Product review: Innova Helios Inflatable Kayak Foot Operated Rudder

Greetings adventurers!
   We'd like to welcome you to our review page and kick things off with a rather specific product review, a little foot operated rudder we picked up for our Innova Helios II inflatable kayak. 
  If you've perused our blog (if not, get perusing!) you've noticed we have a thing for Innova kayaks. The Helios II was the first one we purchased. It's a great kayak to paddle as a single or as a double (as it's made to do). The one thing I began to notice as I paddled with different friends (i.e. different weights, no offense friends!) was that steering could get challenging, especially with larger folks. I always knew that Innova carried a rudder for the Helios II, so I felt like it was my time to pick one up.
   Installation made sense and was simple - just attach the rudder to the existing framework on the kayak with three wing-nuts and bolts, attach the top with one bolt, and tie the steering stirrups to the top with two simple bowline knots. It works great, and so far has held up great - I still sometimes worry about the metal parts since I paddle in saltwater a lot, but a simple fresh water rinse after use has kept it in great shape. Also, getting the foot steering ropes just right can be a little tricky at first, especially since you'll probably be in the water your first time, but just mark where you usually tie the knots and you'll do fine. You could even set them up while sitting in the kayak on land.

All in all, if you have a Helios II and paddle with 2 people, especially if you're near the weight capacity, you need this thing!
  
Check it out here: Innova Helios Rudder

 ~Paul  ETC

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