Venture Canoes Contoured Kneeling thwart. Suitable to use as a replacement or to add a kneeling thwart to your canoe. Supplied uncut
Note this product comes w/out thwart hangers (sold separately)
A kneeling thwart in a canoe serves a very specific purpose: it provides support and stability when paddling in a kneeling position, which is a common technique used by solo paddlers or when navigating rough water. Here's a breakdown of why it's useful:
1. Improved Control and Balance
Kneeling lowers your center of gravity and gives you better control of the canoe, especially in rough water or when making precise maneuvers. The thwart supports your backside while your knees are on the floor, helping maintain that stable position.
2. Comfort While Kneeling
Without support, kneeling for long periods can become uncomfortable or exhausting. A kneeling thwart acts like a low seat or brace, relieving pressure from your legs and letting you paddle more efficiently and comfortably.
3. Better Paddling Posture
It encourages a strong, efficient paddling posture by aligning your body correctly—letting your back and arms do more of the work instead of just your shoulders.
4. Solo Paddling Advantage
Many solo canoes or tandem canoes used solo (especially “backwards” from the bow seat) have a kneeling thwart positioned just behind center to allow better weight distribution and paddling control.
Summary:
You need a kneeling thwart in a canoe if you plan to paddle from a kneeling position—typically for solo trips, whitewater, or precise maneuvering—because it offers better control, comfort, and paddling efficiency.
