Delta Kayaks Buyer’s Guide: Explore the Delta Difference

Outstanding, lightweight kayaks built for adventure, wherever you find it.

Looking for the perfect kayak? Delta Kayaks offers a range of strong, high-quality kayaks suitable for both experienced and beginner paddlers.

We are a small, family-owned business focused on improving your outdoor experience. We offer free kayak demos so you can try before you buy. Below, we’ll walk you through the full lineup of Delta Kayaks, helping you find the best fit for your next paddling adventure.

Key Features of Delta Kayaks:

Lightweight & Durable: Easy to handle both on and off the water.
Thermoformed ABS Construction: UV-resistant and impact-resistant for longevity.
Exceptional Stability & Tracking: Ideal for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.
Comfort-Focused: Adjustable seating systems for all-day comfort.
Press-lock hatches: Secure, hard shell hatch covers feature large openings that make loading and unloading gear easy.

Who Should Buy a Delta Kayak?

Whether it's a day on Lake Union or a multi-day trip exploring the San Juan Islands, Delta Kayaks are ideal for paddling in all but the most extreme of conditions. They can even tackle long expeditions such as the Inside Passage.

Who Should Not Buy a Delta Kayak?

For more extreme paddling conditions such as rock gardening in coastal areas, extensive play at ocean surf breaks and whitewater rivers, we'd recommend kayaks meant to meet those demands - typically made out of softer polyethylene plastic.

Free Delta Kayak Demos Available!

At Northwest Outdoor Center, we offer free demo sessions year-round for all Delta Kayak models. Test different boats before making a purchase! Contact us to schedule your demo today.

Delta Kayak Models – Find Your Perfect Fit

Recreational Kayaks

Delta 10 AR

Length: 10’
Weight: 37 lbs
Compact and stable, the Delta 10 AR is perfect for casual paddlers and short trips in calm waters. It offers great stability, making it an excellent choice for beginners. its compact size and light weight makes it an ideal choice to store on the deck of larger pleasure craft.

Delta 12 AR

Length: 12’
Weight: 42 lbs
Designed with a spacious cockpit that makes getting in and out easy, the 12AR offers a comfortable fit for paddlers of all shapes and sizes. Great for exploring calm waters where the wind and waves stay gentle - like bays, lakes, or slow moving rivers.

Delta 10AR Blue

Delta 10AR lake kayaking

Delta 12AR White

Delta 12AR paddling with a dog

Delta 10AR Green

Delta 10AR catamaran style hull

Delta 10AR Blue

Delta 10AR lake kayaking

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Touring Kayaks

Delta 14

Length: 14’
Weight: 45lbs
Rudder or skeg option.
This versatile light touring kayak offers great tracking and speed while still being maneuverable. The Delta 14 is suitable for both short and multi-day trips and comfortably fits a wide range of paddlers from sizes small to large. Storage capacity: ~54 gallons/205 liters

Delta 15.5GT

Length: 15’6”
Weight: 49lbs
Rudder or skeg option.
The 15.5GT is ideal for paddlers looking for a kayak that performs on day excursions and longer expeditions alike. The best fit for large to extra large paddlers and those looking for the most easily usable storage space and stability. Storage capacity: ~64 gallons/240 liters

Delta 17.5T Traverse

Length: 17’6”
Weight: 70lbs
Rudder Only
This sleek tandem is designed for safety, comfort, and performance. Light enough to make transport practical. Enough stability and storage space for day to weekend trips. Storage capacity: ~48 gallons/180 liters

Light Touring Kayaks

Delta 12s

Length: 12’

Weight: 38 lbs
Designed for smaller paddlers, the Delta 12s is lightweight, responsive, and easy to paddle. Perfect for those who want a shorter, lighter boat that still performs like a traditional sea kayak. The 12s is ideal for day paddling in both calm and dynamic waters, with just enough storage space for short overnight trips.

Delta 12.10

Length: 12’10”
Weight: 41 lbs
Ideally suited for day trips or long weekends with room to comfortably fit almost any size of paddler. Its extended keel design provides superior tracking, stability and speed rarely found in a kayak of this length. Storage capacity: ~46 gallons/180 liters

Performance Touring Kayaks

Delta 15S

Length: 15’
Weight: 44 lbs
Rudder or skeg option
Designed for smaller paddlers, the Delta 15s is fast and stable with a lower cockpit for a snugger fit. Weighing just 44 pounds, the 15s offers quick, responsive handling with reassuring primary and secondary stability. Perfect for coastal paddling or longer trips. Storage capacity: ~44 gallons/170 liters

Delta 16

Length: 16’
Weight: 48 lbs
Rudder or skeg option
The designers created the Delta 16 for paddlers seeking precision and control. Its multi-chine hull offers superb stability and handling in a variety of water conditions. It easily keeps a quick responsive pace and has enough storage capacity for multi-day exploration. Best fits medium to large size paddlers. Storage capacity: ~52 gallons/200 liters

Delta 17

Length: 17’
Weight: 50 lbs
Rudder or skeg option
A long, sleek kayak built for speed and efficiency. The Delta 17 is great for long-distance touring and coastal expeditions, providing both comfort and performance. It's a great fit for medium to larger framed paddlers, and it also accommodates experienced extra large paddlers. Storage capacity: ~68 gallons/258 liters

Kayak FAQs

What is the best Delta Kayak for beginners?

Which is best depends where you will do most of your paddling, your size/skill level and budget.

Can I demo Delta Kayaks before buying?

Yes! We offer free kayak demos on all Delta models. Try out different kayaks to find the one that suits you best.

What makes Delta Kayaks stand out from other brands?

Delta Kayaks are made from thermoformed ABS plastic. This material is lightweight and durable - offering UV protection and a beautiful, scratch resistant finish.
Stability: peace of mind if the weather goes awry.
Your choice of a rudder or skeg on single kayaks 14 feet and longer. A rudder is best for paddlers who prefer to steer the kayak with their feet rather than with paddle strokes and edging.

How do I care for my Delta Kayak?

Caring for a Delta Kayak is easy. Simply rinse it with fresh water after use and store out of direct sunlight. Transport it using kayak cradles or racks to avoid warping.

How to Choose the Right Delta Kayak for You

Delta kayaks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with their own unique qualities. When selecting a kayak, consider factors like:

Intended Use: Recreational kayaks are great for casual paddling in calm conditions, while light and performance touring kayaks are better for longer trips and more challenging conditions.
Comfort: Ensure the kayak you choose fits you physically and gives you confidence on the water.
Your Skill Level: Beginners may prefer shorter, more stable kayaks in the recreational to light touring categories. Paddlers looking for more speed and space for longer and overnight trips might enjoy the performance of a touring model

Why Buy from Northwest Outdoor Center?

Kayaking is what we do. When we aren't teaching kayaking or paddling on our days off, you'll find us working in the shop. We're here to help educate you. Trying kayaks side by side on the water, like you can from our docks, is the best way to find the right fit for your paddling needs.

Final Thoughts

Delta Kayaks offer a combination of performance, durability, and comfort that few other brands can match. Don’t hesitate - schedule your demo today and start your next paddling adventure!