Toni,

I'm a beginner kayaker and a moderately competent woodworker that has no ties to either company. I highly recommend letting your husband choose the model. I chose a CLC Chesapeake 18 because they were close by (Annapolis is 1-1/2 hours away) and I could go try several models. If there is no way you can visit either company, try calling (or e-mail) them to find builders in your area that would let your husband try a boat. Most builders are more than willing to give a little demo as long as you complement them on their work.

Choosing a kayak is very personal. In our family, we would give a coupon in the birthday card for an item like this. Then the receiver can make the "right" choice at a later time. Less hassle and no returns necessary.

Happy Boatbuilding

John

P.S. CLC has a demo day the third Wednesday of the month (tonight) during the summer. I think Pygmy does the same thing. This is the best way to choose a kayak because you can try several models at the same time. Maybe you could plan a family vacation or something that would get you close to either company.