Canoes are paddle powered craft for exploring shallows to running white water. They are light-weight narrow boats with pointed ends and open top. They can be propelled by one or more seated or kneeling paddlers using a single-bladed paddle. Canoes are easy to use and enjoy for a variety of recreational activities such as racing, whitewater canoeing, touring and camping, freestyle, and general recreation. The intended use of the canoe dictates its hull shape and construction material. They typically range from about 10 to 22 ft. long.

Historically canoes were dugouts or made of bark on a wood frame, but modern construction materials evolved to include all-purpose aluminum to high-tech composites. They are trailerable and hold up to 3 people.