Kayaks and paddles are a favorite outdoor recreational item, popular among all family members. They come in lots of different styles and designs. The range of choice mind spinning. Sit-on-tops are a large selling design suitable for both entry level novices as well as seasoned kayakers.
Most brands have several sit on top models. Basic models are well equipped with paddle, several storage spaces, either netted or covered. Premier models have the ability to be paddled, pedaled or sailed. They also have integrated rudder systems operated by an inboard foot pedal. The pedal models have a removable inboard drive system that is powered by the foot pedals.
Approximate dimensions for solo paddlers are length 3-4.5 meters, width 0.75-0.85 meters and weight about 18-35 kilograms supporting a maximum paddler weight of 150-250 kilograms, varying according to the specific model and brand. The design is suitable for everyone, young and old, fit and not so fit.
Some models have been especially designed as a surf kayak. These are no suitable for long distance exploring or touring since they are not equipped with a seat or backrest. Seating is within a depressed deck well. Most units come equipped with padded thigh rests that keep the paddler tethered to the kayak. They are designed with a long flat section that acts as a special planning hull, hard rails and a single surf fin to assist on-wave maneuverability.
Accessories for touring, pedal kayaks include a dodger that protects the lower body against wind and water spray as well as providing shade. The dodger attaches to the kayak and operates like a small tent. Bungee cord ties the dodger to fittings secured along kayak. Small internal battens provide shape to the dodger. Velcro is used to seal the dodger. The entire unit folds to allow easy entry to and exit from the kayak.
Premier touring models have finely designed hulls to improve tracking so that the paddler can maintain a finely tuned course. This smooth, flowing hull with a flared bow is quick through the water and cuts through chop. They come equipped with extra storage areas, both sealed and netted.
Some sit-on-tops are specially designed for the surf. These models are not appropriate for exploring let alone touring. They do not have a seat, backrest or many storage areas. The paddler sits in a small deck depression. Some models have padded thigh straps to keep the kayak tethered to the paddler. These units are designed for short bursts of paddling speed and on-wave maneuvering. They have a long broad hull section for planning and are totaling self-bailing. They also have hard rails and a surf fin to assist maneuverability.
In conclusion, sit-on-tops are a popular design for people looking to purchase kayaks and paddles. In addition to the above points, other features to look for are hinged hatch covers are hinged (to prevent ever losing them); a smooth foot well or cockpit sole to allow the paddler to move up into a kneeling position (which can help to relieve variety and assist on to your knees; keeper footrests to assist a correct sitting position; storage areas for dry bags as well as snorkelling, fishing or other equipment. Some even have a domed bow cover for added protection of gear stored up front.
Most brands have several sit on top models. Basic models are well equipped with paddle, several storage spaces, either netted or covered. Premier models have the ability to be paddled, pedaled or sailed. They also have integrated rudder systems operated by an inboard foot pedal. The pedal models have a removable inboard drive system that is powered by the foot pedals.
Approximate dimensions for solo paddlers are length 3-4.5 meters, width 0.75-0.85 meters and weight about 18-35 kilograms supporting a maximum paddler weight of 150-250 kilograms, varying according to the specific model and brand. The design is suitable for everyone, young and old, fit and not so fit.
Some models have been especially designed as a surf kayak. These are no suitable for long distance exploring or touring since they are not equipped with a seat or backrest. Seating is within a depressed deck well. Most units come equipped with padded thigh rests that keep the paddler tethered to the kayak. They are designed with a long flat section that acts as a special planning hull, hard rails and a single surf fin to assist on-wave maneuverability.
Accessories for touring, pedal kayaks include a dodger that protects the lower body against wind and water spray as well as providing shade. The dodger attaches to the kayak and operates like a small tent. Bungee cord ties the dodger to fittings secured along kayak. Small internal battens provide shape to the dodger. Velcro is used to seal the dodger. The entire unit folds to allow easy entry to and exit from the kayak.
Premier touring models have finely designed hulls to improve tracking so that the paddler can maintain a finely tuned course. This smooth, flowing hull with a flared bow is quick through the water and cuts through chop. They come equipped with extra storage areas, both sealed and netted.
Some sit-on-tops are specially designed for the surf. These models are not appropriate for exploring let alone touring. They do not have a seat, backrest or many storage areas. The paddler sits in a small deck depression. Some models have padded thigh straps to keep the kayak tethered to the paddler. These units are designed for short bursts of paddling speed and on-wave maneuvering. They have a long broad hull section for planning and are totaling self-bailing. They also have hard rails and a surf fin to assist maneuverability.
In conclusion, sit-on-tops are a popular design for people looking to purchase kayaks and paddles. In addition to the above points, other features to look for are hinged hatch covers are hinged (to prevent ever losing them); a smooth foot well or cockpit sole to allow the paddler to move up into a kneeling position (which can help to relieve variety and assist on to your knees; keeper footrests to assist a correct sitting position; storage areas for dry bags as well as snorkelling, fishing or other equipment. Some even have a domed bow cover for added protection of gear stored up front.
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