: Those 6' long river kayaks are "playboats," designed for advanced
: paddlers to be better able to execute tricks in waves and holes. They
: aren't very comfortable, and I'd hate to paddle one in flat water for any
: distance, as they're very slow. Somewhat longer is better for most other
: things.

: There are plenty of kayaks being built in traditional, and non-traditional,
: styles with ribs and stringers. That's what SOF (Skin on frame) boats are
: all about. Check out Tom Yost's website, and Qajaq USA for info on these
: quick,easy and cheap to build boats.
: http://yostwerks.com
: http://www.qajaqusa.org/

: Figuring out which boat(s) to build is half the fun! Good luck - Dave

Heck my 10' whitewater boat won't go in a straight line for a stroke, requires continous corrections, can't imagine doing that in a 6 footer

Bill H.