SUP, kayak or canoe? Which one is best for you?

What is the difference between a SUP, kayak or canoe?

Do you want to get out on the water to take advantage of a sunny day? So, is it best to opt for a SUP, a kayak or a canoe? What is actually the difference between those three vessels? What we can definitely tell you is that they each have their own charm and advantages.

“If you sail for the first time, you make a mistake.” In contrast to Bart Kaëll's water sports experience, with this article we want to ensure that your first Dobber adventure goes smoothly. Let's put SUP, kayak and canoe side by side so you can make the right choice for your paddling trip. Keep reading and a little later you'll enjoy it all the more.

What is a SUP?

SUP is the abbreviation for Stand-Up Paddle Board. As the name suggests, you stand up on a wide board while supping and use a long paddle to propel yourself.

It feels a bit like surfing, but without the waves. SUP boarding is ideal if you just want to relax and take a leisurely ride on the water. Although you can also challenge yourself and make it a full-body workout by taking a somewhat longer paddle route.

Or how about exercising while your SUP stays still? Did you know that you can also do SUP yoga? So you can benefit from relaxing on the water, while working on your body and mind at the same time. Highly recommended to try!

What is the difference with a kayak or canoe?

So unlike a kayak or canoe, you stand up straight on a SUP and only use one paddle blade. This makes it more challenging to balance during your paddle trip and you need a different technique to move forward.

• You do supping standing on a board
• You only use one paddle blade
• Balancing on your SUP board is therefore important

What is a kayak?

A kayak is a narrow, sporty boat in which you sit down with your legs extended. You use a double-bladed paddle to glide efficiently through the water.

Kayaks come in different types: from the agile whitewater kayaks you see at the Olympics, among others, to streamlined touring kayaks that are suitable for longer distances. There are both solo kayaks if duo kayaks where you can then take a seat with 2 people.

• You are surrounded in a kayak
• You have a double paddle
• The boat is designed to be agile in rapids, for example, and to navigate between rocks in the water

What is a canoe?

A canoe is an open boat where you usually sit on a bench. You use a single-blade paddle to steer and move forward.

Canoes are often used for longer trips, where you can take extra equipment with you. They're perfect for a leisurely trip across a river or lake. There are canoes for one or more people.

• A canoe is an open boat
• You use a single paddle blade
• Suitable for longer trips with luggage

‍

What's the difference between a kayak and a canoe?

Although many people think that kayaking and canoeing are the same, there are definitely differences between the two boats in the strict sense.

• In a kayak, you sit lower to the water, which provides stability and speed.
• The double-bladed paddle makes paddling more efficient than with a canoe (or SUP).
• Kayaking is ideal for those who like to move forward smoothly and want to travel longer distances.
• In a canoe, on the other hand, you have more space and comfort, ideal for a relaxing trip or a multi-day trip.
• Compared to a kayak, canoes are slightly less agile and paddling requires a bit more technique.

What about the kayaks at Dobber?

In our lockers, you will find so-called Sit-On-Top touring kayaks for 1 or 2 people, who are almost a hybrid model between a kayak and a canoe. The touring kayaks are more open than the real sports kayaks, but you do paddle with a double paddle blade, unlike canoes.

A touring kayak is ideal for a quiet paddling trip of a few hours. With the help of a waterproof floating bag or barrel, you can also carry some extra items.

Which Dobber boat do you choose?

Looking for an active and challenging experience? Then a SUP is perfect. Do you want to speed up and paddle more efficiently? Then go for a kayak for yourself or just the two of you.

Whichever vessel you choose, the most important thing is that you enjoy the water and nature around you during your paddling trip.

Want to go to the water? Book your SUP or kayak with Dobber and head out!

‍