Lay-Up Options

Each option we provide has undergone extensive testing to guarantee optimal performance in challenging conditions. You can trust that our kayaks will not let you down when you need them, whilst we may not offer the lightest kayaks on the market we do think we offer the toughest.  We achieve the different qualities by combining expertly engineered materials in 5 special combinations, these secret combinations are what we call lay-ups.

Glass Composite Constructions

Standard (Stan)

This is the go-to lay-up for a boat that will last a lifetime in normal use and be robust enough to withstand the rigors of a remote expedition. This construction is hardwearing and relatively easy to repair.

Heavy Duty (HD)

We only recommend this lay-up for hire boats in constant use.  It is super strong but is significantly heavier than the standard lay-up. It will look the same as a standard lay up but will be approximately 10% heavier.

Elite (Eli)

The Elite is a lighter glass lay-up with carbon Kevlar bulkheads and seat to cut down on weight whilst keeping cost to a minimum. Compared to carbon kevlar glass lay-ups are easy to repair and have a thicker layer of gelcoat to protect the structure from scrapes. This lay-up is not as strong as the standard lay-up.

Carbon Kevlar Constructions

50/50

Offering a brilliant fusion of Elite and Carbon Kevlar layups, the 50/50 model presents a unique combination of materials. With an elite glass hull, the 50/50 stands out for its resilience when compared to carbon kevlar. Glass layups are not only easier to repair but also feature a thicker gelcoat layer, providing enhanced protection against scrapes.

Incorporating carbon kevlar in the deck, seat, and bulkheads, the 50/50 model delivers a weight savings ranging from 8% to 12% compared to a standard lay-up. Notably, the 50/50 lay-up showcases a smart, clear deck dragon design, allowing the carbon kevlar cloth to be visible through the gel coat, adding a touch of sophistication to its aesthetics.

Carbon/Kevlar Standard

The full Carbon Kevlar lay-up represents the pinnacle of weight reduction and heightened performance. Our Carbon Kevlar specification ensures that our kayaks are robust enough for remote expeditions in demanding conditions, yet light enough to optimize performance and ease of transport, offering a weight reduction of 20% to 25% compared to standard layups.

While it's acknowledged that Carbon Kevlar repairs can be more complex, they are indeed possible; however, such repairs are best handled by professionals rather than attempted at home. Notably, the Carbon Kevlar lay-up showcases a stylish, clear deck dragon design, revealing the carbon kevlar cloth beneath the gel coat, enhancing its visual appeal. Additionally, this lay-up includes a diolen keel strip to bolster hull stiffness and safeguard the keel line against potential damage.

A Word on Gel Coat

Gel coat serves as the protective outer layer of the kayak, shielding the structural components from abrasions, water, and UV rays while imparting colour to the kayak. Gel coat is typically applied in one of two methods: "hand applied" or "sprayed."

Sprayed gel coat is expertly applied using an air-driven sprayer similar to those utilized in the automotive industry, resulting in a relatively thin and lightweight gel coat layer. This technique is commonly used for creating intricate artwork and on surfaces made of carbon kevlar.

In contrast, hand-applied gel coat is precisely laid into the mould by skilled laminators using a brush. This method yields a thicker, heavier layer of gel coat that is more durable and easier to repair.

An array of gel coat colours, including glittery options, are available for customisation. Whilst we will make hulls of any colour, the rationale behind our standard white hulls stems from their ability to conceal scrapes and scratches more effectively than darker colours during typical usage.