1. Canoe Vocabulary
Design: performance characteristics resulting from a blending of elements for
specific uses
Bow: the front of the boat
Stern: the back of the boat

2. Length: size of canoe from bow to stern, responsible for tracking, speed, carrying capacity
Beam: width of canoe from gunwale to gunwale, usually measured at the center point, responsible for stability

3. Depth: size of canoe from gunwale to bottom, responsible for stability and carrying capacity
Freeboard: amount of boat above the water
Capacity: the amount of weight a canoe will carry and retain 6 inches of freeboard
Stability: resistance to capsize

4. Entry line: the shape of the bow where the canoe cuts the water
Keel: bottom of the boat, responsible for resistance to crosswinds, slide and slipping

5. Bottom Shape: The shape of the bottom has a lot to do with the stability of your canoe. There are three basic bottom shapes: Flat, Round and Vee.
Flat: This design has good stability when you first step in and paddle in calm waters (initial stability).
It is not as stable in rougher water or when leaned over to one side (final stability). Good for beginners, and calm waters.
Round: May feel a little shaky when you first step in, but with experience feels most stable in most waters. High final stability, and also easier to propel through the water.

6. Vee: Offers a compromise between Flat and Round bottom designs
Vee: Offers a compromise between Flat and Round bottom designs. With a little practice, this design offers good all-around performance.