> I would like some sources for hatches, foot pegs, seats and backbands.
> Anybody have any info? I am interested in the type of hatches that have
> neoprene lids, and foot pegs that have aluminum rails with adjustable
> braces. I've seen hatches by Valley and Canoe-Sports but I can't find a
> reliable source. Thanks

Mike,

I can see by your e-mail address that you are a fellow Michigander! One of the best catalogue suppliers of paddlesport equipment is located near Detroit -- Great River Outfitters. They sell Valley hatches, which have a plastic lip and a rubber hatch (sorta like Tupperware) and are HIGHLY recommended. Very watertight, but pricey at ~$50 for a 9" round hatch and ~$150 for a 9"x16" oval.

As for footbraces, Yakima makes the aluminum ones and there's another company that makes plastic ones called Keepers. Both are good, but I hear that the Keepers are less likely to jam when filled with sand. These are the ones I have on my Arctic Tern. I don't know which brand GRO carries, but both of these can also be found at http://pygmyboats.com and http://clcboats.com.

Dean Holland, MI