Kayaks & Canoes

Explore the Water Your Way: Kayaks & Canoes

Whether you're gliding across a glassy lake at dawn, fishing a remote river bend, or introducing a child to paddling for the first time, the right kayak or canoe transforms a day on the water. These human-powered watercraft have been at the heart of outdoor recreation for centuries, and today's designs blend time-tested hull principles with modern materials to suit every skill level and water condition.

Kayaks vs. Canoes: Understanding the Difference

Kayaking and canoeing share the same spirit of human-powered exploration, but differ in craft design and paddling style. Canoeing is a recreational boating activity in which the paddler kneels or sits facing forward in an open or closed-decked canoe and propels the craft with a single-bladed paddle. Kayaking is distinguished from canoeing by the sitting position of the paddler and the number of blades on the paddle — a kayak paddler sits facing forward with legs extended and uses a double-bladed paddle. Both styles offer excellent upper-body workouts, time in nature, and a uniquely intimate connection with the water.

Types of Kayaks & Key Buying Considerations

The paddle craft market breaks down into several main categories: recreational kayaks designed for calm flatwater and casual use; fishing kayaks rigged with rod holders, mounting systems, and stable platforms; touring kayaks built for longer open-water crossings; and inflatable kayaks prized for portability and easy storage. When shopping, consider your primary water type (flatwater lakes, slow rivers, or coastal/open water), your storage and transport situation, the weight capacity you need, and whether you prefer a sit-in or sit-on-top design.

Top Brands in Kayaks & Canoes

Perception Kayaks is one of paddling's most storied names. In 1977, Perception introduced some of the first rotomolded plastic kayaks — a revolutionary innovation that paved the way for kayaking's explosive growth in the 1990s and early 2000s, making the sport more durable, affordable, and accessible than ever before. A trusted American brand specializing in recreational, fishing, and touring kayaks, Perception designs, rotomolds, and hand-assembles its kayaks in Greenville, South Carolina. Their lineup spans entry-level recreational boats all the way to purpose-built fishing platforms.

Aquaglide is a leader in the inflatable kayak segment. Aquaglide started life on the whitewater of the Columbia River Gorge in the early 1990s, where a crew of paddlers and raft guides began designing inflatable watercraft that could survive the Gorge's hydraulics without weighing a ton. For decades, Aquaglide has been the go-to brand for paddlers who want Duratex PVC toughness, EvoBeam drop-stitch floors, and elevated seating that performs well after hours on the water. Their inflatable kayaks are especially popular with anglers, tourers, and adventurers who need a capable craft they can pack and carry anywhere.

Jobe Sports is a global watersports brand with decades of on-the-water expertise. For more than five decades, Jobe has been creating unforgettable moments on the water, growing from humble beginnings in 1974 into a global leader in watersports. Their inflatable kayaks feature drop-stitched construction, tarpaulin bases, and neoprene anti-scratch panels built for durability and a smooth ride. Jobe kayaks come complete with paddles and a pump, making them an excellent turnkey option for paddlers who want everything in one package.

Finding the Right Paddle Craft

No matter your experience level — from weekend warrior to seasoned expedition paddler — there's a kayak or canoe built for your adventure. Browse the brands and models below to find the right fit for your favorite waters.