BOAT TEST
PERFECT IN-BETWEENER. PHOTO: KAYDI PYETTE
THE EXPRESSION 14.5 By Perception Kayaks
WHAT’S THE BIGGEST COMPLAINT of aspiring kayakers on a tight budget? For many, the answer is ill fitting or poorly equipped boats that plateau skills development, or worse, quash the pleasure of pad- dling all together.
Fortunately, more and more kayak manufactur- ers have recognized that not all paddlers will make the leap from box store rec boats to pricey touring designs. The Expression series by Perception Kay- aks fills the void for enthusiasts who want a kayak that feels both sporty and stable, stashes easily in the garage or under the deck, and has the bells and whistles of boats with longer waterlines and larger price tags.
The 14.5 model we tested is a perfect fit for small- er-framed folks. A 15-foot version is also available for bigger and taller paddlers.
The Expression takes its design cues from classic British-style touring designs—soft chines, a shal- low V hull and moderate rocker give it a responsive feel without sacrificing
stability. Whereas many
Brit boats are a twitchy 20-to-22 inches wide, the Expression adds just enough width for rock solid initial stability. The 23-inch beam is reassuring for novice paddlers, but low volume in front of the cock- pit makes this boat feel more like its skinny cousins when sprinting forward or tucking for a roll. Equally impressive is the hull’s secondary stabil- ity, which allows intermediate paddlers to explore edging, bracing and carving turns with confidence. Acceleration and glide are adequate for keeping pace with most boats this length, and the Expres- sion’s low front deck means you can practice perfect forward strokes without reaching around the boat.
DIGITAL EXTRA: Click here to watch a video review. 68 | ADVENTURE KAYAK
Perception’s Zone DLX outfitting is comfortable and customizable for a variety of paddler prefer- ences. Multi-position thigh braces work with the ad- justable seat riser to cradle your legs and keep you locked in for bracing and rolling, or you can dial back the fit for all-day touring comfort.
Our one grievance in the cockpit is the high seat- back. While it is supportive and La-Z-Boy laidback for casual rambles, it hinders spray skirt fit, rescues and re-entries. We recommend ordering the Expres- sion with Perception’s optional low-profile backband if you’re keen to progress these skills. For budget-conscious novice and intermediate paddlers looking for a user-friendly kayak to grow their skills, this well-priced day tourer puts the only expression on your face that matters: a smile. VIRGINIA MARSHALL
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