What Eric said sums it up.
Connyak Picnic 12-September, great opportunity to try many boats, ask lots of questions, get sage advice.

Doug D.

: The terms touring kayak and sea kayak are often used
: interchangeably and usually indicate that the thing is more
: capable and sea worthy than a rec boat or pond kayak. You will
: likely encounter enormous sea kayaks and compact touring kayaks,
: but usually it's the other way around. Most kayakers who have
: been through a succession of different boats and who aren't
: camping with them will usually end up with something that is
: relatively compact and close-fitting. You really want a boat
: that fits you well enough so that when you move, it moves.
: Kayaks are best controlled with good paddle technique and body
: english. If your boat is too wide it can be difficult to edge
: and/or control in rougher water. If it's too long, it'll be
: heavier, difficult to turn or control in the wind and yes, more
: work to propel. If it's too voluminous, it will be difficult to
: learn more advanced handling skills, especially rolling. In my
: opinion, most average sized women who aren't inclined towards
: racing would best be served by a boat 14-17 ft. long and not
: much wider than 22 inches or so. You definitely don't want be
: learning in something that is scary unstable, but a "little
: tippy" you will usually get used to pretty quickly. Avoid
: spending a ton of dough the first time around, there's lots to
: learn and what might be perfect for now, you will likely grow
: out of once you figure out what is working for you and what
: isn't with the first boat. Few people get it right the first
: time. Try as many boats as you can before settling on the right
: one (Cedar Lake or the upcoming picnic are especially good for
: this). I would recommend buying a good quality used boat, if you
: maintain it well, you can often sell it for close to what you
: paid for it when you're ready to upgrade.