Submitted: 06-13-2008 by Anton
Had my Wisper now for about 3 months and finally got to take it out on a longer expedition than just a day paddle. I'm 5'5" and 150lbs. The boat assembles and stores gear much like my '98 K1.
You got to be careful how you assemble the boat - if the bow and stern (especially the stern) chines do not align straight with the protected strips on the hull when tightening the extension bars, then the kayak will tend to favor a side and pull in that direction. Used the skeg but found it pulled the boat to starboard and took it off. The boat isn't very fast and with 50lbs of gear it takes some effort to keep a fast pace, especially if your buddies are in glass boats. Got into some reflective wave chop and the boat performed as it should, no bracing or leaning needed, just kept paddling along with no worries.
For those that are looking for a great kayak with expedition potential and safety, this is your ticket! Am going to purchase the calf plates, hip braces and rolling rib (the standard #3 rib really bites into the lower back) for a more snug fit - still feel like I'm swimming inside the cockpit. All-in-all, a good boat to have for traveling. |