High Wing or Low Wing?

One of the more vitriolic debates that can occur in small plane circles is which is better, high wing, such as this Cessna:



or low wing, such as this Piper:

Each type has its advantages and drawbacks. Low wings are easier to refuel, you need to stand on a ladder to refuel a Cessna with wing tanks. High wings are easier to pre-flight, you can walk under the wing to draw fuel samples and check the control fittings. Low wings offer greater visibility in a turn (usually), high wings offer greater visibility downward (which passengers enjoy). High wings are generally far easier to board. High performance low wings have far simpler landing gear mechanisms. You can sit in the shade under a high wing.

Low wings look cooler.

High wings are almost universally used in rugged conditions.



So it really is a question of what your personal preference is and what your projected use will be.

Now if you really want to start an argument, get into which is better, Mooneys or Beechcraft Bonanzas.