What is the centre part of the moulded seat of the liquid logic Tuxedo kayak for?

Question

not the main seat the bit that is round and also there is a groove coming off it! any ideas?

Answer 1

The front center part of a molded seat in a kayak is typically for 4 things

1.  Gear storage.  There will be a grove or a slot for a water bottle, storage bag or a sponge.  This is the easiest point for gear access for a boater while in the boat.  If you store gear anywhere else (i.e behind the seat) it is tougher to get to, and you may have to get out of your boat for access to your stuff.

2.  Bulk head support or guide.  There is typically a center foam bulk head that gives the hull extra strength to prevent the hull from crushing or bending in case of the kayak getting pinned/entrapped or wrapped around a rock/tree.  The front seat guide helps to keep that bulkhead in place (it keeps it from twisting out).

3.  Bottom hull support.  The bottom hull under a kayak seat is typically the flattest part of the boat.  Since it is flat, it can have the tendency to "oil pan" or in other words, become wavy.  It is also the most likely area to hit a rock, so it needs a little extra support.  Hence the front part of your seat helps hold the hull shape, and protect it from hard dings.

4.  For a snugger fit.  A kayaker does not sit in a boat, he wears it.  The different parts of your seat help hold you in your boat in case of adverse conditions (i.e being tumbled wildy upside down in a class IV+ rapid).

Long story short, even though modern plastic kayaks are strong, the water is stronger, and a good modern boat uses the extra plastic on its seat to work in conjunction with the internal foam bulkheads and the plastic hull for extra strength, comfort and storage.

Hope that helps, good boating to you.

Answer 2

Sitting on? Or is it the groove in front of seat - for drinks bottle or bdh. Happy kayaking