PADDLERsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Module 01 - Paddling Basics:

PADDLING TERMINOLOGY: THE KAYAK

 

Bow:
The front area of the kayak.
Stern:
The back area of the kayak.
Freeboard:
The space between the waterline and the deck.
Cockpit:
The sitting area.
Deck:
The top area of the kayak.
Foot rests:
Adjustable pedals, walls, blocks, or ridges that you can rest your feet on.
Keel line:
A real (or imagined) line that runs down the center of the kayak.
Rocker:
This is the upturn or curve of the kayak hull along the keel line.
Seat:
This is the area where you sit. The seat will be centered in a one-person kayak, or if it’s a two-person kayak (or tandem), the front seat will be located at the bow end.
Back band:
A strap or pad that helps support your lower back.
Cockpit Rim (or ‘Bib Collar’):
This is the reinforced lip of the deck, which surrounds the opening of the cockpit.
Hull:
The body or shell of the kayak.
Paddle:
A handheld device with a shaft and two blades on either end. You use the paddle to manually propel the kayak through the water.

 

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