Keel/bottom protection or reinforcement

[45user]

Is there a way to protect the keel/bottom of your kayak? When I put my kayak on the roof rack I have to stand it up and it scratches the keel and I am little concerned. I've seen some kayaks with some kind of plastic reinforcement on front and back end of the keel
Please share how you guys do it.
Thank you!
45

[Mahigeer]

I use a big piece of thick cardboard on the ground to drag the kayak on it.

[FlyFishinYakr]

I applied a Keelguard on mine (Outback), a 5yd strip.
I also thought about retro-fitting an OK keel protector to mine to protect from "rougher" surfaces.
FFY

[Batmann]

Originally Posted by FlyFishinYakr

I applied a Keelguard on mine (Outback), a 5yd strip.
I also thought about retro-fitting an OK keel protector to mine to protect from "rougher" surfaces.
FFY

I just ordered a small strip of Keelguard to test out on the back of my Outback. Do you have any tips on installation?

[45user]

Originally Posted by FlyFishinYakr

I applied a Keelguard on mine (Outback), a 5yd strip.
I also thought about retro-fitting an OK keel protector to mine to protect from "rougher" surfaces.
FFY

Thabks for the info
Where did you buy the keel guard ?
45

[HobieScot]

Let us know how the keelgaurd works out for you. I was never worried about it before but after my last launch at Dana Point boat launch I noticed three 1/4 inch deep gouges about a foot long in the bottom of my kayak. So now it has me looking for a solution to protect the bottom

[FlyFishinYakr]

Originally Posted by 45user

Thabks for the info
Where did you buy the keel guard ?
45

WARNING: These things aren't cheap!
They average about $130 for a 5' guard (I bought one according to a little less than half the length of my Yak)
Search eBay for [whatever size & color]' Keelguard you want. I forget who I bought mine from (it was from a marine supply dealer with overstock) but in my search found it for about $30 less than the cheapest listing (<$100, it pays to scroll through entire search or limit search).
Just found this one although it's only 2" wide and comes in Black only (much like the original one I bought, my replacement is 4" and Lt. Gray which is a close match to my "Dune" Outback);
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Kayak-Keel-G...item2a53ced4fc
OR the Keelshield Brand that I bought with a choice of colors,
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BOAT-KEEL-GU...item2ed68e4f64
FFY

[skrilla]

Originally Posted by 45user

Thabks for the info
Where did you buy the keel guard ?
45

Don't know if they still do but before you could request a sample strip direct from the manufacturer for free. I know a bunch of us here got em. My piece lasted a few months but eventually wore away leaving a hole then the adhesive finally let go soon after. Consider it a wear and tear item.

[ctfphoto]

Just use one or two layers of this and you will be fine.

Replace as needed.

[jorluivil]

scratches add character

[YOYOYaker]

There is a product called keel-ease. It is applied with heat sensitive adhesive backing, and is formable with heat. It comes in various widths and lengths. They will ship you a free sample from their web site. I've seen application videos on line also.