Statistics:
Paddler: Height-5′ 7″ Weight-165lbs
Pungo 120: Length-12 feet Width-29in Capacity-325lbs

At a Glance:
Cost: $825
Pros: Very stable, fantastic tracking (it goes straight), fast
Cons: More costly than some other 12ft boats (it is worth it)

Best Use: Flatwater Paddling (Lakes and Deep Rivers)

The Pungo series has one of the best recreational hull designs around. Going straight ahead is something that often gives new kayakers trouble. When wind blows from the side onto a kayak it often causes the boat to turn. One windy day out on the lake is sometimes enough to make a new kayaker want to take up mountain biking.

Tracking is the ability of a boat to maintain a straight course. The V hull and extended keel at the stern of the Pungo makes this one of the best tracking boats out there. Too often new kayakers purchase a kayak with a flat bottom because they are typically less expensive. Unfortunately they pay later in frustration.

You can see the extreme difference in keel designs in this picture. The red Pungo at the top in this picture has a keel that extends much further than most other recreational kayaks. This reduces its effectiveness on rivers since the keel inhibits turning and hangs on rocks, but makes this boat the ideal choice for lakes.

The V hull also makes the Pungo quick for a recreational kayak, allowing it to outpace boats with flatter hulls and broader designs. The chines or bends along the length of the boat allow it to pass through the water effortlessly and manuver well when placed on edge. Although the V hull design makes this boat seems tippy when sitting in it on shore, it is very stable in the water. At almost 3 feet wide, you almost have to lean over and get your hair wet to tip this boat over.

Pungos are equipped with Wilderness System’s Phase 3 seat, a design that has set a high standard for paddler comfort. The seat back adjusts up and down to give the paddler plenty of support, and can be adjusted while sitting in the boat. The seat is padded and covered in cloth to prevent hot plastic burns and sticking to the seat on those hot summer days that are great for kayaking. In addition the footrests have been recently redesigned to allow the paddler to adjust those while in the boat also.

A bulkhead, or foam wall, behind the seat in the Pungo improves the strength of the boat, reduces warping, and creates a stiffer hull that improves speed. This also creates a dry storage area that can be used to carry your lunch, or camping gear for overnight trips.

Conclusion:
Anyone who is new to kayaking and thinking of purchasing a 10’, 12’, or 14’ recreational kayak should consider the Pungo as a top choice. The comfortable seat, easy adjustability, and ability to paddle straight will make kayaking a new, exciting, and enjoyable adventure!