re: First Kayak

Longer is not necessarily better if you start looking at white water applications.

Visit local outfitter. They will have demo days where you can try different boats out. You will learn more in one afternoon there then weeks searching the Internet.

I have a Perception Carolina 14. I was leaning toward a 12 foot until I paddled both at a demo day. Within 5 minutes I knew the 14 was what I should get.

Demo days are relaxed type of events. No high pressure selling. They just bring out there whole line of Boats and let you try them. Even if you don't buy their boat, you'll be a customer for accessories, paddles, rack systems etc. so don't feel bad if you don't buy the brand they have. Plenty of opportunity to give them other business once they educate you on the sport.