How Long Do Kayaks Last?

Rachel · 03-10-2011, 09:27 AM

I'm thinking of buying a kayak, and it looks like a plastic kayak is the type for my budget, but I'm wondering how long I can expect it to last.

jason · 03-10-2011, 12:45 PM

I find it depends on how well you take care of it, and the initial quality. Do not scrape the bottom with rocks, drop it from the roof of the vehicle, and keep it covered from the sun when not in use. Basic things like that and the kayak should last years.

Refrigerator · 03-10-2011, 04:06 PM

I've got a Preception Dancer 25 years old and trust it on the Gualey River and New River in West Va.

Rachel · 03-10-2011, 09:21 PM

Wow, 25 years is definitely worth the investment! Thanks for the basic care tips to help me maintain my kayak for the long haul. I can't wait to get one; I'm going to look at some this weekend.

HikingGuy · 03-11-2011, 06:28 AM

We are looking into a 2 person kayak. My wife injured her back so rowing is not really her strength but now the kids are interested, so I think this is what we are going to get.

Benny · 03-11-2011, 07:33 AM

The plastic kayaks that I have seen look to be pretty durable. I am sure you would have several years of good use out of it.

TheMadPaddler · 03-11-2011, 05:05 PM

For a first boat plastic is fine. Bottom damage and Sun (UV) damage are the two biggest concerns. Most rotomolded shells will last well past ten years (and, yep, an occasional 25!) if properly protected from the sun. It is so easy to flip a boat over in the off season and forget about it until spring. However this prolonged exposure will severely jeapardize the integrity of the plastic. If kept indoors, or at least under cover, and the bottom condition is watched out for then you will get years of use from most boats on the market today. I wish the best to you on your search for the right boat and happy (safe) paddling!!

TheMadPaddler · 03-11-2011, 05:11 PM

p.s. my Old Town kayak is 5 yrs old and looks like new. I also have 2 whitewater boats (Dagger) that are 12 and 10 years old each. they are like new and get used 6 to 8 times a yr. each. My son has my old playboat that I have abused to no end. I have every bit of confidence in it for letting a 10yr old learn in it and it is 8 yrs old. I store them flipped and tarped on a trailer year round.