Foam blocks inside the PA

I'm sure this has been discussed so being directed to the post would be nice.

Why are there foam block on the inside. I've heard they are 100% for support and I've heard they are there because the law requires the flooded kayak to be neutrally buoyant. Perhaps it is a little of both.

According to the manual for the outback, the foam is not to be moved because it is part of the structure.

The second part of your statement would also make sense, should the kayak get punctured and flooded, the foam probably helps it to stay afloat. Be interesting to hear if this has been tried and it does actually work.

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2014 Hobie Outback set up for rod and longline fishing

It is primarily for flotation if the hull were to flood. Our sailboats have always had this feature. For the kayaks, this is a requirement from the NMMA National Marine Manufacturers Association as a safety improvement to achieve a certification of some kind. Then used as structural support where it can help.

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Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)