Keith, you'll definitely be wearing the boat. With my 31" waist, after I installed the hip braces and put the foam pads on them (1" of foam on each side) I was snug as a bug in the cockpit. Like I said, it's a blast to paddle.

I'm still thinking about adding a custom-fit foam setup to the cockpit, so I can squeeze a tiny bit more fit out of the boat. I think that the seat bottom could be improved upon. It's fine as it is, but I'm used to my recumbent bike seat which is very comfortable. Basically, I'm spoiled.

I hadn't thought about the matter of being so close to the displacement for that kayak after the kayak and the rider are weighed in. I think my kayak weighs in at a little under 45, so I still have 40 pounds of room to play around with for gear (may someone shoot me the day I pack that much stuff into the boat).

-David

: Keith,

: The Night Heron IS my next build. Your concern about the leg space can be
: solved by moving the front bulkhead an inch or two forward, thus lowering
: your knee height. I am 6'2" tall, 200-210 lbs unless after holiday
: splurging :> and 36" inseam and I'm guessing that I'll be
: "wearing the boat" which is what I want.

: As far as back deck height is concerned, the Designed Displacement for this
: boat is 251 lbs., so you should be fine using it as a play boat with your
: lunch/snacks along. If you're 200 lbs. and the boat is around 40 lbs.
: fully rigged (Nick lists 36.4 bare), you still can take 11 lbs. of
: water/food/gear. You should be ok and comfortable with the fit given
: you're familiar with whitewater fit of kayaks.

: Have Fun!
: Brad