: Kevin,

: Mike is correct in the definition of "shock cord". I've
: picked it up on eBay before, and it's usually available at
: outdoor outfitters/backpacking stores.

: Your deck lines are there primarily for safety - there's nothing
: like trying to mount a slippery kayak with no handholds. I
: remember taking my first boat to a three day symposium to learn
: basic rescues, entries, etc. - with no deck lines. It was pretty
: funny to watch I'm sure, but not so much as an experience.

: I used 5/16" black rope for perimeter lines on my two boats.
: This is lengthwise nylon fibers with a woven sheath. You have to
: sear the ends after you cut it to prevent ravelling. I also used
: 5/16" shock cord (or bungee cord) in black to provide a
: crisscross hold down net in front and behind the cockpit. I set
: the system up so that the shock cords are used to keep tension
: on the deck lines, keeping them from sagging. I used knots on
: the lines to keep them from stretching too far when used for
: entries.

: The final result doesn't detract from the look of the boat, and
: it's a functional safety feature.

Wow, someone else that understands ravelling vs. unravelling :)

Pet peeve.

Bill H.