To know more about composite kayaks...

Materials and manufacturing techniques

Fibreglass, Kevlar® and carbon kayaks manufactured by BORÉALDESIGN are moulded through vacuum bag lamination and by infusion. A vacuum pump operating under negative pressure compresses the cloth and core materials under a film. Vinylester resin is then injected into the mould, spreading throughout all the materials.  These techniques borrowed from the aerospace industry result in a composite with greater fibre than resin content. 

Protecting Composite

So that your kayak maintains its shiny, brilliant appearance, despite frequent exposure to sunlight, the colour applied consists of a pigmented resin that protects the composite from abrasion and ultraviolet rays. Instead of this pigmented resin, the hulls of Kevlar® or carbon kayaks may feature a clear coat that is twice as thin, making the craft lighter. However, the protection afforded to the composite is not as great. 

Vinylester Resin

The vinylester resin (modified epoxy) used in the production of all our composite kayaks is similar to the epoxy resins used in the aerospace industry. Besides having better mechanical properties when compared to polyester resins, its elasticity is about three times greater. Moreover, vinylester resin is easier to repair.

Fibreglass

Fibreglass produces a lighter kayak than polyethylene (plastic). Additionally, greater stiffness and a very smooth finish enhance the glide of fibreglass kayaks. The cloth used in the construction of a fibreglass kayak is carefully selected and positioned in relation to the mechanical role it will play, resulting in a stronger craft.

Kevlar®

Kevlar® offers an excellent compromise for paddlers seeking lightness and performance. Kevlar® is stronger than carbon, and lighter than fibreglass. During the manufacturing process, it is applied in successive coats over an initial coat of fibreglass. This method guarantees better adhesion between the fibre and the gelcoat.

Carbon

Our carbon kayaks are constructed for high-performance. Carbon material combines the attributes of extreme lightness and structural rigidity. However, these kayaks must be handled with care, because they are much thinner-skinned than our other composite kayaks.

Hull Rigidity

Core materials are carefully positioned in all BORÉALDESIGN composite kayaks to optimize their strength. These materials increase kayak thickness in locations most subject to stress, such as bow and stern toggles, hatch rims and the area immediately fore and aft of the cockpit. To obtain a good ratio between weight and sturdiness, a balance must be achieved between the use of core materials and fibre cloth.

Colours

BORÉALDESIGN offers a range of colours for the most discriminating customer to choose from, including the soft tones of the Pastel series, the highly visible colours of the Safety series and the stylish tones of the Classic series. Reflective tape is installed on the bow and stern of all composite kayaks.

Composite
Sky	Apple	White
Yellow	Orange	Red
Mango	Ocean - NEW	Fushia - NEW
Emerald Green - NEW
Distinctive
Mango-Orange Fade	Orange-Rouge Fade