Modern Canoe Construction
by Dave Curtis
A canoe is the most versatile of watercraft! It allows
access to waterways not navigable by powerboats and opens
areas not otherwise accessible. Historically important as
the means by which much of North America was explored and
settled, it is today an important part of our outdoor
recreational scene. A canoe has been called the poor man's
yacht for its ability to handle all types of waterborne
travelers with an unusual degree of efficiency. A
well-designed, quality constructed canoe is a one time
investment which can give many pleasurable years of usage
with the only energy required being that of your own
exertion.
Canoes are and have been constructed of many different materials; the following Canoe Material Evaluation page outlines virtually all the materials which canoes are currently constructed and gives the construction methods used with each.
How do you choose the best Canoe for you, or more precisely, the best construction method?
By virtue of your attendance at this presentation I assume that you are more than casually interested in canoe performance. Webster defines performance as the execution of an action; the fulfillment of a claim, promise or request. You have to define the performance you desire, your canoe should be capable of executing it . That performance may be ease of paddling, it may be maneuverability, it may be load carrying capacity or it may be light portage weight . Perhaps it is a blend of all. Whether your interest is a solo or tandem the basic ratings on the following Canoe Comparison Chart hold true. I feel that any canoe that rates below good (5) should be of little interest to you, except in accentuating circumstances. Therefore I suggest the best all-around choice to be a well-designed, durability, weight and price consistent with your personally established criteria.
How do you identify this canoe? First of course, is to look for a recognizable brand name. Ask advice of other paddlers and reputable dealers. Look at the canoe carefully. The gel coat (exterior surface) should be smooth and even, no obvious flaws or mottled spots. The pattern of the woven fabric should be noticeable through the gel-coat surface. The fabric should be evident on the inside of the canoe. The hull will be characterized by lightweight and flexibility. Notice how the canoe is finished off and trimmed. Most trim materials - wood, aluminum, vinyl-are durable and functional. But which is most appealing to you? After all, you must live with it. Is the canoe attractive? Above all- what is the reputation of the manufacturer? As in all things, the best investment is in quality. Quality manufacturers do not build bad canoes.
Canoes are and have been constructed of many different materials; the following Canoe Material Evaluation page outlines virtually all the materials which canoes are currently constructed and gives the construction methods used with each.
How do you choose the best Canoe for you, or more precisely, the best construction method?
By virtue of your attendance at this presentation I assume that you are more than casually interested in canoe performance. Webster defines performance as the execution of an action; the fulfillment of a claim, promise or request. You have to define the performance you desire, your canoe should be capable of executing it . That performance may be ease of paddling, it may be maneuverability, it may be load carrying capacity or it may be light portage weight . Perhaps it is a blend of all. Whether your interest is a solo or tandem the basic ratings on the following Canoe Comparison Chart hold true. I feel that any canoe that rates below good (5) should be of little interest to you, except in accentuating circumstances. Therefore I suggest the best all-around choice to be a well-designed, durability, weight and price consistent with your personally established criteria.
How do you identify this canoe? First of course, is to look for a recognizable brand name. Ask advice of other paddlers and reputable dealers. Look at the canoe carefully. The gel coat (exterior surface) should be smooth and even, no obvious flaws or mottled spots. The pattern of the woven fabric should be noticeable through the gel-coat surface. The fabric should be evident on the inside of the canoe. The hull will be characterized by lightweight and flexibility. Notice how the canoe is finished off and trimmed. Most trim materials - wood, aluminum, vinyl-are durable and functional. But which is most appealing to you? After all, you must live with it. Is the canoe attractive? Above all- what is the reputation of the manufacturer? As in all things, the best investment is in quality. Quality manufacturers do not build bad canoes.
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