If you’re a kayaker, then you’ve probably wondered if outriggers are worth the investment. After all, they can be a bit pricey.
Do kayak outriggers work? You may be wondering if adding an outrigger to your kayak will make you a better paddler. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using kayak outriggers and whether they are worth the investment.
Table of Contents
Do Kayak Outriggers Work?
The short answer is yes. Outriggers are worth investing in because they will help you paddle better, especially if you have a hard time keeping your kayak straight.
Are Outriggers Safe?
If you are concerned about safety, rest assured that outriggers are perfectly safe. They attach to the side of your kayak and do not hang into the water. The weight on the end is also far enough away from the boat that it will not cause damage if struck by your paddle.
Are Outriggers Difficult To Use?
If you’ve never used an outrigger before, except that it will take some time to get the hang of it. Generally, you’ll want to place your paddle in the water first and then set up your outrigger second. It takes practice getting the balance correct. The more often you use them, though, the easier it will become. You can also try practicing on calm water first before taking them on rougher waters for more stability.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Kayak Outriggers?
- Helps improve paddling skills.
- The outrigger will help you stay balanced and stable during your kayaking experience. This will help reduce fatigue as well as increase your safety.
- Can be used with multiple kayaks.
- Kayak outriggers are adjustable so they can be used on different size kayaks. This can save you money because you won’t have to purchase an additional outrigger for every kayak that you own.
- The weight is far away from the boat which makes them safe to use.
- The outrigger’s weight will not damage your kayak if it hits the side of the boat. This safety feature is a key element in buying a kayak outrigger so you can feel confident while paddling.
Are Kayak Outriggers Worth It?
Ultimately, if you are looking for a way to improve your paddling experience, then investing in kayak outriggers is definitely worth it. They can be an expensive purchase but they will serve their purpose for years. You can use them even when you’re just practicing in still water so that you don’t have to invest money in taking lessons with an instructor. The more skillful you become at using the outrigger, the easier it will be to paddle with them on rough waters, and the less likely they will cause damage or injury while attached to your boat.
Who Should Use Kayak Outriggers?
Kayak outriggers can be used by both beginners and advanced paddlers. They are recommended to be used on calm water first to get the feel for them before taking them on more challenging waters. If you’re not sure if they’ll work for you, it’s best to hire an instructor who is familiar with using kayak outriggers so you can try it first hand.
How Do You Install Kayak Outriggers?
Typically, you can attach them to your kayak using a strap that goes around the seat. Then, you’ll need to place the outrigger into the water and extend it so that it sits under the surface of the water. After that, just place one blade of your paddle on top of the outrigger for stability while you find your balance.
Can You Use Kayak Outriggers With A Sailing Kayak?
In general, no. In order for a sailing kayak to work properly, there needs to be room between where your feet are placed and where the oarlocks are located which would make it difficult to use a kayak outrigger product with this type of boat. It’s best to invest in a traditional kayak that doesn’t require the use of foot pedals in order to attach kayak outriggers.
Do Kayak Outriggers Work With Fishing Kayaks?
It all depends on whether or not your fishing kayak has removable oars and how much paddling experience you have that determines whether or not this product is right for you. It can be difficult trying to use an outrigger with a fishing kayak so it’s important for you to work on your paddling skills first, and then add kayak outriggers into the equation.
Can You Use Kayak Outriggers In Tropical Waters?
Kayaks should not be used in tropical waters because there can be jellyfish that you could encounter while trying to use them. Jellyfish stings are agonizing and even deadly in some cases. It is best if you avoid using a kayak outrigger when going through a lot of tropical waters due to this reason.
Conclusion
I hope this article about do kayak outriggers work will help you purchase the best outrigger for your kayak. These outriggers are adjustable so they can be used on different size kayaks. They also provide you with better stability and safety when using your kayak out in the water.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use an outrigger if I don’t have a fishing kayak?
No, you should not use an outrigger if you don’t have a fishing kayak because there could be jellyfish in the water and it would be dangerous to use an outrigger when there are jellyfish in the water.
Q2. Are kayak outriggers worth it?
Yes, they are worth it if you plan on using your kayak on the water. If you’re not sure, try taking lessons first before making a purchase. You can also rent a kayak in order to try them before you buy.
Q3. Where is the best place to attach outriggers to a kayak?
You will need to place the outrigger into the water and extend it so that it sits underneath your kayak. Then, you’ll need to place one blade of your paddle onto the outrigger in order to balance yourself when using them for the first time.
Q4. Do kayak outriggers increase weight capacity?
No, outriggers do not increase weight capacity. They are designed to provide stability and prevent tipping.
Q5. Do kayak sails work?
Kayak sails can be a great addition to your kayaking arsenal, providing both speed and directionality. However, they do require some additional know-how to use effectively. In this article, we’ll answer some common questions about kayak sails so you can get out on the water with confidence.