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This was my second kayak after moving up from a shorter boat. I found the Expression to be stable, easy to turn and capable of handling 3' waves (many over the bow due to it's length) on the Chesapeake. At 23" it is not particularly fast but tracks well with minimal use of the skeg. The skeg system is simple with a pull rope/catch but functional and reliable. The ball on the rope end needs to be set in the cockpit track when not used or the ball drags in the water. My only issue with the boat was the high seat back which interferes with re-entries and spray skirt. I replaced the back with a back band which resolved the problem.

I recently purchased a used P&H 3-ply Capella and have paddled about 100 miles in it so far. I wanted a longer boat for open water than the 14.5' I had been using. I was surprised by how well it turns with just a bit of lean and sweeping strokes but find that it requires more skeg to track well in moderate winds and currents than my perception expression needed. I like the wider foot pegs and found the adjustable thigh pads fit fairly well although I wish it were a bit narrower yet. The toe box area is substantial, leaving plenty of room for bigger shoes. I have size 9 feet and can rotate my feet easily so I know that my winter boots will fit OK. The skeg slider version on this model year is awkward to use as you have to push the button forward to pull the skeg backward. P&H does have a new skeg slider that can be retrofit to this kayak, which is something I plan to do. Overall, I'm happy with the kayak (especially for the price I paid) but based on reviews I've seen of the Venture version of the Capella I would want to test drive the Scorpio MkII and the Tempest 165 before I'd buy a new Capella.