Rockpool Kayaks

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Rockpool Kayaks is a small sea kayak manufacturing outfit based in Holyhead, Anglesey operated by Mike Webb. The boats currently under construction have been designed by Aled Williams of Tiderace Sea Kayaks. The production range consists of three kayaks:

  • The ALAW
  • The ALAW Bach
  • The Menai 18

What makes Rockpool Kayaks unique, apart from the initial jump forward in boat design and construction generated by Aled's ideas, is that each craft comes with a custom deck finish as chosen by the paddler. Whilst the Rockpool logo is that of an orange starfish, it has been represented in many different colours and sizes as part of the final product. Other options have incorporated Maori symbols, the Batman logo and one boat was completed in a scheme intended to represent an Oystercatcher. Further evidence can be seen in the owner's gallery.

Aled's initial concept was to create a boat that achieved optimal comfort and paddling position which translated into speed. He achieved this in the ALAW by creating a raised deck allowing the kayaker to sit more inline with the boat and thus adopt a canoe racing position. The Alaw also saw the introduction a fully adjustable bulkhead footrest and seat, so trim can also be accounted for in the boat's performance.

ALAW means melody in the Welsh language and is a popular girls' name. The ALAW is so named after the lake and associated river which runs into the sea near Holyhead, close to the Rockpool workshop.

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