We all know how tough it can be fighting the elements just to paddle in a straight line. We all know that familiar feeling when the wind starts blowing—some of the most experienced paddlers have issues keeping their bow pointed in the direction they want. Of course, there are plenty of ways to prep a kayak to deter the effects of a windy day (for example: distributing weight along your kayak, packing items away, bringing the right shape and size kayak, etc.) but even after doing all of that, there’s one feature to think about when shopping for your kayak—a skeg. 
For those of you who aren’t familiar, a skeg is quite similar to a rudder (learn more here) in a lot of ways. It’s a small blade built in and deployed beneath the rear of the hull. Dissimilar to a rudder however, the skeg does not pivot from side to side. In fact, most skegs only offer two settings: not deployed and deployed. So what good does it do? 
What it boils down to is tracking. Tracking is a word that refers to keeping your bow in a straight line as you paddle. A skeg will you track by lessening the effects of wind or rough waters as they push on the hull by connecting it to deeper, more stable water. Why do only some kayaks have a skeg? 
Not every kayak has a skeg built in. Skegs are usually found on those that are meant for touring or longer distance paddling and for boats that need the extra assistance. Some kayaks offer it as an add-on option for boats that may be used for playing around rapids but may also need help for long distance paddling. If you happen to find yourself without a skeg and in need of one, you aren’t necessarily out of luck. There are plenty of kayaks on the market that do offer optional skegs that can be purchased and installed separately. Another, more common optional feature is a rudder, which can offer even more directional control of your kayak. 
In the end, it’s up to you to decide whether or not a skeg is right for your kayak. For first time shoppers, consider the benefits and for long time paddlers who find themselves consistently frustrated and over exerting oneself just to keep straight, a skeg might be something to consider when deciding on your next kayak. Visit Austin Kayak for more info on some of the different types of skegs available!
All About The Kayak Skeg is a guest post provided by Austin Kayak
For those of you who aren’t familiar, a skeg is quite similar to a rudder (learn more here) in a lot of ways. It’s a small blade built in and deployed beneath the rear of the hull. Dissimilar to a rudder however, the skeg does not pivot from side to side. In fact, most skegs only offer two settings: not deployed and deployed. So what good does it do? 
What it boils down to is tracking. Tracking is a word that refers to keeping your bow in a straight line as you paddle. A skeg will you track by lessening the effects of wind or rough waters as they push on the hull by connecting it to deeper, more stable water. Why do only some kayaks have a skeg? 
Not every kayak has a skeg built in. Skegs are usually found on those that are meant for touring or longer distance paddling and for boats that need the extra assistance. Some kayaks offer it as an add-on option for boats that may be used for playing around rapids but may also need help for long distance paddling. If you happen to find yourself without a skeg and in need of one, you aren’t necessarily out of luck. There are plenty of kayaks on the market that do offer optional skegs that can be purchased and installed separately. Another, more common optional feature is a rudder, which can offer even more directional control of your kayak. 
In the end, it’s up to you to decide whether or not a skeg is right for your kayak. For first time shoppers, consider the benefits and for long time paddlers who find themselves consistently frustrated and over exerting oneself just to keep straight, a skeg might be something to consider when deciding on your next kayak. Visit Austin Kayak for more info on some of the different types of skegs available!
All About The Kayak Skeg is a guest post provided by Austin Kayak