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I have paddled the Zoar Sport LV for 2-3 years. The boat fits me very well (5'1" 120 lbs). I sat in and paddled dozens of boats and the Zoar fit me the best. The biggest problem I had with other kayaks was that the cockpit was too deep. When I bought it, the salesman predicted that I'd be back in a couple of years for a longer, narrower boat. By golly, he was right! I just bought an Eliza last week.

In comparing the two, the Zoar is very stable. Maybe too stable. I think it's a great beginner boat, but I outgrew it fairly quickly. It's definitely a great boat for a smaller paddler. One thing I disliked was the seat which they've since changed. I usually paddle in shorts and the back of my shorts leg would be hanging off the seat in the water that accumulated in the boat. The seat also absorbed water.

I've been kayaking for 2-3 years (mostly on small lakes) and my first kayak was a Zoar Sport LV. This year I bought the Eliza (polymer) and I'm extremely happy with it. It moves through the water much more efficiently than the Zoar with seemingly little effort. I feel like the boat fits me very well (5'1" 120 lbs) although I wish the thigh/knee brace area were a little narrower. The cockpit depth is comfortable for me. I bought the Zoar originally because other kayaks I tried were too deep, so that was an important factor. The new seat is a vast improvement. I'm still getting used to the difference in stability compared to the Zoar. I think my skills will improve quickly paddling the Eliza.

Overall I think it's a great boat for a reasonable price.