I was going to get a SOT, but in all my river runs, I noticed that people in the SOTs were the ones having most of the problems, like getting trapped, capsizing, etc.... I always thought SOTs were more stable than SIKs, but that must not be the case. They really don't seem to maneuver very well, either. I would not even think of running a river in an SOT, now. They are probably OK an a calm lake or pond, but that's about as far as I would take them. Even in the ocean in seemingly calm bays, seas can get higher and rougher without warning.

If you get an SOT, make sure you get lots of water-proof clothing. You'll need it.