Did you know that having a comfortable and supportive kayak seat can make a huge difference in your kayak session? Many kayakers turn back early not because their bodies are tired, but because their backs are aching or their bottoms are sore. If this sounds like you, then it might be time to invest in a new kayak seat. With so many models, features, and different materials though, finding the best kayak seat can be a huge challenge.
Here at The Adventure Junkies, one of our major goals is to find the best gear on the market. In this guide, we’ll show you what features to look for in a kayak seat. We’ll also share with you the top models that made it to our list this year.
For more of our top kayaking gear recommendations, check out the Best Kayaking Dry Bags.
QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST KAYAK SEATS
1. SURF TO SUMMIT GTS SPORT
2. SWOOSH EXPEDITION
3. OCEAN KAYAK COMFORT TECH
4. YAK-GEAR MANTA RAY
5. SURF TO SUMMIT GTPS EXPEDITION
6. SURF TO SUMMIT ELEVATED
7. SATURN DELUXE MOLDED FOAM
8. VIBE DELUXE CUSHIONED
9. SEATTLE SPORTS EZ
10. HARMONY STANDARD
COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST KAYAK SEATS
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KAYAK SEATS REVIEWS
SURF TO SUMMIT GTS SPORT
BEST FOR: Smaller paddlers in search of a kayak seat with support and cushioning
BACK HEIGHT: Low
STIFFNESS: Medium
PROS: Universal and customizable size, comes with pocket on the back, durable, adjustable strap system
CONS: Taller or larger paddlers will want a higher back, might not fit all sit-in kayaks
SWOOSH EXPEDITION
BEST FOR: Kayakers who need a very supportive seat for long session expeditions
BACK HEIGHT: High
STIFFNESS: Medium
PROS: Comes with gel seat cushion, wide and fully adjustable lumbar support, padded backrest with size wings, supports all sides of the back, bag on back of the seat
CONS: Bottom padding could be softer, back might be too high for petite kayakers
OCEAN KAYAK COMFORT TECH
BEST FOR: Kayakers looking for a seat that suits just about every size and ability of paddler
BACK HEIGHT: High
STIFFNESS: Soft
PROS: Built-in ventilation, side panel back supports, adjustable straps, reflective logos, extra cushioning on the back, durable fabric
CONS: Seat padding a bit too firm for long paddles
YAK-GEAR MANTA RAY
BEST FOR: Endurance-sport kayakers needing a seat that will stay comfortable under duress
BACK HEIGHT: High
STIFFNESS: Medium
PROS: Suits just about every type of kayak, non-skid bottom, built-in gutters to flush out water, adjustable straps, perfect for long trips, durable
CONS: Smaller paddlers might find seat too big and might restrict movement
SURF TO SUMMIT GTPS EXPEDITION
BEST FOR: Kayakers needing a firm and supportive seat for long paddles
BACK HEIGHT: High
STIFFNESS: Firm
PROS: Six point adjustable straps, drainage system, bungee back to store items, no-slip bottom, great support
CONS: Could be too firm and rigid for leisure paddlers
SURF TO SUMMIT ELEVATED
BEST FOR: Fishermen needing a seat that leaves a lot of room for movement
BACK HEIGHT: Low
STIFFNESS: Firm
PROS: Elevated seat lets fishermen see further, extra cushioned, zippered pouch on back, raises you out of water
CONS: Minimal back support, extra height may cause instability
SATURN DELUXE MOLDED FOAM
BEST FOR: Fishermen needing plenty of storage space for gear
BACK HEIGHT: High
STIFFNESS: Medium
PROS: Large zippered pouch on back comes with two rod holders, no-slip seat bottom, great value for money, adjustable straps
CONS: Does not come with seat cushion – will have to pair it with extra
VIBE DELUXE CUSHIONED
BEST FOR: Kayakers on a budget needing a supportive and adjustable seat
BACK HEIGHT: Mid
STIFFNESS: Firm
PROS: Adjustable straps, comes with storage pouch, simple, versatile
CONS: Not as durable as other seats on the market – might wear out quickly for long-term kayakers
SEATTLE SPORTS EZ
BEST FOR: Kayakers who need a simple yet comfortable seat
BACK HEIGHT: Low
STIFFNESS: Soft
PROS: Simple, easy to adjust, will suit just about every make and model of kayak, ventilation system, durable
CONS: Not ideal for kayakers in need of extra features or back support
HARMONY STANDARD
BEST FOR: Kayakers needing an all-around seat for great value
BACK HEIGHT: Mid
STIFFNESS: Medium
PROS: Side support, adjustable straps, non-slip bottom, great value, durable
CONS: Thin cushion on bottom might be uncomfortable for long paddle sessions
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST KAYAK SEATS
SUPPORT AND COMFORT
Kayak seats come in various back lengths and structural supports. Generally, the higher the back, the better support and comfort it will provide especially for long paddles. You’ll want a seat specifically with lumbar or lower back support to protect your spine over the long run.
Sometimes, kayak seats with high backs can be limiting for kayakers who need to be agile and able to navigate through tight spaces or caves. If this sounds like your kayaking style, opt for a kayak seat with a flexible frame and lower back.
The amount of padding in a kayak seat also affects its comfort level. Thicker cushioning tends to be more comfortable, but can soak up water and takes longer to dry. If you find yourself constantly shifting in your kayak to relieve soreness, then you’re probably due for a more cushioned kayak seat. The best kayak seat will offer a balance of softness and support.
FEATURES
Kayak seats are typically made from foam cushioning, neoprene, mesh, rubber and other materials that are durable yet flexible. Though the specifics usually do not matter too much, there are a few key features you’ll want to look out for when choosing your new kayak seat.
Ideally, the backrest should have a mesh panel so that humidity and moisture have room to escape. If your seat gets too wet, you might chafe or find it uncomfortable to sit for a long time. Besides, nobody likes a soggy backside. You’ll want the back to offer support but still remain breathable. All fabric should be water resistant or water repellent, especially if it’s covering foam.
You might also want a kayak seat that comes with adjustable straps so that you can adjust the angle of the backrest easily to suit the type of kayaking you’re doing on a specific outing.
Other fun and practical features that some kayak seats come with are pockets, which are perfect for fishermen, and bottle holders. These really aren’t essential, but they do come in handy.
Of course, the kayak seat should also be comfortable with your life jacket. This guide on Canoe and Kayak Magazine shares that “the first sign of a rookie kayaker is someone who isn’t wearing a life jacket or is wearing one that doesn’t fit properly.”
USE
There are many different types of kayaks, and several will require their own specific kayak seats. Before buying a kayak seat, you’ll want to double check that it’s compatible with the make of your kayak.
Sit-on-top kayaks typically accept most makes of kayak seats. Meanwhile, sit-in kayaks, fishing kayaks, touring kayaks, sea kayaks, whitewater kayaks and other performance-focused kayaks might need seats with custom dimensions.
If you’re confused on what type of kayak to buy, the experts at REI have put together a guide on choosing the right one for you. No matter what type of kayaking you plan to do, you’ll need a comfortable seat for the best setup to get all the benefits of the sport!
For this guide, we’ll be focusing on universal kayak seats that will fit most sit-on-top kayak models.
READ MORE
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