The Klepper kayak is rather unusual, because within minutes the entire kayak can be disassembled without tools and stored in two carrying bags. To make this possible, the Klepper has a wooden frame that uses a very clever arrangement of interlocking parts. The frame fits into a one-piece hull made of canvas and rubberized fabric. Here are some details for the Aerius Single:

The Klepper all assembled and on the boat cart; I'm ready to go paddling.

Frame

The keel consists of two interlocking wooden boards, each with an extension board forming (respectively) the bow and stern. Attached vertically to the keel are six plywood bulkheads that define the overall shape of the kayak. Attached to each side of the boat are two long interlocking boards that clip to the bow and stern extensions and to each bulkhead. The top of the frame has a small bow and stern strut and two wooden pieces that define the cockpit coaming. In addition, there are eight wooden rods that run fore-and-aft to help define the shape of the boat. Add to this a seat and a backrest, which attach to the frame, and you have a total of 28 pieces.

Hull

The one-piece hull consists of two different materials. The lower part of the hull is made of hypalon, a waterproof rubberized fabric. The uppermost part of the hull is made of cotton canvas. This lets the hull "breathe" so the interior can dry out. Along the interior of each side of the hull are the sponsons, which are long inflatable tubes stowed inside protective sleeves. Once the boat is assembled, you inflate the sponsons. This causes some pressure between the frame and the hull so the hull fabric becomes taut. The inflated sponsons will also keep the boat afloat even if it is completely swamped.

Carrying Bags and Accessories

Once the boat is disassembled, the long wooden pieces go into a long canvas bag about the size of a golf club bag. I also put my take-apart paddle in this bag. The hull gets folded up and stowed in a large rucksack. The bulkheads, seat, and backrest go in a small canvas bag which I also put in the rucksack. Presto! One kayak becomes two carrying bags.

If that was everything, that would be great. But if you're into any hobby, you know there are the inevitable accessories—lots and lots of accessories. The major accessories for the Klepper are the boat cart and the rudder assembly. I can put these in the rucksack, but if I'm schlepping everything by car, I usually have separate carrying bags for accessories and gear. I have a full breakdown of all my accessories and gear on another page.

To see pictures of my Klepper being assembled, click on the links later in this page.

What I Like About the Klepper

• It is relatively seaworthy, so it can handle some wind, waves, or inclement weather without too much difficulty. On the other hand, I don't believe in challenging Mother Nature or pushing my luck, so I'm a fair-weather paddler.
• It is almost as stable as a canoe. Since I like to take pictures, I want a boat that isn't tippy and doesn't require bracing to remain upright.
• It is easy and fun to paddle. I think a kayak is much easier to paddle than a canoe, and much more efficient, too.
• Compared to other kayaks, the Klepper is quite roomy and is easy to get in and out of.
• Like any small boat, it can explore places that bigger boats can't get to. It is ideal for exploring shallow creeks and coves.
• I live on a sailboat, and my Klepper packs away in two bags that are easy to stow in lockers below decks.
• It makes for a great conversation piece when you arrive at a paddling location and begin unpacking and assembling the boat. Most people can't believe the sticks and fabric will make anything substantial, and they're impressed when you magically produce (as if by sleight-of-hand) a sturdy and attractive kayak.

What I Dislike About the Klepper

• Compared to canoes or other small boats, it's awkward getting in and out of the cockpit. That said, the Klepper is easier that other kayaks.
• Kayaks aren't great at carrying lots of stuff for long trips. The Klepper doesn't have hatches, so it's more difficult than other kayaks to stow and retrieve gear.
• Since the hull is made of fabric, it's susceptible to punctures and abrasion. Also, putting it away wet can cause mildew damage. Even after several dozen trips, though, I have yet to puncture the hull fabric.
• Although it's a great conversation piece, it's still a nuisance to assemble and disassemble the boat every time you use it. Plus, after every trip, I usually open up the hull indoors to let it dry out, which is another nuisance.
• The Klepper rudder and footpedal assembly is a somewhat kludgy contraption, but it works.
• Folding kayaks are much more expensive than ordinary plastic touring kayaks, but you get what you pay for. When you assemble the Klepper boat frame, you have a brilliantly engineered structure that not only works well but is also a work of art.

Links To Pages On My Web Site

Klepper assembly - See how I assemble my Klepper kayak. (  page  1   2   3  )

Internet Links

• Klepper USA - official site of the manufacturer
• Folbot - another folding kayak manufacturer
• Feathercraft - another folding kayak manufacturer
• Folding Kayaks - excellent site on many aspects of folding kayaks
• The Complete Folding Kayaker - Ralph Diaz's excellent book (the new 2003 edition!), listed on Amazon