There’s no debate: This is one of the best touring boats on the water. We took the Brittany out in the stormy Atlantic and on glassy Lake Champlain, loaded down and completely empty, and in all conditions she turned like she knew what we were thinking. With the skeg down, the wind can thrash and the waves lap but the Brittany stays on course. The craft has a smooth, rounded hull, rockered keel, a slim beam, and high secondary stability (some novices found it too wobbly). Fore, aft, and day hatches are easy to seal, and the ergonomic seat and thigh braces adjust for perfect fit. 59 lbs; www.riotkayaks.com
Bonus: A paddle hook allows hands-free rest.
Bummer: The Brittany comes in only one size, best for medium to large paddlers.