Which Canoe Is Right For You?

So you want to get out on the water, eh? There are a lot of options out there for canoes. It all comes down to the type of canoeing you’ll be doing. Let’s take a look at a few points to consider when shopping for canoes. So take a look at which canoe is right for you…

Flatwater vs whitewater

If you live by more lakes than rivers you can get away with a lighter canoe that also tracks better. There is often a trade off in durability though. If you see yourself spending more time canoeing down rivers you’ll need to get a canoe that can withstand the occasional bang from a rock.

Solo or tandem

Are you looking to get out on the water by yourself for a little “me time” or do you see yourself paddling with groups? This will mean the difference between a lighter, more agile single seater vs a larger tandem canoe that can haul more gear.

Size

16 and 17 feet are popular sizes for canoes. Generally you’d only get a 17+ foot canoe for week long trips that require full days of paddling. It’s also important to grab a tape measure and figure out what your storage options are before you go canoe shopping because – they’re big. Can you slide it up into the rafters of your garage? Can you hang it on the side under the eve? Get this figured out first.

Nucanoe Frontier 10 $1000

Nucanoe falls somewhere in between a canoe and a sit-on-top kayak. We like it because it’s impossible to sink and is very stable. Kids can have fun in it all day and Dad can still take it out fishing.

The Origami Canoe $850

Not everyone has somewhere to put a 16 ft canoe. For city dwellers a folding canoe might be they’re only option. The Origami Canoe is about 3ft x 2ft when folded up. When unfolded it reaches an impressive 15 ft.

The Wenonah Minnesota II Kevlar Ultra Light $2700

This is a popular choice among serious excursion canoeists. The Wenonah Minnesota II Kevlar is unmatched when it comes to speed and distance paddling. At only 42 pounds you’ll be able to tear across the lake in no time at all.

comments