Lake Superior is the world's largest lake, and its icy waters, sea-worthy gales and rocky coast demand utmost attention from kayakers. So on a recent trip to explore one of the lake's famous archipelagos I chose two new expedition-strength boats for a friend and I.

The Dagger Halifax 17 and Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 both are 17-foot polyethylene touring kayaks made for big waves, swells and marathon paddling days. Both have multiple waterproof storage compartments and can hold enough equipment for days on the water.

Dagger's Halifax 17 can carry up to 360 pounds of gear -- the larger the load, the better the stability, says the company. The 70-pound boat has a retractable rudder with foot pedals for steering, a comfortable seat, and double covers on the storage compartments for extra security.

Wilderness Systems' 61-pound Tempest 170 offers similar storage capacity, but is pared down and sleeker than the Halifax 17. It has a retractable skeg for tracking straight but no foot pedals for steering.

Over the four-day trip, we came to like both boats for different reasons. The Tempest 170 was noticeably faster, while the Halifax 17 was more comfortable to sit in for hours on end. The Halifax 17 was so stable it felt nearly tip-proof, but the Tempest 170 turned quicker and was more responsive to subtle leans and strokes.

For shorter trips and day use, I'd recommend the Wilderness Systems model because of its speed. But if week-long sojourns on Lake Tahoe or the coast are in your future, look at the Dagger for its expedition-worthy traits.

Contact:
Dagger, 1-800-433-1969, www.dagger.com.
Wilderness Systems, 1-800-311-7245, www.wildernesssystems.com.

Price:
Dagger Halifax 17, $1,450.
Wilderness Systems Tempest 170, $1,399.