RE: [Paddlewise] Rudder Styles ?

Hal,

If you plan to paddle with out the rudder in the water, a rudder that
*locks* the foot braces when it is in the up position will give you more
control and stability. I have only seen this function on rudders that fold
on or in to the stern deck (they usually fold in to some sort of V, locking
the lateral motion). 

Rudders that fold down against the deck have another advantage for those of
us who prefer to minimize rudder use: by folding down, they minimize weather
cocking (weather helm to sailors). Rudders that stick up in the air act as a
small sail, making your kayak turn into the wind even more than it would
otherwise. This advantage/disadvantage is less important for doubles as one
usually finds it more efficient to use the rudder...

Regarding long and narrow vs. short and fat:

The length (depth) of the rudder when its in the water is also important as
a shorter rudder will not be in the water as much as a longer one when the
sea is rough. 

The technos can go on for pages about the *lift vs. drag (stall)* issues of
the way surface area is distributed but if your considering a single kayak,
I strongly recommend getting one that can handle a breeze without needing a
rudder..

Eric
-----Original Message-----
From: Hal Christiansen [mailto:hal_at_mbox305.swipnet.se]
Sent: Friday, May 21, 1999 10:30 AM
To: PaddleWise (E-mail)
Subject: [Paddlewise] Rudder Styles ?


I am currently shopping for my first sea kayak. Actually my first 'yak. The 
model I am considering is the VKV SeaGull "Ocean" (www.vitudden.com). There 
are two different rudder styles available.

The first is rather long and narrow. When UP it rests on the stern deck. 
The pivot point is at the top of the boat.

The second choice is more of a square. When UP it is parallel to the water 
and sticks out from the back of the boat. The pivot point is at the bottom 
of the boat.

So, I am asking for experienced opinions regarding the pros and cons of 
these two styles.

THANKS
- Hal

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