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A spraydeck (or spraycover) is a flexible cover for a boat, in particular for a kayak or a canoe. It is used in whitewater or inclement weather to prevent water from entering the boat while allowing one or more passengers to sit in the boat and propel the boat by paddling or rowing.
A spraydeck is a sheet of made out of water-tight cloth (for example, rubberized or impregnated cloth) sized to fit over the opening, or cockpit, of the canoe or kayak.
A spraydeck has an opening for each passenger. Each opening likewise is encircled by a line or elastic string running in a hollow seam on the edge of the hole. This makes it possible to tighten the spraydeck around the body of the passenger.
Kayak spraydeck
On a kayak, the spraydeck is secured to a rim surrounding the cockpit with a line or elastic string. The line or string runs in a hollow seam along the edge of the spraydeck, and is tied around the rim or stretched over it. It is important that the fastening be as tight as possible to prevent water infiltration and yet capable of quickly being released if the boat should capsize, so that passengers can get out from the capsized boat. A properly sealed spraydeck will allow a kayaker to perform an eskimo roll and continue paddling without having to bail out.
A kayaker's spraydeck is also known as a "sprayskirt", because it is donned like a skirt before entering the boat.
Canoe spraydeck
On a canoe, the spraydeck is secured to the outside of the hull with string or cords to a webbing specifically installed for this purpose. Modern designs have many features for safety and convenience such as map and paddle pockets, access openings, and tie-down straps.
Like a kayak, a spraydeck will allow a canoer to perform an eskimo roll (provided he/she is strapped to the canoe) and continue paddling without having to bail out. But this manoeuvre is more difficult.
On a canoe, it is not only a safety item but may also be used for comfort. During rainy or cold weather, it keeps the lower body of the canoers dry and warm, and prevents rain from building up a puddle at the bottom of the boat.
"Spraydeck"