[Paddlewise] a pretty basic question

I have been on the list for almost 3/4 a year now, finally paddled a
boat a month ago (how is that for research). I had no idea what  many of
the posts were about, but now understand the passions for kayaking
exhibited here (starting to understand many of the posts as well).  I
have been out 5 times, once for a 6 hour trip which reinforced the need
to have one of these contraptions.  Also had a capsize so I experienced
an assisted rescue.
Now the question is what boat to buy- can't afford the rental rates.
Everybody has told me to try them out, but being new, I am not sensitive
to the nuances you more experienced paddlers can percieve in a boat.

The parameters I am dealing with:

Somewhat inexpensive, this is rather subjective I know.
Something to develop good technique- am interested in learning to roll
after developing my basic strokes.
I would like to do it fairly often, lots of small rivers and creeks here
as well as a short drive to a bay and the Delaware river.  Also a couple
of fine lakes.  (central NJ)
Durability is a major factor in these rivers and creeks, also must be
able to lift the thing over fallen logs.
Something that I may want to keep after upgrading, either to loan
friends or to do bang around stuff.

After trying some 8-10 different boats, some within my parameters, some
far too expensive, I thought my entry level boat should be the Breeze by
Current Design.  Small enough to navigate the waters around here, stable
in the 30 mph winds I was in last Thurs night.

My kayak store just threw a wrench in the works by getting a stack of
demo boats at a very good price from Dagger, the Edisto seems to spec
out very similar to the Breeze.
I hope to demo this boat with the Breeze on Thursday, what excactly
should I be looking for (as a begginer).  Tracking seems obvious, this
is what attracted me to the Breeze.  Anything else?

By the way, if it helps any, the store's webpage is
http://members.aol.com/Froggie405 where there are links to the
manufacturer's sites if specs help, I am a bit clueless except for
length and hull shape. 

Like I said, I am a bit of a nut about research and value the knowledge
of the experienced...
-- 
gabriel l romeu
http://members.aol.com/romeug     studio furniture
http://members.aol.com/romeugp    paintings, photos, prints, etc.
http://members.xoom.com/gabrielR  a daily photo journal

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