Necky Kayaks

Kayak Design Can be a Delicate Negotiation

Designing a kayak is a complex proposition. For every performance element gained, another may be diminished. Kayak design can be a delicate negotiation which, when done well, minimizes this sort of compromise. Of course the paddler and the water also have a say in how a boat performs. Each paddler is as distinct and different as our kayaks, and the water is an ever-changing medium. So a kayak must be built to come alive and respond to the conditions and possibilities of both.

With that said, there are some basic features to understand before you choose your kayak. Performance comes down to a few things combined: The shape of the hull (remember that no perfect hull exists, except maybe in theory), the skills and condition of the paddler and the nature of the water. We suggest you take time to study kayak design, talk to a dealer and seek out instruction to help you make the best choice.

Performance Factors

Length and width affect speed and maneuverability. When it comes to speed, it's all about surface area. A long, thin line allows paddlers to slice through the water quickly-a real advantage if you plan on touring, but a drawback on twisty rivers. A 17 foot-long kayak will go much faster than a 10 foot-long kayak, but a 10 foot-long kayak will turn easier than a 17 foot-long kayak. A narrow kayak is faster than a wide one, but wide kayaks tend to be more stable (depending on hull shape).

Recreation

Manitou Sport™
Rip 10™ Polymer
Rip 12™ Polymer

Day Touring

Looksha Series
- Looksha 12™ Polymer
- Looksha 14™ Polymer
Manitou Series
- Manitou 13™
- Manitou 130 R™
- Manitou 14™

Touring

Looksha Series
- Looksha 17™ Polymer
- Looksha 17™ Composite
- Looksha Elite™ Composite
Elias Series
- Elias™ Polymer
- Elias™ Composite
Eliza Series
- Eliza™ Polymer
- Eliza™ Composite with Rudder
- Eliza™ Composite with Skeg
Chatham Series
- Chatham 16™ Composite
- Chatham 17™ Composite