I have only been able to take this out a few times and it tracks pretty good. Is very stable and I previously owned a 10' yak and purchased this 9' footer. I am 5'9" and there is plenty of room, but kind of wish this SOT was at least 9.5 like my Perception Swifty. I am still new at this late in life (63), but it is fun to be able to get out and enjoy paddling when time affords, whatever mode of yak I have.