Cats, by their nature, are quick and nimble, although they do have some performance quirks. When trying to change ferry angles, both tubes can catch the opposing current. This makes it difficult to pivot and hold your ferry angle. Another characteristic of cats is the tendency to be launched airborne after entering a steep pushy hole. As the cat punches the hole, the downstream current catches the stern of the tubes and pushes them downward. The cat stands on its tail, sinks slightly, and then launches skyward.
In the design of the SL Cat we set out to solve these problems and substantially improve speed and maneuverability. First, we changed the profile of the tubes and reduced the stern tube diameter to lessen the leverage the current can apply to the tubes. Next, we lengthened the waterline and reduced the angle of attack, which increased hull speed and stability. We increased the tube diameter at the main pivot point to create a small footprint for incredibly fast turns. Finally, we added an incredibly smooth bottom for resistance free rowing. The result was a top-of-the-line performance driven cataraft we call our SL series. All SOTAR SL Catarafts are hand built using our extremely tough and durable 40 ounce Urethane (Rezcoat) material with a 1500 denier base fabric. All SOTAR Inflatables are designed and manufactured one at a time. No other Inflatables are made with such personal care and attention.
