F.A.Q.

• Can I buy directly from your factory?
  
  If there is a BORÉALDESIGN dealer in your area (at less than 300 km), we suggest you buy locally. Our prices are exactly the same as our dealers and you will receive a much better customer service if you buy in your area. If you would like to receive a list of our dealers, please give us your postal address (info@borealdesign.com) and we will be pleased to send you one. You can also see this list on our web site in the "Dealers and Outfitters" section.
  
  
  
• Can you explain the difference between hull shapes?
  
  The hull consists of three distinct features: Cross sectional outline, chine shape and base. The Cross sectional outline is the term used to describe the shape of the hull at a right angle to its axis, for example, a “shallow arch hull” or “semi-arched hull”. The chine refers to any angle along the side of the hull, for example a hard chine features a very distinct change in angle, a soft chine appears as a more rounded shape. The base of the hull normally refers to the appearance of the hull and keel line around the mid point.
  
  BORÉALDESIGN offers kayaks with two types of hull. Kayaks such as the Narwhal and Alvik feature a semi-arched hull with a rounded chine achieving an exceptional equilibrium between stability and speed. Kayak behaviour during any form of lean is very predictable, and paddler comfort is enhanced in waves and choppy water.
  
  The second type of hull design is based on the shapes of Greenlandic kayaks. A hard chine provides exceptional secondary stability, a characteristic appreciated by advanced kayakers because the kayak profile allows them to perform more technical lean style manoeuvres.
  
  In addition to the shape of the hull, the length and width of a kayak are also important considerations. A wider kayak is more stable, while a narrower kayak will gather speed more rapidly. A shorter kayak is more responsive, while a longer kayak will travel faster.
  
  The term rocker corresponds to the vertical or upward curve built into the keel. The more pronounced the rocker, the easier it is to manoeuvre the kayak. However, a less pronounced rocker will result in a faster craft because its waterline will be longer.
  
  The Reverse Hard Chine: Unique to BORÉALDESIGN
  At a time when construction methods and a scarcity of materials imposed serious limitations on kayak builders, the Inuit resorted to ingenuity to assemble efficient, elegant kayaks. They also introduced the concept of hard chine, an idea explored in depth by our designers.
  
  The materials in use today offer many advantages. Stiffness, performance and lightness are qualities conveying remarkable latitude in the creation of new shapes. With the frame no longer necessary, our designers can give free rein to their imagination in pinpointing the ideal location of the chine to improve kayak responsiveness.
  
  A hard chine imparts exceptional secondary stability to a kayak. On the other hand, the flat surfaces inherent in this profile entail greater surface contact with water. The resulting added friction can be offset by replacing the traditional «V» shape with a semi-arched profile.
  
  Our research on hull shapes allowed us to introduce the concept of reverse hard chine to the market. A reverse hard chine optimizes kayak behaviour during the lean. Instead of following the natural curve of the kayak, the chine converges with waterlines during a lean. The craft tends to bite the water, which increases the effect of the turn. By ingeniously combining the concept of reverse hard chine with a semi-ached shape, speed and responsiveness work together, whereas under normal circumstances, they tend to work against each other.
  
  
  
  
  
• Can you explain the difference between kayak volume and load capacity?
  
  Kayak volume consists of the space available inside the craft. It includes the front and rear compartments and the cockpit. Space is calculated in litres.
  
  Load capacity corresponds to the minimum and maximum weight that a kayak can carry. Weight is calculated in kilograms or pounds. Weight distribution is very important in order to maintain a balanced kayak. If the combined weight of a kayak and paddler do not correspond to the minimum load, the craft will sit too high in the water, appear unbalanced and overreact in the wind. However, if the weight of a loaded kayak is close to its maximum recommended load, the kayak will be very stable, but much less responsive because the waterline is submerged.
  
  For maximum efficiency, we recommend compliance with load specifications, meaning paddler weight and the weight of baggage carried during outings.
  
  
  
  
• Can you explain the difference between polyethylene (plastic), fibreglass, Kevlar® and carbon?
  
  Polyethylene (plastic) kayaks are shock-resistant, low maintenance and affordable kayak. However, they can be deformed if they are not stored properly and they are heavier than composite kayaks.
  
  Composite kayaks can be made of fibreglass, Kevlar® or carbon.
  
  Fibreglass produces a lighter kayak than polyethylene (plastic). Additionally, greater stiffness and a very smooth finish enhance the glide of fibreglass kayaks.
  
  Kevlar® offers an excellent compromise for paddlers seeking lightness and performance. Kevlar® is stronger than carbon, but lighter than fibreglass.
  
  Our carbon-Kevlar® kayaks are constructed for high-performance, combining the extreme lightness of carbon and the elasticity of Kevlar®. However, these kayaks must be handled with care, because they are much thinner-skinned than our other composite kayaks.
  
  
  
  
• Could you give me helpful hints to store my kayak for winter?
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / Winter storage
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / End of season check list
  
  
  
• Do you have a travel plan I could use?
  
  User Guide / Before casting off / Travel plan
  
  
  
• How can I make adjustments on my skeg?
  
  User Guide / Components and adjustments / Skeg
  
  
  
• How do I choose a kayak?
  
  To make the right choice, you should consider the intended use of the kayak, your kayaking skills, the level of performance sought and, of course, your budget!
  
  The shape of the hull and length of the kayak are directly linked to kayak capabilities and performance. If you are seeking a kayak with excellent primary stability, you should choose a wider, flared hull. However, if performance is your guideline, you should choose a longer, narrower kayak with a long waterline. The width of a tandem kayak makes for a very stable craft.
  
  Intermediate or advanced paddlers find a reverse chine useful in making directional changes faster and livelier. The reverse hard chine offers excellent secondary stability, which helps maintain the angle of lean making the kayak easier to manoeuvre.
  
  A rudder improves steering, while the more specialized retractable skeg assists with tracking.
  
  Take the time to try several models. The smallest details can make all the difference.
  
  
  
  
  
• How do you calculate a paddle blade surface?
  
  Technical specifications are based on three numeral calculations: for example, 15.2 cm x 48 cm for 580 cm². The first measurement refers to the maximum breadth of the blade, while the second corresponds to its length. Since a blade is not rectangular, the measurement of its surface cannot equal the product of these two numbers, so the last number is 580 cm instead of 729.6 cm.
  
  
  
• How should I carry my kayak?
  
  User Guide / Kayak transportation / Individual, Teamwork
  
  
  
• How should I clean my kayak?
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / Cleaning
  
  
  
• How should I secure my kayak on my vehicle?
  
  User Guide / Kayak Transportation / On a vehicle
  
  
  
• How should I store my kayak?
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / Suspended storage
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / Storage on sawhorses
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / Storage on foam blocks
  
  
  
• How should I take care of my kayak?
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / Maintenance
  
  
  
• Is it possible to repaint a composite kayak?
  
  Unfortunately, we do not offer the repainting service on kayaks. During the manufacturing process of composite kayaks, the first step consists in applying gelcoat, which is done directly in the mould. If you apply gelcoat on your kayak to make it look better, its weight will increase by 7 pounds; furthermore, the result would be an “orange peel” finish. To obtain a glossy finish, it would be necessary to sand your kayak many times, which would be a very long and expensive process.
  
  If you wish to repaint your kayak anyways, we suggest you contact a local boat repair shop where they will be able to apply marine coating. This paint is lighter and offers a glossy finish.
  
  
  
  
• Is it possible to repair scratches on polyethylene (plastic) or composite kayaks?
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / Repairs
  
  
  
• My kayak is nearing its life expectancy. Is it possible to recycle it?
  
  We attach great importance to environmental safety. Our plastic kayaks are entirely recyclable.
  
  If you have an old plastic BORÉALDESIGN kayak that's not good anymore, you just have to take off all the hardware and if you are located in our area, we will be pleased to recycle the hull for you. If you are not in our area, we will advise you to check with your local recycling program. If your kayak is not a BORÉALDESIGN, you should check with the company that made it to see if they recycle their kayaks.
  
  You could also reuse the screws, nuts (all those are made in stainless steel), the rudder cable, the shock cord (if they are not too old) and other parts to make a repair kit that you can bring along with you when you go sea kayaking; it's always useful!
  
  
  
  
• My polyethylene (plastic) kayak is deformed. What can I do?
  
  User Guide / Storage and maintenance / Repairs
  
  
  
• Rudder or skeg?
  
  A rudder serves to change directions, but also to hold course. A kayak equipped with a rudder allows the user to paddle under changing wind, wave and current conditions. A rudder makes everything so much easier!
  
  A skeg is basically an immobile rudder used to maintain course. The skeg is located under the hull, one third of the distance from the stern. It can be adjusted to suit navigation conditions. In windy, choppy weather, the skeg requires the skills of an advanced paddler. However, it may be raised for greater manoeuvrability in turns.
  
  Contrary to the rudder, the skeg offers no wind resistance, because it is completely submerged. Skeg systems are also lighter than rudder systems. Paddlers wishing to use a kayak with a skeg must develop a good paddling technique.
  
  
  
  
• What is the load limit? How should I load my kayak?
  
  User Guide / Before casting off / Loading
  
  
  
• What should I check on my kayak before casting off?
  
  User Guide / Before casting off / Checking your kayak
  
  
  
• What should I check when buying an used kayak?
  
  When buying an used kayak, it is important to check the inferior hull: you have to check if the scratches are deep and if they perforate the boat. Usually, scratches are superficial and won't affect the handling of the boat. Even when you buy a new boat, it is almost impossible not to scratch it a bit. You also have to check the rudder installation: you have to check if the blade is straight, if the steel cables are in good condition, and also the rudder support and the pedals system. These are the most expensive items to replace in case of damage.
  
  The price of an used kayak will vary depending on the wear of the kayak. For example, for a rental kayak that has been used during a year, you can take off about 25% from the regular price. On the other hand, for a private individual kayak, the percentage you can take off from the regular price will probably be lower since the use that has been made of the boat will be different.
  
  
  
  
• What should I put in my repair kit?
  
  User Guide / Before casting off / Repair kit