Synopses & Reviews
Get the Most from Your Kayak
Whether you're an experienced kayaker or are just getting into the sport, this fully illustrated manual has everything you need to make sure your boat and gear meet your kayaking needs. Written by longtime paddler and outdoorsman Andy Knapp, "The Optimum Kayak: How to Choose, Maintain, Repair, and Customize the Right Boat for You offers an insider's focus on kayaks and accessories.
This one-stop resource, the first of its kind, featuresA review of the entire spectrum of kayaks and kayaking gear for most variations of the sport, from whitewater to sea kayaking, along with information on getting started in the area that interests you.Guidelines for purchasing the kayak and paddling accessories--new or used--that are appropriate to your needs.Basic maintenance procedures and storage tips to keep your kayak in top condition.Instructions for making repairs to your equipment, including how to make emergency repairs while on a paddling trip.Tips for customizing your boat so that it suits you perfectly.Information on building your own kayak and keeing it secure.Handy resource lists of manufacturers, associations, repair services, mail-order, and Internet suppliers, and more.
Synopsis
This book includes everything one needs to know to get the whitewater or sea kayak that's the perfect fit, plus information on buying new or used boats, design basics, simple maintenance, and serious repairs. 125 illustrations.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. ) and index.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments
1. Kayaking's Broad Spectrum
The Long and Short of It
The Future
Finding Your Place
Kayaking as a Risk-Taking Activity
2. Choosing and Using a Kayak
Try Before You Buy
Where to Shop
Building a Kayak
Choosing a Manufactured Kayak
Choosing the Proper Accessories
3. Keeping Your Kayak in Top Condition
Basic Preventive Maintenance
Routine Maintenance
Giving Your Kayak a Check-Up
Maintaining Accessories
Setting Up a Maintenance Area for Gear
Winter and Summer Storage of Gear
4. Repairing Boats and Equipment
Hull Repairs
Repairs to Components
Accessories
Repairs in the Field
5. Customizing Your Boat
Outfitting the Cockpit
Sit-on-Top Outfitting
Deck Layout
Interior Customizing
Customizing Equipment
6. The Do-It-Yourself Kayaker
Building Your Own Kayak
Making a Paddle
Building Accessories
7. Cartopping and Transporting Your Kayak
To and From the Water's Edge
Carrying Devices
Portage Yokes
Cartopping
Security Issues
8. Resources
Manufacturers
Accessories
(and more...)