Kayak Rudder
 

If you're pondering the purchase of a new touring kayak, one of the important considerations is whether or not to your new boat should be equipped with a kayak rudder. A rudder is not used so much for turning as it is for keeping your boat on track, especially in strong currents or cross winds.

Some purists claim that a skilled paddler in firm control of his or her boat should have no need for a kayak rudder, but anyone who's ever been caught in a squall or strong surf can attest to their effectiveness. In our opinion in only makes sense to equip your boat with every tool you can find

Crack Of Dawn Rudder Kit

 to make your journey safer and more enjoyable.

In case you're not familiar with how a kayak rudder kit works, it is a metal or plastic fin attached to the stern point of a touring kayak. The rudder is flipped up onto the deck when not in use, and lowered into the water via a line inside the cockpit when needed.

The paddler then operates the rudder by a set of foot pedals. The rudder is a mechanical device, and like all mechanisms it is subject to malfunction--although in a quality modern kayak, this possibility is remote.

In short, you should definitely consider a kayak rudder when purchasing a new touring boat. You want to learn to paddle effectively without one, of course, but we can see no downside to having another tool for safe and effective navigation. And many new boats offer a rudder at a reduced price as an optional accessory.

And starting at about $100, it's a relatively inexpensive addition to your next kayak purchase.