10 Best Tandem Kayaks In 2023

How To Choose A Tandem Kayak – Buying Guide

There are key features to consider when searching for the perfect tandem kayak. To help, we’ve listed all the information you need to choose the best kayak for two people!

Materials

There are many different types of materials a tandem kayak can be made of. The material directly relates to the weight, durability, and functionality of the rig, making it a key factor to consider when choosing between different kayaks.

Polyethylene is a plastic material that is commonly found in kayaks. It is a durable material that is also lightweight. It does a good job of absorbing impact and does not scratch easily. This makes it an excellent choice for the hull which routinely comes in contact with sand and rocks along the shore. However, polyethylene does have its drawbacks. If it spends too much time in direct sunlight it can warm and become brittle over time. But as long as you keep this in mind and ensure you don’t subject your polyethylene kayak to the elements, your tandem two-seater kayak will last for years to come.

Composite is a mixture of high-end material. The fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon concoction create a strong material that will stand the test of time. An added bonus is that these are exceptionally lightweight materials. Just be careful when launching and landing this kayak type as the materials are more easily damaged than the polyethylene counterpart. This material is quite easy to repair but can be a hassle to find a shop.

PVC is often featured in inflatable kayaks. Believe it or not, inflatable kayaks have come a long way over the years. The material has become strong, even puncture-resistant, and features military-grade PVC or high-quality Denier material. These are ultra-portable usually folding into a small backpack. There are also many air compartments, ensuring that you make it back to the shore even if you spring a leak.

Hull Shape

The hull shape will determine how the kayak performs in the water. There are three main types of hull shape:

Flat bottom hulls are usually found on beginner boats. The flat bottom allows the maximum stability in calm conditions. However, taking this type of hull into rough or ocean conditions is not recommended as they will not be able to cut through the surf.

Rounded bottom hulls allow kayaks to cut through the water, increasing their speed over flat bottom hulls. Achieving faster speeds also takes less effort in a rounded bottom hull as there is less friction against the water. However, this extra speed sacrifices some stability, therefore this type of hull is recommended for intermediate riders.

A V-shaped hull will propel you at the fastest speed and is good for long-distance travel. Even though they are the least stable, they offer secondary stability. This means they can be saved when they are tipped on their side. These types of hulls will be able to turn on a dime and be maneuvered easier than the other two types. They should only be used by expert kayakers.

Weight Capacity

Every kayak has a different weight capacity. Tandem kayaks will range from 400 to over 800 pounds. The weight capacity determines important aspects of your kayaking adventures, including how many people can ride in your kayak, and the amount of gear you can bring. The materials used to create the kayak play a key role in determining the riding capacity.

Kayak Weight

The weight of these top-rated kayaks varies from 30 to 100 pounds. The features and construction can add and decrease weight. For example, a rigid polyethylene kayak could weigh double that of an inflatable. Kayak weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a kayak as you need to ensure you have the ability to carry it to and from the water, and also to transport it from your home.

You might also like:

Top Best Pedal Kayaks

Length

The length is also a factor that determines the abilities of your kayak. A longer boat is harder to maneuver but is better at handling large waves and keeping a line. A shorter kayak will be easier to turn and control but is not the best choice for long journeys.

Sit-On-Top Or Sit-Inside Tandem Kayak?

When you choose one of the excellent tandem kayaks, you will notice that there are two different styles of kayaks for you to choose from. This is your sit-on-top and you sit-in kayaks. For sit-on-top tandem kayaks, you will find both of these styles available for both your solo and tandem kayaks. You may think that these types of boats are only made of hard plastic but you also do get them both in inflatable boats as well.

These kayaks, while they have many differences, share many of the same characteristics. In both kayak designs, you refer to the bottom of the kayak as the hull and the top of the kayak as the deck. As with other watercraft, you still refer to the front of the boat as the bow and the back as the stern. In both styles of boat, you will find the deck of the boat covered in bungee lines allowing for maximum storage. Both boat styles will also feature a seat and foot supports.

Of course, there are many differences as well. Sit-inside kayaks have an enclosed cockpit that allows riders to sit lower in the water. As the name suggests you sit-on-top of your kayak which gives you a significantly higher center of gravity. Sit inside kayaks always come with some sort of backrest in their seating area as well.

Choosing the style of kayak that is best for you may not be as straightforward as you think. There are many benefits to both types of kayaks that should be considered before making your choice. To start with, you may want to ask yourself a few questions, such as determining the type of water you are going to be paddling in as well as the temperatures of the water. From here, consider the pros and cons of each two-person kayak type.

Sit-on-top tandem kayaks are generally the most user-friendly as they are very easy to get in and out of. They tend to deliver a stable ride giving you a very freeing feeling as you are not confined in a cockpit. This kayak style does not have any protection in the water and guarantees you to get wet. Luckily these boats come equipped with self-bailing features that allow you to stay safe. This does, however, mean they are designed solely for warmer waters. This type of kayak is incredibly easy to get in and out of making them ideal for paddlers looking to swim.

Sit inside tandem kayaks give you a place to lower your body into making them much warmer. Providing shelter from wind and rain these kayaks are ideal for paddlers in cooler waters. Due to this protective shell, you are far less likely to get wet in this style of the kayak and therefore can paddle while wearing a full outfit of clothing. They offer a great amount of stability but unfortunately do not have the same amount of freedom to move in and out of the water as their sit-on-top partners.

Tandem Kayak For Your Dog

Recreational tandem kayaks also give you the ability to bring along your dog. Most are made of hard plastic material that won’t get damaged by their paws. A kayak with removable seats will be ideal so they have room to sit and move around without tearing up the seat. We recommend bringing along a blanket for your furry friend so they will be more comfortable. This will also provide a barrier between the kayak and your pup’s sharp nails.

It is important to consider safety before bringing your pup along on the water. This isn’t meant to be a stressful situation so deciding whether your dog is mentally fit to handle this is important. You will also want to pack for your furry friend as well. You will want to provide them with plenty of water along the trek.

This includes a safety life jacket. Even strong swimmers can struggle to get their bearings in deeper waters. It isn’t worth your dog’s life so be sure to always have them wearing a safety vest. Be sure to always consider how much heat your dog is being exposed to as well. Some dogs really do not have a strong resistance to heat.

FAQs

Globo Surf Overview

Spending your day on the lake is always a good idea. Whether you are going out for an hour, a week, or for a fishing adventure, kayaking can do it all. Bringing a friend along for your next adventure will allow you to get even more from this experience. Bring your family, or even just your dog, for a day on the water soaking in the sunshine. A great bonding activity that happens to double as an excellent upper body workout. Tandem kayak reviews agree that the best 2 person kayak should have a ton of space and high weight capacity.

More Hardshell Kayak Reviews:

• Ocean Kayaks  
• Folding Kayaks 
• Touring Kayaks
• Kayaks For Kids
• Kayaks For Dogs
• Kayaks For Big Guys  
• Duck Hunting Kayaks
• Surf Kayaks
• Kayaks For Camping
• Crossover Kayaks
• Affordable Kayaks  
• Kayaks For Women