The least expensive brand of the review is the Pelican Pursuit 80. This is about as basic of Kayak as you can get. It has molded seats, is relatively light and includes some helpful bow and stern carrying handles. If you wanted something a little more equipped you can move up to the KL Industries Water Quest 10. This kayak includes padded seats - good if you are going to be on the water for more than a few hours, and a spray deflector collar for those times when you hit rough water. A few other features the KL offers that Pelican does not are adjustable foot braces, shock cord deck rigging and a 24 inch longer hull.

If you had the extra money and wanted to purchase a kayak that had all the bells and whistles and would meet your needs for many years to come you may want to consider the Old Town Vapor 10 Recreational Kayak. This kayak has it all and unlike cheap beginner kayaks, you won't feel the need to have to upgrade after your first summer on the water. The Old Town is a full 10 feet long, comes with a padded seat and thigh pads, has adjustable foot braces, molded in-paddle rest, built-in carrying handles, and coolest of all, it has a stern dry well. The dry well is specifically designed to give dry storage, a rarity in kayaks.

Any of these kayaks would work well for a beginner to the water. You can narrow your search by looking at price, your anticipated time on the water, and likelihood of upgrading. If wanted to try out kayaking without a big upfront investment the Pelican would be a good choice, but if you liked the sport you will soon learn that this Kayak would not meet your needs. The KL Indutries Water Quest is a good pick for anyone wanting to try out kayaking but already has suspicions they would continue with it and spend a decent amount of time on the water. Plus, you can get free shipping at Amazon.com! If you had another $100 dollars and wanted the cadillac of this review the Old Town is yours! It is comfortable, spacious, durable and carries the quality of the Old Town name.