What will be the best kayak seat for you totally depends on your personal preferences and needs. You should choose a kayak seat that will be comfortable, supportive, and adjustable for a maximum kayaking experience. You can choose a kayak seat from options like high-back seats, low-back seats, and seats with built-in lumbar support.
- Best Overall: Ocean Kayak Comfort Tech Seat Back
- Best Lightweight: Saturn Deluxe Molded Foam Kayak Seat
- Best For SUP: Yakpads Paddle Saddle W/High Backrest
- Best Budget: Skwoosh High Back Kayak Seat
- Best UV Resistant: Ocean Kayak Comfort Plus Seat Back
- Best Versatile: Surf To Summit GTS Sport Sit-On-Top Kayak Seat
- Best Sturdy: Manta Ray Deluxe Kayak Seat
Top 7 kayak seats In 2023 (Best Picks)
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The Best Seats For Kayaks Reviewed
The best kayak seats for most people are those with features like a backrest, thigh braces, and foot support. These features make it easier for you to paddle without feeling strained or experiencing sore muscles after your ride. A good seat should also provide stability in the water so you can enjoy your paddle without fear of tipping over.
Your kayaking experience can vary widely depending on the seat and the type of kayak you are paddling.
There are two main types: sit-inside and sit-on. Sit-inside kayaks have hulls that are completely enclosed, while sit-on kayaks have a flat, open deck. Sit-on kayaks offer more flexibility for foot placement, and they typically are cheaper to manufacture.
Sit-inside kayaks often offer better protection from wind and waves. The enclosed hull also provides a dry ride that is more insulated against temperature changes.
1. Ocean Kayak Comfort Plus Seat Back
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| Brand | Ocean Kayak |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Nylon |
| Weight | 1.74 Pounds |
One peculiar thing about the Comfort Plus seat is its extra foam padding. The comfort and support it provides are synonymous with that of a couch. Furthermore, it has a four-way adjustability feature that gives it flexibility and allows it to fit just about anybody’s type.
Made of UV-resistant nylon packcloth, this kayak seat is highly durable. You can easily clip this seat on your kayak with its heavy-duty clips made of solid brass swivel buckles adorned with stainless steel springs.
Moreover, it has reflective logos that glow in low-light conditions after being exposed to sunlight. This ensures a good measure of visibility while riding at night.
Wins & Fails
1. Strong and intelligent construction
2. Comes with a high backrest
3. Also works for a sit-in kayak
4. Can’t be installed if there are no eyelets on your kayak
2. Yakpads Paddle Saddle W/High Backrest
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| Brand | Yakpads |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Lycra, Nylon, Visco Elastic Gel, Gel |
| Pad Type | Gel Pad |
I was able to comfortably stay on the water for a very long period of time with the help of this gel-filled seat cushion. Everything on the Yakpads proprietary is well-balanced to enhance comfort. The padding is quite thick, yet it is thin enough not to raise your center of gravity. In the same vein, it is soft enough to make you feel very comfy.
The Yakpads Paddle Saddle has a high backrest that makes it very suitable for recreational kayaking. It is very easy to attach the backrests to your existing backrest with the quick snap clips that come with it.
Amazingly, the seat does not slip around even when it is not strapped. It stays in place regardless of how fast you are paddling. The rough rubbery-grip texture of the rear surface that is in contact with the boat makes this possible.
Wins & Fails
1. Installation is easy and straightforward
2. The sitting surface is very smooth
3. There are non-slip bumps on the backside of the seat pad
4. The seat is not very large, so it may not fit somebody types
5. It does not dry up easily when it gets wet
3. Skwoosh High Back Kayak Seat
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| Brand | Skwoosh |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Foam |
| Seat Cushion | Waterproof |
This product is a good blend of performance and workmanship. It features an amazing combination of nylon fluidized gel seat cushions with a 20-inch contoured high back that is fully reinforced with two fiberglass battens.
The straps come with swivel clips that are resistant to corrosion. Installation is very easy because the straps are adjustable. The seat is made of heavy-duty fabrics. As such, it can withstand the stress of demanding use.
The Skwoosh seat is cost-effective and highly durable. It is optimized for the provision of comfort and convenience. It is no doubt a perfect choice for fishermen and long-duration paddlers. With this seat, I assure you of day-long kayaking with full comfort and support.
Wins & Fails
1. Comes with a waterproof seat
2. Can bear the stress of demanding use
3. Quick and easy to install
4. The seat padding is not so thick
4. Ocean Kayak Comfort Tech Seat Back
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| Brand | Ocean Kayak |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Durable polyester |
| Size | One Size |
This seat is so comfortable that your long tour of the ocean could feel just like a short trip around the pond. Throughout the ride, your posture will remain comfortably upright due to the molded backrest. Even after long-term use, it can still maintain its shape. This is made possible by solid brass clips and reinforced stays.
Without mincing words, this product is built to last. Its stainless steel springs add to its overall durability. Furthermore, it features four-way adjustable nylon straps. The flexibility of these straps makes it possible to modify the lean and side wrapping supports.
You need not worry about larger vessels when kayaking in the dark. This product has reflective logo patches that glow in the dark after exposure to sunlight. With this, your paddle craft is visible to larger vessels in the dark.
Wins & Fails
1. Flexible
2. The straps are adjustable, so it can easily fit on all Ocean kayaks
3. Installation is fast and easy
4. It’s not ridged enough
5. The straps fabric is not so strong
5. Surf To Summit GTS Sport Sit-On-Top Kayak Seat
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| Brand | Surf To Summit |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Foam, Polyvinyl Chloride |
| Fit Type | Universal Fit |
The GTS Sport kayak seat has cushioned thermoformed foam panels. These panels give this seat the ability to provide customized cushioning to everyone who uses it. While at it, its requisite firmness is not compromised even one bit.
This product pays detailed attention to vulnerable areas where extra stress is apparent. These areas are strengthened with heavy-duty 600 denier fabrics. It is fully optimized for back support and fatigue reduction with its awesome combination of ultra-soft, comfortable EVA foam and PVC plastic foam.
The seat has a height of 12.5 inches. At this height, it gives amazing back support for any paddler regardless of size.
Wins & Fails
1. Highly flexible attachment system
2. Can be used by small-sized paddlers
3. Compatible with sit-in kayaks
4. There is not much cushion on the bottom
5. It does not dry up easily when it gets wet
6. Manta Ray Deluxe Kayak Seat
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| Brand | YakGear |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Ploypropylene |
| Item Weight | 2.5 Pounds |
The Manta Ray is a very versatile kayak seat. It fits well into canoes, sit-on-top kayaks, as well as sit-inside kayaks. The backrest has a height of 19 inches and is one inch thick. With this, your back will get all the support it needs whenever you are riding. I can assure you of long-lasting support for your back even if you have to paddle for an extended period of time.
The bottom is also not left out of the comfort. It stands at 15 inches and features an EVA Foam that is 1-1/2 inches thick to provide lasting comfort for your butts as you embark on your kayaking adventure.
One special feature of the Manta Ray seat is the presence of water gutters on its seat bottom. These gutters are designed to help channel the water away as your seating area takes in a little water.
Wins & Fails
1. It provides great support and stability
2. It has a non-skid bottom
3. The back is adjustable
4. The buckles are made of plastic
5. Additional hardware is needed for installation in sit-inside kayaks
7. Saturn Deluxe Molded Foam Kayak Seat
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| Brand | Saturn |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Plastic |
| Color | Black |
My first impression when I first saw this kayak seat is that it looks like a seat from a high-end sports car. Using it feels the same as well. It has deep molded center panels which are padded around the perimeters by a contrasting black molded foam.
The Saturn Deluxe seat provides optimum back support. It also has a detachable cushion just in case you need more support for your butts. The removable cushion also serves to lift the seat higher.
This product also features a detachable zipper pack with two sturdy plastic fishing rod holders. These rod holders, in turn, have built-in securing straps to give you easy access to your rod and keep them safe, thus giving you absolute peace of mind as you paddle.
Wins & Fails
1. It has a rigid back support
2. The seat does not slip
3. The connecting straps are marine grade
4. The seat may be too hard without the detachable cushion
5. It may not fit into some sit-on kayaks due to its tall back
8. iROCKER Inflatable Paddle Board Kayak Seat
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| Brand | iROCKER |
| Style | Classic |
| Weight | 1.38 Kilograms |
| Sport Type | Kayak |
This seat is more specifically made for the iROCKER inflatable stand-up paddleboards. However, it can also be used on many other brands of inflatable SUP. It is compatible with any inflatable SUP for as long as the paddleboard has D-rings on it.
This product has 2 straps and clips on each side for a total of 4. These ensure that the kayak seat is kept secure to your paddle board. The iROCKER seat is made of first-grade materials. It is designed to give optimum comfort and long-lasting use.
Wins & Fails
1. The materials used are of the highest quality
2. A hand pump is included
3. It also comes with a paddle and a bag
4. It may take some time to get the adjustment right
9. Kerco Explorer Sit-On-Top Kayak Seat
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| Brand | KERCO |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Nylon |
| Form Factor | In Ear |
The Kerco Explorer kayak seat is most compatible with sit-on-top kayaks. One of the features that make this product outstanding is the inclusion of adjustable straps. These straps, four in total, are designed to fit various brands of kayaks.
The backrest is also a very important part to take note of. It has enough padding that allows your back to rest comfortably even when you paddle for a long period of time. Despite that, the backrest still has a bit of rigidity to it which helps maintain your posture throughout the entire duration of your kayaking adventure.
Furthermore, it is thick, durable, and can withstand the stress of prolonged use. It is made of molded foam and nylon which makes it fit for wet conditions.
Wins & Fails
1. The seat is made of molded foam and nylon
2. It has 4 adjustable straps
3. It also comes with a removable pouch
4. It has no anti-skid material
5. The seat doesn’t have nearly enough padding
10. Pactrade Marine Adjustable Padded Deluxe Kayak Seat
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| Brand | Pactrade Marine |
| Style | Classic |
| Material | Polyethylene, Foam, Neoprene |
| Orientation | Drivers Side |
Although this is custom-made for a sit-on-top kayak paddler, it can work well with most kayaks and canoes. The seat is made of high-quality materials that will give you a comfortable kayaking experience. It is well-padded and adjustable.
Both the front and rear straps are adjustable and feature four hooks that keep the seat secured to the kayak. Meanwhile, the backrest is designed for maximum comfort. It is a lightweight and long-lasting product made of neoprene and 600D Polyester. The inner layer is made of EVA foam and PE palate.
Wins & Fails
1. It has a non-slip surface
2. The front and rear straps are adjustable
3. The removable bag is good for storage
4. The detachable backpack is not accessible on sit-in kayaks
Why You Need A Kayak Seat
Having considered the best kayak seats in the market, why exactly do you need to get one? Firstly, you need them to enhance your level of comfort when you are kayaking, particularly to provide some amount of cushioning to support your back and your bottom.
Second, you need a kayak seat to enhance stability. When you are well-positioned in a good kayak seat, you can secure a perfect balance. This is particularly important for special activities like angling and fishing.
Kayaking is quite risky. The most imminent risk while kayaking, most especially for beginners, is tipping over. Another danger is getting trapped in the kayak in case there is danger. Getting a kayak seat can significantly eliminate certain risks and enhance your safety during your kayaking adventure. For instance, an elevated seat will eliminate the risk of being trapped in the kayak.
Finally, getting a kayak seat can significantly widen the range of activities you can undertake with your kayak. A high back seat, for example, can give you the privilege of undertaking water activities like scuba diving, surfing, fishing, etc.
Types Of Kayak Seats Available In The Market
There are many types of kayak seats, and it is very important to have some knowledge about these different types before you buy one. They are as follows:
1. Basic Seat
Basic seats usually just add some extra padded cushion to enhance the level of your comfortability. With a basic seat, you can eliminate the possibility of aches and pains, especially when you plan to go on lengthier paddling journeys.
2. Deluxe Seat
A deluxe seat is a step up from the basic seat. It has a relatively higher amount of cushion padding than a basic seat. As a result, it provides additional back support. A deluxe seat will be of help if you have challenges with back pains during your kayak adventures.
However, before you buy a deluxe seat, you must ascertain that it is suitable for your kayak. Pay particular attention to the height of the backrest. That usually determines whether or not a deluxe seat will fit properly on a sit-on kayak.
3. High Back Seat
High-back seats are the best option for anglers. This is so because they offer better support if you are going to be sitting still for a long period. Kayakers who are extremely tall may discover that high back seats give them a better cockpit fit and back support.
4. Inflatable
The best form of convenience ever in kayaking is provided by inflatable kayaks. However, the disadvantage with inflatable kayaks is that the convenience offered is at the cost of support and comfort. They usually don’t offer the kind of support and comfort that you get from a proper kayak seat.
Factors To Consider When Buying A Kayak Seat
Deciding which kayak seat to buy is not really a difficult task. You will definitely make the best decision so long as you pay attention to some factors such as:
1. Your Kayaking Needs
The very first factor to consider when deciding which kayak seat to buy is your kayaking needs. Ask yourself what exactly you are looking for. It could be that you want some added comfort, increased stability, or some extra storage. When you have correctly identified what you need, you can easily find a kayak seat that can successfully meet those needs.
2. The Backrest
Check the backrest of the kayak seat you intend to purchase before you eventually settle for it. A good kayak seat will find a good balance between padding and rigidity. It needs to have a good amount of padding to make it comfortable.
However, it also needs some measure of rigidity to support your back and provide the reinforcement that it deserves. There are certain seats that have backrests that self-conform to the body of the rider. Such seats are the preferred choice for those who have back problems.
3. The Dimensions Of The Seat
There is no point in buying a seat that you cannot fit in. Therefore, you must compare your measurements with the dimensions of the seat. Basically, the seat must be able to comfortably accommodate your hips, buttocks, and thighs. Also, the backrest must be able to adequately support the majority of your torso.
4. Compatibility
The issue of compatibility is very important. The comfortability of a kayak seat doesn’t matter at all if it cannot fit into your kayak. The best way to determine whether or not a seat is compatible with your kayak is to take the measurements of the kayak and match them with the measurements of the seat. Apart from the measurements, you should also find out whether your vessel has the necessary features that allow you to strap in a seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How To Make Kayak Seats More Comfortable?
Usually, the seats in kayaks vary in shape and size, but they are always flat and not contoured. A person who sits in a kayak will typically invest an hour or more at a time. This can lead to numbness, soreness, and also back pain.
For this reason, many manufacturers are now making changes to the seats of their kayaks to make them more comfortable. One of the most popular changes is adding padding on the seat bottom and backrest with closed-cell foam or open-cell foam for longer periods of sitting.
Other changes include adding contouring curves to the seat bottom and backrest with varying thicknesses depending on need, as well as adding padded armrests or even padded backs.
2. Do Sit-On-Top Seats Work With Sit-In Kayaks Or Canoes?
Though there are basic differences in the structure of those two Sit on kayaks and Sit-in kayaks; the seats are usually the same in design and structure. But for Canoe; the sit on or sit in kayak seats will not work. Kayak seats are low and sit much closer to the water than canoe seats do. This makes them more difficult to use in windy conditions, but they maneuver more easily. In a canoe, you can kneel on your seat while paddling or take a break from paddling completely with your weight distributed evenly on both knees or one.
3. Should I Upgrade My Kayak Seat, Pad or Cushion?
Seat cushions, pads, and seats are all designed to provide comfort and support. Whether you’re looking for something with more cushioning or a firmer seat, it is important to consider the type of kayaking you do. For day tours, many kayakers prefer a softer seat. For overnight trips, most people opt for a firmer seat that will offer greater support and provide more comfort when sitting for extended periods of time. There are also air pads that can be inflated with an air pump based on personal preference. paragraphs: Kayaking is not just about paddling in a straight line! There are many factors to consider when buying gear to enjoy this sport comfortably. With so many options out there it may be hard to know what is right for you.
4. What Is A Kayak Seat? How Do They Work?
A kayak seat is designed to provide stability and support for long paddling trips. It attaches to your kayak and can be adjusted easily according to how high or low you want it to be on your back. A kayak seat also makes it easier to change positions when fishing or taking pictures from your kayak. They’re designed with comfort in mind, so you’ll feel like you’re sitting on a lounge chair rather than a hard plastic seat that can cause pain after a few hours of paddling.
5. How To Know Or Check Which Kayak Seat Is Good For Me?
There are a number of different kayak seats on the market, and it can be hard to know which one is best for you. First, before committing to anyone’s seat, test out a few different options at a store. Sit down in the kayak seats and make sure they are easy for you to get into. Make sure you can sit comfortably and still have room for your legs or feet when paddling. Once you find a seat that works well, it’s time to think about how often you’ll be using your kayak seat. If you need more storage space or want something with extra comfort features like cupholders or back support, then go with an inflatable one like Sea Eagle’s Sit-On-Top Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Set that comes
6. Thicker Or Thinner – What Kind Of Kayaking Seats Are Good?
Seat thickness depends upon the type of kayaking activity you will be doing.
For example, if you’re looking for a seat that will last a long time and give you the best chance of being comfortable on longer trips, then you might want to purchase something with a good amount of padding.
However, if your kayaking activities are more recreational in nature and you’re looking for a seat that will be quick-drying and lightweight then perhaps something thinner is more appropriate.
Regardless of the type of kayaker that you are, it’s important to consider not just seat thickness but also other characteristics such as weight capacity and durability before making your purchase because ultimately it’s going to depend on what your needs are when paddling
The Crack of Dawn Apex 1 kayak seat is a 2.7-pound, high-density foam cushion that will keep your tush as secure as possible for hours on end.
7. What Is A Kayak Seat Material?
A kayak seat material is typically made of molded plastic, fiberglass, or foam and is designed to be lightweight and sturdy. It’s important to consider the type of kayaking you’re planning on doing before you choose a seat as some materials are more durable than others and offer better performance in different situations. A good way to test which type of material is best for you is to try out a few different seats before making your final decision.
8. What Is EVA Foam?
EVA is a foam product that is designed for outdoor use. It is made from a mixture of EVA foam and polyurethane, which is injected into molds. The process allows the company to make shapes that would be difficult to make with other manufacturing methods, such as curves or ridges. EVA Foam has been used in construction, furniture, packaging, and other industries. It does not require any heat insulation before installation so it can be installed in climates where heat insulation would be difficult or expensive to install. EVA foam was originally developed in the 1970s by NASA for use on aircraft seats to absorb the force from takeoff and landings. EVA foam is a popular choice for padding because it’s both durable and comfortable, while still being lightweight. It’s largely used in sports equipment like boxing and hockey pads.
9. What Is A Gel Padded Seat?
A gel padded seat is usually typical for office chairs and is most commonly used by people who spend many hours sitting down. It helps to improve blood circulation in the lower body and, as a result, it alleviates the symptoms of back pain.
Gel padded seats can also be found on stools or on saddles of bikes. They provide excellent support and comfort when cycling or kayaking for long distances.
Final Notes
There are many good kayaks in the market that seem to be lacking in comfort and support provided by their seat. It is, therefore, not surprising that there is a number of kayak seats for sale in the market.
But then, the many types and brands of kayak seats available in the market make us wonder which ones are the best kayak seats out there.
With the information and guide I have supplied above, you now have what it takes to make the right choice and buy a kayak seat that will truly satisfy your needs.
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
