PADDLERsmart! USA Knowledge Base

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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.