Flatwater Day Trippers
Flatwater Day Trippers are used for recreational paddling on lakes and other flat waters. They are 13 to 15 feet long and 25 to 30 inches across at the water line. They have low to moderate rockers, which allow better speed and maneuverability. They usually have straight, narrow keels for better tracking and initial stability. They can be paddled in different positions, including sitting, kneeling, and sideways.
Freestyle Solo
Freestyle solo canoes are designed to allow a wide range of speeds, directions, and paddle strokes. They are narrow and have moderate rockers, which make tracking slightly difficult. They can have straight or flared sides offering different degrees of initial and final stability. They are often paddled in a kneeling position and are easy to turn at high speeds and various angles.
Extended Trippers
Extended trippers are designed for long-haul paddling, rough weather conditions, and carrying heavy loads. They are larger and deeper than the other types, measuring about 15 feet. They are commonly made from tough synthetic materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, polyethylene and Kevlar. Some models are derived from straight-keeled boats and given wider and deeper bodies. Common features include low windage profile for better stability and moderate to high rockers.
Whitewater
Whitewater canoes are designed for paddling in whitewater rapids, a body of water with fast-flowing, highly aerated water. They come in two general types – play boats and whitewater trippers. Play boats are fitted with various straps and braces to secure the paddler when performing tricks and difficult turns, while trippers are more traditional and are mostly built for speed and performance.
Play boats are usually short and have extreme rockers to facilitate sharp, fast turns, while whitewater trippers are typically long with lower rockers for more stability on flat waters. |
