Rick

It's doesn't matter what kind of kayak, a breaking wave will lift a lid if it isn't carefully cinched down with the straps, it's the nature of the beast. A big wave break will definitely lift a lid unless dependable and strong securing straps or devices are employed! Unfortunately, we speak with experience on this, and it's why I built my yaks with screw down knobs, we're not going that route again, Cleopatra's Needle assistance in rough water must be experienced first hand to really appreciate the idea of secure closure! Then again, it really depends on the conditions one expects. We paddle generally rough conditions because that's what we have to paddle on, and launchings and landings can be particularly rough. Then again, we like to also surf the yaks, and I and three friends have over the years paddled some long and rough crossings around the world, so there you go. Now, I still can't help but think that there's a better way that incorporates the sheer beauty and timeless elegance of the traditional frame. I've been saving and studying each pic posted on the board, and on the SOF I still think I have a point. IMHO a blot of neoprene on a SOF is like a glass faced MacDonald's built next to the Notre Dame. But hey...whatever anyone wants to do that floats their yak, right?

Got a question to all the SOF types: will such a yak take rough water? I was yakking (sorry, couldn't resist) with a guy a year ago up in Irvine who built one but trashed it on rocks somewhere in Orange County. Lost touch with him and often wondered how the repair went. To be real honest, down the road I'd like to build a SOF, too. I'm addicted to building kayaks and I'm not even going to pretend that I'm not. Hell, I'm thinking about using the next yak hull and deck as a plug to build a carbon fiber and glass boat, and I think I got a source for Spectra glass, the technical goal of making a 25 pound yak is one I can't resist.

aw, but I wanted to go out and surf some waves...