I can't speak for the new 2019 model, but all Outbacks that I've been in since 2004 are prone to hull slap; especially if lightly loaded or loaded with too much weight to the rear relative to the bow.
Hull slap is the sound of the ripples/chop in the water slapping against the hull of the kayak. Hulls that have a flat surface after the bow seem to produce more hull slap (noise) which will slow the kayak and reduce tracking if you paddling without the rudder down. Some claim the noise will frighten fish in shallow water. On the Outback, hull slap is the penalty you pay for the extra stability.
In my experience, hull slap on the Outback can be mostly eliminated if the yak is properly loaded (i.e., the bow is down in the water). You will still get some slap from the flaring above the bow in light chop, but it's not too bad in most conditions if the yak is properly loaded.
_________________ 2014 Outback 2016 Outfitter 2017 Sport
|