Best Kayak For Women [Other Kayaking Accessories Included]
Nowadays, more and more women are turning to kayaking when trying to diversify their water adventures. You can see plenty of newbies hitting the beach or shores with different types of kayaks matching their expectations. This is because kayaking is not just a good workout, it's also relaxing and calming.
Although there aren't too many differences between kayaks for men and women, certain small details can make kayaking easier for woman. The best kayak for women is supposed to be lighter and more stable. Since women naturally weigh less than men, the kayak should also have a lower maximum weight capacity.
All in all, apart from finding the best lightweight kayak, it pays off to look for other kayaking accessories as well. Again, small features can make a huge difference for women. So, what are the top rated products for women to ensure a full kayaking experience in terms of equipment?
Quick Answer:- Best Kayak And Its Accessories For Women
Our Top Pick: Best Kayak for Women
Ocean Kayak's Venus 11 Sit-on-Top Kayak
This kayak is specifically designed with the female shape and needs in mind. It features a low-deck profile and seat that is well designed specifically for women. The Ocean Kayak Venus 11 is suitable for flat water, moderate ocean swells and waves, and slow-moving rivers.
Up to 94% of all buyers find this kayak perfect. We highly recommend this kayak to any women out there.
What We Liked:
What We Disliked:
1) Sizing and Capacity
The Venus 11 model from Ocean Kayak measures 128 x 29 inches. It's slightly longer and narrow compared to a traditional kayak. This feature impacts the kayak in a way that it will glide through water with ease and also at a higher speed. It is known to be the perfect kayak for river.
This kayak is a sit on top model and has a small depression where the rider can comfortably sit. In terms of capacity, it can take up to 225 pounds.
2) Comfort and Portability
Comfort is a must when riding a kayak; after all, it's supposed to be a relaxing experience. This model comes with a top-notch hybrid seat. It's designed with a woman's shape in mind, as well as emphasising on the center of gravity.
The seat back is taller than other common kayaks and the specialty of this kayak is that it offers lumbar support. Having lower back support allows comfortable riding for hours without having to frequently change positions.
This kayak weighs only 44 pounds. This weight is considered to be quite light when compared to other models. Furthermore, it features carry handles on each side, as well as bow and stern toggle handles. In terms of weight, we find it quite challenging to find a more lighter kayak, unless of course, if you are looking for an inflatable kayak.
3) Construction and Storage
Ocean Kayak's best kayak for women is built with women in mind. One specific feature is the low deck profile. It's suitable for women due to their smaller size, making them closer to water for more efficient paddling.
Storage makes it suitable for long journeys as well, not to mention camping trips. You have a solid bungee to keep your stuff secure. There's storage both in the front and at the back. If you are specifically looking for a kayak for camping purposes, check out our reviews on the best kayak for camping.
4) Transportation and Convenience
Apart from its lightweight profile, this kayak also comes with a center handle. It's rigid and sturdy, making transportation a breeze. Its main role is to allow easy car topping. You can easily mount the kayak on top of your car with its unique system. Moreover, it's compatible with pretty much most rooftop racks.
In terms of convenience, you'll find the paddle holder a major improvement. It's located on the right side of the kayak, convenient for you to rest after long hours of paddling.
In addition, it comes with a pull tab for quick release and attach. This feature might feel challenging at first when trying to attach the bungee to the respective button but you'll get used to it after a few tries.
5) Small Features and Optional Accessories
This kayak has its own efficient drain plug. Taking water out of it will only take a few seconds. It also features a skid plate to protect your kayak from damage and enhance durability.
There are more accessories you can purchase for this kayak – some of them can be more important than others, depending on what you are trying to achieve in your kayaking adventure.
For example, the 6 inch cam lock hatch in the center can add to your convenience in terms of storage. It's perfectly compatible with this model because it is also made by Ocean Kayak. However, it must be purchased separately.
It's also worth noting that 1% of gross sales is donated to the Breast Cancer Fund by the manufacturer.
Key Specifications
The Pros and Cons
PROS
CONS
Other Accessories
1. Best Women Life Jacket
Stohlquist Cruiser Life Jacket
What We Liked:
What We Disliked:
Design and Comfort
Apart from looking for women's kayaks for sale, make sure you invest in the right accessories as well. A life jacket is a must. This model from Stohlquist Waterware is designed with the female body in mind. Basically, it features contoured inner cups for the bust, but it also wraps around the core without putting uncomfortable tension on it.
The foam used in its composition adapts to the shape and size of your bust. It comes with flexible seams to support the adjustable foam construction.
It's available in a few different colors, as well as more sizes. Make sure to check the manufacturer's size chart for a good decision.
Efficiency and Convenience
Efficiency is more important than appearance, especially when it comes to life jackets. Luckily, this model leaves no room for mistakes. It has an efficient cross chest cinch strap. It prevents the jacket from going up towards the neck, but it also keeps you floating high if you roll over. Cinch straps are wide and can secure the fit in place, not to mention promoting the airflow.
While most jackets feel bulky and can affect your freedom of movement, this one makes an exception. It features a solid 1.5 inch webbing belt, as well as shoulder straps. Even when fully inflated, it will not get in the way, but allow full movement.
Storage and Ventilation
In terms of storage, you have a few zippered pockets, which also feature drainage ports. You can store your essentials. There are no waterproof pockets though. All in all, the four way lash tab allows attaching other types of safety equipment too.
Sides are open for a top-notch ventilation. At the same time, the life jacket features mesh around the shoulders, as well as the back.
Durability and Safety
The life jacket is made from Cordura nylon shell. It's extremely durable and will take a good beating. It can withstand UV rays as well, so it will maintain its vibrant colors for ages.
Safety goes even further with the reflective accents around the jacket. You have such sports on the back and front, so you're more visible, even in low lighting conditions. For more information on what to wear for kayaking, check out this article.
Key Specifications
The Pros and Cons
PROS
CONS
2. Best Kayak Shoes for Women
ALEADER Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes
What We Liked:
What We Disliked:
Design and Durability
It pays off going a bit further from looking for the best recreational kayaks out there, as certain equipment is just as important. Kayaking shoes are designed to last, ensure a good traction and provide some protection.
This model is based on fabric. It has a perfect ventilation, so your feet will never sweat. Moreover, even if you roll over, water will instantly drain out. The sole is made from rubber. It's flexible, durable and comfortable, even if you have to step on rocks.
Construction and Efficiency
The upper is made from a durable air mesh, which allows feet to breathe. The midsole carries the Solyte quality standards. It's lightweight, durable and bouncy.
As for the outsole, you can count on exceptional traction in all kinds of conditions. You can literally walk on wet and slippery rocks with no risks at all.
The ComforDry sockliner is cushioned, but it also keeps feet cool and dry. It provides a healthy shoe environment.
Key Specifications
The Pros and Cons
PROS
CONS
3. Best Kayak Pants for Women
DIVE & SAIL Neoprene Pants
What We Liked:
What We Disliked:
Friction and Comfort
The neoprene wetsuit comes in a few colors and multiple sizes. Each model carries the same quality standards. You have a hydrophobic skin on the outside, which feels like rubber.
In other words, it works just like Teflon works in a pan. If you roll over while kayaking or you want to swim, the surface will become slippery in contact with water and you'll glide in a more comfortable way.
Comfort goes further than that though – you benefit from stretchy pants that you won't even feel on your body. They adapt to the shape of your body without putting too much pressure. From this point of view, sizes are more general, as one size can obviously fit differently shaped people.
Design and Flexibility
The pants limit the water entry and keep you relatively dry on the inside, even if you actually go swimming. While some water may still go through when you dive, chances are it won't make your pants too heavy. It won't reduce the speed or buoyancy either. If you don't go underwater, you'll probably stay dry the whole time.
Given the stretchy design, flexibility will never be an issue. You want freedom of movement, but you also need a proper stroke when you swim or dive.
Key Features
The Pros and Cons
PROS
CONS
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy our best kayak for women review. In conclusion, having a kayak is not everything, as you'll need more equipment for safety and comfort.
A life jacket is a must for safety, while kayak shoes will add to your comfort and efficiency. Also, a proper wetsuit will help when you roll over or decide to swim. Even if you don't want a whole suit, make sure you get at least a pair of neoprene pants.
