Flat water lake here in FL. I already have the Sandpiper 12, but a Fathom LT just became available…thoughts?
If you fit in a 22" boat, there’s no reason not to buy the Fathom LT. Test paddle it first to make sure you fit and like the handling. Inspect for issues.
Two different boats on opposite sides of the spectrum.
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Hi, do you mean a Fathom LV (low volume)?
Either way, you’re talking about the difference between a sea kayak with a 22" beam and a smaller keyhole cockpit; and a recreational kayak with a 28" beam and a larger cockpit. So it depends on you and what you’re wanting to do with the kayak. For a flatwater lake you don’t need a sea kayak, but you might find it fun.
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Totally different boats, for totally different water/purposes.
If you want something big and wide and open and light, and never plan to take it in choppier water, the Sandpiper is great (well, so I have been told - I’ve never been in one.) Hubby has the SP130, which is longer and has the different seat, so not really the same, but similar width and cockpit opening.
If you want something faster, sleeker and longer (and still pretty light), and suitable for more waves and wind if you encounter them, I understand the Fathom LV is super. I tried to sit in one, but it was a pretty tight squeeze - so if you think you want it, SIT IN IT FIRST! The LV is for smaller people - I don’t know how big you are. I would need the non-LV version.
The Fathom LV would be a completely different fit from what you are used to.
It all depends on what kind of paddling you want to do. If you want to go faster than you can in the Sandpiper, the Fathom is a good boat. If you want to lilly-dip and stay close to shore, carry a dog or a kid, and just generally take it easy in a really stable boat, the Sandpiper might be the right boat for you. Maybe you need BOTH!
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Thanks for all the replies! I already have the Sandpiper, but that Fathom LV has me drooling. 5’9"/140 hoping it fits.
It should fit you fine at that size. I’ve never paddled one but people seem to really like it. Can you give it a test-paddle?
Also, you can try doing a search on here for Fathom LV - lots of information in the threads you’ll see.
https://forums.paddling.com/search?context=topic&context_id=124270&q=Fathom%20lv&skip_context=true
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Thanks!!
Now yer talkin’!
Seriously, very good boats both, but for different uses. Maybe you really do need both!
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You’ll fit my friend had one.
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thanks !!! Test drive on Fri.
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It fits!!! Thanks for all your input! The lady selling is virtually my height/weight, test paddle soon.
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