If you’re in the market for a kayak, you’ve probably heard of Pelican kayaks. They’re popular for recreational kayaking, fishing, and touring, but where are they made? This article examines Pelican’s manufacturing process and where their kayaks are produced.
Before we dive into where Pelican kayaks are made, let’s take a quick look at the company itself. Pelican is a Canadian-based company that was founded in 1968. They specialize in manufacturing various products, including kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and more. Pelican kayaks are known for their affordability, durability, and ease of use, making them popular among beginners and experienced paddlers.
Pelican’s Manufacturing Process
Pelican manufactures its kayaks using a process called Ram-X. Ram-X is a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material that is known for its strength, durability, and impact resistance. This material is ideal for kayaks because it can withstand rough waters, rocks, and other obstacles that kayakers may encounter.
The Ram-X material is melted and then poured into molds to create the kayak’s shape. The molds are then cooled, and the kayak is removed from the mold. Once the kayak is removed from the mold, it goes through a series of quality control checks to ensure it meets Pelican’s high standards.
Where are Pelican Kayaks Made?
Pelican kayaks are made in North America, Canada, and the United States. Pelican has several manufacturing facilities in Canada, including Laval, Quebec, and London, Ontario. They also have a manufacturing facility in Syracuse, Indiana, in the United States.
Why is the Location of Pelican’s Manufacturing Facilities Important?
The location of Pelican’s manufacturing facilities is important for several reasons. First, it ensures that the company can maintain a high level of quality control. By manufacturing their kayaks in North America, Pelican can closely monitor the production process to ensure each kayak meets its standards.
Second, manufacturing in North America helps to reduce shipping costs and environmental impact. By producing their kayaks closer to their customers, Pelican can reduce the distance they need to travel, reducing shipping costs and carbon emissions.
Pelican kayak manual
Where to Find Pelican Kayak Manuals
Pelican kayak manuals can be found on the Pelican website. Here’s how to find them:
- Go to the Pelican website (www.pelicansport.com).
- Click on “Support” at the top of the page.
- Click on “Manuals” in the drop-down menu.
- Scroll down to the “Kayak Manuals” section.
- Select your kayak model from the list and download the manual.
You can also find Pelican kayak manuals on websites like Amazon, eBay, and other online retailers. Just ensure you’re downloading the correct manual for your kayak model.
Using Pelican Kayak Manuals
Pelican kayak manuals are typically divided into several sections, including:
- Safety Information: This section provides essential safety guidelines for using your kayak.
- Assembly Instructions: This section provides step-by-step instructions on how to assemble your kayak.
- Usage Tips: This section provides tips and tricks for using your kayak, such as paddling and maneuvering in different water conditions.
- Maintenance and Care: This section provides information on how to care for your kayak, such as how to clean and store it properly.
- Troubleshooting: This section provides solutions to common problems when using your kayak.
It’s essential to read the entire manual before using your kayak for the first time. This will ensure that you fully understand how to use your kayak safely and effectively.
Pelican Kayak Care: Tips and Tricks for Keeping Your Kayak in Top Condition
Cleaning Your Pelican Kayak
Cleaning your Pelican kayak regularly is important for keeping it in good condition. Here’s how to clean your kayak:
- Rinse your kayak with clean water after each use.
- Use a mild soap and a soft sponge to clean the kayak’s surface.
- Rinse the kayak thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry the kayak with a towel or let it air dry.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials to clean your kayak, as these can damage the kayak’s surface.
Storing Your Pelican Kayak
Storing your Pelican kayak properly is also important for keeping it in good condition. Here are some tips for storing your kayak:
- Store your kayak in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.
- Store your kayak on its side or upside down to prevent warping.
- Use a kayak rack or stand to store your kayak off the ground.
- Cover your kayak with a tarp or cover to protect it from dust and debris.
Repairing Your Pelican Kayak
If your Pelican kayak becomes damaged, it must be repaired immediately to prevent further damage. Here are some tips for repairing your kayak:
- Use a plastic welding kit to repair cracks or holes in the kayak’s surface.
- Use marine epoxy to repair any damage to the kayak’s structure.
- If you’re uncomfortable repairing the kayak, take it to a professional.
FAQs:
Are Pelican kayaks made in China?
No, Pelican kayaks are not made in China. They are made in Canada and the United States.
How long does it take to make a Pelican kayak?
The manufacturing process for a Pelican kayak takes several hours, including time for the Ram-X material to melt and cool.
What is Ram-X?
Ram-X is a high-density polyethylene material that is known for its strength, durability, and impact resistance. It is used to manufacture Pelican kayaks.
How do I know if a Pelican kayak is high quality?
Pelican kayaks are known for their affordability, durability, and ease of use. They undergo quality control checks to ensure each kayak meets Pelican’s high standards.
Can I visit Pelican’s manufacturing facilities?
Pelican’s manufacturing facilities are not public for safety and security reasons. However, Pelican has a network of authorized dealers and retailers where you can purchase kayaks.
Conclusion
Pelican kayaks are made in Canada and the United States using Ram-X. This high-density polyethylene material is melted and poured into molds to shape the kayak. Once the kayak is removed from the mold, it undergoes quality control checks to ensure it meets Pelican’s high standards. Pelican can maintain a high-quality control level by manufacturing their kayaks in North America while reducing shipping costs and environmental impact.