What is the weight capacity of a touring kayak?
Many factors influence the amount of gear and the weight your sea kayak can hold. These include: weight distribution, weather factors, paddler weight and size, and skill level. That’s why it is difficult to give a specific answer in number of pounds, because there are so many combinations of factors possible. (It’s a bit like asking how much weight a backpack can hold.) We rate our touring kayaks with a maximum amount of gear he or she would expect to carry on a trip. The performance of your kayak, and your comfort in paddling it, will also be affected by the amount of weight and the way the kayak is packed. When packing a sea kayak, try to distribute the weight evenly and keep the weight low within the storage hatches. It is wise to strap down the load to prevent shifting in difficult waters, which may upset the balance. Again, practice, practice, practice!
