Ferndale, Wash. (August 7, 2007) Necky^® Kayaks, manufacturer of world-class touring and whitewater boats, is pleased to introduce their new Manitou™ Select series kayaks.  Available in thirteen and fourteen foot models Manitou™ Select kayaks are scaled-down versions of Necky^®’s popular sea kayaks, employing premium Linear Select™ materials while combining the performance and control of a touring kayak with the comfort and stability of a recreational kayak.

The Manitou™ Select series have several added features over the popular base Manitou™ models, including Linear Select™ polyethylene materials, which help create a stiffer, stronger kayak; an efficient high-performance hull, Comfort Fit™ thigh braces, and reflective deck rigging for safety

“The Manitou™ Select series are Necky^®’s advanced kayaks for beginners,” said Sara Knies, Director of Marketing for Necky^® Kayaks.  “They are designed for the paddling enthusiast who is looking for a boat that will grow with them and help them maximize their enjoyment on the water.”

Key specifications include:      Manitou™ 13 Select                             Manitou™ 14 Select

                        Length:             12’ 10.5”                                                14’ 4”

Width:               24.75”                                                   24”

Weight:             45 lbs                                                   49 lbs

SRP:                $929 US                                                $1,129 US

Both Manitou™ Select models feature a comfortable Extrasport™ seating system, hatches with bulkheads and lively graphics.  The Manitou 14™ is also equipped with a retractable skeg featuring Necky^®’s own kink-free Necky Wire™.  Manitou™ Select kayaks are currently available through authorized Necky^® dealers.  Colors include yellow and fire.

Necky^® Kayaks is part of the Johnson Outdoors family of innovative, market-leading brands.  The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of top-quality products for the global marketplace across four categories: Watercraft, Marine Electronics, Diving and Outdoor Equipment.  Johnson Outdoors' familiar brands include, among others: Ocean Kayak^™, Necky^® kayaks, Old Town^® canoes and kayaks, Extrasport^®, Carlisle^® Paddle Gear, Lendal™ paddles, Escape^® electric boats, Minn Kota^® motors, Cannon^® downriggers, Humminbird^® fish finders, SCUBAPRO^® dive equipment, and Eureka!^® tents.   The company has 23 locations around the world, employs 1,300 people and reported annual sales of $396 million in 2006.  Visit Johnson Outdoors online at www.johnsonoutdoors.com.