Why is speed important

For your typical day out paddling around and exploring speed is not that important. Most people are not olympic sprint kayakers who need to be able to go as fast as possible. But a fast kayak can increase your range, letting you see more cool stuff in a day. Speed also helps you avoid risks such as fast currents that might sweep you out to danger. Or if you get stuck in a current, speed will help you get out of trouble. Speed is also useful to get you ashore quickly if bad weather approaches.

But most people don't need a fast boat, what they want is an efficient kayak. This is one that is easy to paddle.