Kayak dictionary

Beam is the widest measure of the kayak.

Bow is the foremost point of the hull.

Coaming is a round reinforcement strip mounted around the cockpit opening. It reinforces the opening and it also holds in place the spray skirt. Coaming is sometimes referred as Cockpit Ring.

Cockpit is the compartment in the kayak where the paddler seats.

Deck is the upper part of the kayak.

Hull is the hollow, lowermost portion of a kayak, floating partially submerged and supporting the remainder of the kayak.

Rocker is the amount the end of the hull are curved upward in relation to the center of the hull.

Rudder is a device used to steer the kayak.

Stern is the rear part of the kayak.

Volume is measured in litters or gallons and gives a general idea how buoyant and roomy a kayak is.

Waterline is the length of the kayak between the two extreme points forward and aft at the level of the water. Not to be mistaken with Overall length of the kayak which is the distance between the two extreme points forward and aft no matter if they are in or outside of the water.