SKEG OR RUDDER?
A skeg assists with tracking in crosswinds or currents and pairs with fixed footrests for optimum efficiency. Rudders aid tracking and turning, making them ideal for kayak fishing, sailing and longer boats like tandems and race kayaks. Most rough water boats feature skegs, since the fin’s placement closer to the cockpit keeps it in the water more than a stern-mounted rudder when the waves are stand- ing up. Many smaller recreational kayaks sport neither, since these boats are already supremely maneuverable and designed for more protected waters.
OPTIONS, OPTIONS
Does the kayak have a place for everything you want to carry, inside or on the deck? If you’re planning to take overnight trips or paddle
open water, make sure your boat has waterproof storage hatches and bulkheads. For safety and convenience, look for perimeter lines, deck bungees and grab or carry handles on bow and stern. You’ll be spending a lot of time on your backside, so make sure the seat, back band or backrest and outfitting are comfortable and adjustable.
AND REMEMBER
The only way to really know whether you are going to love a boat is to paddle it. Buy from a kayak shop that offers on-water test pad- dling and try as many models as you can before settling on the kayak of your dreams.—Virginia Marshall
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