MichiCraft Canoes
FAQ'S (Frequently Asked Questions)
MICHICRAFT CANOES are formed out of rugged, durable aluminum. These craft are available
in lightweight models for easy portage up to heavy weight versions ideal for whitewater
usage. All 36" beam L models and T models have stretch-formed sponsons for added stability and
strength. The L-12 and L-13 have a unique 42" beam. The B models are the tough version, built
without ribs and 0.060 hulls to endure whitewater punishment. All models are stretch-formed
out of aircraft aluminum and heat-treated for additional strength.
Q. What is a sponson ?
A. A sponson on a MICHICRAFT canoe is also called a "safety foil". It is a portion
of the hull stretch-formed below the gunwale and above the waterline to effectively
give the canoe a wider profile for extra stability. Other canoe manufacturers actually
charge extra for this feature as an option. MICHICRAFT provides it as a standard feature.
Q. I just want a durable canoe for family use,
what hull thickness should I choose ?
A. The L model 0.040 thickness is fine for most flat water paddling. The 0.050 and 0.060
hulls are typically used by livery and rental operators.
Q. What are aluminum's advantage's ?
A. Time proven over 50 years of use, millions of aluminum canoes are handed down through families.
Extremely durable, rugged, and lightweight. Plus what other kind of canoe is fully
recyclable ?
Q. What are the advantages of a keel in a recreational canoe ?
A. A keel, which is found on all aluminum canoes, gives you the same benefit that is does on
larger boats : Superb tracking. No need to learn complicated steering strokes that are
necessary with non-metallic canoes without keels.
Q. I know the exterior is finished aluminum, is
the inside hull specially treated ?
A. On the L series models only the interior is coated with a non-skid paint.
Q. Are any other hull finishes available ?
A. Yes, You may order your MICHICRAFT with the exterior hull painted olive drab as an option.
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