Keel basics

Keels are an essential part of any boat's design and determine handling properties, durability, and comfort. To understand why they matter, we must understand how they work first.

All types explained

The keel type is one of the most important features of your boat. But the different designs can be confusing, so I've set out to create a very clear guide that will help you understand sailboat keels once and for all. After reading this guide, you'll know which keel types are available, and what their strengths and weaknesses are.

Best keel for you

As we've learned from the overview of keel types earlier, each keel type has it's own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your situation, you may want to choose a different keel type. In this section we will help you make up your mind on the best keel type for your situation.