Boreal Alvik’s Kayak Storage Solution

For the past twenty-plus years, I have stored my roto-molded and composite kayaks inside my garage. In coastal New England, the summers can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit and in the winters temperatures can easily fall overnight to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. I use 4” threaded screw-in “C-hooks” (aka. “screw hooks”) that I screw into pre-drilled holes in the floor joists that make up the attic floor above our heated garage. I had a local sail-maker fabricate 3 foot by 4 inch triple thickness straps with a grommet at each end that I use as hanging straps. These I attach to the “C-hooks” using woven straps with a simple hook that attaches to the grommets. Luckily the two windows behind my kayaks do not receive any direct sunlight. If this is a problem in your situation, you will need to problem solve a way to eliminate that heat source. (e.g.) 2” fitted panel of rigid foam insulation.

KayakStorage3

I also store my kayaks on edge with straps being about 1/3 of the way in fore and aft OR where the bulkheads are placed. My 17’ rotomolded sea kayak has a day hatch in addition to a front and rear hatch and a skeg box; so the aft end of the kayak it structurally more rigid that the foredeck. I will compensate and position the rear strap a little more towards the end of the kayak. I recognize that I am probably a bit more obsessive about structural integrity than most people so this is what I do throughout the off season. Once a month, I will rotate the kayaks about 1/3 of a turn so that they are making a 180 degree change from the cockpit opening facing into the garage to facing the wall.  I will also adjust the straps 3 or 4 inches from side to side as I make these turns. I usually leave the hatch covers either loosely attached or I leave them off.

 

Have two sea kayaks to hang??

Unless you are an NFL Defensive Lineman who bench presses Volkswagens for laughs; you may find any kayak larger than 12’ to be awkward to manipulate at best. When you have two 17’ kayaks hanging by straps, one over the other; everything becomes more challenging due to their unwieldy length and the fact that you have garage wall 10” behind the kayaks. For maneuverability reasons, I would not hang my kayaks any closer than 8” from the wall of your garage.

KayakStorage2

A 60lb. sea kayak that is quite manageable to deadlift off the ground by the cockpit combing to thigh level; is quite different when the weight of that same kayak is stretched over its 17’ length and is now 4’ off the ground. One of the challenges is what to do with the stern of the kayak after unhooking the strap. Do you put something on the floor to rest it on; knowing that it will need to slide somewhat on the floor as you attempt to unhook the forward strap and/or slide the bow out of the loop formed by the forward strap? Scraping some plastic off of the stern of a RM kayak, while undesirable; is less of a problem than scraping off gelcoat from your composite kayak.

Another challenge is when you need to take down the upper kayak and you do not want to have to first take out the lower kayak. Here the problem is not simply that it is higher off of the ground and that you are exposing your shoulder to a greater risk of injury; but that you now have a set of straps hanging down that hold the lower kayak and you still have that unforgiving garage wall limiting your maneuverability. You have the additional problem of needing to rest the stern of the upper kayak that you have just unhooked on top of the swaying deck of the lower kayak and hope that it does not fall to the left or right of that kayak.

Now imagine yourself after a tiring day on the water. First you place the bow of the kayak into the attached loop formed by the front hanging strap. Now you need to pick up and hold the stern end of your 60lb kayak in the crook of your right arm while your left hand is trying to loop the grommeted end of the sailcloth strap over the swaying “C-hook” located at the end of the hanging woven strap. Not my definition of having great fun!!

After several years of sore muscles and some inevitable mishaps and more than a few well-chosen phrases; I decided to build cradles for my more frequently used lower kayak for three reasons. First, it eliminated the problem of a second set of straps hanging down when attempting to take down or put up the upper kayak. Secondly, it made is so much easier to lift a kayak out of low cradles without the bother of having to hook and unhook fore and aft straps. Third, when the kayak in the cradles is facing cockpit up you have created a stable non-swaying relatively flat plane upon which you can lower the upper kayak.  I will place a rudder bath mat on the unmoving and more stable rear deck of the lower kayak; upon which the upper kayak will subsequently rest. There are two good reasons for doing this. First, it keeps the gel coat from being scratched. Second it reduces the chance of the upper kayak slipping off the lower kayak.

KayakStorage1

Building a set of cradles is quite simple. These rough dimensions worked for me and you may want to make your own adaptations. Refer to attached photo of cradles. Here is what you need: (2) 8’ 2X6 pressure treated framing lumber; a box of 1 ½” deck screws and one 4’X4’ piece of ½” plywood; (4)  2” threaded screw hook and (2)  3’X 4” sailcloth straps.

Cut the pressure treated 2X6 lumber into 2’ lengths for the supporting feet and into 2’ lengths for the upright legs of the cradles.  Cut the plywood into (4) 24” pieces with a “V” shape so that the suspended kayak hangs just above the “V” of the cutout plywood. Use the decking screws to anchor the legs to the plywood. Attach the threaded screw hooks to outside of the 4 legs about 2” from the top with the opening of the hook facing down. For composite kayaks, I will wrap an old bath mat (cloth on one side and rubber backing on the other side) with trusty old Duct Tape around the sailcloth straps; so the gel coat is not abraded by any roughness of the sail cloth and stitching. Depending on how quickly your kayak tapers towards bow and stern; you may need to place a small piece of wood or foam pipe insulation between the top of the upright leg and the attached sailcloth straps to purchase more distance between the kayak and the shape of the “V” cut.

Good luck in adapting these suggestions to your own needs

-Boreal Alvik

 

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Top 5 Extra Essentials for Winter Paddling

Winter is one of my favorite times of the year for paddling-the air is crisp and clean and there is always free and ample parking!  But paddling in cold temperatures definitely raises the level of risk, and means that an extra level of preparation is required.

Hiking into the West River. Jamaica, VT

Hiking into the West River. Jamaica, VT

Most paddlers would be familiar with the ‘5 Essentials of Kayaking’ (boat, paddle, pfd, spray skirt & helmet), but there are at least five additional items that you will always find in my boat on a winter’s day.

Black Diamond Storm Headlamp

Black Diamond Storm Headlamp

 

Headlamp– Paddling in the winter means no more sleeping in, but even the earliest starters can find themselves coming home in the dark.  Headlamps have become ubiquitous and can be found in many varieties with many different price points.  I use the Black Diamond Storm headlamp, which is fully waterproof and features a powerful, 100-Lumen output.

 

First Aid Kit– Starting with a commercially available kit from Adventure Medical Kits, I’ve added items relevant to paddling or that I find useful.  My first aid kit lives in a 5L dry bag that can accommodate a bit more than the kit, so it’s often home to a headlamp of its own, my keys, or an energy bar.  Tweaking the kit for your own personal use is extremely important-this keeps you familiar with what items you have on hand so that you can be maximally effective in an emergency.  While the physical kit is important, even more important is first aid training.  I’m a certified Wilderness First Responder and I would recommend this or a similar course to anyone who spends time outdoors.

No excuses-you have lots of room!

No excuses-you have lots of room!

Extra Clothing– I’ve been called over prepared, but in my opinion the winter paddler has no excuse not to bring extra warm layers.  I typically bring a full change of clothes including gloves and a knit cap.  I often bring one or more extra knit caps so that I can help out other members of my group if necessary.  With so much extra room in a kayak, there’s no reason not to pack a 10L dry bag with some warm clothes to pull on during lunch.  I always make sure these are non-cotton layers, erring on the side of more, thinner layers, rather than one bulky piece.

Shelter for a Night Out- You will always find a 20L dry bag in my sea kayak equipped with my sleeping bag, and items to make an impromptu shelter.   My sleeping bag is the Mountain Hardwear Lamina 20, a non-down bag that will insulate even when wet.  I’ve also invested in the SOL Escape Bivvy and the SOL Sport Utility Blanket.  These items are lightweight and pack small, but could really make a night out bearable, instead of a disaster.  The Sport Utility Blanket has proved endlessly useful and seems to always tag along on my trips to be used as a seat, wind protection or changing mat.

SOL Sport Utility Blanket

SOL Sport Utility Blanket

Marine Radio/Cell Phone-Sea kayakers are definitely advised to invest in a quality, hand-held marine radio.  This is the definitive way to contact help near the coast, in addition to getting accurate, real-time weather reports and communicating with other mariners.  Knowledge in your particular radio’s use, as well as operational protocol, will make this tool useful.

Whitewater paddlers will have less use for a marine radio, but a fully charged cell phone can certainly help in case of emergency.  Cell service can be limited in many whitewater areas, which are often located in the mountains or in steep valleys.

Wherever you paddle during the winter, make sure to dress for immersion.  Dave’s overview of how to dress for winter paddling will form the basis of your winter paddling attire and attitude.  It’s important to remember that the five extra essentials I’ve presented here are certainly not the only items you might find necessary for a successful day on the water during the cooler months.

One of the best reasons to paddle in the winter is the extra challenge, but the most important thing to remember is that skills and discretion are your most important tools to staying safe on the water.

 

Here’s to the endless season!

-Keith

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Kayak Tour of Plymouth Harbor (GoPro Video)

Visit the KayakDave.com YouTube Channel for more GoPro videos!!!

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Snow Peak Mini Hozuki Review

Overview:

“Light up your world with this innovative led light. Latch it on a tree to collect fire wood; magnetize it to your fridge to create a romantic setting. Lighting has never been so easy or so fun!” – Snow Peak

Mini Hozuki Lantern (Image Courtesy of Snow Peak)

Mini Hozuki Lantern (Image Courtesy of Snow Peak)

The Deets:

  • Style: Hanging Lantern
  • Lighting Modes: High, Low, Dimmer, Strobe, Candle
  • Maximum Battery Life: 70 hours (low), 40 hours (high)
  • Maximum Brightness: 60 Lumens
  • Waterproofness: IPX4 (drip proof or “storm proof”)
  • Weight: 2.01oz. (57g)
  • Batteries: 3x AAA
  • Color Options: Orange on white, Green on Grey, Black on White (Limited Edition)

The Review:

Meet the Japanese-inspired Mini Hozuki lantern by Snow Peak! This compact, lightweight lantern was named after the Japanese Hozuki flower (Physalis alkekengi) also known as the Japanese Lantern (makes sense, right??). It’s the perfect light source for backpackers and kayak campers interested in bringing some ambiance to their campsite. The Mini Hozuki features a number of lighting modes including high, low, dimmer, strobe, and candle. It’s rated to run for up to 40 hours on high and 70 hours on low using only 3 AAA batteries! This hip little lantern features a flexible, silicon hanging loop with a magnet latch that allows for excellent versatility in mounting positions and a silicon globe to prevent damage in transit. The mini-Hozuki comes in a number of color options including the limited-edition Black on white for the 2013 Holiday season!

Mini Hozuki 1

The thing that drew me to the Mini Hozuki was its promise to provide a warm mood at the campsite. I’m pleased to report that its soft glow provided that while the many different lighting modes provided so much more. This lantern produces more than enough light at maximum power (60 lumens) to brighten up your tent or hammock for reading while the low power setting provides a nice, night-light effect. I really like the dimming feature that lets you select power settings between the extremes to better tune the lighting to the moment and your desire. Better yet, the mini Hozuki out-performed its rated run time on both high and low settings lasting about 60 hours on one set of batteries using a mixture of high, low, and candle settings. I’ve yet to use the strobe mode (it’s been too cold for a proper campsite dance party J around here) but the candle mode has been put through its paces with much fanfare especially when placed on a table on the low setting. Cycling through these many modes is made easy thanks to the integrated globe switch. Just be sure to read the directions or what this video so that you know how to access all of these great lighting modes!

There are a few functional items that the Mini Hozuki could do better. The first relates to the “candle mode” which produces a rather rough flicker making it look a little less than realistic, especially at high power. I’ve designed a few “flickering” LED circuits in my time and it seems that the frequency mixing may be a bit off. The second item relates to the function of the magnetic clasp. Granted, this was a cool feature but I’m not sure that it’s really all that functional in practice. I see myself hanging this lantern mostly from the ceiling of my tent or the bug-net on my hammock neither of which would require a magnet. Furthermore, most tent poles (aluminum, composite) aren’t ferromagnetic which makes the magnet a little impractical. It also makes me a bit nervous having a magnet in close proximity to certain electronic devices such as radios, cell phones, and GPS units as it could damage screens and other sensitive components. This all begs the question: why not go with a simple, and lighter-weight plastic clasp like the one on Snow Peak’s larger Hozuki Lantern??

Mini Hozuki 2

Overall, I’ve found the Mini Hozuki to be a neat and flashy (pun-intended) campsite gadget. The soft glow of this light, the way it swings from its hanger, and the option to switch to “candle mode” all combine to provide that campsite ambiance that I so desired. The mini Hozuki is a great size for backpack camping but I would recommend the full-sized Hozuki Lantern to those who are interested in setting a chill mood at base camp.

-Kayak Dave

Pros: Provides warm light, Many lighting modes, Good on batteries.

Cons: Candle mode could be improved. Not a huge fan of magnetic clasp.

Kayak Dave Rating:

3 paddles

 

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Black Friday 2013 Kayak Deals to Avoid

The holiday season brings together family, friends, home style foods, and a welcoming change to the New Year. After a hearty Thanksgiving feast many eager shoppers hit the local retail stores to reap the best discounts of the season. From tablets to tables, Black Friday brings millions of enraged consumers to storefronts in hopes of jump starting their holiday shopping. Many retail giants have already released their Black Friday catalogs to give consumers a sneak peak at this year’s doorbuster deals.

 Among the plasma televisions and iPads, some retailers have marked down kayaks in hopes of clearing out the remaining stock of the 2013 season. A kayak for $149? You can’t beat that with a wooden stick… but wait, there must be something missing.

Of course, some Black Friday deals are best avoided… kayaks and canoes being one of them. The following suggestions give an idea of why you should leave your kayak shopping until after the holidays:

  • Black Friday kayaks are inexpensive for a reason: Most kayaks we will see advertised this Black Friday are missing rear and front bulkheads. Kayaks lacking fore/aft bulkheads not only pose a safety hazard because they eliminate buoyancy but you lose dry storage capacity.
  • Don’t cut corners when making a kayak purchase- Many Black Friday kayaks are missing bulkheads and hatches.

  • Quality issues: Black Friday kayaks may be blemishes, factory seconds, or discontinued models
  • You can’t try before you buy: The rush of Black Friday does not allow you the opportunity to try the kayak before you buy it. Sure, sitting in a kayak on a concrete floor is great if you’re planning on paddling in your living room. Being able to take the kayak for a demo is better since you’ll be able to see how it handles in real conditions.
  • Do you want to demo a kayak in a sea, or a sea of people?

    Do you want to demo a kayak in a sea, or a sea of people?

  • Expert advice: There is a great value in purchasing a kayak at a local specialty shop; the biggest being able to tap expertise and knowledge from staff. Big retailers are pinched for staff on Black Friday and may not be able to offer personal assistance or customer support for kayak purchases.
  • Transportation: Some shoppers don’t consider how they are going to get the kayak home until after they buy it. Kayaks are not small, typically ranging from 10-14 feet in length. Unless you have experience safely loading kayaks on the roof of a car, its best to seek help from a store associate, which I’m assuming will be scarce during the mayday of Black Friday.

Black Friday can be a great opportunity to score major deals this holiday season but some deals should be left for after the holidays. If you are in the market for a kayak this holiday season, consider these drawbacks before you line-up in a parking lot at 2am… you may be losing out on what you’re “saving.”

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Trip Report: Five Islands to The Cuckolds Light, Sheepscot Bay, ME

Trip Details

Five Islands to The Cuckolds Light, Sheepscot Bay, ME

Date: Sun. November 11, 2013Sheepscot Bay to The Cuckholds Light 11:13

Launch: Five Islands, Georgetown, ME at 11am

Return:  Five Islands, Georgetown, ME at 4:30pm

Total Distance: 11.3 miles

Weather and Ocean Conditions:

Water Temperature: 42F

Air Temperature: 45F

Avg. Wind Speed: 10-15mph

Small Craft Advisory

3-5ft Swell

Visibility: Approx 8 miles

Good Eats: Five Islands Lobster Co. (at the put in!)

The Maine coast is a premier sea kayak destination because of its extreme beauty and varying conditions that provide seemingly endless opportunities to travel by kayak.

At the put in

The put in can be difficult due to high tidal variation

This past weekend we loaded up the boats headed to a friend’s home in Georgetown, Maine.  This vantage point offered easy access to the open water and exposed coast of Sheepscot Bay.  We launched from Five Islands, ME with the goal of reaching The Cuckolds Light, located off the southern tip of Southport Island.

We began by ferrying into the 4ft rollers in the Bay, facing the Atlantic to the south.  Soon the coast of Southport Island felt close as we made the nearly one mile crossing.  The conditions were much better than the forecast Small Craft Advisory we had listened to the night before.  We made quick time as we approached the four rock outcrops that comprise the Cat Ledges.  Here we found the confused chop that is characteristic of this section of coast as incoming swell travels over submarine ledges.  We also startled a family of Harbor Seals resting above the high tide line.

Horseshoe-shaped breaker.  Scary Stuff

Horseshoe-shaped breaker. Scary Stuff

The Bay had a big water feel as we passed Lower Mark Island and continued on through the Cranberry Ledges toward our destination.  Here we found an interesting wave formed by a horseshoe-shaped ledge.  This wave came life roughly every 30 seconds with the incoming swell.  What initially looked good to surf turned into a 6ft monster that broke in on itself-ready to chomp a kayak.

Approaching The Cuckolds from the south.

Approaching The Cuckolds from the south.

After surfing some breaks we pulled within sight of The Cuckolds.  The two islands forming this group are East and West Cuckold, with the eastern island hosting the light station.  This station was established in 1892 as a fog signal to warn of the shoals at the southern approach to Boothbay Harbor.  The light, as well as a keeper’s house were added in 1907 at a cost of $25,000.  The fog signal alone was no small affair and consisted of “4-horsepower oil engines, air compressors, and air tanks, all in duplicate.”[1]

Currently the lighthouse is being beautifully renovated by the Cuckolds Fog Signal and Light Station Council (cuckoldslight.org)  The goals of this effort are to restore the original structure for public enjoyment, as well as the construction of two suites that can be rented for overnight stays.  There are also facilities for a resident keeper.  The project is nearing completion and the work crew were warm and generous as they allowed us to climb to the top of the light.

The weather in the open water to the south appeared to worsen, prompting us to hasten our departure past West Cuckold, which features camping for six on its barren four acres, as part of the Maine Island Trail Association.

Hendricks Head Light

Hendricks Head Light

As we headed back up the coast, the wind and tide in our favor, we stayed close to the shore to play in the many rock gardens.  It was along this leg of the route that we were thankful for our decision to wear our helmets, as we were both caught in a powerful but intermittent breaker similar to the wave we had seen before.  This surge was as powerful as any whitewater feature and necessitated a quick combat roll.

After this excitement we were happy to proceed north into the relatively protected waters of the Bay approaching Hendricks Head.  Here we paddled very close to the idyllic setting of Hendricks Head Light.  This station has been manned by 12 keepers since 1829, with the current structure built in 1875.  Its keeper’s house has passed into private hands, but the light still serves as a navigation aid.

From here we headed back across Sheepscot Bay to Five Islands where we found the rugged shores of these islands the most exciting and scenic of the day.  Without much time to explore we paddled back to the put in.

This normally busy island has shuttered for the off-season, but be sure to visit the famous Five Islands Lobster Co., located right at the put-in.  Rated ‘best lobster shack in Maine‘, make sure to round out your trip over a local favorite-get there early for parking!

 

 

 

For more information and another trip option in this area check out Dave’s Five Islands Trip Report-Dec 2011.

The wild Maine coast provides the perfect venue for truly world-class sea kayaking and I can’t wait for my next trip!


[1] United States Coast Guard Historic Light Station Information

 

 

 

 

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Wilderness Systems Focus 145 Review

Overview:

“The Focus delivers high performance versatility, blending the stability and predictability of the Tsunami with the speed and efficiency of the Tempest. Designed for “assertive” intermediate level paddlers looking to take their paddling skills—and their touring adventures—to the next level.” – Wilderness Systems

WS Focus 145

Wilderness Systems Focus 145 (Image Courtesy of Confluence)

The Deets:

Material: Polyethylene

Class: Light-Touring/ Fitness

Length: 14’6”

Width: 22.5’’

Deck Height: 14.25”

Cockpit Size: 19.5”x35”

Capacity: 275lbs

Weight: 48lbs

Hatches/Bulkheads: Bow and Stern

Rudder/Skeg: Optional Rudder

MSRP: $1419 standard, $1639 with rudder

 

The Review:

The Wilderness System Focus 145 represents a modern take on light-touring with this affordable, performance-oriented kayak. This racer-inspired design appeases those smaller, advanced-beginner paddlers “looking to take their paddling skills and touring adventures to the next level.” Its extended waterline, assertive stability profile, and optional rudder combine to deliver the tracking and speed necessary for fitness training. Moreover, its ability to handle multiple water conditions from flat water to light chop put those ambitious near-coastal day and over-night trips within reach! The Focus is available in 3 sizes (145, 150 and 155) to cover paddlers of all shapes and sizes.

WS Focus 145 Full

Alex and I first caught wind of the new-for-2014 Focus Series by Wilderness Systems in the weeks leading up to the annual EORA conference in Vermont. We were so excited to try this fitness-inspired kayak that we moved it all the way to the top of our demo list! As it turned out, Wilderness Systems was in a rush to get these prototypes to the dealers’ shows and had yet to dial in their manufacturing process. This resulted in the prototype Focus having far too much rocker and the terrible straight-line tracking performance that many of us experienced during these initial demos. It was a major bummer because we really wanted to like this kayak so that we could bring some into the shop in 2014…

WS Focus 145 Alex1

Thankfully, Wilderness Systems has since corrected the issues with their manufacturing process to produce a production Focus 145 that is all of the hype and more! The Focus 145 not only tracks well but it’s surprisingly quick for a polyethylene kayak and has confidence-inducing secondary stability to boot! I found that the Focus 145 tracked very well even without the rudder deployed in light-to-moderate winds (~8-10mph) and quartering seas. Deploying the over-stern rudder gains the fine directional control that one looks for in a fitness kayak. The racer-inspired, shallow-V hull also performed well in terms of speed and stability. It didn’t take much effort to get the Focus 145 up to and maintain a comfortable (and faster than average) cruising speed.

WS Focus 145 Alex2

Like most fitness kayaks, the Focus 145 sacrifices some primary stability for its speed. The secondary stability of the Focus 145, however, is quite impressive and should prove confidence-inducing for entry-level fitness paddlers assuming some prior paddling experience. I was a bit surprised by how well the Focus 145 maneuvers on edge and its quick response to brace turns. This makes me believe that the Focus 145 would also be a great choice for near-coastal day trippers looking for a kayak that can tuck into the coves and cover some ground in between!

WS Focus 145 Cockpit

I was equally impressed with the comfortable and functional cockpit outfitting included with the Focus 145. Generally, my marked inflexibility causes me to gravitate toward mid-sized kayaks thus sacrificing proper hull displacement for the comforts of a slighter larger (deeper) cockpit. I fully anticipated that I would feel shoe-horned into the smaller Focus 145 but this was not the case at all. The deck and adjustable thigh braces are positioned high enough to allow for solid leg-drive while fitness paddling but are never too far away to catch that all-important brace while touring. The keyhole entry is a little too narrow to allow for a “knees-up” fitness paddling position but I don’t feel like this is a bad thing considering the versatility of this kayak. Finally, I can’t say enough about the comfort of the Phase 3 AirPro XP seating system. Personally, I’m really happy that Wilderness went with a back band on the Focus series but folks will be happy to hear that it can easily retrofitted with an aftermarket Harmony Phase 3 AirPro seat-back kit.

WS Focus 145 Deck Pod

My biggest gripe with the Focus 145 is centered on the rudder control mechanism. The designers decided to go with the classic push-pedal-on-sliding-rails system over a gas-pedal system and I feel as though this was the wrong choice for this kayak. After all, the Focus 145 is a fitness-inspired kayak and one would expect that it would be ergonomically-designed to support a proper forward stroke with solid leg drive. This is not possible with a pedal-on-rails system as every time you drive against the pedals they will displace slightly which leads to over-steering. A gas-pedal system would allow the paddler to drive off of the static lower part of the pedals while providing fine control of the rudder with their toes. Rumor has it that Wilderness Systems is in the process of developing a gas-pedal system to compete with the Smart-trak Rudder System currently on the market. They expect this system to be released at OR2014 and plan to include it as the standard rudder control system in their 2015 Focus line.

Wilderness System Focus 145 (green) and Focus 150 (red)

Wilderness System Focus 145 (green) and Focus 150 (red)

Overall, I’m very happy with the way that the Focus 145 turned out! In my mind, the Focus family is well suited for advanced-beginner or fitness oriented paddlers looking to take their paddling skills to a new level at a price point that doesn’t break the bank. The speed and tracking of this kayak turned out to be exactly what I expected but what really blew me away was it’s amazing secondary stability and ability to maneuver on edge! The Focus’s ability to handle multiple water conditions to flat to light chop coupled with its speed make it an exciting option for those interested in taking longer, near-coastal day trips and short overnights too. All-in-all a great kayak that should get even better when Wilderness Systems releases their new performance rudder design in 2014!
Happy Paddling!

-Kayak Dave

 

Pros: Tracks well, Quick and efficient, Excellent secondary stability, Comfortable cockpit outfitting.

Cons: Rudder system is far from optimized, especially for fitness paddling.

Demo Notes: The Focus 145 was demoed on an inland lake with 8-10mph winds and 1ft waves. This review does not necessarily reflect how the larger models (Focus 150 and Focus 155) perform as the test-paddlers size made him a best fit for the 145.

Kayak Dave Rating:

4 paddles

Categories: Kayak Reviews | 3 Comments

Do you need a life jacket for kayaking?

The following article will address and confirm some of the common myths about life jackets, and address the difference a life jacket can make between life and death.yaker

Season after season, whether purchasing or renting a kayak; we always interact with at least a dozen people who have an utter aversion to wearing a life jacket. Interestingly enough, I developed the impression that people are more often trying to find ways to circumnavigate laws than to protect their personal wellbeing. Individuals who have been avoiding life jackets for years have developed some pretty clever excuses and explanations for not wearing a life jacket when it comes to kayaking. They typically go like this:

  • BUT… I’m a great swimmer; I have been swimming for my entire life.
  • BUT… I’m only in a small pond; if something happens I’ll just swim to shore.
  • BUT… I will keep a jacket in my boat, and if I happen to capsize I will put it on.

Anybody who has worked in the paddle sport industry has probably heard these excuses more than you can count. BUT… I bet most of these boaters did not know that 70% of boating fatality accidents result from drowning, and almost 85% of those who drown are not wearing a life jacket! 70 percentIt may be hard to believe but in addition to preparedness, knowledge, and experience, a life jacket is one of the only ways to prevent drowning. Even the strongest swimmer cannot fight debilitatingly cold waters or fierce currents.   A false sense of security often emerges from the environment you are paddling in. The “I’ll just hold onto my kayak” and the “I’ll just swim to shore” arguments are common delusions. Even small ponds and protected lakes propose great risk to drowning. The Boat U.S. Foundation has done extensive research and has identified that more than 90% of drownings occur in inland water, most within a few feet of safety and involve boats under 20-feet long. 9 out of 10Don’t be deceived by what seems familiar to you. Sudden changes in weather, medical emergencies such as heart attacks, boat collisions, and mechanical injuries can all hinder your ability to survive.

Saying that you could put a life jacket on after a capsize is like saying you could put a seatbelt on before a crash. Just last year, the Canadian Safe Boating Council hosted a trial among experienced boaters to test their ability to put on a life jacket in the water. The results were interesting, and for many, may even be surprising. See video below.

In conclusion, it is critical to always wear your life jacket even if you feel you are in control of the situation. In kayaking, the conditions can change at any moment, and your first line of defense is your life jacket. Be safe, be prepared, and always wear your life jacket.

Edgartown, Massachusetts, Aug. 28, 2010. The President goes kayaking. What's missing from this photo?

Edgartown, Massachusetts, Aug. 28, 2010. The President goes kayaking. What’s missing from this photo?

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Thule Locking Straps Review

Overview:

The Thule Locking Straps enclose a steel cable within theft-resistant nylon to provide a dual layer of security while transporting your boats and boards! – Kayak Dave

Thule Locking Straps (Image Courtesy of Thule)

Thule Locking Straps (Image Courtesy of Thule)

The Deet:

  • Materials: Steel Cable in Nylon Sleeve
  • Locking Mechanism: Keyed Lock
  • Length: 10ft (Thule Part # 832), 13ft (Thule Part # 831)
  • Cost: $69.95 (10ft), $79.95 (13ft)

The Review:

Thule’s Locking Straps offer a new spin on rooftop security for your boat or board! These are not your standard roof rack straps…they’re SUPER STRAPS constructed of two layers of theft-resistant nylon webbing that encase a thin, steel security cable. The aluminum buckle is quite a bit beefier than your standard strap buckle. The buckle also lives within a lockable housing that neatly covers up the buckle release to prevent that would-be crook from loosening up the strap. These locking straps come in two lengths (10ft and 13ft) in order to provide appropriate sizing for your situation. They may seem a bit pricy to some (a pair costs $70-$80) but they’re actually well in-line with what a good set of straps and a decent kayak lock would cost if purchased separately.

Thule Locking Straps 2

I’ve been more vigilant to the possibility of my kayak being stolen off of my car ever since a rash of kayak theft swept along the South Shore of Massachusetts in 2011. Employing a sturdy lock is one of the keys to protecting against kayak theft. The thing that drew me to the Thule Locking Straps was that idea that they could kill two birds with one stone by serving to secure my kayak to my roof rack as straps and as a security lock. I have to admit that my experience with “hybrid” items in the past has left me a bit jaded. Typically, one can expect a hybrid to do an OK job at both of its designed tasks but rarely are they stellar at one or the other. After using these locking straps throughout the season I’m pleased to report that they actually served me well in both roles!

Thule Locking Straps 3

In essence, these locking straps are basically two standard Thule straps sewn together to enclose the securing cable.  The upside is these straps are at least twice as strong as the standard straps when it comes to keeping your kayak on your roof while barreling down the highway! The down-side is that the double thickness makes them a bit less supple than the standard straps. For example, the locking straps don’t slide as easily through the strap-guide loops on the Thule Hull-a-Port cradles. The metal security cable also prevents one from tying a stop-knot beneath the buckle to further protect against the possibility of the strap loosening in transit. I don’t see this being an issue as the steel cable prevents the strap from stretching and the aluminum buckle is quite stout but it’s worth noting none-the-less. Finally, it can be a bit challenging to deal with the excess strap once your boat or board is tied down. I’ve had success running the straps directly into the door but I recommend against doing this if rain is in the forecast. These straps really wick the water in!

Thule Locking Straps 4

I’m also impressed with the locking mechanism on the Thule Locking straps. As I mentioned earlier, the aluminum buckle is quite a bit beefier than the one found on the standard straps. Not only that, but the housing slides over the buckle and locks down to provide a neat, protective package. I’ve attempted to yank, pry, and twist my way into this thing all to no avail! Does this mean that the buckle housing is impervious?? Surely not but I’d venture to say that no lock is truly theft-proof against somebody with the right tools and malaise in their heart. However, there’s no doubt in my mind that these straps are sturdy enough to offer a level of theft-prevention suitable to most instances and will deter the opportunistic thief from running off with your prized paddling possession!

Thule Locking Straps 5

One more note about the buckle housing: If you’re like me then you’re probably used to throwing straps around your car with reckless abandon. Please take care when tossing the buckles around. The locking buckle housings are fairly large/ heavy and have the potential to do some damage to your car or a bystander despite being coated in a protective rubber case!

Overall, I’m very impressed with how well the Thule Locking Straps have worked out! Their superior strength and security features have left me confident that my kayak will stay on the roof in transit and safe from an opportunistic thief. Granted, their thickness takes some getting used to and you may have to augment your tie-down methods slightly to accommodate this. In the end, the piece of mind that these straps offer makes adapting them well worth it in my opinion.

Happy Paddling!

-Kayak Dave

 

Pros: Strong, Multi-purpose, Well-designed

Cons: Thickness prevents tying knots. Buckle housing is large enough to cause damage if one is careless.

Notes: We recommend that you choose the appropriate length strap to cut down on the amount of excess that you’ll have to deal with. One way to know for sure is to place your boat/board on your roof rack system and tie the item down with a piece of rope just like you would with a strap. Measuring the piece of rope will give you a sense for how long the strap should be.

Kayak Dave Rating:

3 and a half paddles

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The best recreational kayaks for beginners

So… what’s a “recreational” kayak?

This series is intended as a buyer’s guide and will explore the many markets of beginner kayaks, from recreational kayaks to sea kayaks, we will look at kayaks which are best fit for those just starting out. In this article, we will look at recreational kayaks—kayaks which are designed for use primarily in lakes, ponds, and rivers. Recreational kayaks are typically wider and shorter (10’ to 12’ feet) which make them more stable overall. Since recreational kayaks tend to be very stable, their performance is on the slow side and may not respond as efficiently as longer, touring kayaks. Wider, spacious cockpits make recreational kayaks easy to get into and exit both on and off the water.

Recreational Showroom

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Most individuals who try kayaking for the first time will find themselves in a recreational kayak. Recreational kayaks do require basic kayak training and are best for novices, angers, photographers, older kayakers, and casual paddlers. In addition, recreational kayaks tend to be more affordable as they are manufactured and marketed in the masses.

The following kayaks have been selected as the “best recreational kayaks for beginners” based on their performance in the following categories: weight, stability, price, durability, and ease of entry/exit.

Wilderness Systems Aspire 105

Sub-Class: Small Rec

Material: Polyethylene

Length: 10’6”

Width: 29”

Weight: 48 lbs

MSRP: $699

wilderness aspire 105

 

The Wilderness System Aspire 105 is a state-of-the-art recreational kayak that provides an excellent platform for leisure paddling, fishing, and photography on flat or slow-moving water. Overall, we are very pleased with the performance of the Aspire 105 when we test paddled it in light conditions on the pond! I found that the tracking was better than the average 10’6”-long recreational kayak thanks to the dual inverted keel lines. The Aspire 105 showed some weather cocking in the light breeze but this was managed with minimal corrective strokes and could have been completely compensated for had I decided to deploy the rope-operated drop skeg. The addition of a drop skeg to a kayak of this length is fairly uncommon (the Venture Kayaks Flex 11 comes to mind) but can be very useful! The maneuverability of the Aspire 105 was very impressive. It took only two sweep strokes the turn the craft around 180 degrees without edging the boat at all!

 

Wilderness Systems Pungo 120

Sub-Class: Large Rec

Material: Polyethylene

Length: 12’

Width: 29”

Weight: 51 lbs

MSRP: $869

wilderness pungo 120

The Wilderness Systems Pungo is the top-selling kayak in North America as it is recognized across the board for its reliable stability; large, spacious cockpit; and excellent tracking. At 12 feet in length, the Pungo 120 is a bit longer than its sibling Aspire 105 but advances some similar features. The Pungo 120 is designed to accommodate a wide range of paddlers including those who traditionally have a difficultly fitting into smaller recreational kayaks. Its large, spacious cockpit creates a wide and comfortable seating area perfect for bringing along photography, fishing, or extra paddling gear. In addition to its many functional benefits, the Pungo’s wide cockpit provides an airy space which may alleviate the “closed-in” feeling commonly associated with sit-in kayaks. Tracking is not an issue for the Pungo 120 as its hard-V shaped hull keeps the kayak tracking straight and true even during windier conditions. Because the Pungo 120 weighs over 50lbs, it may be a struggle for those who have issues with carrying weight to-and-from a launch.

 

Eddyline Skylark

Sub-Class: Lightweight Rec

 Material: Thermalformed

Length: 12’

Width: 26”

Weight: 41 lbs

MSRP: $1,349

eddyline skylark

In the world of recreational kayaks, the Eddyline Skylark is on the higher-end of the spectrum in terms of initial quality and weight. Built in Washington state, the Skylark is a great recreational kayak for those willing to pay a little more for a lightweight, stable companion during day trips. Ideal for exploring lakes, ponds, rivers, and protected coastal environments, the Skylark provides stable and predictable performance all day long. We find the Skyline to be very stable and a great fit for those who are new to the sport. Its cockpit is a little smaller than average in the recreational class which may deter those uncomfortable in closer fitting kayaks. Foam padding under the cockpit provides a comfortable and secure seating position for better control of the kayak. At only 41lbs, the Skylark is perfect for those who prefer a lighter kayak for car-topping or carrying across a beach landing. The Skylark comes full price at $1,349 which is more expensive than recreational kayaks on average.

 

Venture Kayaks Flex 11

Sub-Class: Performance Rec

 Material: Polyethylene

Length: 10’ 8”

Width: 25”

Weight: 45 lbs

MSRP: $799

venture kayak flex 11

The Venture Kayaks Flex 11 is one of the most unique recreational kayaks on the market today. Blending Pyranha inspired whitewater with P&H inspired touring, the Flex provides paddlers with a unique mix between a flatwater playboat and a pocket-sized day tripper. With one sweep stroke and lean, the Flex 11 nearly turns 360 degrees, and with a following reverse stroke effortlessly completes the circle. Fitted with solid thigh braces, the cockpit on the Flex is spacious yet allows plenty of options for a snug fit. The thigh braces are not only solid and securely fastened to the hull, but they were very comfortable. The Flex 11 is ideal for an individual seeking a recreational kayak with shot of espresso. Designed with whitewater inspired outfitting, the Flex fits securely around the hips and thighs which allows for optimum control. At 45lbs the Flex 11 is an easy carry and may even fit in the rear cargo area of larger SUVs.

 

Old Town Herron 11XT

Sub-Class: Budget Friendly

 Material: Polyethylene

Length: 11’

Width: 28.5”

Weight: 41 lbs

MSRP: $559

old town herron 11xt

The Old Town Herron 11XT is one of the newest additions to the Old Town family. Designed for budget conscious consumers, the Herron 11XT provides a great compromise between affordable, initial quality, and performance. Outfitted with a rear bulkhead and hatch sets the Herron XT above its competition within this price range. Great for those just starting out, the Herron 11XT is stable and is perfect for exploring inland ponds and lakes. Although the seating area is spacious and provides extra volume at the cockpit, the cockpit opening is smaller than average in this class. In terms of durability, like all Old Town kayaks, the Herron is constructed of polyethylene which is forgiving to bumps and bruises. With minimal moving parts, the Herron is an easy maintenance kayak which will require minimal upkeep other than routine washing and protecting.

Categories: Kayak Reviews, Virtual Instruction | 19 Comments