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Name: GJFRANTI
Most Recent Reviews
I was looking for small stable boats for beginning paddlers as well as something to use on rivers in N WI where one might meet a few unavoidable rocks. These track fairly well on flat water. (I had a Wilderness Systems [a.k.a. Trinity Bay] Critter that tracked better than any short kayak I have tried since, but I sold that one because I was not comfortable in the hard seat.) The Perception Sport Sound doesn't swing wide or "washout" in the tail end like some other short kayaks do when making a sharp turn. This must have something to do with the blunt end design in the stern, which I think essentially takes 6" off of what is pretty much a 10' boat. This slightly squared off end also makes this boat fit in the back of a smaller pick-up truck nicely. I am a 5'5" 145 lb female with strong paddling skills, and find I can get this kayak up to a decent speed but it is a bit of work to maintain the speed. I have not had these in fast water yet. In moderate river current the Sound requires a bit more corrective steering. The 225 cm paddle seems a bit short for working over the height of the cockpit, however the coaming is shaped nicely downward for accommodating the paddle stroke as you pull toward your body. Others who have paddled this boat like the stability.
At this price point, the seat is better than most, although the seat back is not attached to the seat base (it is tethered by a strap). The seat back can pop completely out of the slot that holds it. I have not had this happen at all while paddling, but it can happen if you straddle the boat to enter the cockpit from the stern and bump into the top of the seat back. I have had the flotation foam blocks come loose from inside the stern; it was not easy to wedge back in. The 'free' paddles are pretty nice - oval shafts, 2-position, lightweight. These are good sturdy little boats and have so far proven great on short lake outings or shallow river water, are easy to carry, and fun to share.