For most of my life a canoe was always 16' plus tandem that required technique and a partner to manage effectively, especially in the wind. Then came along the rotomolded kayaks including SOT'S that were more affordable, often with a foot controlled rudder and were not wind catchers like an open canoe.
When we started having children there were used tandem kayaks that made it easy for my wife and I to each paddle with a child in the bow. Eventually as the children grew up and I was not getting any younger, my interest in paddling reverted to curiosity about solo canoes with the intent that 2 solos would be easier to manage than a 90lb tandem. After finding my first used solo canoe I was pleased with this new style of craft.
I think the plethora of affordable used rotomolded kayaks and commonly available inflatable paddleboards have made the sport more accessible to the masses at the right price point along with ease of transport.
If I were not a paddle enthusiast, I might just own one small indestructible rotomolded kayak and be fine with it, but I am fortunately or unfortunately slightly obsessed with the details of paddling.
When we started having children there were used tandem kayaks that made it easy for my wife and I to each paddle with a child in the bow. Eventually as the children grew up and I was not getting any younger, my interest in paddling reverted to curiosity about solo canoes with the intent that 2 solos would be easier to manage than a 90lb tandem. After finding my first used solo canoe I was pleased with this new style of craft.
I think the plethora of affordable used rotomolded kayaks and commonly available inflatable paddleboards have made the sport more accessible to the masses at the right price point along with ease of transport.
If I were not a paddle enthusiast, I might just own one small indestructible rotomolded kayak and be fine with it, but I am fortunately or unfortunately slightly obsessed with the details of paddling.
