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Design
The shape of a kayak hull defines its performance characteristics, and each hull is a subtle blend of individual design elements. The hull design begins as a concept, and each of those design elements is carefully evaluated and then artistically blended back into the whole. Although each design is different, every manufacturer's goal remains the same: to ensure that each of their designs, regardless of its final use, is the most versatile it can be.
The overall performance of a kayak is most affected by the length and width of its hull. The length is the primary factor in determining potential speed. Given two kayaks of different lengths but otherwise identical specifications, the longer kayak will be faster (and easier to paddle over distance), while the shorter kayak will be easier to turn. Width is a primary factor in determining stability: a wider kayak will be more stable.
Length
A longer kayak will have greater hull speed, better tracking and greater potential for carrying capacity. Shorter kayak will be more maneuverable and be typically lighter in weight.
Width
Width, or beam, as it is called. Wide-beamed kayaks offer great stability but may be somewhat slow. Narrow kayaks may be less stable but afford better efficiency and hull speed.
Deck Height
Greater deck height allows for increased carrying capacity and better water-shedding ability. However higher decked kayaks can be harder to handle in windy conditions and will be heavier.
Capacity
‘Volume' refers to the litres of capacity you kayak can hold, these figures are given for dry storage areas and the cockpit volume as well.
Not to be confused with 'maximum carrying capacity' which refers to the amount of weight a boat will carry without sacrificing manouverability or getting swamped. If your load will exceed the guidelines of the kayak you have initially selected, choose a larger model. It is always safest to use a boat that is too large rather than too small.
Stability
The stability you want will depend upon how you use your boat. Beginners typically like a boat with good initial stability while experienced paddlers favour a boat with good secondary stability. Initial stability is
the tendency of the boat to lean or shift away from a perfectly upright position. Secondary stability is the tendency of the boat to actually tip over. A boat with good secondary stability that seems tippy will
be more forgiving by staying in a leaning position instead of tipping over. A boat can’t have both good initial stability and secondary stability — it’s pretty much one or the other. The hull shape will determine what kind of stability the boat has.
Another issue with stability is its relationship to speed. A highly stable boat will not be the fastest boat on the water. Typically, the stable boat will be wider and slower than the narrower faster boat.
Do not be put off by a particular shape. Your best measure of stability is to paddle the boat. Remember that stability increases rapidly with additional payload so be sure to test paddle the boat under loaded conditions, or under conditions that will be typical for you.
Entry Lines
The shape of the bow where it cuts the water will have an effect on the kayak's performance. A very sharp, knife-like entry will cut through the water easily and provide efficiency. A blunt bow will add fullness and give buoyancy in waves, thus a drier ride.
Keels
A keel will help tracking in short kayaks and will help the kayaks resistance to crosswinds. Keels also work well on kayaks used with in surf as they decrease side slipping. They would not be appropriate on a kayak used in whitewater or situations where quick maneuvers are essential.
Cross-Section Shapes:
These cross-section views are outlines of a hull as if the kayak were sliced in two at its widest point. It provides a sense of how the kayak will handle in terms of stability by giving the best look at what’s going on below the waterline.
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