Getting the boys their own kayaks sounds like a good plan—neither of them is going to want to be stuck in the same boat with a parent at that age. Make sure each gets thorough instruction in wet-exiting and rescues, even if you plan on sticking to flat lakes. I'd probably buy used rotomolded kayaks for them, since they'll be outgrowing them quickly (you'd be doing them a disservice by making them paddle full-size kayaks now). Something in the 12- to 14-foot range should do nicely. You might need to do some judicious padding in the cockpit to insure a snug fit for the boys' hips and knees, which is important for proper boat control. I'd suggest ruddered boats, which will speed up their learning curves.

	Jonathan Hanson Jonathan Hanson Jonathan Hanson is a paddler and writer whose lifelong appreciation of nature shows up frequently in his work. Meet Jonathan Previous Answers

I do have reservations about your plan to buy a double kayak for yourself. I have never found a double kayak that was ANY fun to paddle solo. I'd consider just buying four singles, unless your wife is extremely hesitant to paddle her own boat. Besides, what makes you think she'd want to be stuck in the same boat with you any more than the boys would?

—Jonathan

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