Editing Kayak (section)

=== Rocker ===
[[File:Canoe Polo Kayak.jpg|thumb|This [[kayak polo|polo kayak]] has a lot of rocker; that is, the bottom is not flat when seen from the side.]]
Length alone does not fully predict a kayak's maneuverability: a second design element is ''rocker'', i.e. its lengthwise curvature. A heavily ''rockered'' boat curves more, shortening its effective waterline. For example, an {{cvt|18|ft|m|adj=on|order=flip}} kayak with no rocker is in the water from end to end. In contrast, the bow and stern of a rockered boat are out of the water, shortening its lengthwise waterline to only {{cvt|16|ft|m|order=flip}}. Rocker is generally most evident at the ends, and in moderation improves handling. Similarly, although a rockered whitewater boat may only be about a meter shorter than a typical recreational kayak, its waterline is far shorter and its maneuverability far greater. When surfing, a heavily rockered boat is less likely to lock into the wave as the bow and stern are still above water. A boat with less rocker cuts into the wave and makes it harder to turn while surfing.