I primarily build Unangan and Alutiiq style skin kayaks (qayaqs). These incredible boats were designed in one of the world's harshest marine environments, by natives of the Aleutian Islands and Gulf Coast of Alaska.
They have been used and adapted for at least 6000 years and this has produced a superior design to any manufactured boat you can buy today. Unlike modern kayaks, skin qayaqs are lashed together and therefore have the ability to flex. These attributes make them shock resistant, extremely fast in the water, and of course the asthetics are much nicer too.
All qayaq frames are made from spruce, oak, and white ash. I try to use local materials whenever possible. All parts are lashed together using a synthetic sinew material. A synthetic nylon skin is sewn over the entire frame giving somewhat of a transluscent appearance, which shows off the frame inside. This skin is coated with a marine grade, UV resistent coating making the craft completely waterproof and easy to maintain.
All qayaqs are built to the size and weight of individual paddlers. Single and double qayaqs are available as well as other designs such as the Nunamiut and the Greenland Inuit qayaqs.
Contact Cody Strathe by email for more information on ordering a custom-built skin qayaq .