Foot rest placement question

[GaryMinor]

I am installing the adjustable footrest from Kudzucraft. My initial placement is too close. It seems that the knee is bent up more than I think is optimal.

 

I need to know how much the leg is bent for the proper placement.

 

I would guess that a slight knee bend is preferred. I don't think that the leg should be straight.

 

After the footrest is in place, the next step is skinning. I'm looking forward to that.

 

Gary in Wake Forest

 

 

[kayak278]

Gary,

 

It all depends on what makes you the most comfortable and what you will be using your kayak for.  If you are going to be rolling in your kayak, you may want to think about having your knees slightly bent as to place your knees in a place under the skin so you can use them to help lift up the side of your kayak....also useful in doing edge turns.  However, I've seen numerous threads on other kayak forums on how straight legs are also acceptable.  It all boils down to what position is going to be the most comfortable for you over a period of time.  

 

Personally, in all of my kayaks, I have my footrests placed so my knees are bowed and tucked up under the skin on each side near the front of the coaming.  I've found that on longer periods of time in the seat that it helps to stretch my legs straight out in front of me, either together or one at a time, but the majority of my time is spent paddling in a "locked in" position, with my knees placed at the aforementioned position and my feet on the footrests.

 

If you're able, put yourself in your kayak frame and try some different positions, see what is the most comfortable for you!

 

-Matt

[Kudzu]

My frames are designed so the standard footrest just fits between the frames. There is only 1-1.5" of gap so  they pretty much place themselves in the proper location.

 

With as much adjustment as there is in those, if you are building something else adjust the footrest to the middle position. Locate them where you think you want them (sitting in the frame on the floor) and there should be more than enough adjustment either way to make it comfortable.