They have similar hull forms to typical kayaks, but instead of sitting inside, you sit on top in a molded-in depression. This allows for more stability and control in the water. The term "sit-on-top" was originally used to describe canoes built for exploration in northern Canada and Alaska. Today, this type of boat is also called a "dual-use" vessel because it is suitable for both fishing and navigation. Although more stable than a standard kayak, a sit-on-top still has some degree of instability that must be controlled with caution by the paddler. A sit-on-top's depressed center of gravity makes it easier to capsize than a normal kayak, so special care should be taken by novices or anyone who isn't familiar with the water. In addition to being more stable, sit-on-tops are also less buoyant than conventional kayaks. This means that you will need to keep an eye on where you are putting your feet in order to avoid getting hit by any floating debris. However, the trade-off is that you can carry more gear with you into the wild. There are several different types of sit-on-tops including rafts, couches, and hybrids.