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Kayak Foot Brace--Essential Gear for Efficient Kayaking
by Damon Z. Sweet
Why are kayak foot braces important? In my experience, a good solid foot brace dramatically increases my comfort by allowing me to push back into the seat and really use the support of that seat back. Without a solid foot brace, I find I have to rely heavily on my arm, shoulders and abs, making it very difficult to bring the strength of my legs into play. Consequently, I tire more rapidly and have less directional control.
With a solid brace, I can really push with my lower body, engaging my legs more to conserve energy and pull through my stroke. The first time I used a solid brace I was amazed at how much I was able to relax my arms and shoulders. Consequence? More pleasure, less pain!
I've researched a few of the more popular foot braces on the market, including Werner, NRS, Yakima, Sea Dog, and Advanced Elements. The Yakima foot braces get good marks and carry the solid Yakima guarantee. They manufacture a food brace for any plastic, composite, or wooden kayak.
Yakima foot braces were originally designed as 'fixed' for the demands of white water kayaking but with the addition of the plastic sliding track, 'Yakimas' can also be used virtually with any kayak rudder control system including the One Ocean Kayaks Graphite Rudder.
Yakima covers most of the bases by incorporating a strong aircraft aluminum brace with 'sand slots' for clog free operation. They also feature a simple, spring-loaded lever lock on the foot pegs. Any kayaker will appreciate the easy reach adjustment system. The whole system, including rails, tracks, pegs, and screws weighs 2 lbs, 3 oz.
I've also been impressed with the Sea Dog line of kayak foot braces. This plastic (I know, it scared me at first too, but these things are hell for stout) system features a very ergonomic, large pedal and bombproof track system. The best part about the Sea Dog foot brace system is the ability to adjust from the sitting position without having to reach beyond the pedal. Just twist the lever located close to your thigh, 90 degrees, give a push or pull with your foot, and twist the lever back to the closed position. You'll like it, or my name isn't “Sweet”!
Wondering about foot braces for your inflatable kayak? There are several options. Bill Parks at NRS has put together an excellent foot brace for your Hypalon IK called the NRS MaverIK. It comes with 4 Hypalon patches for installation.
You might also want to check out the Advanced Elements inflatable kayak foot brace (I saw a full system for $29 on EBay). This system features a very durable foot brace surface and easy to inflate TwistLok tube. It's really made for the AdvancedFrame kayaks, but can be used in other IKs if the dimensions allow.
You'll find these systems at most major kayak supply stores and frequently on Ebay. Price range $25 to $50.
Damon Z. Sweet writes for ActiveKayak.com where you can find great deals, tips and news, information and reviews plus Free Online Lessons, Tips, and Great Kayaking Resources at ActiveKayak.com. This article can be reproduced in full as long as the resource box and live links remain intact. Copyright http://www.activekayak.com.
