If the paddlers are of different weight, the heavier paddler should take the aft seat because the boat is quite forgiving of being trimmed higher in the bow. The aft paddler may wish to adjust the position of the heel rest along the length of the aluminium track for the most comfortable distance and angle of bend to the knees. Under normal circumstances paddlers of the RZ96 will not require strict bracing of the hips, thighs and knees. However, under certain circumstances this may be desirable. The space on either side of the seat and under the side decks may be filled with inflatable buoyancy bags, secured to the gunwale frame assembly with simple webbing straps.
Inflatable bags work well because they can be adjusted accurately to the needs of the paddler.
Cargo bags stuffed to the appropriate dimensions work well also and utilize the space. By pulling back the heel rest, paddlers can bring their knees up under and slightly to the outside of the solid cockpit coaming for a very secure fit.