Assortment of kayaks on a river's edge - Brooklyn Kayak Company

assortment of kayaks on river shore - Brooklyn Kayak Company

KAYAK BUYING GUIDE

Find the Right Kayak for Your Next Adventure

Use this guide to narrow your options and choose with confidence

Single vs. Tandem Kayak

Single Advantages
- Smaller, lighter, easier to maneuver
- Independent control of speed and direction
- Lighter to transport
- Available in more styles and sizes
Shop Single Kayaks
Tandem Advantages
- Combines effort of both paddlers
- More room and weight capacity
- More cost effective than two single kayaks
- Great for kids and less experienced partners
Shop Tandem Kayaks

person riding single on the rear side of a tandem kayak -Brooklyn 13.0 Tandem Kayak

Expand your Horizons: Riding Solo in a Tandem Kayak

Tandem models are light enough for one person to use comfortably and easily. Simply use the rear seat and distribute cargo weight on the front of the kayak for optimal balance.

Brooklyn 13.0 Pro Tandem

Choose Your Propulsion

PADDLE
- Best for recreation & shallow water
- Easier to transport
- Easy to maneuver around rocks, vegetation, tight spaces
Shop Paddle
PEDAL
Propeller Drive
- Bicycle style motion
- Instant Reverse
- Efficient Cruising
- Best for distance
Shop Pedal
PEDAL
Flipper Drive
- Push-and-pull motion
- Adjustable for shallow or weedy waters
- Best for recreation
Shop Pedal
MOTORIZED
- Covers more water with less physical effort
- Quietly trolls for fishing
- Strong against wind and current
Shop Motorized

Man paddling a BKC single kayak for exercise

Exercise & Fitness

PADDLE KAYAKS work the upper body, core, back & shoulders. PEDAL KAYAKS work the legs and are easier to keep a steady pace. A longer, narrower HULL SHAPE will track straighter and maintain speed. A manageable KAYAK WEIGHT means it will get used more often.

MPK9 Single 2-piece Modular Pedal Kayak assembly - Brooklyn Kayak Company

Short on Space?

Brooklyn Kayak Company Modular and Foldable Kayaks are ideal for light weight transport and small storage spaces.

Modular & Foldable

Fast Facts

A close-up of a lined notebook page with printed black text about kayak characteristics: length, width, weight capacity, beginners, and motorized use.

A text-based informational graphic on lined paper background with headings for Length, Width, Weight Capacity, Beginners, and Motorized, explaining kayak characteristics and use.

How do you plan to paddle?

RELAXED RECREATION
Prioritize:
Stability, Comfort, Portability
For casual outings, choose a kayak with a comfortable seat and manageable weight. Shorter kayaks are easier to maneuver.
FISHING
Prioritize:
Stability, Storage, Accessory Options
Look for features to keep gear close at hand: rod holders, accessory rails, tackle storage, elevated seating, rudder control, and pedal-drive and motor-capability.
LONG DISTANCE
Prioritize:
Efficiency, Control, Storage
Longer, narrower kayaks maintain speed with less effort. Pedal-drive or motor capability helps slice through the current.
TANDEM & FAMILY
Prioritize:
Capacity, Stability, Transportability
Paddle with a partner, child, or pet, and share the gear and effort. Pay attention to total weight capacity, seating flexibility, and kayak size and dry weight.