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Name: Frances-Price
Most Recent Reviews
The Expression 11.5 is perfect for use on our local WV lakes and quiet streams. Although I have two other kayaks, I find this one to be my first choice 98% of the time, partly due to its somewhat lighter 44 lb weight. The hull has sufficient rocker to allow it to nearly turn on a dime, great for maneuvering in tight coves and other somewhat restricted spaces. Yet with the drop-down skeg the boat tracks true, and I can cover distance if I want to really open up and paddle! (With practice I have learned to track the Expression even with the skeg up.) The cockpit is a perfect size for my smaller frame (5'2" female), and allows my legs to fit perfectly against the thigh braces without my knees spread uncomfortably wide. The slide-lock foot braces are incredibly easy to change while on the water, allowing for different degrees of leg control for various paddling situations on our nearby lake. The one storage area is spacious and does stay bone-dry, and the deck has more than adequate bungees for keeping items at my fingertips. The seat is really comfortable, with adjustable height for the seat back, and adjustable height for the front of the seat. Because I haven't yet learned to roll, I asked a friend to try due to the semi-rounded shape of the boat. In spite of the fact that the Expression is very stable, my friend pronounced it "easy to roll" if one has need to do so. So this boat is incredibly versatile. Although the foot pegs accommodate my leg length, their longest length was too short for my much taller brothers when they tested the boat. Also I do wish the Expression 11.5 had a back band rather than the high seat back, for increased ease when putting on a skirt. But overall I am quite pleased with this kayak. Larger individuals may find it too restrictive, so I recommend the Expression 11.5 to small-to-average paddlers who want a versatile kayak for lakes and rivers with Class 2+ or less rapids.