So you’ve found your dream kayak, but a few details still need tweaking. There are countless ways to personalize your kayak—some some fast and easy, some more involved and complex. As you start playing with drills and epoxy, just don’t forget basic requirements like flotation and water-tightness. If in doubt, consult an expert before you do anything drastic. Here are 12 ways, some practical, some purely hedonistic, to soup up your ride.
Keel strip
There’s a reason you’ll see a keel strip on many experienced paddlers’ kayaks—it’s simple yet effective. This extra layer of fibreglass or plastic tape will help protect your boat and let you focus on playing hard.
Customized seat
Paddling is infinitely better with the right seat. If your seat isn’t working for you (e.g. your legs go numb quickly), try small modifications like high density foam under your bottom or install a different seat. Keep in mind that a well-formed yet simple seat can be more comfortable than an overly padded bulky seat which may limit your movement and can hinder good paddling posture.
Custom padding
A well-fitting boat is essential for more advanced strokes and maneuvers that require edging, good boat control and full body engagement. If you find that your boat is a bit too wide or loose, add foam blocks or wedges (handcarved or purchased) to ensure that your hips make contact with the boat.
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Heel pads
If you often paddle barefoot, make your life more comfy by adding a thin layer of high density foam to the bottom of the boat where your heels rest. Make your own or purchase a set.
Underdeck bungees
Keep your deck and cockpit clutter free. Rig up a storage system under your deck for items you want out of the way, but easily accessible, like pumps and flares.
Bulkhead
If you’re up for some major boat renovations, you can move your front bulkhead back to allow for more dry storage space. Unless you are very capable with boat repairs, it’s best to leave this in expert hands, or request this modification when you first order your boat.
Paddle park
Add some spare bungee and a clip within easy reach on your deck, and voila, you have a place to park your paddle!
Beads
Hand-carved beads are traditionally part of the deck rigging on many Greenland boats. This small and easy modification allows you to more easily stick your paddle (or harpoon) under the deck rigging or makes it easier to grab a hold of your boat during self-rescues.
Reflective tape
Trim your boat and paddle with reflective tape for added visibility during night paddles and foggy conditions. If you’re really into sticking stuff on your boat, there are lots of decals and designs out there to give your boat some added flair.
Cup holder
Rig up a cup holder on your deck, it’s the ultimate extra for caffeine-loving paddlers.
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