: :Because of its very low wetted surface area, the Griffin moves
: effortlessly through the water and easily reaches speeds
: :that rival those of much longer kayaks (but with far less
: effort!).

: I have no problem with the above statement as long as you accept
: that the statement isn't referring to
: top speed / top effort.... and really, how much recreational
: paddling is at top speed / top effort ?

: Most recreational paddling is done over longer distances, with
: speed and effort thereby reduced. In that environment, a shorter
: efficient hull can keep up, and keep up with equal or even less
: effort.

: I currently workout in my Sea Bee 13 with guys in much longer /
: narrower kayaks, and I have no problem with their pace, and it's
: an exercise pace.
: Over the past 40 years, I've always enjoyed showing my stern to
: many longer, "faster" commercial kayaks.

: As a former marathon K-1 racer, I realize also that paddling
: technique and conditioning are important factors... Something
: often overlooked.

: Tom

As a recreational paddler what I am after is GLIDE. And effective glide is one of the attributes of fast hulls. So Even if I can't go fast I still want to paddle distances with the least effort expended. In my case it's necessary because I am an old man. My 14 foot pirogue is a an ass buster while my 16 foot kayak boogies with relative ease. Give me waterline and low wetted area every time.