A sit-on kayak is basically an air-filled plastic float and the scupper holes allow water to pass in and out of the kayak without allowing it to sink. With this design the paddler sits up off the water as well. … If you do not mind sitting in water or plan to paddle in breaking waves then you can leave them out.
Is there supposed to be holes in the bottom of a kayak?
The holes are designed to ensure that water drains off the deck every time the kayak is at a standstill. Many kayaks are crafted with innovative hulls to ensure that safe-bailing can happen without the need for forward movement. Some kayaks can self-bail within 60 seconds of sitting static.
Should I plug my scupper holes?
If you’re kayaking with a heavy load, you should plug in your scupper plugs before paddling. The extra weight will submerge your kayak further down, and water will rise from the holes. The scupper plugs will protect you from capsizing. In the summer, covering the scupper holes might not be a priority.
What are the holes in the bottom of a kayak called?
Scupper holes, found in sit-on-top kayaks, are designed as a safety feature to drain water out of the kayak, from top to bottom, which keeps you from sitting in a puddle or even worse, making your kayak a bathtub full of water prone to capsizing.
Do you leave scupper plugs in a kayak?
Scupper plugs are only applicable for kayaks that have scupper holes. Without scupper holes, there is simply no need for scupper plugs. … Having scupper plugs on hand will allow you to deploy or remove them as conditions change. It’s also more likely for water to splash over the sides of the kayak and into the cockpit.
Why are there holes in my sit on top kayak?
Scupper holes are intentional holes in sit-on-top kayaks, like fishing kayaks. … They help give structural integrity to the kayak… They operate as a drain hole when you get water in your boat. This is especially key in rapids or waves when water can come in over the top.
Why are there holes in my lifetime kayak?
The purpose of the scupper hole is to allow water that splashes on to the deck to drain back out and not pool underneath the paddler. Blocking these holes will keep tiny splashes from coming up from underwater through the holes but it will keep any water that makes its way onto the deck from draining back out.
Should you wax your kayak?
Wax On, Wax Off – Why Waxing Your Kayak Is Important
Applying a kayak wax to your vessel can give it that extra layer of protection against damage. This means it could boost the durability of the hull, helping to protect it from the sun’s harmful rays, as well as scratches or dents.
Can a sit-on-top kayak sink?
With scupper holes (holes in the kayak that allow any water to drain out) and nowhere for water to collect, a sit-on-top kayak won’t sink when capsized.
Are kayaks supposed to have water in them?
If you find that small amounts of water are getting into your kayak don’t panic. It is totally normal for some water to get into the cockpit of a sit-in kayak and to get onto the deck of a sit-on-top kayak. … Let’s take a look at the potential problems that could be causing the issue of water getting inside your kayak.
Do self draining scupper plugs work?
So if you’re wondering if your sit-on-top kayak should have open holes in the bottom, yes, scupper holes are a normal feature. The self-bailing feature of scupper holes works to keep paddlers comfortable and safe by improving efficiency.
What is a scupper plug?
What Is A Scupper Plug? Just like the scupper hole, a scupper plug is simple. They are a safety feature of sit-on-top kayaks, but their purpose is to plug up the scupper drain hole.