: If anyone out there has built the Outer Island kayak designed by Jason
: Babina, I would be very interested in hearing your thoughts on this boats
: performance charcteristics.

: I'm not sure if I will fit in this kayak (I'm 6'6", weigh 190Lbs/95kg
: and have shoe size 12,5).

: I would also like to know your opinion on any changes you might recommend
: making if you were to build it again.

My main boat is an Outer Island. I'm 225#, 6'-2" and wear size 10's. The design water line is based on a 190# paddler so you're fine. Leg length should be fine, if not, all you have to do is move the forward bulkhead forward. I think your size 12.5's are big but you may fit depending on your bootie size and how you angle your feet. If I were you I'd definitely raise the fore deck between the cockpit and front bulkhead a little to make sure you have enough foot room ... I did it ... it's no big deal ... it looks great too. I'd also use a bulkhead foot rest instead of foot pegs. Ask Jay to email you the pic of a 250# guy paddling one of his demos ... the boat sits just fine in the water with a big guy in it.

The boat is fast, rolls easily, leans fine and surfs fine. I really, Really, REALLY like this boat in rough water. It's very reassuring, confidence inspiring and just plain fun. I think it tracks a bit stiff but in return ... it doesn't get muscled around by rough water. It's fairly low volume so it can be a bit of a wet ride ... but I just love to get wet in the thing. I feel more involved with the water in this boat than any other that I've paddled.

If you build one Jay is responsive and helpful.

Would I build another? Heck yeah!

Ken