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Designs

Over the past decades, several design groups have evolved around standard uses. These designations are of great help to the vast majority of canoe purchasers. However, it should be noted that there are variations within each design group and even instances of crossover designs between groups.

Of prime importance in choosing the right design, is first identifying exactly what use you will be putting your canoe to ... the kind of canoeing will you be doing.

Recreation:

These canoes are intended for casual use, shorter distances and lighter loads.

Typically, their design elements include ...

  • Short to intermediate length (14 to 15 feet).
  • Ample width for stability (35 to 36 inches).
  • Generous depth for ample freeboard.
  • Moderately rounded hull for balance between stability and efficient gliding.
  • Moderately rockered and pronounced keel for a balance between maneuverability and straight tracking.

Tripping:

These canoes are intended for longer distances and heavier loads.

Generally, their design elements include ...

  • Greater length (16 to 17 feet)
  • Ample width for stability (36 inches).
  • Generous depth for ample freeboard.
  • Moderately rounded hull for balance between stability and efficient gliding.
  • Moderately rockered with a smaller or absent keel for emphasis on maneuverability.

Expedition:

These canoes are intended for extended trips, extreme conditions and heavy loads.

Their design elements often include ...

  • Greater length (16 to 17 feet)
  • No increase in width, in favour of allowing speed (36 inches).
  • Generous depth for ample freeboard.
  • Moderately rounded hull for balance between stability and efficient gliding.
  • Moderately rockered with a limited keel to enhance maneuverability.

Whitewater:

These canoes are specifically intended for riding rivers and their whitewater.

While their lengths are varied, their design elements typically include ...

  • Ample width for stability.
  • Generous depth for ample freeboard.
  • Arched hulls for responsiveness to changes in balance.
  • Substantially rockered with minimal keel for maximized maneuverability.