There are a lot of different things to learn when getting into kayaking. When researching which kayak is right for your needs, it is important to understand the terms you’ll run into when shopping for a kayak. Sit-on-top kayaks and sit-in kayaks have several differences that are important to note. This guide will provide an in depth look at the different parts of a kayak as well as the anatomy of a paddle. 

Sit-On-Top Kayak Anatomy

A sit-on-top kayak is unique in the sense that there is no closed cockpit. Instead, you sit directly on the top side of the kayak. These types of kayaks are great for warmer weather because the open style lets water in to cool you down. Lifetime Kayaks are equipped with scupper holes that help water drain from the kayak. It may surprise people to find holes in their kayak, but the scupper holes actually drain water and do not cause the boat to sink. Think of an innertube. Though it has a hole in the middle, it doesn’t cause the innertube to sink.

Regardless, here is a quick description of the different parts of a sit-on-top kayak:

1. Deck: Top side of the kayak
2. Hull: Bottom side of the kayak
3. Keel: The ridge that runs along the bottom of the boat from bow to stern
4. Seat: The area of the cockpit designated for seating
5. Hatch: Inner storage area for better water resistance
6. Footwells/Foot braces: Footwells provide multiple fixed footrest positions while foot braces allow you to adjust where your feet will rest
7. Deck Bungee: Bungee used to strap loose items to the deck
8. Tankwell: Additional above deck storage
9. Carry Handle: Handles around the kayak to assist in transport
10. Skeg: Fixed fin on the bottom of the boat that helps the boat move straight
11. Paddle Keeper: Ties paddle to kayak to prevent loss
12. Scupper Holes: Helps drain water from the cockpit

Sit-On-Top kayaks offer a wide range of mobility you have while kayaking because of the open setting. It is a bit easier to move around on the kayak while paddling. This style is often preferred when looking to do activities like fishing. Lifetime has a wide variety of sit-on-top kayaks perfect for beginning and intermediate kayakers. Feel free to shop Lifetime for sit-on-top kayaks and find your next great adventure! 

Sit-In Kayak Anatomy

Sit-in kayaks are often thought of as the more traditional style of kayak. You sit inside of the kayak instead of on top. While the two styles may look different, both have many similarities, but both also have some differences. Here is a look at the anatomy of a sit-in kayak:

1. Deck: Top side of the kayak
2. Hull: Bottom side of the kayak
3. Keel: The ridge that runs along the bottom of the boat from bow to stern
4. Seat: The area of the cockpit designated for seating
5. Cockpit: The internal area of the kayak where the seat is located
6. Coaming: The lip around the cockpit
7. Deck Bungee: Bungee used to strap loose items to the deck
8. Hatch: Inner storage area for better water resistance
9. Carry Handle: Handles around the kayak to assist in transport
10. Skeg: Fixed fin on the bottom of the boat that helps the boat move straight
11. Paddle Keeper: Ties paddle to kayak to prevent loss
12. Thigh Pads: Pads on the interior of the kayak to cushion your thighs

Because you sit inside of the kayak, there is more protection from the water. People tend to choose a sit-in kayak during colder weather. Because you are enclosed within the kayak, you can also utilize your legs for maneuverability. Pushing against the sides of the kayak with your legs let you take sharper turns on the water. Take a look at Lifetime’s selection of Sit-In Kayaks and find the best kayak for your next vacation.

Boat Directions for Kayakers

You may have seen a movie with pirates yelling, “starboard! Starboard!” While you may know that it is a direction, you may not know what direction that is. Here is a quick look at the different words used to indicate directions while on the water:

Directions:

1. Bow: Front of the kayak
2. Stern: Back of the kayak
3. Port: Left side of the kayak
4. Starboard: Right side of the kayak

Anatomy of a Paddle

Without a paddle, there’s not a lot you can do on a kayak. A paddle is your most important tool when out on the water. Like a kayak, there are different parts to a paddle. Here is a quick look at the anatomy of a paddle:

1. Tip: The end of the blade
2. Blade: Wide portion of the paddle used to push through the water
3. Drip Ring: Rubber ring that prevents water from running down the shaft
4. Shaft: Acts as the handle for the paddle
5. Throat: The part of the shaft that turns into the blade
6. Spine: The part of the shaft that extends into the blade
7. Joint: The point that connects a two piece paddle together
8. Power Face: Side of the blade that captures water as you stroke forward
9. Non-Power Face: The back side of the blade

Find Sit-On-Top Kayaks and Sit-In Kayaks from Lifetime

Lifetime offers a wide variety of recreational kayaks for beginning and intermediate kayakers. Whether you are interested in a sit-on-top kayak or a sit-in kayak, you can find the option that is best for you. Lifetime kayaks are optimized for stability and performance. Find relaxation on a tranquil lake, calm ocean bay, or slow moving river. Shop for kayaks on Lifetime’s website today!