I began my search for a boat. I am interesting in opinions on manufactures stated “max load” claims compared with experiences related to paddler max weight. I am a tall 6’4”, 260 with size 14 feet. I understand that max load refers to gear, paddler etc. After talking with numerous shops, the issue is more murky then it was prior to beginning my search. I feel at times I being lead away from a specific brand for another for more of a sales issue, then my needs. I am concerned my lack of experience during a boat demo may give me a false indication of how a boat feels in a harbor vs it’s actual performance as my skills improve and water conditions change.

Russ, my thought for people getting their first boat is a constant: buy an inexpensive (probably used) boat that you feel comfortable sitting in, all the while knowing that it will not be a boat that you will regard as a long-term "keeper". (Though it is possible you'll keep it as a boat to put visiting relatives and friends into.) Buy and read a bunch of sea kayaking manuals, and meanwhile get out there and paddle, prudently but often. Take some lessons. You'll all the while be learning what it is about you, sea kayaking, and a (future) boat that is important to your safety and happiness as a paddler. It often seems to take the third boat before one experiences Nirvana in the cockpit.

Magic...
Good advice for keeping all things in perspective. In my typical OCD way, I have been subjecting myself to paralysis by analysis. I just need to buy a comfortable boat now and not worry about trying to anticipate what 2-5 years of experience will bring. Thanks.

Russ, I think that most builders refer to the combined weight of the paddler and gear when they list the weight capacity of the boat.

Keep an open mind in your search for a kayak. I think you know that at your size, you can eliminate a fair number of boats right from the start. That still leaves quite a few really good boats, but your selection will be much more limited than the average paddler.

Be sure to sit in boats even if the manufacturer's spec says you won't fit. I have a Tiderace Xplore which they say fits to 6'4". I'm 6'7 with a 37" inseam and don't even have the foot pegs to the last notch. With big feet, foot wear makes a difference. Go for slim fitting whitewater style booties if possible and your big dogs will fit in a lot more boats. I also size down a whole size in booties compared to shoe size.
As others have said, the boat that feels great today will almost certainly feel like a barge a year from now.

Russ, one of the benefits of joining a sea kayaking club is that other members will often be more than willing for you to try out their boats (If you show me yours, I'll show you mine!). Plus, there are often excellent boats for sale, used, at sometimes amazing prices.

Try a Current Design Titan. Rent one for a few hours.


from their site http://www.cdkayak.com/products/template...2709d861dc1b596

Because we know not everyone that paddles is 6 foot tall and less than 225 lbs, we offer the Solstice GT Titan, a comfortable performance touring kayak for really big and tall paddlers. We re-designed the Titan for 2011 following the previous years improvements to the rest of the Solstice family. The deck shape now allows even more room for size 14+ feet. Utilizing the GT hull design, the deck is fuller and has an oversized kehole cockpit that greatly aids in entry and exit. Our wide-base seat is standard in the Solstice GT Titan.

Dog...thanks for the recommendation. I will try to find a titan to demo. "Really big" ouch.... Why not cut to the chase and call it a CD Whaler or Tanker?

I doubt you want a 21" wide puppy with 15" x 28" cockpit. LOL Hey it still looks like a great boat. My dealer has one. Just wider than my Solstice and Nomad/Extreme. CD quality can't be beat! At least the ones built in the USA! Service is very good to for parts and questions.