Kayaking is one of the most enjoyable sports out there. However, there comes a time in every kayak owner’s life where they ask themselves “how long do kayaks last?”
The answer to this question varies significantly depending on the type of the kayak, your maintenance level, and how often you use it. However, an average kayak should last anywhere between 7 to 12 years.
If you want to know more about kayaks longevity and the factors that can affect it, this article has got you covered!
In today’s article, we’ll provide you with a complete answer along with everything you need to understand regarding the kayak’s lifespan and how it maximizes it. So without further ado, let’s dive in to find out more about kayak’s lifespan!
The Average Lifespan of Kayaks
As previously mentioned, the kayak’s lifespan isn’t a specific amount of years. This is because a kayak’s lifespan can be as little as 4 to 6 years and as high as 12 to 15 years.
However, the majority of kayaks out there have their lifespan at a relatively similar range of 7 to 12 years.
For example, inflatable kayaks are typically the least durable, which typically last anywhere between 4 to 8 years.
Composite kayaks are also less durable than plastic kayaks that are made from polyethylene, especially when they’re hit by stiff objects and rocks in the water.
Wooden kayaks are the most durable on the market, but they’re quite heavy and difficult to maneuver, so you have to create a nice balance between durability and ease of use and steering in water.
Another important point that you should know is that the lifespan of each kayak is highly dependent on other factors and not only on the construction materials of the kayak.
Factors That Affect the Longevity of a Kayak
Now that you know more about the average lifespan of a kayak, let’s have a quick look at some of the factors and aspects that can have a direct or indirect impact on the longevity of a kayak.
Type of Kayak
Kayaks come in a wide range of types, which is different from the construction materials discussed above. Each type of these kayaks is specifically designed for certain uses and water conditions.
For that reason, some of them are simply more likely to survive for a longer time than others. Generally, the most common types of kayaks on the market are:
- Sit on top kayaks
- Whitewater kayaks
- Recreational kayaks
- Touring kayaks
- Seawater kayaks
The types that are used to venture through rough water conditions and rocky rivers are more likely to have a lifespan on the lower end, such as whitewater kayaks and seawater kayaks.
On the other hand, a sit on top, touring, and recreational kayak that is designed to move in relatively smooth and calm water conditions are less likely to hit such obstacles, so they should last you much longer.
Exposure to Sunlight
If you leave your kayak out in the sun for a long time, you shouldn’t expect it to last for as long. The reason behind that is that sunlight contains ultraviolet rays (UVB light), which is capable of destroying just about any materials that a kayak is made of.
For example, polyethylene and fiberglass are among the most common materials that kayaks are made of because they’re lightweight and durable.
With enough exposure to the radiation, these materials will soon start to break down internally and deteriorate, which translates to become much more prone to damage, even from the lightest impacts.
To protect your kayak from sunlight damage, make sure that you never store them in an open area and make sure that they’re properly covered with a light-blocking fabric.
Ideally, we recommend the GYMTOP 7.8 to 18 ft Kayak Cover because it’s highly affordable, waterproof, blocks sunlight, and comes in a variety of colors and sizes.
Exposure to Moisture
Another factor that a lot of people underestimate about kayaks is exposure to moisture. For example, if you use your kayak in saltwater, your kayak will have a relatively shorter lifespan.
This is because the salt in seawater also has a deteriorating effect that will significantly affect the kayak’s lifespan with time.
For that reason, always make sure to clean your kayak after every use to reduce the kayak’s exposure to moisture and salts that react with the external layer and make it prone to damage.
The easiest way to do that is by rinsing the kayak with lukewarm to warm freshwater after every use and dry it properly with a clean rag before storing it.
Storage, Handling, and Transport
The way you handle and treat your kayak also has a significant impact on how long it can last. For example, if you haul the kayak rather than dragging it over hard surfaces, it should last you a lot longer.
Similarly, you should make sure that you tie the kayak properly, whether you’re transporting or storing it, in order to protect it from any accidents that may damage the kayak’s hull.
Frequency of Maintenance
We’ve previously explained that cleaning and drying the kayak will significantly boost its lifespan. In addition to that, you can also establish a regular maintenance routine for your kayak.
This routing should be at least once every 3 months of consistent use or before storing the kayak for the next kayaking season. The routine should include:
- Checking the hull for holes and cracks, and sealing them
- Replacing worn-out parts and accessories
- Waxing the kayak to protect it from water damage, especially for composite kayaks
- Cleaning the kayak from any marine corals or debris that are stuck to it
Wrap Up
There you have it! A complete guide that answers the popular question “how long do kayaks last?”.
As you can see, a kayak’s lifespan can vary significantly due to several factors, such as construction and materials used, type of kayak, storage condition, as well as frequency of use and maintenance.
In order to maximize the lifespan of your kayak, make sure to follow our tips and always clean your kayak with clean lukewarm water after every use.
This simple method will help you extend the life of the kayak and make the most out of your investment without costing you any time or money!