Fox 14

I've been kayaking for the past 25 years and recently decided to get back into canoeing. I bought the Nova craft Fox 14 as I wanted a shorter, light weight solo canoe. The initial stability is a little tippy, but each time I go out, I become more confident and adjust to it.

I like the versatility of being able to use both a kayak paddle and canoe paddle. The Fox 14 responds well to both. I use the kayak paddle when traveling upstream and going into a strong wind which works well. The canoe paddle is nice for a more leasurely paddle downstream and for fishing.

The Fox 14 is a very well made and responsive canoe. I would give the Fox 14 five stars, but I have not tried other solo canoes to compare it to.

I recently returned to paddlesports having had a sea kayak, and canoe in the past. With the help of my local retailer I selected the Fox 14 because I wanted a solo canoe for ease of entry for day trips on local inland lakes. I launched the Fox from the dock at my local ramp, and was immediately aware of the lack of primary stability. I generally paddle with a flat craft so I never have really heeled this over like I did my kayak. I have experimented with it a bit since, and discover it does have significant secondary stability, but not overly confidence inspiring. The craft builds stability the minute you begin to get underway, and I must admit that I stayed dry through the first 3, or 4 days I had it out. It is fairly fast, tracks strait, and yet turns well. I generally use a kayak paddle, but recently have decided to try a canoe paddle as well. The seat is canted towards the front, and while this is more comfortable while seated, it prevents me from being able to get my feet under the seat for kneeling which I'm sure would improve stability. It weighs 49 pounds in fiberglass, which is a bit more than I wanted, but is manageable as I do not portage it anyway. Overall, I'd say it is a good value. I would have gone 5 stars if it were more stable, and consideration to the seat.

Modern kaizen approach to timeless, ancient design. My childhood was spent on the lakes of Minnesota and Wisconsin, before moving to the Blue Ridge Mountains and then to a tidal river in DE. Later, I spent time in brackish and salt water. I've attempted my own open hull kayak when the Kevlar I used was still expiremental (my build was a flop. lolol. I was only 15). The point is that I'm no expert, but my opinion is informed. This design will carry your food and gear into tight places, can take moderate pounding of rocks and trees, and when expertly operated can handle moderately rough open waters in high winds. And when it is tipped, it can be flipped right back over with ease. The perfect do-it-all design. I had the opportunity to use the product and I lept at it. For the advanced recreational paddler who will experience a wide range of water, or for the beginner who doesn't yet quite know what to expect, this is an excellent way to invest your money. No single design can do everything, but this one can do a great deal.