r/Kayaking • u/marshmallowpaw • 7d ago

Question/Advice -- Beginners 2 Beginners needing help

Hello everyone!

My partner (5’11”, 220lbs) and I (5’3”, 125lbs) are looking into getting into some kayaks. We’re in Alberta, Canada so they will be for use in lakes.
We’d like to stay on the cheaper side just to try it out first.
Preferably sit-on as I’m scared of capsizing myself. I can swim great but I feel like the sit-on would be easier for me.
My partner is fine with either sit-on or sit-in.

A couple I’ve looked at are:
Pelican Sentinel 100X
Pelican Sentinel 80X
Pelican Orion 100X

I’m fine with any brand, not super specific. Just something to try out. Not much available in the used market as I’m pretty far up in northern Alberta.

Thanks a bunch everyone.

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u/Impossible_Air_2263 7d ago

I started with 10’ mostly on lakes. I would go to 12’. Anything 10’ or smaller you will spend a lot of time moving side to side instead of forward. Also, I’m about the same size as your partner, the 12’ feels better for fit. I’ve had 10’ and now those remain in storage while I take the 12’ out. Pelican does offer a 12, I have one and works great. Enjoy your time on the water, it will be great regardless what you choose!!

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u/marshmallowpaw 7d ago

Thank you. We definitely want to do more of a chill paddle than racing around. We camp next to lakes and it would be nice to do more.
Do you have any brand recs?

3

u/re4ctor 7d ago

You might be able to find a nice wilderness systems pungo 12 used or on sale for not much more than those pelicans. One of the best recreational kayak, and 12ft is better on larger lakes, especially if you get caught in some wind.