KAYAK GuIDE - Necky Kayaks

2007

Kayak Guide

Hand Shaped Performance Kayaks

What Makes Necky Different?
From our fastest composite racing kayak to our most playful recreational kayak, every Necky is crafted to optimize the performance
of not only the boat, but the paddler as well. For us this is a process that requires a clear, uncompromising vision of each boat’s
expected use, the expertise and tenacity to exceed expectations and the passion to accomplish this in a design that stirs an equal
level of passion in others.

Our boats embody what we see as a purity of form and function… the sleek lines and elegant shapes reflect all that is beautiful and
adept in the liquid world. In doing this, we bring you a line of performance kayaks that is as unique as each paddler.

Hand Shaping Versus Computer Modeling
At Necky we believe that kayaks are a blend of art, experience and science. Hydrodynamic and hydrostatic principles govern every
design, but it’s important to realize that even the most sophisticated computer modeling programs can’t account for every variable
of sea kayak design. Add a human being, some wind and heavy chop, and what was great theoretically on the computer can be a
handful in reality.

This is where the experience of our design team and hand shaping are applied to computer modeling to achieve designs that work
in the real world. By utilizing the computer we can quickly CNC cut a basic shape to our specs. We then refine by hand and paddle
that model in a variety of conditions which begins the hand shaping, fine tuning process. This is a tedious, time consuming effort, and
often major adjustments are made to the design by our shapers. After repeated testing within our team, and lateral focus groups,
we finalize the design and begin the tooling process. A kayak is evolved to meet specific design requirements, and as such there is no
‘perfect’ kayak. Designers balance numerous variables to achieve the best balance of attributes for a given design intent. That’s why
a Chatham 16 is entirely different from a LookshaV. We also believe that the eye and touch of a craftsperson adds soul and beauty
that enhances the overall design.

TABLE of CONTENTS Polymer Tandem Kayaks.....................................................................7
Composite Touring Kayaks........................................................... 8, 9
Choosing Your Kayak............................................................................1 Composite Tandem Kayaks................................................................9
Kayak Features, Polymer and Advanced Composite........................1 Whitewater Kayaks.................................................................... 10, 11
Features Explained........................................................................... 2, 3 Necky Outfitting / Customize Your Kayak....................... 12, 13
Polymer Recreational Kayaks...........................................................4 Accessories............................................................................................13
Polymer Day Touring Kayaks.............................................................5
Polymer Touring Kayaks................................................................ 6, 7

Necky Polymer Kayaks Choosing Your Kayak

Superlinear polyethylene is an Designing a kayak is a complex proposition. For every performance element gained,
excellent material to build kayaks another may be diminished. Kayak design can be a delicate negotiation which, when
with for one fundamental reason done well, minimizes this sort of compromise.
– bombproof durability. Necky’s
superlinear polymer sea kayaks Of course the paddler and the water also have a say in how a boat performs. Each
and whitewater boats are second paddler is as distinct and different as our kayaks and the water is an ever-changing
to none in design, performance medium. So a kayak must be built to come alive and respond to the conditions and
and strength. possibilities of both.

This starts with material choices. As With that said, there are some basic features to understand before you choose
a pioneer in the art of rotomolding your kayak. Performance comes down to a few things combined: The shape of the
kayaks, Necky has vast experience in hull (remember that no perfect hull exists, except maybe in theory), the skills and
drawing on the inherent qualities of condition of the paddler and the nature of the water. We suggest you take time to
polyethylene. Our careful application study kayak design: talk to your dealers, instructors and factory representatives –
of technology creates drier, an informed choice will make you a happier, safer paddler.
stronger boats that perform year
after year under the most grueling
conditions. And we don’t rest until
we create the best performance
platform for each model’s intended
use, resulting in beautifully efficient
kayaks of startling durability at a
highly affordable price.

Necky Advanced Composite Kayaks

Our unique Advanced Composite (ac) Fiberglass kayaks feature materials that are layered with a core added between layers in
specific areas to increase the overall stiffness. The result is a lighter yet stronger kayak that can endure more impact.

Consulting with experts in both the aerospace and yacht industries using aircraft-grade materials, Necky has produced laminates
that yield kayaks significantly stronger, stiffer and lighter than anything else on the market, far exceeding what’s typical in the
kayak industry.

We have chosen a combination of E glass cloth weaves for our Advanced Composite Fiberglass kayaks. This combination
laminate is stronger and lighter than typical laminates and holds up much better without getting the spongy feel.

In addition the seam of our kayaks is an overlapping triple bonded seam system. This gives the boat great integrity and creates
the strongest seam you’ll find on the market.

Kayak Features

Backward & Forward Recessed Perimeter
Bulkheads Adjustment Deck Fittings Lines
(not shown) (not shown)

Rudder Watertight Hatch Day Hatch Ergonomically Adjustable Deck Watertight Hatch Toggle
System with Neoprene Designed Thigh Bungee with Neoprene Handle
Cover
Cover Touring Seat Bracing 1

Stability: A Tipping Guide Balance and Turning: Chine On

Stability is very important when Chine is the second element of hull shape that affects turning. Best seen through a
choosing a kayak. But it can be kayak’s cross-section, chine describes any transition from one surface to another. It
a slightly complex issue. Sure, not only contributes to the overall shape of the hull, but to the distribution of volume
stability is what keeps you upright, within it.
but even more, it’s connected
to virtually every performance Chine is linked to your sense of balance, and can be hard or soft, single or multi. A
element. Stability is divided into two soft-chined kayak rounds gently from the hull to the deck, and feels more forgiving in
types: initial and secondary. Initial leans. A double hard chine, like that on the Looksha series, has two angles in the hull
stability is what you feel when you itself; while the diamond hull, like the Elaho, offers three chines. These multi-chined
first sit in a kayak on flat water. A kayaks can feel unpredictable at first due to their responsive nature. However, if
kayak with a good initial platform you lean a multi-chined kayak onto its side, you’ll find a certain balance point. That
feels solid, but you can’t always balance point is helpful when you lean turn a kayak, aiding the hull’s ability to respond.
rest assured it will remain stable
in surf or chop. When that boat
leans over, you’ll need to rely on
secondary stability – or a future
of calm water conditions in that
particular boat.

Finally, stability is all about volume –
which creates buoyancy and where
that buoyancy lies in the hull. This
is determined through hull shape
– primarily through beam (width)
and flare.

Flare describes the angle of the hull
outward from the bottom of the
kayak to the deck. Pronounced flare
increases secondary stability which
is essential when you’re faced with
rough water or when you lean into
a turn (which is an efficient way to
maneuver your kayak, particularly if
it’s long. Longer kayaks track well,
but lose maneuverability).

By lean turning a kayak, you reduce
the waterline length presented
to the water and turn quicker.
This is why secondary stability is
so important – it helps you stay
upright while you orient in a way
that makes the kayak move the way
you want it to.

Chatham 16 CHARACTERISTICS: A full (hard) chine soft edge displacement hull. This hull offers incredible stability for
Chatham Hull its width. Designed to inspire confidence, it allows you to push your limits and expand your comfort zone.
CHARACTERISTICS: A multi-chine hard edge design. This hull is designed to increase primary stability,
Elaho and allows you to carve lean turns easily and confidently.
Diamond Hull
2

Speed: A Word on Wetted Surface
“How fast will this kayak go?” We hear that question a lot, especially from paddlers looking to travel as efficiently as possible.
But speed isn’t as simple as one might think. In theory, long kayaks track better in a line and should propel you most
efficiently. In reality, efficiency comes down to wetted surface and how much a paddler can handle.
Obviously a long kayak has more wetted surface than a short one, so it has to tackle more water to get up to speed. But
once it does, it tends to stay in motion longer. If a paddler is strong enough to handle the wetted surface of a long kayak, he
or she will reap the benefits once their boat is up to speed. By the same token, paddlers who are not that strong may find a
kayak with less wetted surface is quicker for them.
Maneuvering: Heavy or Light Rocker
Rocker is part of what makes a kayak go where you want it. If a kayak looks flat
when viewed from the side, it has little rocker. If it is shaped more like a ‘u,’ it has a
lot. If you plan to paddle in tight coastal areas or rivers, or you simply prefer to turn
and carve quickly, more rocker makes it easier. If covering distance is important
to you, choose a kayak with less rocker and paddle more efficiently in a straight
line. This rule applies in flat or moderate conditions. In rough or confused seas,
extra rocker will help you paddle straight because it keeps you on top of waves
(which makes it easier to stay on course). Like stability, rocker is not an either/or
choice—it’s a matter of balance that works with other aspects of a kayak’s hull
shape. We at Necky pride ourselves on achieving this balance across our line.

Buoyancy: The Dolphin Difference
One thing many Necky touring kayaks have in common is our unique ‘Dolphin’ bow, which features smoothly flowing rake, generous
flare and buoyancy. As this bow passes through waves, forward motion creates upward thrust that keeps your deck above water,
keeps you dry, on course and moving at a good clip. Combined with appropriate rocker, this bow makes Necky Kayaks a pleasure
to paddle in rough conditions or the surf zone. In many of our kayaks the Necky stern is also unique, providing the right amount
of buoyancy behind you to help your stern stay afloat. This is important as too much buoyancy aft will shove your bow underwater
creating a wet, rough ride.

3

POLYMER RECREATIONAL KAYAKS

Polymer Color Chart

Red Blue Yellow Lime Cloud Burst Fire

Sky™

Length: 9’ 6” (2.9 m)

Width: 26” (66 cm) Equally at home on the ocean, lakes or lazy rivers, our smallest and lightest recreational kayak
is surprisingly comfortable and easy to use. The perfect choice for those seeking high stability and
Weight: 41 lbs (18.6 kg) excellent maneuverability in a boat compact enough to make transporting a breeze.

Cockpit: 39.5” x 17” Only available in Cloud Burst, Fire or Yellow (see color chart above)
(100.3 x 43.2 cm)

Standard: Extrasport XtraComfort seat, adjustable foot pedals

Manitou Sport™

Length: 10’ 11” (3.3 m)

Width: 26.5” (67.3 cm) This is a shorter and slightly wider version of our Manitou 13. Like its big sister, the Sport is a
thoughtfully scaled down sea kayak. The fine entry of its bow and clean exit of its stern provide
Weight: 44 lbs (19.9 kg) exceptional glide. The efficiency of its hull, combined with rock solid stability and impressive
tracking, allows this kayak to out-perform all of its competitors by far, making the Sport safe
Cockpit: 42” x 20.5” enough to truly bridge the gap between stability and performance.
(106.7 x 52.1 cm)

Standard: Stern hatch (13.5” x 9.75”) with bulkhead; Extrasport XtraComfort seat, adjustable foot pedals

Manitou 13™

Length: 12’ 10.5” (3.9 m)

Width: 24.75” (62.9 cm) The ultimate in versatility (with a bit of British charm), the Manitou 13 gives the feel and glide
of a touring boat with the stability and comfort of a recreational kayak. The cockpit size allows
Weight: 45 lbs (20.4 kg) for ease of entry and exit. The Manitou’s compact size and low weight makes carrying or car-
topping easier. Standard rear bulkhead and hatch provide enough storage for a day
Cockpit: 34.5” x 16.25” on the water along with buoyancy for safety.
(87.6 x 41.3 cm)

Standard: Stern hatch (13.5” x 9.75”) with bulkhead; Extrasport XtraComfort seat, adjustable foot pedals

4

POLYMER DAY TOURING KAYAKS

Manitou 14™

Length: 14’ 4” (4.4 m)

Width: 24” (61 cm) The touring version of our popular recreational kayak, the Manitou 14 is generous with its
stability and comfort. The cockpit size remains very accommodating for entry and exit, and
Weight: 49 lbs (22.2 kg) we’ve kept the weight down for easy transporting. Plus, there’s a standard retractable skeg for
enhanced tracking and trim.
Cockpit: 35.5” x 16.5”
(90.2 x 41.9 cm)

Standard: Retractable skeg; bow and stern hatches (14” x 7”/13.5” x 9.75”) with bulkheads; Extrasport XtraComfort seat

Zoar Sport™

Length: 14’ (4.3 m)

Width: 25” (63.5 cm) This is one easy-to-maneuver touring kayak both on and off the water. Incredible stability
makes it a perfect choice for beginners, anglers, photographers and bird watchers. Its roomy,
Weight: 57 lbs (25.9 kg) easy-access cockpit is just the thing for all day comfort. Sizeable cargo holds and waterproof
bulkheads keep gear safe and dry. Always reassuringly solid on the water, the Zoar Sport is a
Cockpit: 34” x 17” great introduction to the sport of kayak touring.
(86.4 x 43.2 cm)

Standard: Rudder system; bow and stern hatches (9” x 6”/15” x 10.5”) with bulkheads; Extrasport XtraComfort seat

Eliza™ New for 2007

Length: 15’ 3.5” (4.6 m)

Width: 22” (55.8 cm) The Eliza is a touring kayak built specifically to empower beginning to intermediate female
paddlers with a small to medium build. Designed with input from women, Eliza is easy to handle
Weight: 49 lbs (22.2 kg) in wind and waves. The hull design helps women to paddle farther and faster with less effort
and more efficiency. Its ultra-comfortable design, ergonomic fit and light weight are destined to
Cockpit: 28.25” x 16” establish a new benchmark for female-specific kayak designs.
(71.6 x 40.6 cm)

Necky Kayaks is proud to promote women’s healthy, active lifestyles. Also Available in Pink
One percent of the Eliza’s gross sales is donated to the Breast Cancer Fund.

Standard: Rudder system; bow and stern hatches (16” x 9.5”/16” x 9.5”) with bulkheads; Necky touring seat with backband

5

POLYMER TOURING KAYAKS

Chatham 16™

Length: 16’ 5” (5 m)

Width: 22” (55.9 cm) Built to minimize windage, the Chatham 16 offers great maneuverability and superb rough
water performance. The full-chined hull provides great stability and quick response to edging
Weight: 59 lbs (26.8 kg) and lean turns. A retractable skeg featuring kink-free Necky Wire™, three bulkheads and water
resistant hatches complete the package. This boat truly excels at coastal exploration.
Cockpit: 30.75” x 14.25”
(78.1 x 36.2 cm) Also available in Advanced Composite (ac) Fiberglass

Standard: Necky touring seat; retractable skeg; bow, day and stern hatches (16” x 9”/day 7.5”/16” x 9”) with bulkheads

Chatham 17™

Length: 17’ 1.5” (5.2 m)

Width: 21” (53.3 cm) The Chatham 17 features a fine bow entry and a sleek stern for exceptional glide and efficiency.
She sits comfortably on edge and responds quickly to a deliberate paddle stroke. The adjustable
Weight: 63 lbs (28.6 kg) outfitting is relaxed and roomy, offering great comfort while still providing positive fit for
aggressive edging and rolls.
Cockpit: 33.5” x 17.75”
(85.1 x 45 cm) Also available in Advanced Composite (ac) Fiberglass

Standard: Necky touring seat; retractable skeg; bow, day and stern hatches (16” x 9”/day 7.5”/16” x 9”) with bulkheads

Elaho™

Length: 16’ 4” (5 m)

Width: 22.5” (57.2 cm) A low-profile touring playboat that’s extremely smooth edge to edge, and responds masterfully
to lean turns and edging. The snug fit of the cockpit, positive thigh braces and adjustable
Weight: 61 lbs (27.7 kg) backband promote excellent boat control, and the low stern deck makes lying back for
rolls very comfortable.
Cockpit: 31” x 15”
(78.7 x 38.1 cm) Also available in Advanced Composite (ac) Fiberglass

Standard: Necky touring seat; rudder system; bow, day and stern hatches (11.5” x 8”/day 7.5”/14” x 10”) with bulkheads

Eskia™

Length: 16’ (4.9 m)

Width: 25” (63.5 cm) Talk about a very comfortable and capable sea kayak! A big favorite in rental fleets, the Eskia has
plenty of room in the large cockpit – even for bigger paddlers and size 13 feet. Stability is super
Weight: 59 lbs (26.8 kg) solid, and it excels in wind or choppy seas resulting in an extremely reassuring ride for beginner
kayakers, fishing enthusiasts, bird watchers and photographers.
Cockpit: 33” x 18”
(83.8 x 45.7cm)

Standard: Rudder system; bow, and stern hatches (12” x 8”/14” x 10”) with bulkheads; Extrasport XtraComfort seat

6

POLYMER TOURING KAYAKS, continued

Looksha V™

Length: 17’ 4” (5.3 m)

Width: 23.75” (60.3 cm) The newest in one of our most popular designs, the Looksha V is a sporty, high volume touring
kayak designed for covering distance in moderate conditions. It carries a lot of gear, and its
Weight: 65 lbs (29.5 kg) big yet “performance” fit makes it perfect for camping, longer paddling trips, or just a day of
sightseeing.
Cockpit: 33” x 17.25”
(83.8 x 43.8cm)

Standard: Rudder system; bow, and stern hatches (16” x 9.5”) with bulkheads; Extrasport XtraComfort seat

Outfitter: Rudder system; hatches, Extrasport seat pad with back band, XtraComfort thigh braces.

POLYMER TANDEM KAYAKS

Manitou II™

Length: 14’ 8” (4.5 m) Paddling buddies spoke and we listened. The Manitou II is an incredibly versatile tandem with the
feel and glide of a touring boat, and the stability and comfort of a recreational kayak. Its relatively
Width: 28” (71.1 cm) compact size still allows for easy in-and-out cockpits, and its relatively low weight makes carrying
or car-topping easier than most tandems. With an optional rudder system, it’s just ‘Tou II cool!’
Weight: 75 lbs (34 kg) Designed for one, two or three people (two adults and a small child).

Cockpits: Options: Rudder system; Deluxe kid’s jump seat with 6” hatch

F: 35” x 17” (88.9 x 43.2 cm)
R: 48.5” x 18” (123.2 x 45.7 cm)

Standard: Stern hatch (13.5” x 9.75”); Extrasport XtraComfort seats; Basic kid’s jump seat

Amaruk™ Dependable, low maintenance and affordable – the Amaruk is a compact tandem well-suited
to day paddling or overnighters. Its blend of user-friendliness, stability and near indestructibility
Length: 17’ 10” (5.4 m) have earned it fans everywhere. The Amaruk has also become a proven boat in adventure races
all over the world.
Width: 28.5” (72.4 cm)
Also available in Fiberglass (gl)
Weight: 91 lbs (41.3 kg)

Cockpits: 31” x 17”
(78.7 x 43.2 cm)

Standard: Rudder system; bow and stern hatches (10” x 7”/14” x 10.5”) with bulkheads

7

ADVANCED COMPOSITE (AC) FIBERGLASS KAYAKS

Chatham 16™

Length: 16’ 5” (5 m)

Width: 22” (55.9 cm) Built to minimize windage, the Chatham 16 offers great maneuverability and superb rough
water performance. The full-chined hull provides stability and quick response to edging and
Weight: 51 lbs (23.1 kg) lean turns. A retractable skeg featuring kink-free Necky Wire™, three bulkheads and water
resistant hatches complete the package. This boat truly excels at coastal exploration.
Cockpit: 30.75” x 14.25”
(78.1 x 36.2 cm) Also available in poly

Standard: Necky touring seat; retractable skeg; bow, day and stern hatches (16” x 9”/day 7.5”/16” x 9”) with bulkheads

Chatham 17™

Length: 17’ 5” (5.3 m)

Width: 21.5” (54.6 cm) Inspired by classic Greenland designs, the 17 is built to minimize windage, with great
maneuverability and superb rough water performance. Its very full chine provides great stability
Weight: 52 lbs (23.6 kg) for a boat of this beam, and quick response to edging and lean turns. A retractable skeg, three
bulkheads and water resistant VCP hatches complete the package. This boat truly excels at
Cockpit: 32” x 16” coastal exploration through surf zones, rock gardens and convoluted ‘tide rips.’
(81.3 x 40.6 cm)
Also available in poly

Standard: Necky touring seat; retractable skeg; bow, day and stern hatches (16” x 9”/day 7.5”/16” x 9”) with bulkheads

Chatham 18™ The Chatham 18 is an extremely capable ‘passage-maker’ with a good turn of speed, great
sea worthiness and surprising stability for such a slender craft. Still very nimble, the 18 is
Length: 17’ 9” (5.4 m) somewhat stiffer tracking and a little less maneuverable than her shorter siblings. Three
bulkheads and water resistant VCP hatches provide adequate cargo space.
Width: 20” (50.8 cm)

Weight: 53 lbs (24 kg)

Cockpit: 31.25” x 16”
(79.4 x 40.6 cm)

Standard: Necky touring seat; retractable skeg; bow, day and stern hatches (16” x 9”/day 7.5”/16” x 9”) with bulkheads

Elaho™

Length: 16’ 4.5” (5 m)

Width: 22.5” (57.2 cm) The Elaho is a low profile touring playboat. Extremely smooth edge to edge, the Elaho responds
beautifully to lean turns and edging. The snug fit of the cockpit, positive thigh braces and new
Weight: 53 lbs (24 kg) Necky touring seat promote excellent boat control. The low stern deck makes lying back for
rolls very comfortable.
Cockpit: 31” x 15”
(78.7 x 38.1 cm) Also available in poly

Standard: Necky touring seat; rudder system; hatches (11.5” x 7.5”/day 7.5”/13” x 9”) with bulkheads

8

ADVANCED COMPOSITE (AC) FIBERGLASS KAYAKS

Looksha IV™ The Looksha IV has proven itself as one of our most popular designs. At home in big swell or
surf, it offers great responsiveness and maneuverability with enough volume for extended
Length: 17’ (5.2 m) touring and expedition work. The fit is excellent for mid-sized boaters. Two hatches, perimeter
lines and rudder are standard.
Width: 22.5” (57.2 cm)

Weight: 53 lbs (24 kg gl)

Cockpit: 29.5” x 16”
(74.9 x 40.6 cm)

Standard: Necky touring seat; rudder system; hatches (12” x 9”/15” x 10.5”) with bulkheads

COMPOSITE Color Chart

Necky composite kayaks are available in the standard colors shown above. For an additional fee, customized color options are also available.

COMPOSITE TANDEM KAYAKS

Amaruk™

Length: 19’ 2.5” (5.8 m) Compact and more portable compared to many sea-touring doubles, this soft-chined model is an
excellent platform for nature watching or fishing. With plenty of buoyancy, the Amaruk provides
Width: 28.5” (72.4 cm) a dry ride in rough water.

Weight: 88 lbs (39.9 kg) Also available in poly

Cockpits: 31” x 16.5”
(78.7 x 41.9 cm)

Standard: Rudder system; hatches (12” x 9”/15” x 10.5”) with bulkheads

Nootka Plus™ The Nootka Plus features extra flare above the waterline which adds stability and reserve
buoyancy. It also offers adjusted cockpits making room for a center hatch with a curved
Length: 22’ 5” (6.8 m) bulkhead (a great spot for the family dog).

Width: 27” (68.6 cm)

Weight: 99 lbs (44.9 kg)

Cockpits: 31” x 16.5”
(78.7 x 41.9 cm)

Standard: Rudder system; hatches (12” x 9”/13” x 13”/14.5” x 10.5”) with bulkheads

9

WHITEWATER KAYAKS

Anatomy of a Necky *Patent No. 6,923,139

Adjustable Seating System Patented* Aluminum Recoil System
Foam Foot Blocks (not shown)
Durable Superlinear Material
Drain Plug Planing Hull
(not shown)

Rescue Bar

Forward Adjustment

Comfortable Necky Seat Pad Adjustable
Adjustable Hip Pads Thigh Braces

Lightweight. Adjustable. Comfortable. Bomber! Most of Necky’s whitewater kayaks are equipped with our
anodized, aluminum, recoil outfitting system. The cutting edge technology can be adjusted to fit, providing
the most comfortable ride possible. The secure hold of the adjustable thigh braces gives you more control
in the cockpit so you can take your whitewater paddling to the next level. Our kayaks are also equipped
with the Necky Seat pad, designed to reduce pressure on your sciatic nerve, to help prevent your feet and
legs from falling asleep. This innovative seat doesn’t retain water, either. Take a seat and see for yourself.
All models are only available in Fire.

Vibe™

Length: 6’ 2” (1.9 m)

Width: 24.5” (62.2 cm)

Weight: 32 lbs (14.5 kg) The Vibe’s very pronounced rails yield awesome carving ability and the speed needed to
take aerials to a whole new dimension. It has incredible bite in rail-to-rail transition and loads
Cockpit: 31” x 16” ferociously, storing energy for explosive moves.
(78.7 x 40.6 cm)
Volume: 49 gal (185.5 L) Patent No. 6,923,139

Standard Outfitting: Recoil system with Necky seat and back band; foam footbraces

Chronic™

Length: 6’ 6” (2 m)

Width: 24.5” (62.2 cm)

Weight: 32 lbs (14.5 kg) Super balanced, whether on the bow, stern or transitioning between the two, the Chronic slices,
bounces or carves into all the moves. With great speed for its length, it surfs and hops into big
Cockpit: 31” x 16” airs and blunts with ease. Forgiving, the Chronic is extremely loose on a green face and turns
(78.7 x 40.6 cm)

Volume: 47 gal (178 L) the flats into a playground. Patent No. 6,923,139

Standard Outfitting: Recoil system with Necky seat and back band; foam footbraces

10

WHITEWATER KAYAKS, continued

Mission™

Length: 7’ 2” (2.2 m)

Width: 25.5” (64.8 cm)

Weight: 34 lbs (15.4 kg) Conceived as a super fun, river-running playboat, the award-winning Mission has enough volume
for all-day comfort and predictable handling in grabby hydraulics and squirrelly eddies. Pronounced
Cockpit: 31” x 16” rocker yields easy surfing performance and loose forgiving spins and play.
(78.7 x 40.6 cm)

Volume: 57 gal (218.8 L) Patent No. 6,923,139

Standard Outfitting: Recoil system with Necky seat and back band; foam footbraces

Crux™

Length: 7’ 7” (2.3 m)

Width: 25” (63.5 cm)

Weight: 37 lbs (16.8 kg) The award-winning Crux represents our next evolutionary step in creeking. This kayak excels in
tight technical creeks, handling big hydraulics with poise and resurfaces after big drops like a
Cockpit: 34” x 17” champ. Shorter, quicker and more controlled, the Crux still has enough volume for unsupported
(86.4 x 43.1 cm) multi-day trips for the hardcore boater.

Volume: 72 gal (272.5 L)

Standard Outfitting: Shock-Stop™ System with seat; spring-loaded footbraces; aluminum bulkhead

Orbit Fish™

Length: 6’ 6” (2 m)

Width: 24” (60.9 cm)

Weight: 34 lbs (15.4 kg) We gave it stingers to grip the water and make you feel like you grew fins. We dropped the tail

Cockpit: 31” x 16” rocker to make it real fast. Then we gave it a name that fits an aggressive carving spud who
(78.7 x 40.6 cm)
surfs waves and gives big air like no other: Orbit Fish. It’s the play boat that excels at everything,
Volume: 51 gal (193 L)
and stops at nothing. Patent No. 6,923,139

Standard Outfitting: Recoil system with Necky seat and back band; foam footbraces

11

THE NECKY STANDARD

NECKY STANDARD OUTFITTING

At Necky we wanted to design an outfitting system that was simple, durable, and easily customized to individual
needs. The basic system in our kayaks comprises of a skeg or rudder system, a seating system with forward
adjustment and thigh bracing. For most users this standard system can be perfectly adjusted to afford comfort and
boat control for almost any paddler.

Rudders and Skegs Seats
Most of our kayaks are equipped with either the Extrasport®
Many people ask “Is a rudder or XtraComfort™ Seat or the Necky seat with back band.

skeg absolutely necessary?” Our

answer is no, not absolutely. Neither

are matches in your backpack or Extrasport® XtraComfort™ Seat
Nothing less than the most
power steering for your car. The comfortable seat on the market,
the XtraComfort seat uses a shape-
fact is a rudder or a skeg can be molded EVA foam ultra-plush seat
pad and backrest up to 4” thick.
invaluable if you get caught in high Standard Aluminum Rudder Its ‘progressive cushioning effect’
makes the seat soft at first, then Extrasport® XtraComfort™ Seat
winds or strong currents. A rudder or a skeg can help reduce becoming more supportive for all-day paddling. The backrest
is adjustable fore and aft, up and down and has an automatic
fatigue and make a significant difference in your boat’s ability to lumbar angle adjustment. The angle of the seat pan is also
adjustable, while maintaining a low center of gravity. Finally, the
track adjustments are located so you don’t have to think twice about
how to make a position change.
Necky Rudder with Foot Pedals
When deployed you use the foot pedals to guide the kayak to the
right or the left. A rudder is used for keeping your boat on track,
especially when weather conditions change. It can help make
your journey safer and more enjoyable.

Retractable Skeg Necky Seat with Back Band
Our retractable skeg allows you to
adjust the trim of your kayak. Unlike Made of durable molded foam, this
the rudder, a skeg is not operated
by foot pedals so it does not help you seat pad is designed specifically to
to turn like a rudder will. However,
when deployed even a few inches, it reduce pressure on your sciatic
can be advantageous in high wind
conditions and strong currents. nerve. This helps prevent most

paddlers’ feet and legs from falling

Retractable Skeg asleep when they are paddling

longer distances by actually Necky’s Touring Seat

improving blood flow around the gluteus maximus. In addition,

Your Necky skeg incorporates a highly durable and kink-resistant the seat pad does not retain water. The touring and whitewater
wire common to the medical industry. It is unaffected by salt
water and does not stiffen over time. As well, it’s highly unlikely seat pads also feature a back band with a forward adjustment
that Necky Wire™ will ever kink. In testing we’ve experienced no
failures, even when the skeg was repeatedly slammed against system. The back band can be adjusted to provide ample lumbar
logs or hard rocks jammed inside the skeg box.
support, movement and comfort for most body types.

Thigh Braces
Thigh braces allow you to grip the boat with your inner thighs.
This provides greater control of the kayak.

Adjustable Thigh Braces
Many of our sea touring and whitewater
kayaks come equipped with adjustable thigh
braces. These thigh braces can be adjusted
to provide optimal fit and control for almost
anyone.

12 XtraComfort Thigh Braces
Our Xtra Comfort foam thigh braces are
designed to provide comfort. These thigh
braces are durable yet lightweight while
providing a comfortable fit.

CUSTOMIZED CUSTOMIZE YOUR KAYAK
COCKPIT OUTFITTING
Getting the Perfect Fit: Foam Shaping 101
While our standard outfitting Experienced paddlers are familiar with gluing foam into boats and shaping
is more than enough for it for a perfect fit. You can purchase 2 lb. minicell foam from most kayak
most paddlers, some enjoy a shops for this purpose. Typically this foam comes in a gray color and can
highly customized cockpit. We be cut with a bread knife, band saw or similar saw. You can become very
understand that, since many creative in shaping hip pads and thigh pads using simple tools. Once the
paddlers on our Necky team foam is cut to rough shape, it’s easy to shape with a sureform or 40 grit
go to great lengths to modify sandpaper. This process is fun, and the pleasure in paddling a customized
their boats for a custom perfect cockpit is worth the effort. When gluing to the seat cradle, thigh hooks
fit. Customization affords the or inner surface of the kayak, contact cement works best. For composite
ultimate in comfort and boat boats any weatherproof contact cement will work, however, we find 3M
control for not only experienced 4693 Scotchgrip® Adhesive to work very well on both composite and
kayakers, but also beginners polyethylene boats. On poly kayaks it’s more effective if you rough up the
learning skills such as bracing surface a bit before applying adhesive. Simply coat the surface of the boat
and rolling. For this reason our to be ‘adhered to’, and the surface of the foam part to be ‘adhered’. Let
outfitting system is designed to adhesive dry for a few minutes, and then press surfaces together. Now you
allow for easy customization. can further refine the shape with 40 grit sandpaper or a sureform. Vacuum
up the dust and give it a try!
The seat can be easily removed
and replaced by a hand shaped For some this customizing may be as easy as some hip shims adhered
or other foam seat. It can also to the cradle, while others may want to pad more heavily under the thigh
be shimmed or trimmed with a braces, affix highly shaped hip pads and even a hand shaped foam seat.
razor knife. The alloy cradle can Whatever you do, rest assured, you can tweak it and revise it as you wish.
be drilled to attach numerous
backbands as well, for those The most important thing to remember with custom cockpit outfitting
who prefer the simplicity of a is that you MUST be able to easily exit your cockpit when upright or
basic, rear-adjustable backband. inverted! Be careful not to trap yourself or others in an effort to achieve
Likewise, the thigh braces can maximum boat control. A cockpit that’s too tight is not only dangerous
be positioned and padded further but uncomfortable on longer trips, and can interfere with good forward
with foam, or removed entirely. stroke technique. Most specialty dealers are experienced with customizing
For those wanting the ultimate cockpits and can help. Some even sell pre-shaped padding with adhesive
in aggressive thigh hooks, you already applied.
can order the whitewater hooks
from Necky, or your local dealer.

ACCESSORIES

NECKY WEAR: For a complete selection of Necky wearables and other branded
items, visit www.neckykayaks.com.

SPRAY SKIRTS and PFDs: For a complete model-specific selection
visit www.extrasport.com.

PADDLES & PADDLING ACCESSORIES: Go online to www.carlislepaddles.com.

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Hand Shaped Performance Kayaks
www.neckykayaks.com / 800-8-KAYAKS