Emotion 90244 Spitfire Sit-On-Top 8 Foot Kayak, Red

I don't need a pro kayak or anything. I don't shoot rapids, or surf waves usually, I just paddle a bit in the lakes and rivers, and this is perfect for that. It was cheaper when I bought it than they are now, so it was a better bargain then than now, but if you want a light but stable yak for calm waters, it's hard to beat this. Everybody I've coaxed into kayaking were so pleased with its stability that they wanted their own. This thing turns on a dime, but because it's so short it doesn't track particularly well. But the nice thing is that I can actually put it in my car because it's short! Perfect for me.

My wife and I have two larger Emotion Temptation kayaks for two years now, and found them to be well made and excellent in the water. We wanted to get two smaller kayaks for when our grandchildren so that we could all go out together. The Spitfire 8 is as well designed as the larger Temptation. I had them out in the water this weekend, paddling the Temptation and then the Spitfire 8 to compare the differences. I found the Spitfire 8 tracked well (even though it was windy and choppy) and was very maneuverable. I would not get this product as a primary kayak for an adult of my size (5' 11", 205 lbs) but it will certainly be great for the children. I do look forward though in taking it out into the surf. I think the maneuverability will make it quite fun.One caution, the kayak is shipped simply in a plastic bag. On the first delivery, both kayaks were badly damaged and had to be returned. Amazon was gracious and fast in the return and reorder. The second shipment was in perfect condition, though I made sure the delivery company remained while I opened the bags and inspected the kayaks. Don't let the shipper leave or sign for the kayaks until you inspect them.

It's a nice little kayak. After you practice a bit you have more control but this is not meant for rivers, just lakes. It is light enough to set on and off a roof rack. I would have given it 5 but turing is hard to get control. Other than that great kayak.

These kayaks have one real flaw--very thin hull on the bottom that if dragged (and you are going to have to drag your kayak if you are by yourself) will quickly wear a hole in the very thin layer of plastic on the bottom rear hull--seems like it would be an easy thing to fix and yes i understand it was only 250 bucks but still how about a little more plastic on the bottom or reinforce the hull a bit. I returned one already and the second one now has a similar hole in the same place. Overall this is a good product for the money if they can fix this problem.

Nice quality sit on top. Great for big kids or small adults...beginner to intermediate paddlers.

Tried it in my pond and tracking is horrible. My other kayak in a cheap sit inside, same length and it is much better. Can't imagine taking it in any current. Wanted to upgrade, instead sending it back.

I love the features from the handles on the end to pull or pick up to the sturdiness and stability of the kayak (as long as your back and legs are seated properly). The rear net is perfect for holding my life vest, supplies and my dolly that rolls it to the launch. The seat doesn't even need a pad, it is quite comfortable. My only complaint is that this is more of just a play type and more for short distance travel. It turns sharply if you force your strokes. It takes small slight strokes building to larger firmer strokes to gain speed first or you will slither. For not as a beginner I like it, but will upgrade nest year and keep this one for the nieces.

Can't go wrong with it! I took it out on La Jolla Shores and San Diego Bay and it did awesome. Better than my boyfriend's expensive kayak if you ask me. This one is easy to maneuver and lighter.