Vortex 80DLX

What it's not:
It is not a speed demon. But it's not supposed to be fast. Remember to take it easy and accept the fact that a longer, more narrow and pointed kayak is going to out pace you. But you're on the water for leisure, not racing. It is not a great sport kayak for fishing. There are no built in rod holders or anything like that. I suppose one could fish from it, but it's not designed for fishing. It's not for long trips. The cargo capacity is very small, no built in cargo holds, just some bungee cords and a small flat spot behind your seat. The longest trip I've made in mine is a shade over 7 miles, but that was all done in an afternoon. I've not attempted even an overnight trip downriver because I have doubts I can pack everything I'd need. But again, it's for an afternoon of leisurely day trips, not a week's voyage.

What I like about it:
It's small and light. I can carry it with one hand, and I'm a girl at 5'4" and 175 lbs. It's fairly flat and stable in the water. The flip side of it not being fast means it's probably wider than it needs to be. It won't track as straight as longer kayaks, but you can turn it in tight places, like some of the small creek backwaters I frequent. The stability makes it feel very safe. I've not had it in anything like rough water, though. The small size means I can actually fit this thing INSIDE my Buick Rainier.

The executive summary:
good value for the money, especially if you can catch it on sale. Good kayak for beginners or anybody else who wants to spend a leisurely afternoon paddling along in calm waters.