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After extensive research, I recently bought the Pescador 10 from Austin Kayaks and I am thrilled with this kayak. I am a novice paddler and use this kayak primarily in local harbors. I am pleased with how well it tracks and how easy it is to maneuver. The hardware is solid.

I probably would have preferred the 12' length only because of the adjustable foot supports. However, I am not sure if I could handle the extra weight as I primarily go out alone. I am 5'9" 160lbs and feel secure in this kayak but I think it would be too small for a taller and/or heavier paddler. If my husband gets into this with me, I would purchase the 12' one for him.

If you are on the fence about this kayak, just jump in and buy it. You won't regret it. This is a very nice kayak.

This product is well build and solid. The straps are high quality. It took about 30 minutes to assemble and install on the car. I wish there were anti-theft options for the brackets that slide on the rail because anyone walking by can easily remove them. I think I will ditch the knobs and use nuts and washers instead. That way someone walking by would at least need tools to remove them.

The online videos make it seem easier to load a kayak than it really is. I have a Lexus RX350 and Perception Pescador 10. I am a 5'9" woman and I am able to load this kayak onto my roof but I need a small step ladder. I seriously overestimated my strength and underestimated the height of the car, the weight of the kayak and the awkwardness of trying to get my kayak on the roof.

Make sure to practice a few times with someone close by to help if you get into trouble. It is a little scary. The support doesn't always fall away from the car easily and I had to call my husband out to push it down. Once I drove around a bit it loosened up and comes down easier.

Overall, this was the least expensive option for me and it works and it is well made. I may go for a Hullavator if I come into some serious extra cash. But until then, this really suits my needs.