Q:
What's the best all-purpose kayak?
I'm interested in buying a new kayak for touring and open-water paddling, but one that could also take a little whitewater action once in a while. What would you recommend? Jeff Midland, Michigan
In a boat skewed a little more to the touring side of things, Perception's Catalina ($890 with rudder) is just under 14 feet in length, meaning it will track better than the Crossover but won't be quite as nimble on streams. One advantage is its bigger storage capacityit's a boat that could handle multi-day trips. Prijon's Calabria ($850) is a similar alternative; a stable boat with pretty good speed.
Perhaps you've already got the accessories. If not, a personal flotation device is, of course, a must: Kokatat's Outfit Tour PFD ($120) is a well-fitted, sturdily made PFD with pockets for strobe flashers or cell phones. Harmony's Paddle Leash ($15) would be useful, as would a Pelican Mini Flasher ($10), a blinking beacon visible for hundreds of yards. Clothing is down to personal taste, but a good base layer is the Warmers 2mm Farmer John Wetsuit ($90), which could be worn under a Mysterioso Neoprene Long-sleeve Top ($60) for good all-weather protection.