There are twelve months in the year. And people are always talking about a peak season and an offseason. Prices seem to go up and down at specific points during the year. Clearly, there’s a smart way to buy a kayak, and that starts with choosing the correct timing.
You might be a first-time kayaker who wants to get a good vessel, without shelling out too much. Or, you might be in need of a good kayak, just for the time of the spring break. It wouldn’t be wise to invest a whole lot in that.
Maybe, you’re a clever shopper who wants the highest quality at the lowest price! So when is the best time to buy a kayak?
Read on, I’ll tell you all about it!
When You Have the Right Amount of Cash
The best time to buy a kayak is when you have the budget for it.
We all get a little starry-eyed when we see something we really want, sold for a cheap price. But in matters of buying and selling, it’s best to see dollar signs instead of stars.
A budget buy is certainly worth considering, but so is investing a prime-quality piece. What you might save in the capital price, you could easily end up spending on the running costs of repairs. There’s also safety to think about. Don’t ever take the risk of sailing on a dubious vessel.
And besides, when it comes to kayaks, there’s the inherent value of the experience itself. Speed, balance, pleasant aesthetics, and a sturdy body. Don’t settle for less than a satisfying performance out in the water. That’s the whole point of having a kayak.
Kayaks also need other accessories and safety gear, it’s not just the boat. A light pair of paddles make a world of difference in your paddling experience. Kayaking is way better with a pair of lightweight fiberglass paddles or high performing carbon fiber paddles.
These things are costly, and their price tag could exceed the listed price of a cheap kayak. That’s why we mentioned having a ‘budget’, it’s never just the kayak.
With Enough Time to Do Repairs
This is especially valuable when you’re buying a used kayak. People often sell ones that are a bit under the weather and in need of repairs. Even vintage kayaks need some touch-ups. The least that you can do for your kayak is some paint and polish.
These things take a bit of time. So don’t plan on making a purchase, and then taking off on a vacation the next day. Give yourself enough time to renew and refresh your kayak. And most importantly, to check all things related to safety.
Ahead of Time if You Have Good Storage
Buying a kayak in the off-season would certainly save you some cash. But then, you’ll be left with the big question of storage.
If you don’t have sufficient garage or backyard space at your house, then you’ll have to find and rent some storage spots. There’s also the extra cost of transporting the kayak, whether that’s on your vehicle, or if a towing service is needed.
When you think of good storage, also bear in mind that kayaks don’t enjoy being left in the sun, or at the mercy of the elements. Ironic for an outdoor piece of equipment, but that’s life. Leaving it to suffer the wind and rain would definitely show some cracks.
On the other hand, if you do have a good place to keep your kayak, then by all means explore the off-season market.
Right After the Kayaking Season
After weeks of sun and sea, many kayakers decide to have an upgrade. They often feel like they need to have a bigger or better kayak the next time they go on a vacation. A good amount also dread having to transport and store their kayaks throughout the winter.
This leaves the market with so many offers for selling used kayaks. By the end of August, you’ll probably notice the surge in ads on Craig’s list, kayaking forums, and social media in general. Used kayaks could be a real catch if you know where to look, and how to pick the good ones.
Some retailers also offer huge discounts around the off-season. They’d much rather sell their inventory to add brand new models for the next season. Which means that you could buy a sparkling new kayak at an unbelievable price.
There are a couple of caveats here though; plenty of people buy their kayaks in the peak of the season to get the newest models. These become dated by the next season.
Also, by the end of the season, there wouldn’t be the same broad variety in the shops. Choices would be limited significantly.
Check out the Holiday Deals
Christmas, D-day, Father’s Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, and even Halloween, are all times when vendors offer special prices on everything. Kayaks included.
You could buy the sparkly new model that costs north of $1000 for half that price, if you bide your time, and keep an eye on the shops.
The vendor might also throw in a little gift along with your Christmas purchase. It’s the season to be jolly, right?
During the Cold Winter
That’s the middle of the offseason. While people are splurging on skiing gear, you might still be dreaming about the blue waves. If that’s the case, and if you have a nice storage spot, then consider buying that kayak in December or January.
The prices would be down, like the snow that’s falling around you.
When Opportunity Presents Itself
The best-laid plans and the strictest strategies, could all be waived off when a good opportunity presents itself.
Let’s say, one of your friends is going out of the country for a while, and she’s selling the most glamorous kayak you’ve ever seen. Seriously, don’t think about off-season offers or holiday deals at all, if the price is good.
If it’s what you want, get it. If storage space is in short supply, place it in the living room as an original piece of decoration. Totally worth the effort!
A Few More Things
Before committing to a kayak, inspect it thoroughly. Do the necessary checks of balance, see that every inch of the body is intact, and watch how it performs in the water. Most importantly, see how you fit inside the kayak.
Ergonomics is the science of being comfortable. You’re going to be moving inside a tiny boat. It’s supposed to help you, not hinder you. Width, height, and curvature, affect different people in unique ways. To each his own.
Once you’ve made the amazing, jaw-dropping, purchase of your dream kayak, Keep your vessel happy. Maintain it well. Repair it, paint it, polish it, and store it correctly. Most importantly, have so much fun, experience new things, and create real memories.