Profile

Name: paddler236984

Most Recent Reviews

I have had my yellow caper for about 18 months. I take it on wide, deep creeks and slow moving rivers along the east coast. I love my Caper! The only reason I gave it a 9 instead of 10 is that the tank well is not large enough for a milk crate, but it holds some models of coolers very nicely. I am a middle aged female. I do not have excellent stamina or physical strength, but I easily handle the Caper on water even in moderate head wind or paddling against the current. I find it remarkably easy to paddle. It is very stable, and I feel safe in it. It handles moderate chop very well. Paddle run off causes some water to run to the foot wells and cup holder, but I put a 3/4 inch thick sponge cut to fit loosely in the cup holder which solves the cup issue. Wring it out as needed. I plan to wear neoprene booties as the weather cools off, and in warm weather I appreciate my wet feet to keep me cool. I use the cup holder to carry my small gear (Chapstick, sun block, etc), and I use a hydration backpack with the tube hung over my shoulder for fluids.

The covered hatch has a tight seal that keeps my gear dry. I use lock together foam floor covering squares trimmed to fit, and layered with Velcro to make a dog bed at my feet. PROS: very stable, relatively light weight, easy to paddle with 240cm paddle, tracks well, comfortable easy to grab side handles and interiorly placed to reduce UV assault, easy to use handles fore and aft, deep tank well with more bungee coverage than other kayaks, dry covered hatch with large opening, hatch cover is slightly domed to allow rain run off, deeper cup holder than many kayaks, molded foot wells hold my feet comfortably and let me change positions easily, paddle keeper works well. CONS: no milk crate option (but the right cooler makes a good substitute), foot wells take on a little water, fore and aft handles allow the kayak to spin (roll the kayak face up first, and let your helper know when you are lifting it off a surface), side handles placed interiorly make it harder to carry the kayak like a suitcase. Overall, I highly recommend this kayak. We are ordering another one this week!