Jim,

I have found rub rails to be useful for rolling the kayak up on it's side, when loading the boat on the roof rack by myself. (I have a landcruiser and I'm vertically challanged, so I have to set-up the lift.) Usually, parking lots are either paved or have gravel surfaces.

wd

> I am building a 17' Chesapeake Kit. I am not sure about the need for rub
> rails. Any opinions out there? What kind of material should I use if I go
> with them?

> Thanks

> Jim