How to Install a Retrofit Skeg on your Inflatable Kayak: Updated 2023

Inflatable Kayaks are fun to use on both moving and still water. On the river, it’s better to have a nimble craft that can turn at the push of a paddle. Stillwater paddling benefits from better tracking for traveling over longer distances. This is an updated video as our Skeg system has switched to a PVC application. If you are using the older metal version please reference our How to Install a Retrofit Inflatable Kayak Skeg: (2020) • How to Install a Retro... video since the measurements and process are a little different.
Helpful Tips:
- Make sure you’re in a well-ventilated area. The glue emits fumes that are best kept on the outside of your lungs.
- Watch the whole video before starting the process and make sure you have all of the tools on hand.
- Let the glue dry completely before laying down the patch. Reactivating the glue with heat will ensure quality adhesion.
- We recommend wearing protective gloves when working with glue.
Associated Tools:
- Paintbrush
- Stirring Stick
- Stabond Glue
- Heat Gun or Hair Dryer
- Weighted Roller (Optional, but a good idea)
P.S.
Have you heard about AIRE’s sister companies, Outcast Sporting Gear and AIRE Environmental? Outcast Sporting Gear produces quality fishing boats and equipment, while AIRE Environmental products protect our rivers from pollution.
Websites:
- www.aire.com
- www.outcastboa...
- www.aireenviro...

[@CMSAssociation]

Really well explained. Thank you! Question: It looked as if the kayak base was inflated, or partially inflated, during this application. Is that what you recommend?

[@AireWaterSports]

Yes, make sure the boat is inflated to get the best measurement for positioning the skeg. It will also help when applying the skeg giving you a more stable base to work with.

[@hntrains2]

A clean, smooth operation.
Is it not better to apply the patch with the skeg detached?
Also, if the skeg or the patch can get damaged during transportation, how can you trust them when using on rough waters?

[@AireWaterSports]

We suggest applying the patch with the Skeg Fin mounted to allow you to get more pressure on the glued area. What can get damaged during transportation would be the Skeg Fin itself. So by removing it and rolling it within your boat or storing in a pocket you are less likely to damage or break the fin.

[@kabapkazserem_]

Do you have skeg repair kit for Intex K2 kayak ?

[@AireWaterSports]

Intex is not an AIRE manufactured brand. They use a different type and quality of fabric than what we use on our AIRE and Tributary Kayaks, so unfortunately we do not have a repair kit that will work.