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Add Extra Waterproof Protection to Your Kayak

How-to blog written by Team Dagger's Todd Wells I think it's safe to say that no one likes a leaky kayak. I especially don't like a leaky kayak, so I decided to take note on a few of the things I do to keep my kayak and everything inside it extra dry. First and foremost I make sure to tighten the screws on my kayak on a regular basis (every few weeks for myself). When we paddle our kayaks we put stress on each of the joints where pieces of outfitting (i.e. seat, thigh braces, bulkhead) meet with the plastic shell of the kayak. Over time this stress will slowly loosen the screws, and to keep...

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Todd Wells

How can I retrofit my Dagger touring kayak with bulkheads?

Many touring boat manufacturers (including Dagger, until we introduced welded plastic bulkheads) use minicell foam to fabricate bulkheads. This is a fairly inexpensive and effective method of retrofitting bulkheads in a boat that didn't originally come with them. For current models, simply ask your dealer to order the respective pre-cut minicell bulkhead(s) from us. For discontinued models, you can fabricate bulkheads from 3" minicell foam. (Also available from your dealer. Start with a chunk of foam slightly larger than the area of the boat where you plan to install the bulkhead. Shape it...

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Dagger touring kayak with bulkheads?

How to properly throw your paddle off a waterfall

Reposted from the Dagger blog, written by Iker Beristain Throwing your paddle off a waterfall is not something you should just decide spontaneously, if you've decided you are going to throw it, you should know it before running. This move has some pros and some contras: Pros Softer landings, less impact, less probabilities to heart your back (if done properly), it’s safer for your face (the paddle can be dangerous around it), and hands (hands take big impact by holding the paddle), you are not going to break your paddle, and it can be very stylish. Contras Ones you lose your paddle it´s...

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Throwing paddle off the waterfall

Get in, Get a grip, Get going!

Before getting it wet, hop into your kayak on flat ground to adjust the foot pegs and back band to fit you. Then, with kayak in the water parallel to shore, place your paddle shaft behind the cockpit or seat, extending one blade to rest shore-side on firm ground to lend stability when entering. Get a Grip A white-knuckled death grip can lead to discomfort. Relax. Hold the paddle shaft with thumbs and forefingers forming rings, like you’re making the “OK” sign, and keep your other fingers loose. Now you can orient your blades and gain reach without stressing your wrists. To find the right hand...

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Get in and get going

Top five winter paddling accessories

Reposted from the Dagger blog, written by Anna Levesque I have to say that I’m not a hardcore winter paddler, obviously, since I run winter trips in Mexico! So, I can relate to those of you who hang up the paddle for other, dryer, sports in the winter. However, I do know paddlers who still motivate even with snow on the ground and icicles hanging from the brims of their helmets. And, I admit that when I do drag myself out when it’s 40 degrees or colder (what I consider cold weather paddling) I have a lot of fun. So, if you’re planning on getting out this winter, or spring here are my top five...

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Winter Paddling

Fitness tips to start the season

Fitness tips to start the season

Reposted from the Dagger community site, written by Brad Ludden The best way to start your season is by being physically prepared. There are a few key things that you can do to make your transition off the couch and onto the water as smooth as...

Essential Equipment

Essential Equipment

Your gear carries you out and home, protects you from the elements and assists you in emergencies. All of it should be in good condition and fit your body, skill level and setting. Putting a child in an adult PFD isn’t a smart idea, for example, nor...

Dressing the part

Dressing the part

Looking cool is one matter, being too cool is another. Because immersion is a major cause of hypothermia, dress for it. When the sum of air and water temperatures is below 120 degrees, check out specialized paddling wear like wet suits, dry suits,...

Carrying System

Carrying System

Reposted from the Dagger blog, written by Scott Ligare First of all a word of caution needs to be expressed. This system is for carrying your boat on flat land only! Serious danger could result in a fall down a steep slope with the boat attached to...

Add Extra Waterproof Protection to Your Kayak

Todd Wells

How-to blog written by Team Dagger's Todd Wells I think it's safe to say that no one likes a leaky kayak. I especially don't like a leaky kayak, so I decided to take note on a few of the things I do to keep my kayak and everything inside it extra...

Whitewater Technique Basics: The Ferry

Whitewater Technique Basics: The Ferry

Reposted from the Dagger blog, written by Anna Levesque Crossing the current without being taken downstream is a very important skill in white water kayaking. Ferries help to slow things down and they develop boat control, balance and edge control...

Kayaking: Angle is Everything

Kayaking: Angle is Everything

Repost from Anna Levesque Do you have trouble ferrying or feel that you get pushed off-line a lot? If so try paying more attention to the angle you're setting with your kayak before you make your move. Setting the correct angle can mean the...

Care and Maintenance

Care and Maintenance

Rotomolded Kayak Care Our “roto” kayaks are made of high-density linear polyethylene, which is virtually maintenance free. A minimal amount of care in storage and transporting will help the kayak maintain a like-new condition for many years...

Basic paddling skills

Basic paddling skills

The following concepts will help you develop good form as you take to the water. Sit up straight. Your mother was right. Posture is important- for balance, efficiency and safety. Imagine that the heaviest parts of your body-head, chest, abdomen,...

What is the recommended way to transport my kayak?

What is the recommended way to transport my kayak?

A roof rack, whether factory installed or an aftermarket product, greatly enhances both security and convenience when transporting your kayak. There are many aftermarket accessories that combine with a roof rack to offer even more convenience and...

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