How Far Apart Should Kayak Saddles Be? Detailed Guide – 2022

As a kayaker, you know that the importance of having the right kayak saddle cannot be overstated. After all, this is what keeps you in your boat and allows you to navigate through the water. But with so many different kayaks on the market, how do you know which saddle is right for you?

Do many people want to know how far apart should kayak saddles be? 

The simple answer is that it depends on the type of kayak you have. In general, most kayaks will have saddles that are about 24 inches apart.

In this article, we’ll take a more in-depth look at kayak saddles and help you determine which ones are right for your needs.

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How Far Apart Should Kayak Saddles Be?

The general rule of thumb is that kayak saddles should be between 16 and 24 inches apart. This measurement is taken from the center of one saddle to the center of the other. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. For example, some kayakers find that they are more comfortable with their saddles closer together, while others find that they prefer a wider spacing.

Ultimately, it is up to the individual kayaker to experiment with different saddle spacings until they find what works best for them.

Another factor to consider when determining how far apart to place your kayak saddles is the type of kayaking you will be doing. For instance, if you are planning on doing a lot of river kayaking, you may want to have your saddles spaced a bit further apart so that you have more room to maneuver in case of an emergency.

On the other hand, if you are primarily going to be paddling in lakes and ponds, you can probably get away with having your saddles closer together since you won’t need as much room to maneuver.

How Can You Adjust The Spacing Between Your Kayak Saddles?

You can adjust the spacing between your kayak saddles by:

1. Moving the saddle forward or backward on the kayak

The easiest way to adjust the spacing between your kayak saddles is to simply move the saddle forward or backward on the kayak. This can be done by loosening the bolts that hold the saddle in place and then repositioning the saddle.

2. Adding or removing shims

If you have a kayak that has built-in shims, you can add or remove shims to adjust the spacing between the kayak saddles. To do this, simply remove the bolts that hold the shims in place and then add or remove shims as needed.

3. Replacing the saddles

If you want to completely change the spacing between your kayak saddles, you can do so by replacing the saddles. This can be done by purchasing new saddles that are the desired spacing apart. Once you have the new saddles, simply bolt them in place and then adjust the bolts to the proper tension.

4. Adding an extension

If you want to add more space between your kayak saddles, you can do so by adding an extension. This can be done by purchasing an extension kit and then attaching it to the kayak. Once the extension is in place, simply bolt the saddles in place and adjust the bolts to the proper tension.

5. Removing the center support

If your kayak has a center support, you can remove it to create more space between the kayak saddles. To do this, simply remove the bolts that hold the center support in place and then remove the support. Once the center support is removed, you can then bolt the saddles in place and adjust the bolts to the proper tension.

What Are Some Tips For Ensuring That Your Kayak Saddle Spacing Is Just Right For You?

Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to choosing the right kayak saddle spacing:

1. First, consider the type of kayak you have and the type of paddling you will be doing. The typical kayak will have saddles that are about 18 inches apart.
2. If you are going to be doing a lot of whitewater paddling, you may want to choose a saddle that is closer together.
3. You can measure the distance between your kayak saddles by using a tape measure.
4. The benefits of having your kayak saddles properly spaced apart include improved stability and easier paddling.
5. When it comes to adjusting the kayak saddle spacing, you can do so by moving the kayak saddle forward or backward.

By following these tips, you can be sure that your kayak saddle spacing is just right for you. By ensuring that your kayak saddle is properly positioned, you can improve your stability and make paddling easier. With the right kayak saddle, you’ll be able to enjoy your time on the water even more.

What Are Some Of The Benefits Of Having Your Kayak Saddles Properly Spaced Apart?

There are several benefits to having your kayak saddles properly spaced apart, including:

1. Improved Stability

Having your kayak saddles properly spaced apart can help improve your stability on the water. This is especially important if you are going to be doing any whitewater paddling.

2. Easier Paddling

When your kayak saddles are properly spaced, they can make paddling easier and more efficient. This is because you won’t have to work as hard to keep the kayak moving in a straight line.

3. Better Tracking

Having your kayak saddles properly spaced can also help with tracking. This means that the kayak will move in a straighter line and won’t veer off to one side or the other.

4. Increased Comfort

When your kayak saddles are properly spaced, they can also help increase your comfort level. This is because you won’t have to worry about the kayak tipping over or being unstable.

5. Greater Control

Having your kayak saddles properly spaced can also give you greater control over the kayak. This is especially important if you are going to be doing any whitewater paddling.

Conclusion

At the end of this article about how far apart should kayak saddles be, we hope that you have learned something new. Always keep in mind the type of kayak you have and the type of paddling you will be doing when determining the proper spacing for your kayak saddles. By following these tips, you can be sure that your kayak saddle is properly positioned and that you are getting the most out of your kayaking experience.

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