Paddleboards and kayaks both give you the freedom of exploring open water. Each one offers a unique experience and comes with its own benefits. However, one may better suit your needs and desires than the other. By asking yourself a few simple questions, you can decide which is the better option to start your water adventures with.

What Is Your Skill Level?

As a general rule of thumb, people who are new to all types of watercraft will have an easier time starting with a paddleboard. Since they are simpler to use and navigate, you’ll quickly get the hang of it and be on your way in no time. This is great for those who are looking for leisure and relaxation without a whole lot of hassle.

Kayaks have a steeper learning curve and require basic skills like paddling, maneuvering, and balancing. However, the learning curve is well worth it. If you do have some previous experience or you are willing to invest the time, you won’t regret it.

What Activities Are You Interested In?

In general, kayaks and paddleboards are intended for a different range of activities. Due to the speed, maneuverability, and storage capabilities of a kayak, it’s more suitable for longer excursions like fishing trips. Paddleboards, on the other hand, are great for slower and more relaxed experiences like leisurely paddling and sightseeing. Thanks to their fantastic stability, some people use paddleboards to practice yoga on the water. Others even bring their dog along for the trip.

Where Will You Be Going?

The water conditions and environment where you plan to go will have a big impact on the type of watercraft you should choose. Paddleboards are better suited for calm waters, including lakes, slow rivers, and calm coastal areas. While they can handle small waves, they are not made for strong currents and rapids.

Alternatively, kayaks are made to handle rougher conditions like strong rivers and open ocean waters. For challenging environments, a kayak is the better option.

What Are Your Storage and Transport Capabilities?

Finally, it’s important to make some practical considerations. Paddleboards are generally lightweight and much easier to move around and store, as they can be deflated and rolled up. If you’re short on space or you like to travel a lot, a paddleboard is the better choice for you.

However, while kayaks might be bulkier and more difficult to transport, they also offer more storage while on the water. You’ll need to find storage space at home and invest in a roof rack for your car, but a kayak will allow you to bring along fishing equipment and camping gear for larger excursions. (Inflatable kayaks also are available, though they do take some time getting ready for the water and putting away afterward.)

Ultimately, the choice between a paddleboard and a kayak comes down to your personal preferences. Either one can provide hours of fun on the water and is sure to be an added bonus to your summer.