Choosing the right cockpit size

You’ve chosen the right model for you, now you need to make sure you get the right cockpit size. Spraydeck cockpit sizing is not a precise science – there are many different shapes and sizes, and whilst manufacturers do their best to accommodate most boats within their spraydeck range, you should be aware that there are many different factors to consider. Here are a few pointers to help you along the way…

Measure your cockpit

Measure from the outside to outside of the longest (a) and widest (b) parts of the rim. Compare with a sizing chart to see where your boat lands:

As a general rule, if your measurements are towards the lower end of the size range, then you should be fine. If you are towards the centre, then take into account the model and your ability. If you are towards the upper end then you may want to consider choosing the next size up, especially if you are looking at the whitewater deck. For example:

If your boat measures 89 x 53 cm then the Peak Standard Deck should be fine in a keyhole size. If you have never used a neoprene deck before, or if you are looking to get the Peak Whitewater Deck, then the cockpit size = bigdeck may be a better fit.

Some other general pointers:

• Most whitewater boats will be either keyhole, bigdeck or huge, with some specialist models using the small size (normally composite freestyle kayaks)
• Composite sea / touring kayaks will generally be the comp size, with plastic models more often using keyhole / bigdeck
• Polo boats will generally use K1. Some plastic models can use keyhole.

If you are unsure of your measurements (you haven’t yet bought your kayak etc.) then you can always contact the manufacturer. 

Select your waist size

Pretty self explanatory really. You want the waist tube to be comfortable but snug. There is a fair bit of stretch in neoprene, but more often than not people will go off their regular waist size. Some models, such as the Nylon / Kidz Decks, have an adjustable one-size-fits-all system. Not all models will have all the sizes featured below (see individual product pages for more details).

Fitting

Fitting a brand new neoprene deck can be a trying experience, but here are a few handy tips to help you out!

• Put the deck on your body and get in your kayak. It is a whole lot easier fitting a spraydeck from inside the boat
• Wet your cockpit rim and the underside of the deck this makes it easier
• Tuck the back of the shockcord under the rim behind you and, working your hands forward a bit at a time, stretch the deck evenly up the sides of your cockpit and finish by popping the front over the front of the rim, always making sure the pull tag is on the outside
• Run your hands around the shockcord & rim to double check the seal make sure there are no gaps
• Always make sure you can easily pop the deck using the pull tag before getting on the water. Remember to pull forwards (away from your body) and then up rather than straight back (towards your body) This is easier and kinder on your deck
• If the deck is really tight, some people recommend leaving it on overnight to “stretch” the neoprene a little
• If you absolutely cannot get the spraydeck on, or you are not confident you can release it easily enough, then return it to the point of purchase and go for the next size up- try it on at home before you use it !
• Finally, a good safety check is to make sure that you can always remove the spraydeck by just pulling on the neoprene out from the straight edge of your cockpit rim. This is in case of emergencies or if you cannot reach the pull tag (or tucked it in). Ask us to show you if you’re in store.

Care

If you look after your deck, your deck will look after you. Always check your deck for holes and signs of wear before getting on the water. Double check the stitching of the shockcord and the pull tag. This could save your life. Any deck showing signs of damage in these areas should be replaced immediately. Small nicks and holes can be repaired with neoprene repair patches or adhesive or similar.

Rinse your deck in fresh water after use, and leave to drip dry. Store away from contaminants, UV light and direct heat. Be careful when using sunscreen, DEET (repellent) etc. as man made chemicals and excess heat can cause any latex on the deck to degrade and become sticky, which can leave marks on your kit. This can also happen on particularly old decks. These marks can be cleaned using a latex remover (at your own risk), but prevention is always better than cure!

As already mentioned, remove your deck by pulling forwards and up rather than pulling straight backwards, especially on composite boats with sharp rims. We recommend taping these rims with electrical tape or similar as this will prolong the life of your deck.

Using a happy thruster (Applicable to rodeo Playboating only) can cause excess wear due to the extra strain on the deck take this into account.

Check there is no velcro from your PFD / jacket etc. rubbing continuously on the neoprene, and, finally, avoid catching the deck with your paddles as this can cause undue wear along the sides.