Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Kayaking Gear and other Kayaking topics.
Most people think kayak rudders are used to make turns with the kayak. While using a kayak rudder will drastically improve a sea kayak's maneuverability, turning a kayak is not the rudder's main function. Rather, the main purpose of a kayak rudder is to help the kayak "track" straight.
Under calm conditions, it is fairly easy to keep a kayak moving in a straight trajectory without the aid of a rudder. When it is windy, even slightly, or when there is current in the water, it can be brutal to keep the kayak tracking straight. It is under these conditions that a kayak rudder comes in handy and will eleviate you having to paddle on one side more than another.
Guru Spotlight |
George Sayour |