Plastic canoe kayak manufacturers tell you that a kayak is a low-water, canoe-style boat in which the oarsman sits facing forward, legs forward, uses sculls to pull the other side forward or back, and spins. Most kayaks have enclosed decks, although sit-up and inflatable kayaks are also becoming more popular.

Kayaks can also be classified according to their design and materials of construction. Plastic canoe kayak manufacturers tell you that each design has its specific advantages, including performance, maneuverability, stability and paddling style.
Kayaks can be made from metal, fiberglass, wood, plastic, fabric, and inflatable fabrics such as PVC or rubber, more expensive these days, but feather-light carbon fiber. Plastic canoe kayak manufacturers tell you that each material also has its specific advantages, including strength, durability, portability, flexibility, UV resistance, and storage requirements. For example, wooden kayaks can be crafted from kits or built by hand. Stitches and glue, a plywood kayak can be lighter than any other material except a frame attached to the skin. Inflatable kayaks made of lightweight fabric can deflate, are easy to transport and store, and are considered significantly tougher and more durable than some hard-surfaced boats.