FAQ – Kayak

Do you have any questions about kayaks? Then this is the right place to find answers.

Kayaks

Do I have to look after or store the kayaks in any particular way?

They do not need any special care. They should be cleaned once in awhile and over the winter you should partially inflate them and store them in a dark place.

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Are spare parts available?

Yes, of course. As the manufacturer, we have a legal obligation to hold stocks of spare parts for 7 years after they are produced.

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Can the sport kayak be used with an outboard engine?

Outboard engines are too heavy and have too much power to be used with the sport kayak. You can, however, power the boat with an electric engine. This way, both you and the environment will benefit.

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What are the weight capacities of the kayaks?

The total permissible weight is printed on the DIN-label. The greater the load, the more one must paddle in order to move forward.

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What kind of material is the kayak made of?

The boats consist of a double-layer-system. The inside layer is made of flexible polyvinyl chloride while the outer layer is made of highly tear-resistant coated material. This way, the boat's hull is especially protected.

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How many chambers does the kayak have?

All SECUMAR kayaks are equipped with a double-chamber system. This is a requirement of the DIN standard.

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Can I purchase the outer layer separately?

Yes. We can deliver any spare part that is needed. This includes an outer layer, an inside layer, or a seat.

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Will there be enough buoyancy left if one chamber suddenly loses air?

Yes, this is also part of the DIN standard. You can still stay on track if this happens, however you will move somewhat more slowly.

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Do the kayaks capsize easily?

It is relatively difficult to capsize the kayaks. You would have to lean out of the boat considerably to manage that.

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Can the kayaks also be inflated by using a pressure pump?

They can, but this should be done very carefully. Many boats have bursted in the past while doing so.

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Do the kayaks have to be serviced?

We don't have a regular service for them. In order to enjoy your boat for a long time, you should clean it now and then with fresh water and you should check the valves.

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My husband weighs 260 lbs. (120 kg). Can he paddle the kayak?

There is no problem with regards to the buoyancy. The question is whether or not he fits in the boat. He would have to try one out for size.

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What does self-bailing mean?

Self-bailing means that the boat has holes in the floor so any water which comes over the side flows out again due to the speed of the kayak. Only our white water kayak has this characteristic, though.

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Do your kayaks qualify as life-saving equipment which can be used as a substitute for life rafts?

Under no circumstances whatsoever should kayaks be used as a life-saving device. Life rafts are the final possible option in an emergency situation. Only they should be used for this purpose.

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What is the white plastic part on the sport kayak for?

If you paddle in different places, you may need various kinds of permits. The plastic part allows one to write any necessary identification or permit numbers on the boat.

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What is the life expectancy of a kayak?

This depends, of course, on how well the kayak is maintained. On average, however, you can expect it to last 12-15 years.

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Is the polyvinyl chloride environmentally conscious?

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is harmful only when burned. Otherwise the PVC is extremely robust and durable and therefore is no threat to the environment.

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Are the kayaks easy to maneuver and do they have good tracking qualities?

This depends on the model you buy. Easy maneuverability and good tracking are two qualities that are difficult to find together. A boat which is easy to steer most likely doesn't have optimal tracking qualities. However, we do our best to combine these two properties for a sufficient solution. Our white water kayak, however, has […]

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How to buy SECUMAR products?

Lifejackets should not be bought off the rack. They need to fit the for the purpose and the person. As this requires consultation, SECUMAR products are exclusively sold through authorized dealers. To find a store near you that carries SECUMAR products, first select your country, then select by postal code or region. Or contact us.

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