Kayaking and canoeing are both paddle sports that involve using a small boat propelled by a paddle. There are probably more similarities between canoes and kayaks then there are differences. In many instances they are considered under the same umbrella.

single and double sea kayakssingle and double sea kayaks

Here are a few of the common and obvious differences:

  • Design: Kayaks are usually closed boats with a covered deck and a cockpit, while canoes are typically open boats with an open top and no cockpit.
  • Paddle: Kayaks are always paddled with a double-bladed paddle, while the canoes are paddled with a shorter paddle with a blade on one end only.
  • Seating: In kayaking, the paddler will generally sit flat with his legs extended under the deck and his upper body rising from a central hole in the deck, while in canoeing, the paddler kneels or sits on a raised seat.
  • Purpose: There are international sporting events in both kayaking and canoeing. On a recreational level, kayaking is often used for touring or whitewater paddling, while canoeing is often used for recreational paddling, fishing, or tripping.