Best Kayak for Beginners Looking for Speed and Performance

So, you’re ready to jump into kayaking, but there’s one problem—you don’t want a sluggish, bulky kayak for beginners that feels like you’re dragging a bathtub through the water. Most “beginner kayaks” are designed for stability, but what if you’re looking for something that actually moves? What if you want to paddle faster, go farther, and actually enjoy the thrill of kayaking without exhausting yourself?

The Pain of Slow, Heavy Kayaks

Many first-time kayakers make the mistake of choosing the wrong kayak. They pick one that’s wide, slow, and hard to maneuver—thinking that’s the best way to start. But here’s what they don’t realize:

• Slow kayaks kill the excitement. Instead of gliding across the water, you feel like you’re fighting against it.
• Every stroke feels like work. You paddle harder but barely move forward, making long trips exhausting.
• You quickly outgrow a beginner kayak that’s too stable. What feels comfortable at first can become frustrating as you improve.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many beginners regret their first kayak purchase because they didn’t think beyond stability.

Why Speed and Performance Matter for Beginners

Here’s the truth: A well-designed beginner kayak should be easy to handle but still allow you to build skills and improve over time. You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy a kayak that glides smoothly, tracks well, and lets you paddle longer without feeling like you’re stuck in place.

What is Kayaking?

Kayaking is more than just paddling a boat across the water—it’s a sport, a workout, and an adventure all rolled into one. Whether you’re gliding across a calm lake, cutting through ocean waves, or taking on rushing rivers, kayaking is about control, movement, and efficiency. 

Kayaking vs. Canoeing: What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse kayaking and canoeing, but they have key differences:

Feature	Kayaking	Canoeing
Seating Position	Low, legs extended	High, sitting or kneeling
Paddle Type	Double-bladed paddle	Single-bladed paddle
Boat Design	Closed or open cockpit, sleeker design	Open-top, wider body
Speed & Efficiency	Faster, more streamlined	Slower, requires more effort
Ease for Beginners	Easier to learn, better tracking	Harder to steer at first

If your goal is speed and performance, kayaking is the way to go. The double-bladed paddle allows for smoother, faster strokes, making it more efficient than canoeing.

How to Kayak for Beginners: Mastering the Basics

Many beginners think kayaking is just paddling forward, but proper technique makes a huge difference in how fast and efficiently you move.

1. The Correct Paddling Posture

• Sit with your back straight and knees slightly bent for control.
• Keep your feet pressed against the footrests for stability.
• Hold the paddle with a firm but relaxed grip—don’t over-tighten.

2. Basic Kayaking Strokes for Speed & Control

• Forward Stroke: The most important! Use your core, not just your arms, for powerful, smooth movements.
• Sweep Stroke: Helps with turning without losing too much speed.
• Reverse Stroke: Slows down or stops your kayak when needed.

By focusing on good technique from the start, you’ll paddle faster with less effort, making your kayaking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Is Kayaking Hard?

The short answer: It depends. Many beginners assume kayaking is difficult, but the truth is, it’s as easy or as challenging as you make it.

What Makes Kayaking Easy?

• A well-designed beginner kayak – The right kayak helps with balance, tracking, and speed.
• Calm water conditions – Learning on a smooth lake is much easier than on rough ocean waves.
• Proper paddling technique – If you use your core and maintain good posture, it’s surprisingly easy!

What Makes Kayaking Hard?

• Bad kayak choice – A slow, bulky kayak makes paddling feel like a chore.
• Strong winds or currents – These make controlling your kayak much harder.
• Poor paddling technique – Relying only on your arms will wear you out quickly.

If you start with the right gear, use good technique, and practice in the right conditions, kayaking can be an exciting, fast, and rewarding activity—even for beginners! 

What Makes a Kayak Fast?

If you’re a beginner looking for speed and performance, the wrong kayak can make paddling feel slow, exhausting, and frustrating. A kayak built for stability alone may be easy to use, but it won’t glide efficiently through the water. To go faster while still maintaining control, you need a kayak with the right design and features.

Here’s what separates a fast kayak from a slow one.

1. Length and Hull Shape: Why Longer and Sleeker is Faster

The length and shape of a kayak play the biggest role in determining how fast it moves through the water.

• Longer kayaks (12-14 feet) move faster because they cut through the water more efficiently.
• Narrower hulls reduce drag, allowing the kayak to glide smoothly.
• V-shaped hulls improve speed but require more balance, while flat-bottom hulls slow you down but feel more stable.

Beginner’s Tip:

If you want speed without sacrificing stability, go for a slightly narrower kayak (24-28 inches wide) with a moderate V-shaped hull.

• Example: A 12-foot touring kayak will always be faster than a 10-foot recreational kayak because of its streamlined design.

2. Material: Lightweight vs. Heavy Kayaks

The material of your kayak affects both speed and ease of handling. A heavier kayak requires more effort to paddle, while a lighter one moves faster with less resistance.

Material	Speed & Performance	Weight	Durability
Fiberglass	Fastest, smooth gliding	Light	Less impact-resistant
Carbon Fiber	Ultra-light, high performance	Very light	Expensive
Rotomolded Polyethylene	Slower, more resistance	Heavy	Highly durable
ABS Plastic	Good balance of speed & durability	Moderate	UV-resistant

Beginner’s Tip:

If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly fast kayak, aim for an ABS plastic or fiberglass model—they are lighter than polyethylene but sturdy enough for beginners.

• Example: The Eddyline Sitka LT (Fiberglass) is much faster and lighter than a basic polyethylene sit-on-top kayak.

3. Stability vs. Speed: Finding the Right Balance

A super stable kayak is usually wide and flat, which reduces speed. On the other hand, a fast kayak is designed to cut through water efficiently, but it may require more balance.

• Primary stability = How stable the kayak feels when sitting still (wide kayaks have high primary stability).
• Secondary stability = How stable it feels when moving or leaning into turns (narrower, sleeker kayaks have better secondary stability).

Beginner’s Tip:

For speed and reasonable stability, go for a kayak with moderate width (24-28 inches). Anything wider than 30 inches will slow you down significantly.

• Example: The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 is designed for both speed and control, making it a great option for beginners looking to go faster.

4. Skeg and Rudder: How They Improve Speed & Tracking

Fast kayaks need good tracking, or else you’ll spend more time correcting your course than moving forward. This is where a skeg or rudder comes in, much like how surfers rely on balance and positioning to ride waves efficiently (learn more about surfing here).

• A skeg is a fixed fin that helps keep the kayak straight in windy or rough conditions.
• A rudder is an adjustable fin controlled by foot pedals, allowing for better turns and tracking.

Beginner’s Tip:

A kayak with a skeg or rudder makes long-distance paddling much easier and reduces fatigue by keeping you on a straight course.

Example: The Dagger Stratos 12.5 has an adjustable skeg that helps with speed and tracking, making it a great beginner-friendly performance kayak.

Choosing the Best Kayak for Beginners Looking for Speed

Now that you know what makes a kayak fast, it’s time to choose the right one. Speed isn’t just about the kayak’s shape—it’s about how comfortable, efficient, and easy to control it is for you. A kayak that’s too heavy, uncomfortable, or difficult to maneuver will slow you down, no matter how sleek it looks.

Here’s what you need to consider when picking the best kayak for beginners looking for speed and how you can paddle faster right from the start.

1. Weight and Portability: Lighter is Faster

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is choosing a heavy kayak that’s hard to handle. A lighter kayak requires less effort to move, helping you maintain speed over long distances.

• Lighter materials like fiberglass or ABS plastic reduce paddling resistance.
• Avoid overly heavy polyethylene kayaks if you want speed and portability.
• Consider transportability—if a kayak is hard to carry, you’ll struggle before even getting on the water.

Best Weight Range for a Fast Beginner Kayak

• Under 50 lbs → Easy to carry, faster paddling.
• 50-65 lbs → Decent speed but can be harder to transport.
• Above 65 lbs → Slower and harder to move efficiently.

Example: The Eddyline Sitka LT (49 lbs) is a great lightweight option for beginners looking for speed.

2. Seat Comfort and Adjustable Footrests: Stay Balanced and Efficient

Speed isn’t just about the kayak—it’s about your body’s positioning and control. If your seat is uncomfortable or your legs are awkwardly placed, you’ll lose efficiency and tire quickly.

• Ergonomic seat with back support = Less fatigue on long trips.
• Adjustable footrests = Better paddling power and control.
• Snug fit = Helps you control the kayak more efficiently for better speed.

Why Foot Positioning Matters

• Keeping your feet properly braced against the footrests maximizes your power per stroke.
• Adjustable footrests allow you to push off with your legs, reducing arm strain and increasing efficiency.

Example: The Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 features a fully adjustable seat and footrest system, making it great for beginners who want comfort and speed.

3. Paddle Selection for Efficiency: The Right Paddle = Less Effort, More Speed

A kayak can only be as fast as the paddle that powers it. Many beginners overlook this, but using the wrong paddle can slow you down, tire you out, and make paddling feel like a struggle.

What to Look for in a Fast Paddle

• Lightweight carbon-fiber paddles reduce fatigue.
• Shorter paddles for high-angle strokes (better for speed).
• Longer paddles for better leverage on wider kayaks.

Choosing the Right Paddle Length for Your Kayak

• Narrow kayaks (24-26 inches wide): 210-220 cm paddle.
• Medium-width kayaks (26-28 inches wide): 220-230 cm paddle.
• Wider kayaks (above 28 inches): 230-240 cm paddle.

Example: The Werner Camano Carbon Paddle is a top choice for those looking for speed without unnecessary strain.

4. Tips on How to Kayak Faster as a Beginner

Even with the best beginner kayak, your speed depends on technique, posture, and efficiency. Here are some expert tips to help you paddle faster with less effort.

Perfect Your Paddling Technique

• Use a high-angle stroke to generate more power.
• Rotate your torso with each stroke, rather than relying only on your arms.
• Keep paddle strokes short and close to the kayak for efficiency.

Maintain a Steady Rhythm

• Avoid over-paddling—fast strokes without rhythm waste energy.
• Find a natural flow and focus on consistent movement rather than force.

Adjust Your Kayak’s Trim

• Distribute weight evenly to reduce drag.
• Store gear in front and back to balance the kayak’s center.
• Avoid carrying unnecessary items that slow you down.

Use a Skeg or Rudder

• A skeg helps maintain a straight path in windy conditions.
• A rudder allows you to make small corrections without slowing down.

Top 5 Best Kayaks for Beginners Looking for Speed and Performance

If you’re looking for speed, efficiency, and beginner-friendly handling, these kayaks offer the best balance of all three.

1. Perception Expression 11.5 – Best Balance of Speed and Stability

• 11.5 feet long with a sleek, narrow design for better speed.
• Comfortable seat and adjustable footrests for proper paddling posture.
• Lightweight yet stable, making it easy for beginners to control.
• Great for both calm lakes and mild coastal waters.

2. Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125 – Great for Long-Distance Paddling

• 12.5 feet long with a streamlined shape for faster gliding.
• High backrest and padded seat for all-day comfort.
• Tracks well in windy conditions, reducing the need for constant adjustments.
• Ideal for touring, fitness paddling, and multi-day trips.

3. Eddyline Sitka LT – Lightweight and Performance-Driven

• Fiberglass construction makes it light (49 lbs) but durable.
• V-shaped hull enhances speed while maintaining stability.
• Adjustable skeg helps with tracking, even in rougher water.
• Best for those looking to progress into high-performance kayaking.

4. Dagger Stratos 12.5 – Excellent Tracking and Speed

• 12.5 feet long with a narrow design, built for faster movement.
• Drop-down skeg improves tracking and directional control.
• Highly responsive, allowing for smooth turns and acceleration.
• Great for both flat water and mild waves.

5. Oru Kayak Bay ST – Best Foldable Kayak for Fast Paddling

• Portable, lightweight (28 lbs), and folds up for easy storage.
• 12.3 feet long, giving it good speed and tracking for a folding kayak.
• Durable material despite its compact design.
• Best for urban kayakers or those with limited storage space.

Tips for Beginner Kayakers to Improve Speed

1. Use Proper Paddling Techniques: Good technique is key to paddling efficiently and increasing speed. Instead of using just your arms, engage your core and rotate your torso with each stroke. A high-angle stroke, where the paddle stays more vertical, generates more power and reduces resistance in the water. Keeping your strokes short and close to the kayak ensures better momentum and helps maintain a straight path without unnecessary energy loss.

2. Maintain a Steady Rhythm: Speed in kayaking isn’t about paddling as fast as possible—it’s about maintaining a smooth and consistent rhythm. Rapid, uncontrolled strokes can cause you to tire quickly, while a steady cadence helps preserve energy over longer distances. Find a natural flow that keeps your kayak moving forward effortlessly. Breathing in sync with your strokes can also improve endurance and reduce fatigue.

3. Engage Your Core for More Power: Posture plays a crucial role in maximizing speed and efficiency. Sitting upright with a slight forward lean keeps your body aligned for effective strokes. Bracing your feet against the footrests and using your legs to push with each stroke helps transfer power from your core rather than relying solely on your arms. A strong core not only increases speed but also prevents muscle strain, making paddling easier over time.

4. Choose the Right Water Conditions: Even with a fast kayak, water conditions can significantly impact your speed. Calm water provides the best environment for efficient paddling, while strong currents and wind can slow you down. If possible, paddle in the morning or late afternoon when the water is typically smoother. Avoid headwinds that create resistance and instead try to work with tailwinds whenever possible for an extra speed boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ideal kayak length for beginners who want speed?

For beginners looking for speed, a kayak length of 12 to 14 feet is ideal. Longer kayaks glide more efficiently and require less effort to maintain speed. However, they should also have a manageable width (around 24-28 inches) for balance and control.

2. Can a beginner handle a fast kayak, or is it too difficult?

Yes, a beginner can handle a fast kayak, provided it has the right balance of speed and stability. Choosing a kayak with a moderate width and a skeg or rudder can help with control, making it easier to stay on course while maintaining speed.

3. Do sit-on-top kayaks offer good speed for beginners?

Sit-on-top kayaks are generally wider and slower than sit-inside models. While some high-performance sit-on-top models exist, sit-inside kayaks with a narrower hull and streamlined design tend to be faster and more efficient for beginners looking for speed.

4. What type of paddle is best for speed kayaking?

A lightweight carbon or fiberglass paddle with a high-angle design is best for speed. The paddle length should match your kayak width—shorter paddles (210-220 cm) are better for narrow kayaks, while longer paddles (230-240 cm) work well for wider models.

5. Is it better to choose a kayak with a skeg or a rudder for speed?

A rudder is better for directional control in windy conditions, while a skeg helps with tracking in straight lines. If you’re paddling in varied conditions, a kayak with an adjustable skeg gives the best balance between speed and ease of handling.

6. How much does kayak weight affect speed?

A lighter kayak moves faster and requires less effort to paddle. Fiberglass, ABS plastic, and composite materials offer a good balance of speed and durability. Heavier polyethylene kayaks tend to be slower but are more budget-friendly.