In today’s modern world of kayaking, it’s easy to get lost in all the different brands and models that are available on the market. However, if you enjoy kayaking and you own a kayak, you already know that buying a kayak is not cheap.
There are many expensive kayaks if you want the best quality. If you are looking for a cheap kayak, you may be disappointed with the quality and performance.
When it comes to kayaks, most people think that the cheaper the kayak, the better. After all, who wouldn’t want to save money on such a big purchase? But as it turns out, buying cheap kayaks is actually a bad investment. In this blog post, we’re going to explore some of the reasons why.
Why You Should Even Consider Buying a Kayak in The First Place
1) Kayaks are great for exercise – kayaking is a great form of exercise. It works your entire body, and it’s a lot of fun too!
2) Perfect for exploring – kayaks are the perfect way to explore new waterways and see some amazing scenery.
3) Kayaks are also affordable – contrary to what you may think, kayaks are quite affordable. You can get a great quality kayak for a fraction of the price of a motorboat.
4) They are also easy to store – kayaks are very easy to store. They can be stored in a garage or shed, or even taken on holiday with you.
5) Great for family fun – kayaking is a great activity for the whole family. Kids love it, and it’s a great way to get some exercise together.
6) Kayaks are perfect for fishing – kayaks are the perfect way to go fishing. You can get to hard-to-reach spots and have complete control over your boat.
So, now that we know why kayaks are so great, let’s look at why buying a cheap kayak is not a good idea.
Why Buying Cheap Kayaks Is a Bad Investment
1. Low-quality materials
One of the biggest problems with cheap kayaks is that they are made with low-quality materials. This means that they are not going to last as long as more expensive kayaks.
In fact, you may find that your cheap kayak starts to fall apart after just a few uses. Also, the materials used in cheap kayaks are often not very comfortable, which can make paddling a lot less enjoyable.
2. Poor design
Cheap kayaks often have poor designs, which can lead to a number of problems. For example, they may be unstable and difficult to control, which can be dangerous. They may also be difficult to paddle, which can make it difficult to get anywhere. In addition, cheap kayaks often have poor ventilation, which can make them very uncomfortable to use in hot weather.
3. Limited features
Cheap kayaks usually don’t have many features, which can be a big problem. For example, they may not have storage space, which can be annoying if you want to take anything with you on your kayaking trip.
They may also not have a seat, which can be very uncomfortable. So if you are looking for a kayak with lots of features, you should definitely avoid the cheap models and go for expensive kayaks.
4. Poor performance
Cheap kayaks often perform poorly compared to more expensive kayaks. This is because they are not as well-made, and they don’t have the same features. This can mean that you will struggle to keep up with other kayakers or that you will have trouble getting to your destination.
It can also be dangerous to use a cheap kayak in rough water, as it may not be able to handle the conditions. Poor performance can also lead to a lot of frustration, which is not what you want when you are out on the water.
5. Inability to upgrade
One of the biggest problems with cheap kayaks is that they are often not upgradable. This means that you can’t add any new features or improve the performance of the kayak.
If you want to upgrade your kayak, you will have to buy a completely new one, which can be very expensive. In contrast, more expensive kayaks often allow for upgrades, which means that you can improve the kayak over time as your needs change.
6. Unsafe
Cheaper kayaks are frequently less safe than more expensive kayaks. This is due to the fact that they are not as well-made and may lack certain features. For example, they may not have a safety system in place, which can increase the risk of injury. In addition, they may not be able to handle difficult conditions, which can lead to accidents.
There are many instances of people drowning while using cheap kayaks, so it is definitely not worth the risk. So, if safety is your number one priority, you should definitely avoid cheap kayaks.
7. Limited lifespan
As we mentioned earlier, cheap kayaks tend to have a shorter lifespan than more expensive kayaks. This is because they are made with low-quality materials, which means that they are not as durable.
They may also be missing important functions, which can lead to difficulties in the long run. So if you want a kayak that you can use for many years, you should avoid the cheap models and invest in a more expensive kayak.
8. Poor resale value
When it comes to kayaks, the resale value is very important. This is because you may want to sell your kayak at some point, and you will want to get as much money back as possible. Unfortunately, cheap kayaks have a very low resale value.
This is because people know that they are not as good as more expensive kayaks, and they are not likely to want to buy one. And nobody wants to buy a used kayak that is likely to break down soon. So if you want to sell your kayak in the future, you should avoid buying a cheap model.
9. No warranty
Cheap kayaks often do not come with a warranty, which is a big problem. This means that if there is any damage to the kayak, you will not be able to get it repaired or replaced. So if you are looking for a kayak that is going to last for a long time, you should avoid the cheap models and invest in a more expensive kayak.
That way, you can also take advantage of any warranties that are offered. However, the thing about warranties is that they don’t cover everything. Meaning if something happens to the kayak that is not a manufacturing defect, then you are out of luck and will have to pay to have it fixed.
10. Poor customer service
Another problem with cheap kayaks is that the companies that sell them often provide poor customer service. This means that if you have any problems with your kayak, you will not be able to get it fixed.
In addition, the customer service team may be unhelpful and unprofessional, which can make dealing with them very frustrating. Poor customer service can be a big problem, especially if you have had a bad experience with the kayak.
11. Difficult to transport
Cheap kayaks are often difficult to transport, which can be another big problem. This is because they are often heavy and bulky, which makes them difficult to carry. They may also not come with a carrying case or bag, which can make them difficult to store.
If you want a kayak that is simple to transport, you should avoid the low-cost alternatives and invest in a more expensive model. Transportation can be a big hassle, so choosing a kayak that is easy to move around is important.
12. Not suitable for all types of kayaking
There are different types of kayaking, and not all cheap kayaks are suitable for all of them. This is because they are often designed for beginners, and they may not be able to handle more difficult conditions. If you are a seasoned kayaker, you should avoid the low-cost models and invest in a more expensive kayak.
That way, you can be sure that you are getting a kayak that is suitable for your level of experience. For example, if you want to go kayaking in a river, you will need a different type of kayak than if you want to go sea kayaking. Cheap kayaks are not always versatile enough to be used for all types of kayaking, so if you want to do a variety of activities, you should avoid the cheap models.
13. Less comfort
Cheaper kayaks may be less pleasant to use than more expensive ones. This is due to their construction using low-quality materials, which can make them unpleasant to operate. They may also be uncomfortable because they don’t have a lot of features.
If you’re looking for a kayak that’s simple to control and enjoyable to paddle, go with a more costly model. An expensive kayak will, without a doubt, increase your pleasure on the water.
14. There is also more maintenance cost
In order to keep a cheap kayak in good condition, you will need to invest in more maintenance. This is because the low-quality materials that they are made from often require more care and attention. I’ve recently published a guide on Kayak Maintenance, click here to check it out.
If you don’t want to spend a lot of time and money on upkeep, you should avoid the cheap kayaks. You don’t want to have to spend more money on a kayak than you did on the purchase price.
15. Can’t be used for fishing
Many cheap kayaks are not suitable for fishing, which can be a big problem. This is because they often don’t have the features that you need in order to fish effectively.
Fishing is now a very popular activity, and if you want to do it using a kayak, low-budget will not provide the necessary features. Avoid low-cost kayaks and invest in a higher-priced boat if you want to use your kayak for fishing.
16. It can’t be used for touring
Similarly, many cheap kayaks are not suitable for touring. This is because they often don’t have the features that you need in order to travel long distances. Kayak touring is a popular activity, so you should avoid the cheap kayaks and invest in a more expensive model if you want to participate.
If you want to use your kayak for excursions, you should avoid low-cost models and spend more money on a higher-quality kayak.
17. Limited storage space
Another problem with cheap kayaks is that they often have limited storage space. This means that you will not be able to store a lot of gear in them, which can be frustrating. Storage space is an important consideration when choosing a kayak, so you should avoid the low-cost kayaks that offer very limited storage. If you are looking for a kayak that has a lot of storage space, go for a more expensive model.
In conclusion, buying a cheap kayak is not a good investment. You will likely end up disappointed with the quality of the materials, the design, the features, and the performance.
Cheap Kayak Vs. Expensive Kayak
It’s no secret that kayaks can be expensive. But is it really worth spending more money on a kayak, or is it better to buy a cheaper option? In this section, we’ll explore the pros and cons of buying an expensive kayak vs. a cheap one. Generally speaking, it’s not a good idea to buy a cheap kayak. Here is a comparison of a cheap kayak vs. an expensive one:
Quality
A cheap kayak will always be inferior to a more expensive one. Because less expensive kayaks are frequently created from poor-quality materials, they aren’t as durable and are more prone to issues.
Some of the materials used for making cheaper kayaks include:
Fiberglass: This material is often used in low-end kayaks. While it’s relatively lightweight and durable, fiberglass can be prone to cracking and warping over time.
Polyethylene: This is the most common material used in cheap kayaks. It’s inexpensive and fairly tough, but polyethylene is also prone to UV damage and can easily become brittle in cold weather.
Inflatable: Inflatable kayaks are often the cheapest option, but they also tend to be the least durable. They can easily puncture or tear, and the seams often fail over time.
Materials Used For Making High Quality, Expensive Kayaks Include:
Carbon Fiber: This is a lightweight and strong material that’s often used in high-end kayaks. It’s durable and doesn’t corrode, making it a good choice for saltwater kayaks.
Kevlar: This material is incredibly tough and resistant to abrasion. It’s commonly used in high-end whitewater kayaks.
Royalex: This is a type of plastic that’s very strong and durable. It’s often used in recreational kayaks.
Features
Many inexpensive kayaks are limited to basic features, but more expensive kayaks have a lot of bells and whistles. For example, a more expensive kayak may have a built-in navigation system, a camera mount, or a fishing rod holder.
If you’re looking for a kayak with lots of features, then you should be prepared to pay more money. However, if you don’t need all the bells and whistles, then you can save money by buying a cheaper kayak.
Weight
The weight of a kayak is another important consideration. It is one factor where cheaper kayaks fail miserably. A cheap kayak is usually much heavier than an expensive one, which makes it harder to transport and store. This is because cheaper kayaks are made of heavier materials, such as polyethylene and fiberglass.
Assembly
Another difference between cheap and expensive kayaks is the amount of assembly required. A cheap kayak will usually require more assembly, while an expensive kayak typically comes pre-assembled. This is another area where cheaper kayaks come up short because assembling a kayak can be a daunting task for beginners.
Performance
Performance is another area where expensive kayaks beat out their cheaper counterparts. More expensive kayaks are typically faster, more maneuverable, and have better stability.
They’re also less likely to get waterlogged and sink. Also, an expensive kayak will perform well in a variety of settings; a cheap kayak is best suited for calm waters only. In addition, cheap kayaks typically have a shorter lifespan than an expensive kayak.
Durability
Durability is another factor where expensive kayaks come out on top. A cheap kayak is more likely to break, tear, or puncture than an expensive one. This is because cheaper kayaks are made of less durable materials, as previously mentioned. In contrast, an expensive kayak is more durable and likely to last for many years.
In conclusion, it is not the best option to buy a cheap kayak. They may be less expensive upfront, but they’re often come with many disadvantages over expensive kayaks.
Why To Avoid Walmart Kayaks
Here is a funny video by DownSouthOutdoors where they demonstrate why you shouldn’t buy cheap kayaks and why they make for bad investments. This video was obviously made for comedic purposes however we can clearly see that the kayak doesn’t seem very stable, neither does it drain very well.
6 Situations When You Shouldn’t Buy Low-Cost Kayaks
The following blog post is a warning to those who are looking for cheap kayaks. The article will cover 6 situations when you shouldn’t buy low-cost kayaks and explain the dangers of buying new or used low-cost kayaks.
The first point is that if you are in a position where your budget is tight, then you should not buy a cheap kayak. A good kayak is an investment, and you should be prepared to spend at least $400 on a quality boat. Buying cheap kayaks can often lead to disappointment and frustration, as these boats are often made with low-quality materials and construction.
So, if you are looking for a cheap kayak, you are likely to end up with a boat that is difficult to control and won’t last long. The second reason is that if you are a beginner, you should not buy a cheap kayak. A low-cost kayak may be difficult to control and could result in an accident. It’s important to have a boat that you can trust and that will provide a safe experience on the water.
For beginners, it is advised to buy a kayak that is made with quality materials and has a good reputation. This will ensure that you have a positive experience while learning how to kayak and won’t end up wasting your money on a cheap, low-quality boat.
The third reason is that if you are looking for a recreational kayak, you should not buy a cheap kayak. A good recreational kayak will be able to handle different types of water conditions and will be more comfortable to paddle. A cheap kayak is likely to be less versatile and may not last as long. Recreational kayaks are meant for fun, so it’s important to buy a boat that will meet your needs.
Fourth, if you are looking for a fishing kayak, you should not buy a cheap kayak. A good fishing kayak will have features that are specifically designed for fishing, such as rod holders and tackle storage. Cheap kayaks may not have these features, which can make them difficult to use for fishing.
Fifth, if you are looking for a kayak to travel with, you should not buy a cheap kayak. A good touring kayak will be lightweight and easy to transport, while a cheap kayak is likely to be heavy and difficult to move. So, if you are looking for a kayak to take on trips, you should choose a more expensive kayak.
Lastly, if you are looking for a kayak for children, you should not buy a cheap kayak. A good children’s kayak will be safe and easy to use, while a cheap kayak is likely to be difficult to control and could result in an accident.
The following are six reasons why you should not purchase a low-cost kayak. If you are in any of these situations, it is advised to invest in a better-quality boat. A good kayak will provide you with hours of fun and maybe well worth the extra money.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying a cheap kayak is not the best choice. Not only are they often of poor quality and difficult to maneuver, but they also tend to fall apart quickly. Instead, invest in a good-quality kayak that will last longer. You’ll be glad you did!
Kayaking may be an enjoyable and rewarding pastime, but if you want to get the most out of your trip, invest in a good kayak.
Cheap kayaks may seem like a good deal, but in the long run, they are likely to disappoint. There are several benefits to purchasing a high-quality kayak, including improved performance on the water and longevity. So before you buy your next kayak, be sure to consider the quality of the boat and how it will affect your experience.