Recommendation For Single Person Kayak?

Wife and I are looking to get a couple of Kayaks to paddle around our lake and beach in.

What are some good brands to look for? Not looking for the "Cadillac" of kayaks, but definitely ones that are reliable, functional and heavy duty as we plan to use them frequently.

I appreciate your help in advance.

 

I have a 10ft Marvel 10 from Liquid Logic. I don't use it much at all anymore, but it's a solid boat. I think it would be a great beginner boat to start with.

 

That sunburst model

But that price tag though. Maybe I should be searching at Walmart

 

I have been kayaking for years and have had numerous kayaks.
They have Chinese kayaks at Wally World that would be great for you both.
See how much fun you have first before investing more.
You definitely want a sit-on-top.
The "Lifetime Daylite 80 Sit-On-Top Kayak" at Wal___ is $160. You do not get the long term durability but you do get a paddle LOL!
This one is 8' which makes it easy to turn and handle, especially in waves, and at only 40lbs. you can carry/drag it easily.

 

My wife and I are also beginners to the sport, I'm yet to visit DICKS sporting goods but I hear you they have great pricing.

It's my weekend goal to buy a pair

 

Don't go on price alone. Consider how you're going to use it. Some short, wide kayaks are stable and good for fishing but not really getting anywhere. Longer, thinner kayaks are a lot easier to paddle all day long and actually get somewhere. Last thing you want to do it be out on the water, working your way into the wind, tired/frustrated wife by your side. As with anything else, you'll never regret buying a good tool. Find someone at Dicks that really knows what he/she is talking about and be real about what you want to do with the kayaks.

 

Find some place near you that rents kayaks similar to what you want first. Take them out on the water for a few hours to get the feel for them. See what kind of kayak groups are on FB you can join and get a lot of good advice from.

 

I’ve got a wilderness systems pungo 120. It’s great around calmer rivers and lakes and wasn’t too expensive.