What’S The Thing On Side Of Canoe Outriggers?

Canoe stabilizers and outriggers are essential components in kayaking, providing enhanced stability and safety. Canoe stabilizers consist of two pontoons or floats attached to the sides of the canoe, positioned parallel to the canoe. These floats provide a wider platform for the canoe to stand on. Outriggers, on the other hand, act as an extension to the width of the vessel, ensuring stability and security.

Outriggers are designed to aid kayakers in their balance on the water and minimize the possibility of capsizing or rolling by increasing buoyancy. They can be attached to one or both sides of the canoe, pushing into the water when the canoe tilts. One-sided stabilizers also provide extra stability. In the Pacific Islands, a single outrigger float is called an ama, connected to the main hull by spars called ʻiako (Hawaiian), ʻiato (Tahitian), or kiato (Māori). The ama, usually rigged on the left side, provides stability.

Outriggers are projecting structures on boats, with specific meaning depending on the type of vessel. They may also refer to legs on a wheeled vehicle. The ama has always been fitted onto the left side of the canoe and remains the same for paddling today.

The main purpose of the attached outrigger is to provide paddlers with more stability in the ocean, keeping the balance of the hull. An outrigger is meant to prevent a rollover while maintaining the ability to paddle a long, narrow, fast watercraft.

A rudder on a kayak is a convenience but is useful for paddling in cross winds or cross currents, as well as when gliding. Overall, outriggers and stabilizers are crucial for a smooth and safe kayaking experience.