Description of Folding Kayak Parts

Kayaking, whether on flat water or white water, promotes the enjoyment of the outdoors and offers opportunities for recreation, racing, fishing, sailing and exploring new locations that can only be accessed by water. Folding kayaks, which may include inflatable kayaks, have an assortment of specialty parts and materials that allow for it to be folded or compacted into an easy-to-transport system. As you research each of your options for folding kayaks, look for the model that best fits your type of boating and price range.

  1. Snap-Together Kayaks

    • Some folding kayak manufacturers design flat water boats that utilize a folding wooden frame and a series of fittings that snap into place. For example, a kayaker assembles the Klepper folding kayak using 31 wooden pieces and snaplock fittings to connect the two halves of the boat together. Other components include integrated air-sponsons that are inflated by a mouth valve and a pivoting bracket for a sail mast. Sailing mast components include a mast step, mast support bracket, stay fittings and a rudder bracket, which can accommodate upwind and downwind sails.

    Assembly DIY Folding Kayaks

    • These boats, manufactured by Nautriraid, allow you to choose between wooden or aluminum frames, both of which are similar in design. However, the aluminum is lighter weight, while the wooden frame has a quicker assembly time. Skin components include PVC-coated textile that slides over the frame when assembled, and a durable hypalon coating on the underside of the boat. "Stabilairs" can be inflated on each side of the kayak to provide extra stability on either side of the hull. Once the frames are inserted and zipped into the skin, tensioning mechanisms help to join and secure the parts together.

    Inflatable Kayaks

    • Inflatable kayak parts differ from folding kayaks in that they are constructed of two main air chambers which are inflated with a pump rather than a frame made of solid material such as metal, plastic or wood. Side air chambers run along the length of the boat, providing the initial floatation and stability. Other components may include thwarts, rudders, spray decks and footrests. Some inflatable kayaks may also have solid foam rubber floors.

    Other Considerations for Inflatable Kayaks

    • If you plan to use your kayak for flat or moving water with offers obstacles that may puncture your boat, you may want to opt for a model with a double-skinned air chamber that is zipped inside a more resilient outer covering. Some kayak models have a self-bailing feature with drain holes or a bilge pump. Touring kayaks may be equipped with rudders to help keep a straight line in the wind. D-rings and decking lines are a helpful feature for securing dry bags or fishing gear.