Keeping your kayak straight when there are strong winds can be tiring. This is where skegs come in. So here is a quick tip on how to use a skeg.
When to Use a Skeg
If you paddle a touring or sea kayak on a windy day, you might notice that when the skeg is up, the kayak naturally turns towards the direction of the wind. This phenomenon is known as weather cocking and happens when your kayak has a keel that cuts through the water. The kayak does not start turning because of the direction of the bow. Instead, it is because the wind blows the stern of the kayak downwind faster than it blows the bow.
To stop weather cocking you have two main options. The first is to paddle harder on one side than on the other. This way, you can keep the kayak moving more or less in a straight line. However, this is not an ideal or comfortable solution for long as it causes you to paddle unevenly.
The other option is to use something to keep the stern in place, which is where the skeg comes in.
How to Use a Skeg
When you notice you need to paddle unevenly to keep your kayak straight, it is time to drop the skeg. Skegs can be lowered to different levels. The depth of the skeg will affect how firmly the stern is held into place. If you lower it fully, it is possible that the stern is held too firmly in place. This might cause the kayak to start turning in the other direction.
The amount you need to drop the skeg depends on the strength and direction of the wind and your kayak's tendency to weather cock. Every kayak with a keel does weather cock slightly. However, a lot of inflatable kayaks do not weather cock. They have a flat bottom, which is why many of them do not need a skeg.
If you have a skeg, it just takes a little experimenting to see how much you need to lower it. The goal is to be able to paddle evenly on both sides and in a straight line. The depth the skeg needs to go will differ every time you are out on the water. However, using your skeg will make paddling in the wind much more enjoyable!
Kayak: Melker Ulvon
Paddles: Gearlab Outdoors Greenland Ipik
PFD: NRS OSO Lifejacket
Storage: Gearlab Outdoors Deck Pod 2
Clothing: NRS Short Sleeved Guide Shirt
Sunglasses: Wiley X
