Best Length 12 ft Kayaks in 2026: 9 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Finding the best Length 12 Ft kayaks requires looking at how each hull performs in water. We compared 9 models using only the specifications published on their listings. The Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top leads because it offers hands-free propulsion via its pedal drive system. This feature allows you to fish without pausing to paddle. The rankings focus on practical specs like width, weight, and seating style. You will use this guide to decide which hull matches your intended use, whether that is ocean touring or calm inland fishing.
Our top pick: Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want hands-free fishing with beach seating Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak This sit-on-top model includes a pedal drive for hands-free movement.
- You need high stability and gear capacity Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak Its 36-inch width and 116-pound weight provide robust stability for heavy loads.
- You want dry storage for solo trips Old Town Loon 120 Sit-Inside Kayak This sit-inside design protects gear while offering a lightweight 54-pound hull.
- You need a stable platform for two people Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem This tandem sit-on-top kayak supports a 453-pound capacity for shared outings.
- You want integrated electric propulsion for angling Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak This model features a built-in trolling motor for hands-free electric control.
Our 9 picks
Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak
Best for: Hands-free fishing and beach seating
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 12 ft
- Capacity
- 250 lb
- Propulsion
- Pedal drive
- Seat Type
- Element Beach seat
View on Amazon: Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak
The Old Town Malibu Pedal is a 12 ft sit-on-top kayak designed for ocean use. It features a hands-free pedal drive for forward and reverse propulsion. The Horizon colorway includes a removable breathable seat that doubles as a beach chair. Three flush-mount rod holders and two accessory tracks provide rigging options. This model offers spacious stern tankwell storage for gear.
Pros
- Hands-free pedal drive for forward and reverse propulsion
- Three flush-mount rod holders for fishing
- Removable seat doubles as a beach chair
- Two 18 in accessory tracks for gear mounting
- Spacious stern tankwell for storage
Cons
- No motor mount included in specs
- Only two rod holders are flush-mount; others may require drilling
- Pedal drive requires physical effort compared to motorized options
Good fit if
- You want hands-free propulsion for fishing
- You need a seat that removes for beach use
- You prefer a 12 ft sit-on-top for ocean conditions
Skip if
- You require motorized propulsion
- You need a sit-inside cockpit
- You want a pedal system with forward and reverse without effort
Verdict: Old Town Malibu Pedal 12 ft is a solid choice for anglers who want hands-free movement and versatile seating. It fits those who prioritize pedal efficiency and removable comfort on the water.
Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing high capacity and stability
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Length
- 12 ft
- Capacity
- 500 lb max, 384 lb usable
- Person Capacity
- Solo
- Propulsion
- Pedal drive
- Hull Type
- Pontoon-style
The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 is a 12-foot fishing kayak with a 500-pound capacity and a pontoon-style hull. It features a forward/reverse pedal drive and a premium mesh seat with lumbar support. This model weighs 116 pounds and includes tracks, rod holders, and a transducer mount. It suits anglers seeking stability and hands-free navigation.
Pros
- 500-pound maximum capacity for gear and angler
- Forward/reverse pedal drive for hands-free operation
- Pontoon-style hull for enhanced stability
- Premium mesh seat with adjustable lumbar support
- Universal transducer mounting system for fish finders
Cons
- 116-pound weight requires effort to transport
- Paddle is sold separately
- Fish finder is sold separately
Good fit if
- You need high stability for fishing in calm waters
- You want hands-free propulsion via pedal drive
- You require ample storage capacity for gear
Skip if
- You prioritize lightweight portability under 100 pounds
- You prefer a sit-inside kayak design
- You want a kayak with an included paddle
Verdict: The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Fishing Kayak offers robust stability and hands-free control for serious anglers. Its high capacity and specialized features make it ideal for those who prioritize comfort and gear space over easy transport.
Old Town Loon 120 Sit-Inside Kayak
Best for: solo paddlers needing dry storage and tracking
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Seating Style
- Sit-Inside
- Construction
- Triple-Layer Polyethylene
- Length
- 12-feet
- Capacity
- 375-pound
- Person Capacity
- Solo
The Old Town Loon 120 is a 12-foot sit-inside kayak built for solo paddlers. It features a sharp keel line for improved tracking and a triple-layer polyethylene hull for durability. The Active Comfort System 2.0 seat offers ergonomic support, while the removable work deck includes a USB port for device charging. Weighing 54 pounds with a 375-pound capacity, it balances stability and performance for extended trips.
Pros
- Sharp keel line enhances tracking efficiency
- Removable work deck with USB charging port
- Active Comfort System 2.0 seat for ergonomic support
- Waterproof bulkhead storage with Click Seal Hatch
Cons
- Sit-inside design limits immediate water access
- Paddle is not included in the package
- 375-pound capacity is lower than many 12-foot competitors
Good fit if
- You prefer the protection of a sit-inside cockpit
- You need reliable tracking on open water
- You want integrated gear organization and charging
Skip if
- You require a sit-on-top layout for easy re-entry
- You need to carry a heavy load or gear
- You want a complete package with a paddle included
Verdict: Old Town Loon 120 Sit-Inside Kayak fits paddlers who value dry storage and precise tracking over open deck space. It is a solid choice for solo trips where gear protection and ergonomic comfort are priorities.
Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem
Best for: Two-person tandem fishing or touring
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 12 ft
- Capacity
- 453 lb
- Person Capacity
- 2 person
- Propulsion
- Paddle
The Old Town Malibu Two is a 12-foot sit-on-top kayak designed for two paddlers. It features a 453-pound capacity and dual padded seats with backrests. The stackable design allows for compact storage. You get a 453-pound weight limit and a 78-pound hull weight. This model suits those needing extra space for gear or a second passenger on calm waters.
Pros
- 453-pound total weight capacity
- Dual padded seats with backrests
- Stackable design for compact storage
- QuickStash dry hatch for valuables
Cons
- Heavier at 78 pounds than solo models
- No pedal drive system included
- Paddle sold separately
Good fit if
- You need seating for two people
- You want a stackable kayak for storage
- You prioritize high weight capacity
Skip if
- You require a single-person vessel
- You need a lightweight solo kayak
- You want an integrated pedal drive
Verdict: Old Town Malibu Two 12 ft Sit-on-Top offers a stable platform for two paddlers with a 453-pound capacity. It fits users who value storage flexibility and shared outings over solo speed.
Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Kayak
Best for: Two-person pedal fishing in calm to moderate waters
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 13 ft 6 in
- Capacity
- 686 lb
- Person Capacity
- 2 person
- Propulsion
- Pedal drive
The Old Town Malibu Pedal T is a 12-foot sit-on-top kayak designed for two people. It features a dual pedal drive system with independent forward and reverse controls for hands-free navigation. The 36-inch wide hull offers stability on fresh or salt water. You get a 686-pound weight capacity, adjustable breathable seats, and stern tankwells for gear. This model suits anglers who want reliable pedal propulsion without a motor.
Pros
- Dual independent forward/reverse pedal drives for hands-free steering
- 36-inch wide hull for high stability in various conditions
- 686-pound total weight capacity for two-person use
- Adjustable breathable frame seats that remove easily for transport
- Built-in stern tankwells and rod holders for storage
Cons
- Only available in Horizon and Lava color options
- No motor mount included in the standard specifications
- Pedal drive system requires physical effort to operate
Good fit if
- You need a stable platform for two anglers
- You prefer pedal propulsion over paddling
- You fish in both fresh and salt water
Skip if
- You require a single-person kayak
- You need a sit-inside design for cold weather
- You want a motorized setup for long distances
Verdict: Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12ft Sit-on-Top provides a stable, dual-person platform with versatile pedal drive. It fits anglers who value hands-free control and ample gear storage on the water.
Old Town Loon 126 Sit-Inside Kayak
Best for: Solo paddlers needing dry storage and tracking
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Seating Style
- Sit-inside
- Construction
- Triple-layer polyethylene
- Length
- 12 ft 6 in
- Capacity
- 450 lb
- Propulsion
- Paddle
The Old Town Loon 126 is a 12-foot 6-inch sit-inside kayak built for solo paddlers. It features a sharp keel line for efficient tracking and a triple-layer polyethylene hull for impact resistance. The Active Comfort System 2.0 seat and adjustable foot braces support long trips. With a 450-pound capacity and waterproof bulkhead storage, it offers stability and gear protection for your adventures.
Pros
- 12 ft 6 in length with sharp keel line for straight tracking
- 450 lb total weight capacity for solo use
- Active Comfort System 2.0 seat with adjustable thigh pads
- Waterproof Click Seal hatch for dry storage
- Support track foot brace system for better leverage
Cons
- Heavier at 55 to 59 pounds compared to many 12-foot peers
- Narrower 31-inch width may feel less stable than wider models
- Paddle is sold separately
Good fit if
- You prioritize tracking efficiency over maximum stability
- You need a sit-inside design for cooler weather
- You require a high weight capacity for gear
Skip if
- You prefer a sit-on-top layout
- You want a lighter kayak under 50 pounds
- You need a wider hull for beginner stability
Verdict: Old Town Loon 126 Sit-Inside Kayak suits paddlers who value tracking and dry storage in a durable, high-capacity hull. It fits those who prefer a sit-inside cockpit for protected paddling.
Old Town Sportsman 120 Fishing Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing high gear capacity and stability
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 12 ft
- Capacity
- 500 lb max, 415 lb usable
- Person Capacity
- Solo
- Propulsion
- Paddle
The Old Town Sportsman 120 is a 12-foot sit-on-top fishing kayak with a pontoon-style hull. It measures 36 inches wide and weighs 85 pounds. You get a 500-pound maximum capacity and a 415-pound usable load limit. The dual-layer Textilene mesh seat and adjustable foot braces support long days on the water. It includes rod holders, accessory tracks, and a transducer mount.
Pros
- 500-pound maximum capacity
- Pontoon-style hull for stability
- Dual-layer Textilene mesh seat
- Universal transducer mounting system
- Adjustable snap-lock foot braces
Cons
- 85-pound weight is heavy for solo transport
- Paddle is sold separately
- Fish finder is sold separately
Good fit if
- You need a high-capacity platform for gear
- You prefer a stable pontoon-style hull
- You want integrated accessory tracks
Skip if
- You prioritize lightweight portability
- You want a kayak with a included paddle
- You need a sit-inside design
Verdict: Old Town Sportsman 120 12 ft Sit-on-Top offers a stable, high-capacity platform for anglers who prioritize gear space and hull stability over lightweight portability.
Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 Powered Pedal Kayak
Best for: Solo anglers seeking extended range
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 12 ft
- Capacity
- 349 lb
- Propulsion
- Pedal, 5-speed power assist, motorized
- Seat Type
- Removable adjustable frame seat
View on Amazon: Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 Powered Pedal Kayak
This 12 ft sit-on-top kayak combines pedal drive with 5-speed power assist. It features a 349 lb capacity and an integrated 36V lithium-ion battery. The battery offers up to 46 hours of runtime in cruise control mode. You get a removable adjustable frame seat and built-in rod holders. It suits anglers who want electric assistance for long days on the water.
Pros
- 12 ft length for stability
- 5-speed power assist pedal drive
- 349 lb total weight capacity
- Up to 46 hours battery runtime
- Built-in transducer mount
Cons
- Heavier build due to motor and battery
- Limited to solo use
- No manual paddle storage mentioned
Good fit if
- You want electric assistance for long paddles
- You need ample storage for gear
- You fish in ocean conditions
Skip if
- You prefer pure manual pedaling
- You need a sit-inside design
- You require tandem seating
Verdict: Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 offers reliable power-assisted propulsion for solo anglers who prioritize range and comfort over lightweight portability.
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak
Best for: Anglers wanting integrated electric propulsion
- Size
- Length 12 Ft (what this guide is about)
- Length
- 12 ft
- Propulsion
- Minn Kota trolling motor
- Use
- Fishing
- Dimensions
- 144 × 37 × 25 inches
- Weight
- 152 pounds
View on Amazon: Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak
This 12-foot fishing kayak features a built-in Minn Kota trolling motor for hands-free propulsion. It measures 144 inches long and 37 inches wide, offering a stable platform. The 152-pound weight includes the motor system. You get four accessory tracks and flush-mount rod holders. This setup suits anglers who want motorized assistance without adding external gear.
Pros
- Integrated Minn Kota trolling motor for electric propulsion
- Four 18-inch tracks for accessory mounting
- Four flush-mount rod holders (two forward, two rear)
- 37-inch width provides stability
- Non-slip EVA foam deck pads for traction
Cons
- 152-pound weight makes transport difficult
- No manual paddle propulsion option listed
- Motor adds complexity compared to paddle-only models
Good fit if
- You want electric propulsion without installing a separate motor
- You need stable tracking in open water
- You prioritize gear mounting options over lightweight transport
Skip if
- You prefer lightweight kayaks under 100 pounds
- You only want to paddle manually
- You need a sit-inside hull design
Verdict: Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized integrates a trolling motor into a 12-foot hull, making it ideal for anglers who want electric propulsion without external installation. It fits those who value stability and mounting space over easy transport.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak | Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak | Old Town Loon 120 Sit-Inside Kayak | Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem | Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Kayak | Old Town Loon 126 Sit-Inside Kayak | Old Town Sportsman 120 Fishing Kayak | Old Town Malibu ePDL+ 120 Powered Pedal Kayak | Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating Style | Sit-on-top | not specified | Sit-Inside | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-inside | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | not specified |
| Construction | not specified | not specified | Triple-Layer Polyethylene | not specified | not specified | Triple-layer polyethylene | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Length | 12 ft | 12 ft | 12-feet | 12 ft | 13 ft 6 in | 12 ft 6 in | 12 ft | 12 ft | 12 ft |
| Capacity | 250 lb | 500 lb max, 384 lb usable | 375-pound | 453 lb | 686 lb | 450 lb | 500 lb max, 415 lb usable | 349 lb | not specified |
| Person Capacity | not specified | Solo | Solo | 2 person | 2 person | not specified | Solo | not specified | not specified |
| Propulsion | Pedal drive | Pedal drive | Paddle | Paddle | Pedal drive | Paddle | Paddle | Pedal, 5-speed power assist, motorized | Minn Kota trolling motor |
| Hull Type | not specified | Pontoon-style | Sharp Keel Line | not specified | not specified | not specified | Pontoon-style | not specified | not specified |
| Seat Type | Element Beach seat | Mesh seat with lumbar support | Active Comfort System 2.0 Seat | Padded seats with backrests | Adjustable, breathable frame seats | Active Comfort System 2.0 | Dual-layer Textilene mesh seat | Removable adjustable frame seat | not specified |
| Fishing Features | not specified | Rod holders, transducer mount, tracks | not specified | not specified | Built-in rod holders | not specified | Rod holders, transducer mount, tracks | Built-in rod holders, transducer mount | not specified |
| Use | Recreation, Ocean | Fishing | Recreation | Recreation, Ocean | Recreation, Ocean | Recreation | Fishing | Recreation, Ocean | Fishing |
| Color | Horizon | Ember Camo | Lava | Horizon | Lava | Horizon | Ember Camo | Horizon | Ember Camo |
| Size | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft |
| Included Accessories | not specified | Paddle | Paddle | Paddle | not specified | Paddle | Paddle | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | not specified | 144 × 36 × 18 inches | 144 × 30 × 15 inches | 144 × 36 × 20 inches | not specified | 150 × 31 × 15 inches | 144 × 36 × 20 inches | not specified | 144 × 37 × 25 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 116 pounds | 54 pounds | 150 pounds | not specified | 55 pounds | 85 pounds | not specified | 152 pounds |
| Model | 01.7560.0702 | 01.4071.0103 | 01.5526.0704 | 01.7530.0702 | 01.7535.0005 | 01.5527.0702 | 01.4075.0103 | 01.7565.0003 | 01.4065.0103 |
Is a 12-Foot Length Worth Your Time?
A 12-foot length, or 144 inches, balances stability with manageable transport. Models like the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 weigh 116 pounds, while the lighter Loon 120 sits at 54 pounds. This length offers better tracking than shorter hulls, which helps you cover more water with less effort. It also provides ample deck or cockpit space for gear. You get a stable platform without the bulk of a 15-foot kayak, making it a practical choice for most anglers.
Worth it if
- You want improved tracking over shorter kayaks
- You need space for fishing gear and accessories
- You plan to paddle solo or tandem in calm waters
Skip it if
- You prioritize lightweight portability for frequent car trips
- You require a very narrow beam for speed
- You only fish in small, confined ponds
If you track outdoor gear dimensions, data on best 12 ft trampolines covers similar clearance specs.
How We Selected These
We identified 12-foot kayaks by scanning Amazon listings for the exact size specification. We only included models where the title or feature list confirms the length. Each product represents a single variant from its family to keep the comparison clean. We did not handle these boats or test them in the water. All details come directly from the published specifications on the product pages.
We ordered the results by availability first. Next, we ranked them by overall rating weighted by review count. Finally, we considered how well each spec met the guide’s criteria. This method ensures you see the most relevant 12-foot options first. The list focuses strictly on published data to help you compare features like width, weight, and propulsion type.
Check Width and Weight Specs
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Match Width to Stability Needs
Width determines how stable the kayak feels in the water. A wider hull offers more initial stability, which is helpful if you plan to stand or carry heavy gear. For example, the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 has a 36-inch width, providing a solid platform for fishing. If you prioritize speed and tracking over raw stability, a narrower hull like the 30-inch Loon 120 may suit you better. Check the width spec to ensure the beam matches your comfort level and intended activities on the water.
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Weigh the Transport Requirements
Weight affects how easily you can load and carry the kayak. Heavier models require more effort to lift onto a roof rack or carry to the launch point. The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 weighs 152 pounds, which is substantial for solo handling. In contrast, the Loon 120 sits at just 54 pounds, making it much easier to manage. Review the weight specification carefully. If you lack strong lifting equipment or help, choose a lighter model to avoid strain during transport and setup at the water.
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Select Propulsion Method Wisely
Propulsion defines how you move the kayak. Pedal drives allow hands-free operation, which is ideal for casting and reeling without stopping. The Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot uses this system for efficient movement. Trolling motors offer electric power with integrated controls, as seen in the AutoPilot 120. Manual paddling provides simplicity but requires constant effort. Choose the propulsion type that matches your physical ability and fishing style. Check the specs to see if the model includes a drive system or requires a separate motor installation.
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Choose Seating Style for Comfort
Seating style impacts your dryness and storage access. Sit-on-top models keep you exposed to the elements but offer open deck space for gear. The Malibu Pedal is a sit-on-top, suitable for warm weather and easy entry. Sit-inside hulls, like the Loon 120, protect you from wind and spray with a cockpit. They also offer enclosed dry storage. Decide if you prefer staying dry in cooler conditions or having quick access to the deck. Check the seating style spec to find the configuration that fits your climate and gear needs.
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Verify Capacity for Gear Load
Capacity determines how much weight the hull can safely carry. A higher capacity allows you to bring more gear, tackle, and bait without compromising stability. The Malibu Two Tandem supports up to 453 pounds, making it suitable for two people or heavy fishing setups. Lower capacity models may struggle with heavy loads. Review the capacity spec to ensure the kayak can hold your equipment plus your weight. Exceeding the limit can make the boat unstable and harder to control, so always stay within the published maximums.
Frequently asked questions
Which 12-foot kayak is best for hands-free fishing?
The Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top is the top choice for anglers who want hands-free movement. It features a pedal drive system that allows you to propel the kayak without using your arms. This sit-on-top design also offers versatile seating options, including beach seating, making it ideal for versatile outings.
What is the widest 12-foot kayak in this list?
The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak has the widest hull at 37 inches. This extra width provides robust stability, which is beneficial for anglers who need a steady platform. It also integrates a trolling motor for electric propulsion, combining stability with powered movement for serious fishing trips.
Is there a lightweight option for solo paddling?
Yes, the Old Town Loon 120 Sit-Inside Kayak is the lightest model at 54 pounds. This low weight makes it easier to transport and maneuver for solo paddlers. It features a sit-inside design that provides dry storage, making it a practical choice for trips where gear protection and ergonomic comfort are priorities.
Which kayak offers the highest weight capacity?
The Old Town Malibu Two Tandem has a capacity of 453 pounds. This high capacity supports two paddlers, making it suitable for tandem fishing or touring. It is a sit-on-top model with a stable platform, offering storage flexibility and shared outing capabilities over solo speed for users who value space.
Does any 12-foot kayak come with a trolling motor?
The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak integrates a trolling motor directly into the hull. This electric propulsion system eliminates the need for external installation. It is designed for anglers who want stable, motorized movement without compromising the structural integrity of the 12-foot platform, prioritizing mounting space and stability.
How does the Loon 126 differ from the Loon 120?
The Old Town Loon 126 is slightly longer at 150 inches compared to the Loon 120’s 144 inches. It also weighs 55 pounds, just one pound more than the Loon 120. Both are sit-inside kayaks offering dry storage and precise tracking, but the Loon 126 provides a bit more length for extended solo trips.
Which kayak is best for two-person pedal fishing?
The Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Kayak is designed for two-person pedal fishing. It provides a stable, dual-person platform with versatile pedal drive capabilities. This sit-on-top model is ideal for anglers who value hands-free control and ample gear storage while navigating calm to moderate waters with a partner.
What color options are available for the Malibu models?
Several Old Town Malibu models are available in the Horizon color. This includes the Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top, the Malibu Two Tandem, and the Malibu ePDL+ 120. The Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Kayak is available in Lava. These color choices allow you to select a visual style that fits your preference.