With the rising interest and participation in paddle sports in the USA and throughout the world, it is important to understand the parts and layout of the options. For today’s article we will look at the Sit On Top (SOT) style kayak. We will link to the traditional Sit In Kayak in a future article.
The Sit On Top is quickly becoming a favorite option for novice paddlers because of its stability and ease of re-entry in case of capsize. While there are many things to consider before purchasing your next kayak, (See our article on how to choose the right Kayak Here), it is important to understand the layout and parts of your boat. Let us begin with the parts of the SOT.
Most SOT kayaks have the following parts, but some manufacturers may omit specific, non-essentials to save on cost, or for design purpose:
- Hull: the bottom of the boat
- Deck: the top of the boat
- Keel: the ridge the runs the length of the hull
- Scuppers: holes to drain water from the deck
- Carry handles: Convenient for transporting your boat
- Footbrace or Footwell: place to rest and adjust your feet location
- Seat: May be fixed or permanent, some are adjustable
- Deck Straps: straps to tie down gear
- Hatch: access to open part of the hull, either in part or in whole depending on the boat design
- Skeg or Rudder: Skeg is a like a small fixed rudder for tracking and stability
Why does it matter that you know the parts of your SOT kayak? Well, for safety. You may have noticed that we RIVER RANGERS™ care about Safety, Education and Adventure. Safety is our top priority and knowing the parts of your boat can help you stay safe on the water. Your owners manual should have specific use and care information that will be hard to follow unless you understand the parts of the boat. Knowing the parts of the boat will also help if you need to be rescued while on the water. If you don’t know the parts of the boat, you won’t be able to understand what to do and where to hold on to the boat during the rescue. Learning the parts of the boat is much easier when you are and calm.
The layout of the SOT is also important depending on the use of the kayak. A typical layout from bow (front) to stern (back) looks like a carry handle at the front, deck straps, hatch, foot braces/ footwells, seat, deck straps, hatch, and carry handle. There are many variations, so this layout can vary significantly by manufacturer and by model. What matters is understanding why the layout matters.
For longer trips, you may need to stow gear in one or more hatches for access when on shore. Other gear may be kept closer by utilizing the deck straps. Deck straps may also work for large gear that you might need to access while on the water. If you are concerned about the gear getting wet, it may be better to have a boat with a hatch more easily accessible from the seat.
Remember to always do your homework and understand the parts of your boat before your float. Learn the terms and know the specific features. Be safe, and we will see you on the water.