www.paddling.net

to keep up to date on "paddling news".

Hope this helps a little.

Dale

(lifejackets is passe', they are called PFDs :-) )

First, since you seem to be interested in lakes and flatwater (which would include streams and rivers, class 1 or perhaps even up to class 2 rapids) You're probably looking for a plastic "recreational kayak" or "rec kayak" these will typically be anywhere from 8-11' in length, be fairly wide (24" or more) and very very stable. They also wont be very fast and wont roll well, if at all. But, I'm assuming you are simply out there to enjoy the scenery. They can be anywhere from $300 up new and various mgfrs from Old Town to Perception/Dagger, etc. etc.

If you think of ever getting more serious in the sport or looking at oceans, you'll need to invest in a more serious kayak, which used to be called "sea kayaks" but are generally called "touring kayaks" now. These are typically at least 14' long (preferrable longer) and are sleeker and faster and track better than the rec. kayaks. You will typically use these with spray skirts, PFDs, of course, and they will have bulkheads to store things. A rec. kayak would need floatbags in them to be seaworthy due to the lack of bulkheads in either the fore/aft compartment.

That's just a general starter, lots of information on paddling.net and I simply suggest you lurk over there at least..

Jay

Be careful with the great lakes, don't underestimate it cause it's a 'lake'. The type of kayak you buy should not mask or remove the proper skills and training and the proper gear for the conditions. Doesn't matter if you buy a rec kayak, a Sit-On-Top (aka SOT) kayak, or a touring kayak or a canoe. Just some words of advice and good luck with your hunt.

Renting the boats first is a great idea, stay safe.

Jay

I was lucky, because I purchased a membership at a kayaking center with three locations (so I could go to any of them) and also offsite rentals. This afforded me the opportunity to try all sorts of kayaks for a relatively low membership fee. I used their kayaks, and spent my money on my own (good quality) accessories: PFD, composite paddle, paddle float, pump, spray skirt, etc.... Then the next season I purchased my kayak (I bought it used from the same place where I rented). (And if I'd spent big money on a kayak, it would have been painful to spend even more to acquire all that gear as well.)

One more thing: the kayak I ended up purchasing is a discontinued model made by Perception. Perception kayaks are great - the plastic ones can take a lot of abuse, they last forever, and they come in all different styles.

I hope this is helpful. I love kayaking, and I wish I'd discovered it 20 years ago!