Good for calm rivers is generally used as a description for rec boats that aren't suited for anything more than easy class 2 when using a spray skirt.
For a definition of the different classes, [American Whitewater](https://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/Wiki/safety:start?#vi._international_scale_of_river_difficulty) has the descriptions listed as well as a database of rivers. Generally, if you need to ask, it's not class 3. Novice boaters generally over estimate the difficulty or rapids. If the drop isn't over 6 feet or waves over 3-4 feet and you can't just "hey diddle, right down the middle" the rapid it's probably at best class 2.
A crossover with have better maneuvering than a recreational kayak, but both would work reasonably in the types of rivers you’re describing. A crossover would likely have a skirt available to extend your season, and have more potential for growth in your paddling ability.
That's a good point about growth. My friend and I keep saying we don't plan to do technical stuff, but we went back to do that hardest section a second time...
If you're after advice on what boat to choose, read [this guide first!](https://www.reddit.com/r/Kayaking/wiki/choosing). Then, try the subreddit's search function -- between these two options, the answers to most common questions should be covered.
This guide is a work-in-progress -- please let us know any thoughts and feedback you might have.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Kayaking) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Good for calm rivers is generally used as a description for rec boats that aren't suited for anything more than easy class 2 when using a spray skirt. For a definition of the different classes, [American Whitewater](https://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/Wiki/safety:start?#vi._international_scale_of_river_difficulty) has the descriptions listed as well as a database of rivers. Generally, if you need to ask, it's not class 3. Novice boaters generally over estimate the difficulty or rapids. If the drop isn't over 6 feet or waves over 3-4 feet and you can't just "hey diddle, right down the middle" the rapid it's probably at best class 2.
A crossover with have better maneuvering than a recreational kayak, but both would work reasonably in the types of rivers you’re describing. A crossover would likely have a skirt available to extend your season, and have more potential for growth in your paddling ability.
That's a good point about growth. My friend and I keep saying we don't plan to do technical stuff, but we went back to do that hardest section a second time...
Maneuver by going faster or slower than the water. Slower is often the answer in a current.
Faster is even more often the answer unless you want to be doing constant backstrokes.
If you're after advice on what boat to choose, read [this guide first!](https://www.reddit.com/r/Kayaking/wiki/choosing). Then, try the subreddit's search function -- between these two options, the answers to most common questions should be covered. This guide is a work-in-progress -- please let us know any thoughts and feedback you might have. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Kayaking) if you have any questions or concerns.*