Abstract: One embodiment provides a personal watercraft, wherein the personal watercraft includes a cockpit configured to accommodate a user, a first item of outfitting coupled to the watercraft at least partially within the cockpit, wherein the first item of outfitting includes a first fluid-holding bladder inflatable by the user to increase the snugness of fit of the first item of outfitting on the user, a second item of outfitting coupled to the watercraft at least partially within the cockpit, wherein the second item of outfitting includes a second fluid-holding bladder inflatable by the user to increase the snugness of fit of the second item of outfitting on the user, a pump for inflating the first bladder and the second bladder, a fluid supply line connecting the first bladder and the second bladder to the pump, and a valve disposed along the fluid supply line, wherein the valve is configured to allow fluid flow from the pump to be selectively directed into at least one of the first bladder and the second bladder

Abstract: A multi-part kayak whereby the kayak body is hollow and void of a center where a traditional sit-on-top kayak cockpit would reside. The kayak body thus having a centralized hole therethrough. Surrounded by the hollow perimeter body the design is best analogous to a doughnut with a hole in its center. The kayak perimeter body is designed to accommodate multiple central hulls which can additionally accept multiple cockpit configurations via insertion into the central hull. Additionally such arrangement provides removable central hulls to be affixed in a manner whereby no mechanical fasteners or points of possible water intrusion exist below the waterline. Means are provided so as to prevent occupants weight from forcing the removable central hull downward through the kayak body and from wave action forcing the removable central hull upward through the kayak body.

Abstract: A tray which is easily attached to the rim of the cockpit of a kayak. The top surface of the tray is provided with recessed compartments for retaining various items therein. At least one recess is designed to retain a standard-sized beverage container. A clamp, formed on the tray, is designed to securely retain the kayak's paddle thereby freeing the rower's hands when desired. The tray is fabricated from molded plastic or a hard rubber.

Abstract: An adjustable foot brace and optional shock absorbing system for decked kayaks that employs a heel and arch of the foot contact, and in which the adjustment arms are selectively securely affixed to a base plate located in the center of the kayak from the forward most portion of the seat or central structural support member forward. This base plate is then securely affixed to the forward most portion of the seat of the kayak, or to the forward most portion of a central structural support member in boats utilizing this device. The bulkhead configuration for this foot brace system employs a full or near full foot contact and the adjustment arm is attached directly to a guide located in the forward most portion of the seat or central structural support member for boats using this device. Either of these foot brace systems may also be attached in a “floating” configuration to an optional shock absorbing mechanism.

Abstract: An improved rudder system and pedal system for use in a watercraft such as a kayak. The rudder assembly includes a rudder housing having a push rod operably linked to a rudder blade positioned in the housing. A rudder control cord passes through a fairlead located at the top of the push rod and terminates at the trailing edge of the rudder blade. Upon tensioning of the rudder cord, the push rod acts against a notch in the leading edge of the rudder blade, which causes rotation of the rudder blade in addition to the rotational force on the trailing edge of the rudder blade due to movement of the control cord. A feature of the rudder assembly is the incorporation of a spring element in the rudder blade that provides an extension bias to the rudder blade, and user selectable pre-loading thereof for varying the rotational bias. The pedal system includes a toe control pivotally attached to a foot brace that is slidingly located in a track.

Abstract: A low centroid canoe seat support is provided which is mountable to a canoe and that receives a boat seat having standard three-quarter inch post pin. The canoe seat support holds the weight of the boat seat and a canoe rider in a position below the gunwales of the canoe and above the hull of the canoe, thus providing stability and reducing the likelihood of a capsizing event. Moreover, because the canoe seat support is compatible with standard post boat seats, the apparatus allows the rider to customize the canoe to meet his or her individual comfort and mobility needs.

Abstract: A seat for a watercraft provides a separately adjustable thigh support and back support. The seat includes a pelvis support and a separately positionable thigh support pivotally mounted on the pelvis support. An adjustable back support includes a post pivotally mounted to the pelvis support and a backrest that moves vertically on the post. Means are provided for adjusting and setting the thigh support and back support at desired positions for optimal support and comfort. Preferably, a person can adjust the seat while fully seated in the seat.

Abstract: A personal watercraft and an outfitting system for a personal watercraft are disclosed. The personal watercraft includes a cockpit configured to be occupied by a user when using the watercraft; and an item of outfitting coupled to the watercraft at a location at least partially inside of the cockpit, the item of outfitting being configured to help secure the user in the cockpit. The item of outfitting includes a shaped portion configured to contact the user, and a fluid-holding bladder disposed adjacent the shaped portion, wherein the fluid-holding bladder may be selectively filled with a fluid to push the shaped portion against the user to secure the user in the cockpit more tightly.

Abstract: A kayak cooler has an enclosure with a rigid outside surface and a contoured bottom. The kayak cooler has a plurality of securing tabs disposed about the rigid outside surface of the enclosure. The enclosure has a top with an access opening and the contoured bottom has a shape approximating the contour of a foredeck of a kayak.

Abstract: A canoe platform interconnects a pair of spaced apart canoes arranged parallel with each other so that the platform can support human activity while the canoes support the platform above the water. The platform is made of a pair of panels adjoining each other and spanning the gunwales of the canoes and the space between them. Each of the panels is foldable in half longitudinally so that the panels can be stored within canoes for transport. The panels are unfolded flat and are arranged to span the canoes aft of the front seats of the canoes and forward of the rear seats of the canoes.

Abstract: An improved paddle craft provides a boater with exterior controls to adjust items within the craft. The craft has a shell made of a substantially continuous surface to prevent the ingress of water and an adjustable item in the paddle craft affecting a boater's ergonomics, a cockpit and cockpit opening and at least one control opening within a boater's reach when the boater is sitting in the cockpit. A control for the adjustable item is mounted to the control opening, wherein the control has a manipulable handle at the control opening through a water resistant mount.

Abstract: A personal watercraft and an outfitting system for a personal watercraft are disclosed. The personal watercraft includes a cockpit configured to be occupied by a user when using the watercraft; and an item of outfitting coupled to the watercraft at a location at least partially inside of the cockpit, the item of outfitting being configured to help secure the user in the cockpit. The item of outfitting includes a shaped portion configured to contact the user, and a fluid-holding bladder disposed adjacent the shaped portion, wherein the fluid-holding bladder may be selectively filled with a fluid to push the shaped portion against the user to secure the user in the cockpit more tightly.

Abstract: A kayak portage harness includes: a draw cord in a hem of the harness that is used to secure the hem of the harness under the lip of a kayak cockpit coaming and a pair of opposed hooks that are also secured to the lip of the kayak cockpit coaming at the front and rear of the coaming. In addition, the harness may include a pair of hull straps that extend from the harness about the hull of the kayak and carry paddle clips for securing a paddle to a side of the kayak. The harness is secured to the back of the kayaker in a substantially vertical position for portaging by shoulder straps and an equipment gear bag of the harness fits down through the kayak cockpit into the hull.

Abstract: A flexible skin 3 is fitted over a framework 20 that includes a plurality of longitudinal stringers 50-58 running the length of the bottom and sides of the kayak. Each stringer 50-58 is assembled from several elongate segments 80-85 held together by an internal shock cord. Transverse formers 10-13 separate the stringers to define the hull outline and are releasably fixable to the stringers. Bow and stem formers 10, 13 are fixed in a manner allowing them to slide longitudinally, thereby laterally spreading and tensioning the stringers 51-58. Flexible tension members 73, 74 provide longitudinal bending strength and assist in shortening the framework 20 for assembly. A block 21 inserted in a joint 30′ between adjacent segments of a stringer provides a means for locking the segments in a telescopically extended position, for expanding the framework longitudinally.

Abstract: A multi-part kayak whereby the kayak body portion is a hollow perimeter void of a center where a traditional sit-on-top kayak cockpit area would reside. The kayak body is designed to accommodate multiple cockpit configurations via insertion into the void cockpit area. Additionally such arrangement provides removable cockpit central hulls to be affixed in a manner whereby no mechanical fasteners or points of possible water intrusion exist below the waterline. Means are provided so as to prevent occupants weight from forcing the removable cockpit central hull downward through the kayak body and from wave action forcing the removable cockpit central hull upward through the kayak body. One kayak body can accommodate multiple configurations of removable cockpit central hulls thereby eliminating the need for various kayaks to perform various functions.

Abstract: A mast step for a kayak sailing rig is provided. The mast step supports a mast relative to a deck of the kayak at a desired angle to facilitate an optimum sail shape. The step also has a convex below a surface which contacts the deck, allowing the mast to be rotated forward or aft in use, and in particular allowing the mast to be rotated from an upright position to a flat position against the deck of the kayak.

Abstract: A kayak is disclosed having improved control and bracing for acommodating a kayaker wherein a cockpit rim encircles the cockpit seat and adjustable thigh braces are provided in the seat. The adjustable thigh braces include a right thigh brace carried in said cockpit for receiving the right thigh of the kayaker and having contoured outer and inner thigh braces for bracing respective outer and inner thigh portions of the kayaker's right thigh when in the seated position. A left thigh brace is carried in the cockpit for receiving the left thigh of the kayaker having contoured outer and inner thigh braces for bracing respective outer and inner thigh portions of the kayaker's left thigh when in the seated position.

Abstract: A convertible control system for a kayak having a first and second unit. The first unit comprises a guide mounted with each side of the hull forward of the seat. A mounting bar is carried by each guide with each mounting bar carrying a plate and a shaft adjacent one end and in substantially perpendicular relationship thereto. A locking member is associated with each guide for releasably locking each mounting bar in a selected position along the longitudinal axis of to the guide. The second unit comprises a rudder connected with the stern, a rudder pedal pivotally mounted with each guide by way of the shaft in a position normally spaced from the associated plate. A cable extends between each rudder pedal and the rudder, whereby movement of the rudder pedals results in a corresponding movement of the rudder.

Abstract: An integrated safety accessory arrangement and components for users of personal watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, and catamarans. The arrangement is comprised of safety related components providing the following integrated features: alternate personal hydration for paddlers accommodating common beverage containers as well as compartments for contemporary sports reservoirs with hull and hatch cover ports to route and seal the attached drinking tubes for use underway; and mounting and storage for navigation and communication devices such as marine compasses, GPS, VHF and FRS radios, cell phones, and the like. All are accessible while underway; and one-handed kayak skirt-on use of common portable manual pump with in-hull pump storage holder.

Abstract: An emergency breathing apparatus for breathing under water particularly when using a kayak (1) comprising a single flexible tub (4) having an internal volume which is less than normal lung capacity and having an inlet adjacent one end of said tube which is arrange to be maintained above water level and open to ingress of air and adjacent the other end of said tube in close proximity a mouthpiece an a valve means operable by a user to inhibit flow of water into the breathing means in a closed condition and to permit breathing when in an open condition.

Abstract: A watercraft comprising an inflatable skin operable to define a hull shape when inflated, and a frame comprising an extendible rigid keel member engageable with the inflatable skin to stretch the inflatable skin to define a rigid keel form in the inflatable skin. The frame may further comprise chine or gunwale stiffeners connectable to the keel member to extend lengthwise along or over port and starboard sides of the inflatable skin. The inflatable skin may further comprise bow and stern connectors for connecting the inflatable skin to the frame at a bow and a stern of the watercraft, respectively. The keel member of the frame when extended defines the rigid keel form, which curves upward at the bow and stern. The chine and gunwale stiffeners of the frame when expanded resist the upward curvature of the bow and stern, leading to a longer waterline and a faster watercraft.

Abstract: A cockpit system for a kayak having a deck and a cockpit opening defined in the deck. The cockpit system comprises bow and stern deck portions, a coaming assembly, and a transition member. The bow and stern deck portions form the deck. The cockpit opening is formed in the bow deck portion. The deck gap region is formed between the bow deck portion and the stern deck portion. The coaming assembly extends around the cockpit opening. The transition member is arranged between the bow deck portion and the stern deck portion. The transition member is sized and dimensioned to fill the deck gap region.

Abstract: A paddle support having a storage device assists in rowing a vessel. The paddle is retained in the upper portion of a support that has a base section that may be connected to the storage device or a support strap. The storage device may rest directly on the floor of the vessel, or may be suspended over the opening of a vessel by a support strap. The storage device may be a backpack, bag, box or insulated cooler. The use of the support strap allows the storage device and support to be used with a watertight skirt or covering stretched over the opening of the vessel.

Abstract: A foot brace system for use with a watercraft includes an elongated track, configured to be coupled to the watercraft, and a carriage. The track has the first one of a detent and a detent engaging surface. The carriage has a brace, which is slidably coupled to the track, and a retaining member that is carried by and pivotably coupled to the brace. The brace has a foot rest surface, and the retaining member has the second one of the detent and the detent engaging surface. The second one of the detent and the detent engaging surface pivots between a first position, in which the detent and the detent engaging surface are in engagement locking the carriage to the track, and a second position, in which the detent and the detent engaging surface are out of engagement allowing the carriage to be moved relative to the track.

Abstract: A foot brace system for use with a watercraft includes an elongated track, configured to be coupled to the watercraft, and a carriage. The track has the first one of a detent and a detent engaging surface. The carriage has a brace, which is slidably coupled to the track, and a retaining member that is carried by and pivotably coupled to the brace. The brace has a foot rest surface, and the retaining member has the second one of the detent and the detent engaging surface. The second one of the detent and the detent engaging surface pivots between a first position, in which the detent and the detent engaging surface are in engagement locking the carriage to the track, and a second position, in which the detent and the detent engaging surface are out of engagement allowing the carriage to be moved relative to the track.

Abstract: A small, light weight watercraft that can be used and enjoyed in substantially the same manner as a conventional kayak, but one that includes a novel auxiliary power system for propelling the watercraft through the water. The auxiliary power system comprises a four-stroke, overhead-valve, single-cylinder engine that is of the character typically used to drive the cutting line head of a conventional line trimmer device. In one form of the invention, the speed of the engine can be controlled by a hand-operated throttle mounted on the kayak paddle. The conventional kayak has been modified by installing at the stem of the kayak an elongated, tubular-shaped duct having a water inlet port and by mounting within the hull of the kayak the engine system that includes a drive shaft that extends through the hull and into the tubular shaped duct to impart rotation to a propeller that is mounted on the drive shaft for controlled rotation within the tubular shaped duct.

Abstract: A mast step for a kayak sailing rig is provided. The mast step supports a mast relative to a deck of the kayak at a desired angle to facilitate an optimum sail shape. The step also has a convex below a surface which contacts the deck, allowing the mast to be rotated forward or aft in use, and in particular allowing the mast to be rotated from an upright position to a flat position against the deck of the kayak.

Abstract: An integrated safety accessory arrangement and components for users of personal watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, and catamarans. The arrangement is comprised of safety related components providing the following integrated features: alternate personal hydration for paddlers accommodating common beverage containers as well as compartments for contemporary sports reservoirs with hull and hatch cover ports to route and seal the attached drinking tubes for use underway, and mounting and storage for navigation and communication devices such as marine compasses, GPS, VHF and FRS radios, cell phones, and the like. All are accessible while underway; and one-handed kayak skirt-on use of common portable manual pump with in-hull pump storage holder.

Abstract: A watercraft having a combination of a canoe and a power boat style hull with a propulsion mechanism and an electric outdrive mechanism. The propulsion mechanism draws water from beneath the watercraft, through a water intake into a pump which pumps the water out through pipes located in wings formed in the hull. The electric outdrive mechanism has a power supply located within the watercraft that supplies power to a motor that turns a propeller attached to the outside of the hull. The motor has a skeg attached thereto to help steer the watercraft.

Abstract: An assembly and method for installing a back-band utilize ratchet straps and pawl members interconnected with the back band and cockpit area of a kayak. The pawl member may be mounted to either the back-band or kayak. The ratchet strap has a first end insertable in the pawl members, and inclined teeth engage the pawl member. A second end of the ratchet strap is secured to either the kayak or back-band. In addition, a band and buckle assembly may interconnect with the back-band and kayak to support and align the back-band in the kayak cockpit.

Abstract: A device for insertion into the cockpit of a small boat such as a kayak or canoe is presented. The device is a hip grip designed to be positioned within the cockpit of the boat and retain the hip portion of a user of the boat. The device has an inflatable bladder which can be fastened inside the cockpit on an interior wall by a fastener. An inflator is provided to infuse an inflation material into the bladder. The inflation material is retained within the bladder by a retention valve. The inflated bladder exerts a pressure on the hip portion of a user seated within the cockpit.

Abstract: A foam padding having a foam pad and a sheet material cover, both being shaped such that the pad extends along the flat side of the central section of a wooden yoke and the cover holds it in place.

Abstract: A “V”-shaped sail is mounted to flexible tubular members. The tubular members are permitted to flex as wind speed increases. This lowers the effective center of effort and the area of the sail and increases the stability of vessels and vehicles to which the sail is mounted without the need for operator involvement. The sail frame is mounted to a “Y” shaped yoke having a cylindrical stem. The stem is inserted into a locking base that permits rotation of the stem in 30 degree increments while preventing the stem from being removed from the anchor while the sail is set at an operating angle. The locking base can be mounted permanently or temporarily to the vessel and vehicle. One unique aspect of this invention is that no lines (sheets) or similar apparatus are required for any operational function of raising, lowering or sailing this sail kit.

Abstract: A river craft comprises a hull, such as a canoe hull, having a bow and a stem; and an outboard seat extending outward from one of the stem and the bow. The outboard seat preferably extends from the stem and faces forward, and is lower than the gunwhale of the river craft. The outboard seat comprises a seating platform, and a connecting member connecting the one of the bow and the stem to the seating platform, the seating platform being wider than the connecting member. The hull narrows transversely towards the stem. The stem is sufficiently narrow adjacent the outboard seat to allow the knees of a person sitting on the outboard seat to extend on either side of the stem. The outboard seat may be vertically adjustable or may include a second seating platform lower than the first seating platform. A ballast holder, such as a water tank, at the other end of the river craft may be filled with ballast to balance a person sitting on the outboard seat.

Abstract: An open-trough kayak sailing accessory kit is described in which a removable, portable, lightweight bi-pod mast is mounted to a removable board/hatch at the front of the kayak. The mast then tilts back over the kayak so as to center the sail over the craft. The bi-pod mast is hinged to the board and has various rope securement points to give it fore and aft stabilization. To provide lateral stability to the kayak, a leeboard kit according to the invention is included, having a leeboard removably affixed to the side of the cockpit of the open-trough kayak where no cross bars or flat top surfaces for attachment are otherwise present. A slide clamp is employed which fits the side of the open cockpit, in allowing the leeboard to rotate about the clamp, permitting a user to raise and lower it into the water as needed. By employing the two kits together, an open-trough kayak can easily be utilized for ocean sailing, otherwise quite difficult to do.

Abstract: A shirt is made of light weight, breathable and liquid moisture repellent fabrics. The shirt body includes at least one of two types of stretchable fabric. One type is mono-directionally elastic and the other is orthogonally bi-directionally elastic. The shirt includes one or more gusset panels positioned at or near the hem. The hem of the shirt can be stretched over the coaming of an open cockpit vessel, such as a kayak. Thus the shirt can serve as a combination dry top and spray skirt for a kayak paddler, especially in low to moderate turbulence water conditions. The shirt is comfortable, thin and sufficiently stylish to be worn in activities other than boating, including sporting and non-sporting activities.

Abstract: A kayak is disclosed having a cockpit for holding a paddler and having a deck with at least one hatch. The exterior mold line of the kayak presents smooth sleek lines that are uninterrupted by a protruding hatch cover or by unsightly straps and buckles holding the hatch lid in place. The kayak has a cockpit for receiving a paddler and at least one cargo hold with a water tight bulkhead between the cargo hold and the cockpit. A hatch well in the deck has a floor recessed below the level of the deck. A hatch rim is bonded and sealed in a hatch opening in the hatch well floor, and a water tight hatch cover is fitted on the rim to seal the hatch against ingress of water into the cargo hold. A peripheral recess around the hatch well receives the peripheral edge of a hatch lid, dimensioned to fit into the peripheral recess and lie flush with the deck. Retention rods protruding into the recess fore and aft hold the hatch lid against movement out of the recess.

Abstract: A combination canoe/kayak hull unitarily formed from seamless transparent thermoplastic where said thermoplastic is transparent polycarbonate or polycarbonate-acrylic blend. The canoe/kayak hull is molded in a fashion providing for multiple kayak top cap arrangements or canoe gunnel attachments dependent upon the trimming angle of the formed hull. The peripheral edge of the untrimmed hull is formed 90 degrees to the hull sides allowing for multiple trimming heights so as to be used as either a canoe or kayak hull. When hull is trimmed as a kayak, the trim line is on a horizontal plane following the lower edge of the canoe splash guard resulting in the peripheral edge being approximately 90 degrees to the bottom of the hull. When hull is trimmed as a canoe, the trim line is an arc where the ends of the hull are substantially taller than the midship peripheral edge.

Abstract: An open-trough kayak sailing accessory kit according to the invention is described in which a removable, portable, lightweight bi-pod mast is mounted to a removable board/hatch at the front of the kayak. The mast then tilts back over the kayak so as to center the sail over the craft. The bi-pod mast is hinged to the board and has various rope securement points to give it fore and aft stabilization. To provide lateral stability to the kayak, a leeboard kit is included, having a leeboard removably affixed to the side of the cockpit of the open-trough kayak where no cross bars or flat top surfaces for attachment are otherwise present. A slide clamp is employed which fits the side of the open cockpit, in allowing the leeboard to rotate about the clamp, permitting a user to raise and lower it into the water as needed. By employing the two kits together, an open-trough kayak can easily be utilized for ocean sailing, otherwise quite difficult to do.

Abstract: A kayak is disclosed having improved control and bracing for accommodating a kayaker wherein a cockpit rim encircles the cockpit seat and adjustable thigh braces are provided in the seat. The adjustable thigh braces include a right thigh brace carried in said cockpit for receiving the right thigh of the kayaker and having contoured outer and inner thigh braces for bracing respective outer and inner thigh portions of the kayaker's right thigh when in the seated position. A left thigh brace is carried in the cockpit for receiving the left thigh of the kayaker having contoured outer and inner thigh braces for bracing respective outer and inner thigh portions of the kayaker's left thigh when in the seated position.

Abstract: A collapsible boat comprising forward and aft hull sections, each of which comprising a plurality of longitudinal frame members and transverse cross members. The frame members are joined into longitudinal alignment by sliding a male end of a frame member into a complimentary female end of an adjacent frame member. The frame members are also interconnected to the cross members at a plurality of connector portions to create the forward and aft hull sections. Interlocking mechanisms are used to join together the forward and aft hull sections to define a hull framework having elongate frame members that extend longitudinally between a bow and stern and that are spaced and braced by transversely extending cross members. A variable tensioning mechanism permits variation of the elevation of the bow and stem of the framework by adjusting the overall length of the elongate frame members.

Abstract: A boat comprising a folding internal frame and a flexible outer skin. When not in use, the boat folds in half to a compact flat shape beneficial for shipment, storage and transport. The integrated tubular frame/floor pan is hinged to “pop up” or collapse quickly without the need for separate tools. The outer skin stays on the boat even when it transitions to the folded configuration. Latch mechanisms hold the frame rigid in the open position.

Abstract: A outrigger apparatus for connecting a pontoon to a canoe and placing a platform therebetween. The outrigger apparatus includes a pontoon portion. A coupling means couples the pontoon portion to a canoe. The coupling means includes a pair of bars. Each of the bars is elongate, having a first end, and a second end. Each of the first ends of the bars is removably coupled to the top peripheral edge of the canoe. A pair of brackets removably couples the second ends of the bars to the pontoon portion. Each of the brackets is elongate, and each has a base portion and an arm portion. The base portions of the brackets are removably coupled to the pontoon portion. Each of the second ends of the bars is removably coupled to one of the brackets. A support portion supports the user. The support portion is a platform. The platform has a pair of opposing edges. Each of the opposing edges is rested on one of the bars.

Abstract: Canoe and kayak mid-point sponsons attach to the canoe or kayak only at the mid-point of the sponsons, to enable the sponsons to rotate around the midpoint in order to reduce drag in waves and simplify attachment and detachment to the canoe or kayak, while also permitting much greater sponson buoyancy volume than any other type of sponson, without interfering with normal paddling to safety. They are attached to any canoe or kayak by material such as only one adjustable strap and two clips, extending to kayak deck fittings adjacent the cockpit or a canoe middle thwart, in such a manner as to facilitate normal paddling of the stabilized craft in life threatening emergencies. They can be directly attached to both sides of the hull near the waterline. The mid-point sponsons can be solid buoyant material, waterproof and airtight stowage bags containing bulky lightweight items such as sleeping bags, orally inflatable sponson floats, and gas cartridge inflatable sponson floats.

Abstract: An adjustable foot brace and optional shock absorbing system for decked kayaks that employs a heel and arch of the foot contact, and in which the adjustment arms are selectively securely affixed to a base plate located in the center of the kayak from the forward most portion of the seat or central structural support member forward. This base plate is then securely affixed to the forward most portion of the seat of the kayak, or to the forward most portion of a central structural support member in boats utilizing this device. The bulkhead configuration for this foot brace system employs a full or near full foot contact and the adjustment arm is attached directly to a guide located in the forward most portion of the seat or central structural support member for boats using this device. Either of these foot brace systems may also be attached in a “floating” configuration to an optional shock absorbing mechanism.

Abstract: A collapsible canoe has a frame which includes a pair of gunwales connected together at each end by a gunwale terminator, a thwart separating the gunwales, a series of ribs connected to the gunwales, a keel stringer and supplemental bottom stringers traversing the ribs, and a pair of stem elements attached to the keel stringer. The collapsible canoe also has a skin covering the frame which has two gunwale sleeves which engage the gunwales, side panels attached to the gunwale sleeves, a bottom panel attached to the side panels, and a pair of terminator panels connecting the side panels to each other and to the bottom panel. The skin may be tensioned by inflatable compartments between the frame and the skin. The skin may alternatively be tensioned by the ribs. In one embodiment, a prong attached to each stem element engages a slot in each terminator panel to stabilize the stem elements with respect to the gunwale terminators.

Abstract: An assembly and method for installing a back-band utilize ratchet straps and pawl members interconnected with the back band and cockpit area of a kayak. The pawl member may be mounted to either the back-band or kayak. The ratchet strap has a first end insertable in the pawl members, and inclined teeth engage the pawl member. A second end of the ratchet strap is secured to either the kayak or back-band. In addition, a band and buckle assembly may interconnect with the back-band and kayak to support and align the back-band in the kayak cockpit.

Abstract: A boat includes a body having one or two paddling positions. The body is sufficiently narrow at the paddling positions to provide a comfortable paddling width. A bow extends forwardly and converges to become progressively narrower from the forward paddling position. A stern extends rearwardly and diverges to become progressively wider from the rearward paddling position. The stern has two hulls positioned rearward of the at least one paddling position and separated by a connecting surface. The connecting surface extends rearwardly and upwardly from the rearward paddling position to an upper remote end that is out of the water at the stern, thereby reducing drag.

Abstract: Kayak comprising: a rigid base in several sections end to end joined to one another in a water-tight hinge-mounting so that they can be folded one on top of the other; a rigid keel in several sections spanning the hinge-mountings of the base sections and retained in brackets fixed to said base sections; two pneumatically inflatable sides joined at the base to the longitudinal edges of the rigid base; a covering canvas joined to the respective top longitudinal edges of the two inflatable sides and having at least one opening for a user; a seat located under this opening; and at least one rigid tensioning frame arranged to the rear of the opening and designed to brace the base, the inflatable sides and the covering canvas.

Abstract: A boat includes a body having one or two paddling positions. The body is sufficiently narrow at the paddling positions to provide a comfortable paddling width. A bow extends forwardly and converges to become progressively narrower from the forward paddling position. A stern extends rearwardly and diverges to become progressively wider from the rearward paddling position. The stern has two hulls positioned rearward of the at least one paddling position and separated by a connecting surface. The connecting surface extends rearwardly and upwardly from the rearward paddling position upwardly an upper remote end that is out of the water at the stern, thereby reducing drag.