Frequently asked questions

What kind of maintenance is required for your canoes?

Boats with wood trim should be oiled periodically; once a year minimum. Screws and bolts should be tightened annually. Scratches on the hull can be obscured with a 303 aerospace spary on wax, if desired. Hulls can be washed with soap and water, if desired. for more information visit our care and maintenance section.



What is the difference between carbon and Kevlar?

From a practical standpoint, and aside from the obvious color difference, Kevlar is more abrasion- and impact-resistant than carbon fiber (we position Kevlar internally in all areas of stress in carbon hulls). Kevlar hulls are more visible on the water. Kevlar canoes are less expensive than carbon fiber canoes because the material costs less. There isn't a significant weight difference between the two materials as we use them.



Do you ship boats?

We contract out our deliveries with shippers who specializes in canoes and kayaks. Their prices are reasonable and their safety record is great. Delivery schedules vary based on location and other outstanding orders. Call us to inquire about shipping.



I can't visit Hornbeck. How can I be sure that you'll send me the right boat?

Just like if you were to arrive at our facility we will have a discussion to find that perfect fit. We'll ask: height, weight, physical condition, intended use, skill level, and answer any questions you may have. With the help of our knowledgable sales staff, We'll mutually arrive at a decision.



What do I do if I damage a boat?

Use duct tape for a quick fix on the outside of the hull. Bring the boat to us and if it's a relatively easy fix, we'll fix it for free while you wait. (Please call ahead for an appointment) If it's more involved you'll have to leave it here and we'll charge you a nominal fee for the repairs. If you don't live nearby, we can send you repair materials. Visit our repair page for more details



How do you make your boats so lightweight?

We do so through the use of premium materials, a unique building technique, and omitting strictly cosmetic components. We use carbon fiber and Kevlar in our hulls exclusively because these are the lightest, strongest materials available. We build the entire hull at one time so all of the resin molecules can cross-link at the same time; forming chemical and not mechanical bonds. We use no gel coat or skin coat. If something is purely cosmetic, you won't find it on our boats. No cane or molded seats, no array of colors, etc. As Leonardo da Vinci said, "Simplicity is the essence of sophistication." for more information visit components of the Hornbeck difference.



Why do you recommend such long paddles?

Our boats are designed to use a low angle paddle sroke. This allows the user to put less stress on smaller muscles and shoulders, while using less energy, to stay out longer. The length of the paddle is determines by the width of the boat to allow enough reach to comfurtably paddle without hitting the sides of the boat. We have paddles of varying lengths for use with our demonstrators on our pond so you can judge for yourself. But if you'd prefer, bring your own paddle to try it out with our canoes. (for more inforamtion visit the paddle selection section under education)



Do you take trade-ins?

We do not accept trade-ins. Hornbeck boats have been found to have great resale value. Boats that are 10–15 years old, and care for, typically sell for close to the original purchase price. Craigs List and ebay are the most common methods we hear for resale.



Can I get a boat in my favorite color?

a high priority of ours is to keep our boats as light as possible. This means that we don't use gel coats, skin coats or materials other than carbon fiber or Kevlar. So we can't offer a wide array of colors. We are limited to black (carbon), yellow (Kevlar) or a combination (matrix) of the two, which has a green hue.



Will a carbon boat, because it's black, feel hot on a warm day?

No. Carbon fiber takes on the temperature of the environment that it's in. If the water temperature is 75 degrees, your boat will be 75 degrees.