Advice

My son-in-law is looking at getting into kayaking but has limited funds. Has anyone on here paddled the Perception Outlaw 11.5?IF so, is it and stable and how does it track?

OP the Outlaw is not going to be an easy paddling kayak unless conditions are flat calm. Anytime you sit up high like in the Outlaw 11.5 you catch a lot of wind and that not only makes it hard to paddle it makes it hard to stay in position. You get a sore back pretty easy from it. I know everyone wants to be able to stand up but when it comes to paddle kayaks (budget minded ones) you have to choose between easier paddling or ability to stand. Hard to find one that does both. You might consider looking at a Perception Pescador Pro. They come in 10' and 12' lengths. 12' is a lot easier to paddle and control and is about 100 bucks more than the Outlaw. Another option to consider is the Vibe Yellowfin 120. It's the same price as the Outlaw, not quite as stable but still standable and will be easier to paddle.

It's short, wide, and heavy--which means it will be stable but will paddle like a barge, and that high seat means he'll catch any wind.

What is his budget? Where does he plan to paddle?

Great question! I myself was considering the Outlaw. I have the Perception Pescador Pro 120 and it has been a great kayak. Very stream line and paddling is no issue there. However, the ability to stand is doable, but my attempts have been shaky at best and I do not feel stable enough to make hook-sets or turn different directions once standing (I am 5'11" 235). Not saying someone else could not master it, but for me standing in the Pescador would be the only real knock i have on the kayak. Search enough and there are videos of people making it look easy I am sure.

As stated above the outlaw seat is very high. A similar kayak (both have the pontoon hull) that sits lower would be the Bonafide RS 117. I have not experienced this kayak myself, but as stated about you usually sacrifice paddle ability for stability.

Bonafide is a super stable yak, but (to me) paddled like a tank. I had mine a few months and then sold it. I felt it was easier to paddle my Diablo Amigo. The Diablo you can 2 step or even waltz on the bow and never fear tipping. Again, neither are good for long paddles either. If I ever owned another Bonafide I would put a trolling motor on it or if they ever come out with a pedal version I would be happy with it.