I purchased the 12.5L in Cosmos recently, having had most of my paddling experience in canoes.
My only other kayak was a Necky Elaho which I sold rather quickly as it was way too twitchy and hard to turn for the kind of paddling I wanted to do. As most of my paddling is downriver, usually tame but with a few Class I and II, a manoeuvrable kayak with capacity to store camping gear was the criteria.
I was pleasantly surprised that the Stratos 12.5L can carry all my gear and me, at 188cm and 96kg without an issues. Time will tell how it takes to the river, but so far on the lake it's a dream to use, very stable, easy to enter and exit and fast enough for casual paddling. I'd even say it's pretty quick.
I spent hours comparing it against the 14.5L and even the Tsunami boats, but was drawn to a couple points that won me over with this one.
The foot brace is a solid plate and not flimsy pedals and the skeg is great for the river as I can turn to avoid rocks but have it there for the long straight stretches. The quality is excellent and the seat is comfy and has plenty of adjustment.
I haven't had the 14.5L to compare, but for me, the main criteria was nimbleness on the rivers and still be able to carry gear. Coming from a canoe where I could bring half my possessions, it's meant being clever with camping gear.
I'd highly recommend the 12.5L to those considering both. Even being fit and young I don't enjoy lifting kayaks above the roof of the car, but the 12.5 size is easy. It's still heavy, but being shorter it's less awkward and I'm not worried about overhang.
What don't I like so far - not much, if anything. But it's early days.
