Epic "X" Series Cockpit Design

An important part of paddling a kayak is feeling a connection to the boat. A proper fit in their kayak allows the paddler to use their body as a means of propulsion, maneuvering, balance and general control.

To facilitate a better fit for their customers many manufacturers put thigh braces in the cockpit of their kayaks. These thigh braces usually jut out from the inside of the cockpit ring forward of the thighs, and allow the kayaker to lock in their legs into the boat thereby providing a strong connection.

While this style of thigh brace appears to satisfy the need for a connection to the boat it has a major drawback. It essentially keeps the paddlers legs in the locked position, thereby eliminating the freedom of movement and leg action that is essential to good paddling technique.

Epic Kayaks has addressed this problem with the cockpit design on the Epic “X” Series kayaks. The “wing” style thigh braces have been removed and the forward portion of the cockpit lengthened and widened to allow more knee room. The extra room provides ample space for the paddler to move their legs and flex their knees as they rotate through their stroke. This makes for much more comfortable and efficient paddling.

The need for a good connection to the boat has not been overlooked however. The Epic 18X and 16X provide integrated thigh braces that are molded under the deck. These leave space for freedom of movement and still allow the paddler to simply slide their legs under the thigh brace when the need arises, such as rough water conditions, rolling or bracing.

The free range of movement allowed by the integrated thigh braces lets the paddler keep their knees centered in the cockpit much like an ICF K1 or Surf Ski. As a result we refer to this style of paddling as the “fitness” position. Racers and aggressive fitness paddlers will always paddle with the knees centered and free of obstruction, as this provides for optimum rotation and transfer of power. The touring paddler benefits for the same reasons. The extra comfort and more efficient paddling allowed for by the extra leg room will make the miles spent in the kayak more enjoyable, without any sacrifice in control.

This efficient paddling position is further made possible by the seat and foot board systems in the “X” series cockpit. The seats are adjustable - able to slide forward and backward on notched rails. This feature is invaluable in “trimming” out the boat for your personal comfort and ideal paddling position. The footboard system is fully adjustable also, and is a one-piece carbon bar that runs from one side of the hull to the other. Two toe pedals on top of the bar operate the rudder system. The one-piece bar is extremely comfortable and helps facilitate the “fitness” position for paddling by letting the paddler center their feet (and knees.) They can then slide their feet to the sides when using the integrated thigh brace.

These innovative and advanced designs in Epic kayaks are implemented in the continued effort to improve the modern kayakers paddling experience. Often imitated but never duplicated, Epic kayaks are designed by world champions for everyday kayaking, fitness paddling and racing.

Click here to learn more about the X-Series designs and features