Guess one could say, the Explorer is the AK47 of the paddling industry :-)
Doug D.

: I think there's plenty of boats out there that will do everything
: you ask for except for the rough water characteristics simply
: because that's based on initial stability. It's your comfort in
: those conditions. John L switched from his Explorer to a pilgrim
: and when he described it to me the one negative was less initial
: stability than the Explorer but was willing to deal with it for
: more speed and a smaller boat that fits him better. There's no
: escaping it, it always about trade offs with boat design. Higher
: initial stability = slower - period. I like Dave's list of
: negatives on his boat but he wants that speed so he accepts the
: trade.

: As far as lighter, nothing is that light weight that's a tough one.
: Some odd-ball brands like Tahe and others do have light weight
: models and you would have to search and try things for your
: ideal. But I guarantee you will be giving up things because the
: Explorer is a solid, high stable, neutral handling boat - but a
: bit sluggish - small price to pay for the advantages. Obviously
: paddlers love the boat.