This gear review was originally published in Adventure Kayak magazine.
Installing a composite keel strip on a kayak requires patience, knowhow and some compromising—gel coat can be finicky and reinforcement adds noticeable weight. KeelEazy offers a simpler alternative in the form of an easy to install, peel and stick PVC strip that is far more durable than glass or Kevlar strips, weighs significantly less and slides easily across other boats during rescues. KeelEazy’s Kayak Kits come in 16- and 18-foot lengths, and are available in black or white. The strip will adhere to composite, polyethylene and ABS. Tips: Separating the backing from the adhesive is best done when the strip has been cooled, so throw it in the freezer before installation. Use a heat gun to contour the PVC around curved surfaces. Also, rounding the strip’s corners during installation will lengthen lifespan.
www.keeleazy.com • $70–78
This article originally appeared in Adventure Kayak, Spring 2012. Download our free iPad/iPhone/iPod Touch App or Android App or read it here.
