It’s not designed for solo paddling. But when I go out with my daughter who is 5 yrs old. And I’m 6ft 230 pounds..... I end up solo paddling for quite some time. This is on calm lakes and rivers. No moving current. If you HAD to solo paddle some ballast weigh up front is Nessesary. But I suggest look at a different kayak if you want to truely solonpaddle efficiently. We also have a perception cove 2 that’s great for solo or tandem and I like the Malibu two and Malibu two xl for similar kayak but with better solo paddling. Ok truth be told is you wanna solo and tandem on calm lakes and rivers get a Malibu two or Malibu two xl. If you want the zest extra length for soloing get a different kayak Bc you also will have a difficult time moving it at 75 plus pounds.