TopKayaker.Net: Using the Kayak Carry Strap

PLEASE NOTE: This device is best for lighter, smaller kayaks. (Less than 50 lbs. ~ Shorter than 14') It can be used with larger, heavier kayaks over short distance across pavement, rough terrain and stairs where wheels are not effective. Long distance portages of big kayaks is better with wheels. See "The Wheeleez Canoe and Kayak Cart."

Kayak Carry Straps

Figure 1: CARRY STRAP ADAPTORS

Figure 2: INTENDED USE OF THE KAYAK CARRY STRAP

Figure 3: CARRY STRAP ADAPTOR USED WITH HOLES ON ONE END - SOT KAYAK

Figure 4: CARRY STRAP ADAPTORS USED WITH - SIT-IN-SIDE KAYAK

Using The Kayak Carry Strap:
Uses, Adaptations & Instructions
by Tom Holtey

Want a quick, non-bulky, economical way to carry your kayak? For many of you this will do the trick.

Presented here are some ways to make these light-weight, easy to take along gear work for your boat. They come in both Economy and Premium styles at Tom's TopKayaker Shop. Both are well made. The premium boasts a signifigant difference in shoulder pad thickness.

Sit-on-top Kayaks w/ Two Scupper Holes:

Kayak-Carry Straps are an alternative to wheels for the light to mid-weight sit-on-top. These padded shoulder straps thread through the scupper holes of sit-on-top kayaks and clip with brass snaps. They are fully adjustable for a variety of kayaks and paddler heights.

To use the strap "as is" your kayak MUST have two drain holes, one forward of the balance point and one behind, both holes preferably in the cockpit. It is best if the scupper holes are in pairs on right and left sides.

The Carry Strap may also work on some centerline, multi drain hole kayaks. Just find the balance point.

Adapting For Sit-inside Or Single Scupper Kayaks

The Kayak Carry Strap is NOT intended to work for single drain hole kayaks and sit-in-side kayaks; however, it may be adapted for such use by following the instructions below. When in doubt, E-mail Tom for help in determining if your kayak will work with this device.

The addition of a carry strap adaptor, that you can make out of two lengths (about 6') of rope, can be used to make the Kayak Carry Strap work with sit-on-top kayaks without scupper holes and sit-in-side kayaks. See diagram of options to the right.

To use the CARRY STRAP ADAPTORS with a sit-on-top kayak that has no scupper holes configure the adaptors as seen in Figure 4. The Carry Strap Adaptor can be enhanced by adding a Brass Clip to one end of the Rope.

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