Why Every Kayak Needs a Keel Guard

If you want to extend the life and value of your favorite kayak, consider purchasing the proper protection for its keel. The proper keel guard ensures that your kayak's bow and/or stern are protected from scratches, dents, and overall wear. Every time you launch or land your kayak or come into contact with an abrasive surface like rocks, debris, blacktop, etc., the bow and/or stern are scuffed, and over time, this could lead to deeper scratches and potentially damage.

A keel guard is an affordable solution that every kayak should have. Whether the top-of-the-line Hobie Pro Angler 14 360XR or the smaller Bonafide SS107, every kayak needs protection.

BerleyPro Bumper Bro Keel Guard

The Bumper Bro is one of the most popular options on the market because each guard is custom molded for each kayak. Keel Guards are available for  The Bumper Bro, which offers protection for various kayaks, with options for both the bow and stern for select models.

Each keel guard is constructed from thermoformed ABS plastic. This plastic is durable and rigid and can better absorb scuffs and scratches that a kayak experiences. Installing the keel guard is simple, requiring only your favorite marine adhesive (GOOP Marine Adhesive is recommended), a marker, and some tape to line up your keel guard for proper installation. The Bumper Bro is ready for water in 24 hours with adequate surface preparation and adhesive.

Follow along with the step-by-step installation process from BerleyPro directly here!

BerleyPro Bumper Bro's retail in price from $49 to $54.

Gator Guards "Gator Patch" Kayak Repair Patch and Keel Guard

Whether you're staying proactive about protecting your kayak's keel or you need to repair a damaged keel. The Gator Patch is the perfect solution for both. This fiberglass-reinforced polyester patch easily bonds to your kayak and other surfaces such as plastic, wood, metal, and fiberglass.

The Gator Patch easily installs and conforms to the keel of any kayak and other surfaces on your vessel. Patches are available in various sizes (3"x6", 3"x18", 6"x9", and 9"x12") to accommodate any keel and virtually any repair.

Installation of the Gator Patch is very straightforward. It utilizes Gator Guards' Prep-Peel-Stick application process, requiring minor prep work to clean the patch area, trim your patch to fit the keel appropriately, peel back the adhesive backing, and install firmly. Within an hour, the Gator Patch will harden to a fiberglass-like surface. Your keel is now fully protected and arguably stronger than ever before.

Check out Gator Guards' complete installation process here!

Gator Guards "Gator Patch" Kayak Repair Patch and Keel Guard retail from $24.99 to $74.99, depending on the patch size.

Conclusion

When protecting your kayak's keel, you can never be too prepared. With a keel guard, you can have peace of mind knowing your kayak is resistant to everyday wear and tear. This will save you from additional repairs and preserve its value if you ever plan to sell it.

With two great options to choose from at Fishing Online, with the BerleyPro Bumper Bro and the Gator Guards "Gator Patch" Kayak Repair Patch and Keel Guard, offering a variety of options for virtually any kayak, there is no reason not to protect your keel today!