Kayak inflatable, frame, skeleton-inflatable - distinctive features

Kayak is a specific vessel, which must be selected for a particular alloy. In other words, an inflatable kayak may not be a very effective solution if you need to travel along calm rivers. In this case, preference is best given to wireframe models.

Let's look at the characteristics of individual types of boats of this category, try to determine the best option for movement in certain waters.

Kayak inflatable

These vessels include products that do not have a rigid frame. Inflatable onboard cylinders, located in the fore and aft parts of the boat, are responsible for maintaining the shape.

The inflatable kayak can be made of PVC-sheath, where removable cylinders are placed. Another solution provides for a monolithic connection of the outer protective layer with inflatable tanks, which is responsible for the buoyancy of the vessel. It is the latter option which can be increasingly seen on the market.

What are the advantages of inflatable kayaks? User reviews give the following positive qualities of such boats:

• Low weight;
• Easy assembly and disassembly;
• Small volume of the boat in the packed form;
• High patency in rocky areas, "survivability" of the vessel;
• Good stability in rough water.

At the same time, an inflatable kayak has some drawbacks. Products of this type have high sail parameters. In other words, in addition to the current, rowers often have to fight with gusts of wind. In addition, inflatable structures quite badly rise on the wave.

Frame kayaks

Products of this type consist of a lightweight aluminum or duralumin frame, covered with a dense shell. Individual models are equipped with a protective apron, which prevents the ship from filling with water.

Use frame kayaks are rational in organizing alloys over relatively calm rivers. The main argument in favor of this option is the possibility of developing an impressive speed.

Frame kayaks are maneuverable, they have a considerable amount of internal free space, which becomes an indispensable quality when you need a raft together with marching things. A special role is played by a small draft of the hull in the water column along with high payload capacity.

As for the negative qualities of wireframe models, here it is worth mentioning:

• Impressive weight and dimensions of the structure;
• Low ability of the outer shell to withstand strong impacts and contact with sharp surfaces;
• High cost of repairing the damaged frame;
• Duration of assembly.

Inflatable kayaks

Such designs combine a rigid frame with an elastic outer shell that contains inflatable cylinders. Such a structure allows to reduce the overall weight of the vessel, which positively affects the controllability indicators. At the same time, the presence of the onboard cylinders provides the boat with good stability.

If we talk about the disadvantages of frame-inflatable models, then, as in the previous version, the first place is the high cost of repair and the duration of assembly of the structure.

Tips for choosing

There are a number of key points that deserve attention when choosing a kayak:

1. The nature of the waters on which the vessel will be used. Due to the stability, inflatable products are the optimal solution for traveling over rough rapids. Frame kayaks, in contrast, are effective when you need to overcome significant distances in relatively calm waters.
2. Speed kayaks. High-speed models differ in a considerable length, which have a "sharp" bottom and are devoid of obtuse contours of the hull.
3. Capacity. An impressive useful volume is distinguished by wireframe and frame-inflatable models. If it is necessary to organize long trips by numerous groups, preference should be given to triple and quadruple kayaks.
4. Transportation. Inflatable models differ compactness in the assembled state. Therefore, it is convenient to transport them in a car. As for frame products, the latter are good for the possibility of disassembling into individual components and rational distribution of cargo between the participants of the alloy.

Eventually

To determine the best option, it is recommended in practice to assess the merits and demerits of individual types of vessels. The final choice should be based on personal preferences, own observations, the conditions of the swim, the nature of the waters and the type of terrain along which the kayak will be performed.