In 2014, British brand Venture Kayaks turned traditional steering systems on their head with the Skudder—an under-hull steering aid that deploys like a skeg, but can be turned like a rudder. Expect more innovation for 2015 with the debut of two new rudder systems. Lighter and more durable than its aluminum predecessor, West Coast-based Delta Kayaks’ new composite rudder also deploys faster and holds position better thanks to a single, spring-loaded control cable. Meanwhile, Kayak Distribution designer Felix Martin looked beneath the sea to create the unusual-looking rudder that will be available on all Boreal Design, Seaward and Riot kayaks. “It is bio-inspired from a humpback whale flipper,” says Martin. “They have the shortest turning radius for whales.” The plastic rudder tapers in thickness and is shaped to reduce drag in the water.