Kayak seat sliding might not be common, but when it happens, it can kill the fun of kayaking. First, we have to find out why such a seat is sliding and the best way to keep it from doing the same in the future. So, what causes a kayak seat to slide?
The answer to this problem is found on the seat holder thumb screw. The thumb screw has a rubber washer that easily slides because it is worn. So you have to improve its performance by using sandpaper. Cut a piece of sandpaper and insert it between the rubber washer along the utility track.
How to Keep Kayak Seat from Sliding Using the Thumb Screw Holder
What you need
- A new thumb screw holder
- A hole punch
- A rubber washer
- 5mm sandpaper
Step 1. Open the thumb screw from the kayak seat and remove the old rubber washer. Be careful not to destroy the threads on the thumb screw.
Step 2. Cut two pieces of sandpaper of about 5mm and place them on the table. Ensure the sandpaper is rough enough to hold the rubber washer along the utility track.
Step 3. Use the hole punch to make holes in the sandpaper. Make sure the holes are directly opposite of each other.
Step 4. Now take the new thumb screw and start by inserting the first piece of sandpaper. Then add the rubber washer and finalize with the other piece of sandpaper.
Step 5. Adjust the thumb screw and put it back on the kayak seat. The thumb screw should be tight enough to hold the seat in position.
How to Select a Kayak Seat
What if the seat keeps sliding even after making the adjustments above? The solution might lie in installing a new kayak seat. We look at some key considerations to have in mind when picking the right kayak seat.
How big is your kayak
You need enough room in the hull hence the size of your kayak will determine the type of seat. Make sure you have enough space to move the paddle on both sides of the kayak.
A big kayak will require a bigger seat to fit in the hull.
Your body size
Yes, we all have different body sizes. So choose a kayak seat that will fit your body size. A good seat will support your back and keep it raised.
Kayaking is also the best way to excise and reduce body fat hence you need a seat that will maximize the adventure.
Material
Kayak seats can be made from polyester or neoprene fabric.
Polyester is the best material because it is resistant to all types of weather conditions. It also has a plastic-like undercover that protects the foam from getting wet.
Neoprene fabric is an excellent choice when you are going long-distance kayaking. This type of fabric does not get destroyed by rough surfaces.
Type of the kayak
In this case, it means the purpose of the kayak. Is it a recreational or commercial kayak?
Recreational kayaks have to have the deep seat with a comfortable backrest. However, sporting kayaks must have suspended seats to allow easy control of the paddle.
Fishing or commercial kayaks are best with a huge seat to allow easy movement of the legs.
The cushion
Consider choosing a seat with extra foam on the pad and backrest. The foam will provide support to your legs and back.
Sporting kayaks do not require excess form because it will create friction hence hard to move your back and legs. The foam must have a waterproof material and be resistant to UV rays.
Ventilation
Choose a kayak seat that has enough air holes to protect your back from sweating. It is a very uncomfortable situation when your back is wet from the excess sweat.
The seat inside the kayak needs a well-ventilated seat because of the high temperatures in the hull.
The budget
An expensive kayak seat does not mean it is the best. There are cheap seats that are more durable than the expensive ones.
The material will determine the price of the seat. Polyester seats are cheap but not durable as the neoprene fabric. Nowadays, some companies create customized kayak seats.
Easy to maintain
Select a kayak seat that will not give you a hard time maintaining. A good seat is easy to wash and can even dry under the shade.
Do not forget to consider the screws under the seat. A perfect seat will have screws that allow easy adjustment and removal.
Try and find a seat that has a plastic cover to create waterproofing.
How to Wash a Kayak Seat
Kayak seat maintenance is also important. Without proper maintenance, sometimes the seat starts to degrade. One of the things to do is to wash the kayak seat. Here is how to do it.
Tool
- Liquid soap
- Soft brush
- A bucket
- Clean water
Step 1. Remove the seat from the kayak by opening the bolts and nuts. Place them in a safe position.
Step 2. Add the liquid soap to the water in the bucket and shake until bubbles form.
Step 3. Pour the solution into the seat and scrub with a soft brush. Gently scrub the seat to avoid destroying the fabric and the plastic cover.
Step 4. Rinse the seat with clean water. Make sure you remove all soap and press on the foam to remove excess water. Finally, place it under the sun to dry. But be careful with the strong UV rays.
Conclusion
The thumb screw and rubber washers are the main reasons your kayak seat is sliding. The seat will start to move around when the rubber washer is worn out. So, replace the rubber washer and place it in between sandpaper to create friction. Remember to inspect the seat to see if the rubber washer is still in perfect condition. You must also grease the utility track to prevent corrosion and rust.