: Why do you want the "English-style" small cockpit? Performance?
: Panache? Double-jointed knees? I don't see how a small cockpit could
: perform better than a keyhole cockpit with an implosion bar-equipped
: sprayskirt. Thoughts anyone?

Shawn,

Although my opinion seems to be the minority view, I also prefer small cockpits and do not care for the popular "keyhole" cockpits for seakayaking. For whitewater, especially in technical, rocky creeks, I do prefer keyhole cockpits to increase the safety margin in case of a pin.

While ocean surfing, I have been nearly ejected from the cockpit on several occasions in a keyhole, if a knee slips off of the thigh brace while you are being trashed (I learned to avoid putting sunscreen on my legs) it is very easy to dislodge the skirt or even unintentionally exit the boat. This is not an issue with a small cockpit. Also with a small, Greenland style cockpit, you have the freedom to shift and vary your contact with the masik (thigh brace) from the center to the sides and to any point in-between. Likewise if you have foot support that spans the width of the hull, you can vary your foot position in a similar fashion and thus aren't locked into a single bracing position. This adds comfort, especially on long trips.

I can see the value of a keyhole in hot climates, or if you perform seal landings and need to spring from the cockpit, or if you need to raise your knees to avoid cramping during many hours in the saddle. Getting in and out of a tight cockpit does take a little more skill and effort but it is quite manageable on a true Greenland kayak since you have rigid leather decklines that allow you to get a firm grasp on the foredeck as you step in/out of your kayak, a feat that is more difficult with wimpy, elastic decklines.

All in all I prefer to have the smallest cockpit opening that I can squeeze into and also the smallest hatch openings possible (or no hatches at all). What else would you expect from a minimalist? ;^) As always, your milage may vary.

Greg Stamer