Many people focus on the speed of their kayaks. While a lot of the total potential speed of a kayak depends on it’s design. Much of the difference a paddler will feel is based on the strength of the paddler.

Other factors that affect the speed of the kayak is how much gear is packed into it. In general an Olympic athlete can paddle around 9 – 10 miles per hour, while normal paddlers average about 4 miles per hour. In windy conditions with a fully loaded cedar strip kayak, don’t be surprised to achieve only 2 miles per hour (or less!).

We rate our cedar strip kayaks and cedar strip kayak kits on speed and conduct computer simulation tests to calculate theoretical hull speeds. In addition, we take many of them out to do less scientific testing during day and weekend paddles. We rate our kayak designs based on these results. Our rating is to guide you to which design is faster than another. Though remember, “how much faster” depends on many factors and usage. Also consider how you will “really” use your kayak.

The main factor affecting the stability of a kayak is the width, referred to as “beam” in kayak terms. In calm water conditions, the wider the kayak the more stable it feels. A kayak with a wide beam tends to remain more parallel to the water surface. While a kayak with a narrower beam will feel less stable.

The deceptive item about beam width and stability is in active water conditions, a kayak with the narrower beam is easier to keep upright and maneuver. The reason is the wider beam boat remains more parallel to the surface of the water. In active water conditions, the surface of the water is angled upwards with the waves and chop. Therefore the wide beam kayak also tries to angle itself just like the water – not something you really want. While the narrow beam kayak in active conditions “tips” in relation to the water and makes staying upright easier.

The difference of one inch in beam width remarkably increases or decreases the stability of a kayak. You will be surprised. We offer three series of boats with different beam widths.

Action Fish Sea Kayak Stability

Length of the kayak mainly affects its speed and maneuverability. The amount these factors are affected depends on the size of the paddler. This is one reason why we offer the “custom fitting” of every cedarstrip kayak we make. Length is highly dependant on who is paddling the cedar strip kayak.

The shorter the kayak the more maneuverable it is, but a kayak that is too short is difficult to keep paddling straight. Also, with a shorter length there is less space for carrying gear in the cargo hatches. With our custom fitting system each boat is fitted in length to your body type. This ensures the cedar strip kayak will respond and perform as its design intended. Thus, delivering a responsive sporty turning kayak or a straight tracking long kayak.