You want to start paddling but keep hearing different words: canoe, kayak, Canadian canoe. What do they actually mean, and which should you choose? There is some confusion around the terms, but in short there are different types of craft suited to different activities and conditions.

"Canoe" as an umbrella term

In many languages – Swedish, German and Danish among them – "canoe" is used as an umbrella term for small, narrow craft propelled by paddle (and sometimes sail), with a pointed bow and stern. They can be open, or have a covered deck with one or more cockpits. The word comes from the Caribbean word "canoa", meaning boat. Within this umbrella there are two main types: the kayak and the open canoe, often called a Canadian canoe in Europe.

Kayak or Canadian canoe – what is the difference?

The canoes of the indigenous peoples of North America are known in Europe as Canadian canoes. They were originally built from birch bark or hides, but are made today from plywood, aluminium or tough plastic. An open canoe is paddled with a single-blade paddle and is best suited to calm lakes and rivers where the wind has little effect.

The kayak, on the other hand, comes from the Arctic and has always had a covered deck. It was originally built with a frame of driftwood or bone covered with hide or canvas; modern kayaks are made of fibreglass, plastic or – in the case of inflatable kayaks – tough, airtight fabric. A kayak is paddled with a double-blade paddle and is better suited to open water and changing weather.

Advantages of a kayak

• Seaworthy and suited to open water
• Covered deck and cockpit that keep the water out
• Easy to steer and to hold a straight course
• Hatches and dry storage for your gear
• Fast and efficient with a double-blade paddle

See our kayaks – including inflatable kayaks that pack into a bag.

Advantages of a canoe

• Open design with room for plenty of gear
• Perfect for families and groups paddling together
• Stable on calm lakes and rivers
• Easy to load and unload – great for longer trips with portages

See our canoes.

Which one suits you?

Ask yourself a few questions before you buy:

• Where will you paddle – lakes and rivers, the archipelago or the open sea?
• How much gear do you need to bring?
• Do you want to paddle alone or with others?
• Do you prefer stability or speed?

If you are leaning towards a kayak, our guide to the 5 most important things to consider when buying a kayak will help you choose. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, there is a model for you – browse our kayaks and canoes and find your next craft.