About the reviewer

Grade 3/4 Paddler, Have 3 boats 1 for surf, 1 for playhole and one for creek.

Test environment

Surf, Variety of grade 2-4 rivers in NZ

Review

Moving from a river-running boat I immediatedly noticed the added bouyancy, forgivingness and EXCELLENT COMFORT.

At first I was a little disapointed with performance as it did not seem edgy enough. However as my paddling developed I have learned to paddle the boat - which responds better as flow increases. I enjoy the security that this boat gives on the eddy line and on the edges of holes. This boat punches through holes like a beast!

Most recent trip on grade 2+ boulder run I enjoyed eddy hopping and playing in holes and waves. On a couple of occasions spending more time than some playboaters on a feature.

Only negative is that it is quite heavy especially once loaded with splits and other safety gear - so not ideal for long portages in "indian country"

Conclusion

This is a great all round boat for someone looking to progress towards more challenging runs and creeking. COMFORT is excellent!!