A TK1 (or touring kayak) is an entry level kayak used on flat water such as deep rivers and lakes. They are wider than a K1, and are therefore more stable. The TK1 kayak has an enclosed cockpit and is designed to be a “sit-in”, as opposed to a “sit-on” like a surfski. While less likely to capsize than a K1, the enclosed cockpit will fill with water if submerged so it’s not recommended to paddle a TK1 in the open ocean.

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WHAT IS A TK1 Kayak MADE OF?

 

Modern TK1 kayaks are generally made of lightweight composite materials such as carbon fibre and fibreglass. They have a rudder which is fixed under the hull of the kayak. The rudder is controlled by a t-bar or foot pedals which are operated by the feet of the paddler.

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HOW STABLE IS A TK1 Kayak?

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TK1s are very stable relative to a K1 and even surfskis. The stability is proportional to the width. You’ll often see the width of the kayak mentioned in the name. For example, Nelo has a range of TK1s that start at the most-stable Viper 60 (60cm) down to the less-stable Viper 46 (46cm). For comparison, elite K1 kayaks such as the Nelo Sete are 41cm wide.

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