What SOT Yak for less than $1000

[dsiekman]

You might take a look at the classifieds on this site as well.

[kevinfry]

I've never heard a complaint about the seat in the mantaray 14 from anyone who used one....I really think that is the best deal. And no tracking problems either

[J.A. Veil]

I've never heard a complaint about the seat in the mantaray 14 from anyone who used one....I really think that is the best deal. And no tracking problems either

Kevin - Thanks for making the point about the Manta Ray seat (same seat in the 11, 12, and 14 sizes). I have fished from probably 15-20 different models of kayaks since starting in the sport in 2001. Of all those, I have never found a more comfortable seat for my body shape than the one in the Manta Ray -- including the "lawn chair style" seats on the Slayer. I have never used a Hobie or the Ride, so I cannot comment on their comfort. For me as an older and heavier paddler, seat comfort is very important. In addition to the regular seat, I add a Skwoosh seat cushion to make my comfort even better.

There are many factors to consider when purchasing a kayak:

- style of kayak (most choose sit on top)
- type of propulsion (most use paddles but pedal drives are popular too [more $$])
- stability (tendency to tip; primary vs. secondary stability)
- comfort level in seating position (wide range of seating comfort – time to reach “butt fatigue”)
- Is the seating area mostly dry or frequently wet (design; drainage via scupper holes)
- fixed seat in molded seating well vs. elevated seat with multiple positions; attachment points for after-market upgrade seats; type of seatback and cushion
- how does it move in the water (tracks straight vs. easy pivoting) – may determine whether user wants a rudder
- speed through the water (wider kayaks tend to be slower)
- amount of storage (built-in, ease of adding storage accessories, gear tracks)
- where do you put your feet (pegs, larger supports, notches in floor)
- weight of kayak (important for transporting)
- weight capacity (need to consider your body weight plus all gear)
- ease of attaching/removing accessories on each trip (amount of time spent setting up and breaking down on each trip)
- appearance/color
- preference on brand name
- and of course, the cost.

The original poster has received many recommendations so far. Good luck in finding a kayak to meet your needs after weighing all the decision factors. Many of us have started with a basic kayak and enjoyed the sport so much that we soon upgraded to a model with more features. The key point is getting started and see if you like the sport enough to stick with it.

[PudgyPrawn]

Thanks to all, as you say Mr. Veil I have been given quite a few choices. I will be shopping this season looking for my 2nd yak. The FS10 has been good enough to get me hooked.

Thanks,
PudgyPrawn

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