Luus,

The two kayaks are vastly different. They may look similar, but the Guillemot is very manueverable while the Spring Run tracks very straight. The Spring Run is still quite maneverable if leaned. The Spring Run is higher volume. The cockpit will be roomier, but may require more padding for a snug fit. The Spring Run should be a little easier for a beginner to start paddling. The Guillemot will require more skill to keep it going straight. Stability should be similar on both kayaks, as well as speed. Both are good kayaks, but I think the average novice would feel more comfortable in the Spring Run.

All this advice is without knowing where you are planning to paddle. If you give us more specific information we could give you better advice. Have you paddled other kayaks? If so, what ones, and what did you like about them.

You might also want to look at the Silver by Redfish. It is a lower volume kayak than the Spring Run and may be a little better suited for a "smaller" paddler such as yourself.

Mike Hanks

: I'm a first time builder as well as a beginning kayaker. I'm 5'5" and
: 132lbs. I haven't had the opportunity to try either boat and need some
: advice on which one I should choose.