Shorter canoes will be more maneuverable and lighter in weight. The 4 waterline beam has the greatest influence on performance. Wide beamed canoes offer great stability but may be somewhat slow. Narrow canoes may be less stable but afford better efficiency and hull speed.
Greater depth allows for increased carrying capacity and better water shedding ability.
However, deep canoes can be harder to handle in windy conditions and will be heavier. The shape of the bottom of the canoe and how it blends with the sides will influence its performance. Stability of a canoe is affected greatly by its cross section. If you are looking for a lightweight, stable design with excellent durability, the Osprey is the right canoe for you. The Guide 147 is what wilderness canoeing is all about.