How do you size a kayak spray skirt?

The circumference is the measurement around the very outer edge of the rim, not under the coaming where the bungee or rand fits. Though length and width are important factors in determining the proper cockpit size, circumference is the most important measurement.

What is the purpose of a spray skirt?

A spraydeck (sprayskirt in N. America, akuilisaq or tuiitsoq in Greenland) is a flexible waterproof cover for a boat (in particular for a kayak or a canoe) with holes for the passengers’ waists. Spraydecks are used to prevent water from entering the boat while allowing passengers to paddle or row.

Why do kayaks have skirts?

With water in your boat, you’ll lose buoyancy, which will make the boat capsize easier. And if the water is cold, it’ll take all the fun out of kayaking. The kayak skirt essentially seals this hole, making you and your kayak one solid piece of gear and preventing the majority of the water from getting into your boat.

When did necky kayaks go out of business?

By now, Necky owners, including yours truly, have heard the bad news from Johnson Outdoors, parent company of Necky Kayaks, Old Town Canoes and Kayaks, and Ocean Kayak, announced on June 15, 2017. Johnson Outdoors will no longer manufacture Necky kayaks.

Do I need a Spraydeck on a kayak?

Your spraydeck is the difference between having a light, nimble kayak and having a water logged submarine. As kayakers it’s the piece of gear on which we place the highest expectations and demands. As a general rule, I suggest that anyone running whitewater over class 4 should be using a rand spraydeck.

What is a paddle float used for?

The paddle float rescue (reentry) uses an inflatable bag, called a paddle float, on the end of a paddle to act as an outrigger that helps stabilize the kayak as the swimmer gets into it. The paddle float itself is simple and is easily stored bungee-corded to the back of a sea kayak’s backband.