: Got a tax refund burning a hole in my pocket, and want to build one. But I've
: never had a chance to actually test one! Any advice on what a 5'5"
: woman with an average build would find to be appropriately sized inside
: & out? Also, if anyone in the metro Boston area would be willing to
: let me take theirs for a 10 min. test paddle I'd treat you to coffee &
: a muffin afterwards.

My wife is 5'4" (and 110 pounds) and uses a Chesapeake 14 (from Chesapeake Light Craft - www.clcboats.com). This fits her very well.

I'm not much bigger (5'10" and 155 pounds) and use a Chesapeake 16. I'm very happy with it.

Your goal of getting a test paddle is a good idea. You might want to ask the same question on CLC's website, as it's more focused on CLC (stitch & glue) boats.

Is there a particular reason you are looking at S&G only? Nick has some nice designs for smaller boats right here. Most of these are strip built, but there is also a S&G version of the Guillemot in the products page.

Check the link at the bottom of the BBS page for the home page of Guillemot Kayaks.

coop