you are only a beginner or need to save space, the 10-foot kayak would suffice.
Remember that, ultimately, your choice should be based on what you want and need! So choose wisely, and happy kayaking!
Related Articles
Sources
https://forums.paddling.com/t/10-foot-versus-12-foot/61956
https://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/207267-10ft-vs-12ft-kayak/
