Kayak basics - What are they made of?

Most modern kayaks are made from fiberglass, usually ranging from 3 to 5 metres in length.

The cockpit, which is the hole in the "deck", is where you sit in the kayak. Some kayaks have two cockpits, allowing two people to navigate the boat.

Because of the buoyancy of the design, kayaks will float even when filled with water. The buoyancy is due to a light foam used in the design of the kayak, called polyethylene. This material is actually lighter in water, hence why the kayak will float. Polyethylene is found in the front (bow) and rear (stern) of a kayak.

Kayak paddles have a flat blade on each end of the paddle. Paddles can be made of various lightweight materials such as aluminium, wood or fiberglass.

Most kayakers feel comfortable with a kayak paddle which is around one arm’s length taller than their own height.

Inflatable Kayak
Buying, making and using an inflatable kayak.

Kayaking Types
From whitewater kayaking to calm water paddling.

Kayak Basics
What are kayaks made of?

Kayaking in Queensland, Australia
Crocs, national parks and clear blue water. What else could a kayaker want?

Kayaking in Johnstone Strait
Get up close and personal with killer whales in this natural paradise.

Kayaking Safety Equipment
A brief reminder of what to take with you when kayaking.



	Kayak basics - What are they made of? Most modern kayaks are made from fiberglass, usually ranging from 3 to 5 metres in length. The cockpit, which is the hole in the "deck", is where you sit in the kayak. Some kayaks have two cockpits, allowing two people to navigate the boat. Because of the buoyancy of the design, kayaks will float even when filled with water. The buoyancy is due to a light foam used in the design of the kayak, called polyethylene. This material is actually lighter in water, hence why the kayak will float. Polyethylene is found in the front (bow) and rear (stern) of a kayak. Kayak paddles have a flat blade on each end of the paddle. Paddles can be made of various lightweight materials such as aluminium, wood or fiberglass. Most kayakers feel comfortable with a kayak paddle which is around one arm’s length taller than their own height.	Inflatable Kayak Buying, making and using an inflatable kayak. Kayaking Types From whitewater kayaking to calm water paddling. Kayak Basics What are kayaks made of? Kayaking in Queensland, Australia Crocs, national parks and clear blue water. What else could a kayaker want? Kayaking in Johnstone Strait Get up close and personal with killer whales in this natural paradise. Kayaking Safety Equipment A brief reminder of what to take with you when kayaking.
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