Yes - I hear what you are saying about the creeker - and it being forgiving and on the other end of the spectrum.  

 

In my limited experience, I did paddle a Jackson Rocker which is a medium sized creeker - a tad small for me - had to have the bulkhead extended all the way to fit in it, but man did it feel forgiving.  But it was also on the small side.  If I had one long enough that I could extend the bulkhead while still in the boat (like it is capable of doing) to relax my legs/feet without getting out of the boat, if it would not feel too big.  Haven't tried large size creeker.  Haven't tried river runner at all though either.  I hear the NEW 2015 Jackson Zen (river runner) is taller and has more volume than prior model and is a tad more forgiving like a creeker for some things.  Perhaps the most agonizing decision ever made.  

I currently am really nervous about hitting rocks especially sideways but I expect that to wear off as I gain experience.  I know creeker would be confidence boosting but - what about when there are demands to paddle or carve fast?  Dunno.  Don't want to get a river runner and wish it was still more forgiving.  But perhaps large adequately sized river runner? I just don't know.  Wish I did.

PS.  Sorry - meant to reply publicly not privately - resent this post publicly.