Hull Shapes: Rocker Shape

Rocker refers to the amount of curvature in the bottom of the hull along its length from bow to stern.

• A rockered paddlecraft is easier to turn and maneuver but harder to paddle in a straight line. In general, the greater the amount of rocker, the easier you can turn the boat or paddleboard, which can be critical when paddling on white-water rivers.

• A flat paddlecraft (no rocker) is stable and buoyant but tends to be difficult to turn.

With longer, narrower, and flatter paddlecraft, the stroke-to-glide efficiency typically increases.