The tester

I've been kayaking for a couple of years, mostly class II and classIII. My wife also has been kayaking for about 3 years. We currently own 3 other whitewater kayaks.

Test environment

Flat water up to class III.

Review

We wanted an all around kayak that could cruise on flat water and handle everything up to class III. After seeing the Approach 10.0 and trying it out, we were sold. There is a HUGE amount of space in the cockpit. My wife (115 lbs) and I (170 lbs.) both fit easily. In fact it took her a while to get used to the large size. She is so light she easily glides over everything that we have come up with so far. This kayak is very forgiving. However, I do find it more difficult to roll than our other whitewater kayaks (Liquid Logic Little Joe, Perception Blaze, Dagger Vengeance).

The area in the rear is perfect for storing gear. Plus you don't need air bags. This kayak doesn't get pushed around by larger water. You can easily pick your lines. The trade off is it isn't as maneuverable. There is a lot of volume in this kayak and you won't find yourself getting as wet as with some others. We run in some pretty cold water and the Approach will keep you just a bit warmer because you will generally ride a bit higher. Even though you might ride dryer this kayak is very forgiving. We haven't flipped over yet. We can go down class II+ water sideways/backwards and the thing still doesn't flip over.

Conclusion

Great entry/intermediate kayak that can fit anyone and can comfortably handle up to class III water.