In my experience, whitewater novices enjoy a much faster learning curve when they start out with a sit-on-top boat, because it removes all the initial apprehension about capsizing and rolling. You're free to concentrate on boat handling skills, learning how to read the water — and having fun. Yet a well-designed sit-on-top boat can carry you all the way through your beginner trips and well into your intermediate or even expert stages.

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The Torrent is a case in point. I've only paddled one in flat conditions, but I liked the way it handled and responded, and I don't doubt Perception's claims for its performance on Class I through IV whitewater, and ocean surf as well. Its 10' 1" length and 31" beam are just right for all-around maneuverability and decent tracking. It is, however, decidedly on the heavy side at over 50 pounds. Still, I don't think that one downside outweighs all the Torrent's good points, including its $600 sticker. Besides, in a few years when you graduate to a 30-pound playboat, it'll feel weightless.

If you do go with the Torrent, I'd suggest buying the Andes version, which includes adjustable pedal footrests, a cockpit hatch and mesh bag, and thigh straps. If you think you might want to do a little ocean surfing, get the optional surf fins as well, which dramatically enhance directional stability.

You might also check out Wilderness Systems' Kaos. It's a little longer and narrower than the Torrent, and about 10 pounds lighter. The hull of the Kaos is perhaps oriented more toward surfing than the Torrent, but it's still a capable river boat.

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