Touring Kayaks – What are they & What You Need to Know (2025)

Touring kayaks are designed for paddlers who want to travel longer distances efficiently, whether on rivers, lakes, or coastal waters. Unlike recreational sit-on-top kayaks, touring kayaks combine speed, tracking, comfort, and storage, making them perfect for day trips, multi-day adventures, or even light coastal expeditions.

At Flow Kayaks Nottingham, we help paddlers understand what makes touring kayaks unique and how to choose the right one for your skill level and goals.

What Makes a Kayak a “Touring” Kayak?

1. Length and Waterline: Longer hulls (usually 12–18ft) help kayaks track straight and move efficiently through the water.
2. Narrower Design: Reduced width improves speed and glide while maintaining adequate stability.
3. Storage Capacity: Hatches and deck lines allow for gear storage on longer trips.
4. Comfortable Seating: Adjustable seats, backrests, and foot braces are designed for long hours on the water.
5. Performance-Oriented Hulls: Streamlined shapes, sometimes with slight rocker, balance speed with manoeuvrability.

Who Should Use a Touring Kayak?

• Day paddlers: Perfect for exploring rivers, lakes, and coastal areas in a single outing.
• Weekend adventurers: Gear storage allows for multi-day trips.
• Intermediate to advanced paddlers: While beginners can use them, the longer length requires more skill to handle in rough conditions.

Touring Kayak Materials

• Rotomoulded Plastic (PE): Durable, affordable, ideal for beginners or rugged use.
• Fibreglass, Kevlar, Carbon: Lightweight, stiff, and faster, suited for experienced paddlers.
• Inflatable Touring Kayaks: Portable options with increasing rigidity using drop-stitch construction.

Essential Accessories for Touring

• Paddle suitable for long-distance efficiency
• Spraydeck for open water or rough conditions
• Buoyancy aid / PFD
• Dry bags for personal items
• Thermal or waterproof clothing depending on season

Touring Kayak Safety Tips

• Always wear a buoyancy aid (Wearing a PFD is non-negotiable)
• Check weather and water conditions before departure
• Inform someone of your route if paddling alone
• Carry communication equipment (whistle, phone in waterproof case)
• Know your limits on open water

Shop: touring kayaks

Popular choices: Wave Sport Hydra 125 & Melker Varmdo 

Touring Kayaks Frequently asked Questions

1. What is a touring kayak?
   A touring kayak is a longer, narrower kayak designed for efficient paddling over longer distances, often featuring storage hatches and comfortable seating.
2. Can beginners use touring kayaks?
   Yes, beginners can use touring kayaks on calm water, but the longer hull may feel less stable than a sit-on-top kayak.
3. How fast are touring kayaks?
   They are typically faster than recreational kayaks due to their streamlined hulls and longer waterline, making them ideal for day trips or multi-day paddling.
4. Do touring kayaks work on the sea?
   Yes, touring kayaks are suitable for calm coastal conditions. Some models are designed specifically for light sea touring.
5. What accessories do I need for touring?
   A paddle suited for efficiency, spraydeck, buoyancy aid, dry bags, and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.
6. How long does a touring kayak last?
   With proper care, storage, and maintenance, polyethylene touring kayaks can last 10–15 years; composite models may last longer.