Rocker

Edit text   |   Edit all fields

Rocker is the upward curvature of the hull or bottom of a boat. Some definitions describe rocker as the curvature of the keel of a boat, but not all boats have a keel (whitewater kayaks are one example of a no-keel boat).

The best way to see the rocker of a boat is to look at it in profile. To whatever extend the boat curves upward at the bow and stern (like a smile), that's the rocker. The best way to feel the rocker is to place the boat on a flat surface and to rock it from front to back.

Some boats have lots of rocker, some very little. A boat with a lot of rocker can pivot more easily, making it an attractive design feature in boats where quick pivots or changes in direction are desirable.

Rocker also contributes to a boat's surfing performance. In general, boats need a flat spot on the hull on which to surf. That has led to white-water kayak designs where the boat has a flat hull and ends that curve upwards, rather than a continuous, evenly distributed rocker from end to end. The flat spot allows for surfing, while the rocker yields a high bow and stern to keep the ends out of the water and permit greater maneuverability when necessary.