Best Kayak Seats of 2022

BEST FOR: PADDLERS ON A BUDGET

If you don’t have a fortune to spend but would appreciate adding a degree of comfort to your current kayak seat, consider the $30 YakPads Gel Seat Pad — it’s worth every penny.

Unlike other options on this list, the YakPads doesn’t function as an independent kayak seat but instead functions by strapping onto a seat already in place. The gel neoprene construction provides for a level of cushioning that reduces pressure on the spine while the high back design adds plenty of additional lumbar support. 

What I like most about the YakPads Gel Seat Pad are the eyelet loops that strap the cushion securely to your seat, effectively keeping it from moving around, even in rough waters.

BEST FOR: KAYAK FISHING

When you’re in need of a practical, high quality kayak seat with fishing-specific storage space for under $50, give the WOOWAVE a ride.

The WOOWAVE features a durable 210 denier polyester exterior and EVA-foam-filled interior. The seat bag is detachable, which is a convenient option for anglers with multiple boats. There are four way adjustable straps and corresponding copper metal hooks that attach this seat to the kayak.

What I like most about the WOOWAVE Padded Deluxe is the high-quality, contoured high-back seat.

 BEST INFLATABLE OPTION

Seats with rigid components run the risk of damaging inflatable-style kayak, so the brand designed the Sea Eagle specifically for inflatable kayaks.

For an inflatable kayak seat, the Sea Eagle Deluxe provides for a superior 14 inches of back support that allows you to sit five inches off the floor. It easily detaches and packs away to a small size when not in use. Weighing in at just 3.5 pounds, it’s easy to transport and store.

What I like most about the Sea Eagle Deluxe is that it can be used as a chair when not being used in as a kayak seat.

BEST FOR: EXTENDED TRIPS

If you’re looking for top-of-the line lumbar support, a 20 inch high back, and a thick, gel seat bottom, look no further — the Expedition features all of these things.

Skwoosh designed the Expedition specifically for just that — long adventures. The gel seat cushion is 1 inch thick and waterproof — ensuring you don’t absorb any water that creeps into your vessel. The back of the seat is reinforced with a set of plastic battens, serving to provide both upper and lower back support.

What I like most about the Skwoosh Expedition is that it comes with two insulated water bottle holders, which are convenient for keeping a cold drink on hand.

BEST FOR: EXTRA PADDING UNDERNEATH

If all you need is a little extra padding under your seat, then this gel pad is your answer. You can set this seat on top of your existing seat for a little extra cushioning. You could also use the gel pad anywhere else that has a hard seat, such as bleachers, buses, and boats. The non-slip bottom stays put on hard plastic and metal.

The space age gel relieves pressure on your skeletal system, helps maintain circulation, and prevents numbness. Breathable mesh keeps also helps maintain airflow so you don’t get overheated.

BEST FOR: SIT-ON-TOP KAYAKS

This seat is meant to fit Ocean Kayak’s sit-on-top kayaks, but its four-way adjustable mount system and swivel clips should fit most other sit-on-top models as well. The seat provides extra padding, a tall back, and side pads to brace you for long rides.

The tough, UV-resistant fabric resists the rigors you put it through and still looks presentable. Reinforced areas not only lend durability to the seat but also provide additional support for the back. Overall, this seat allows you to enjoy your peaceful ride without the distractions of discomfort from sitting against hard plastic all day.

BEST FOR: WRAPAROUND SUPPORT

This kayak seat provides more padding than your standard-issue kayak seat, but not as much as some of the plusher models here. If you’re happy with something “in between,” then this seat should do just fine. The unique seat shape sort of wraps around your torso, offering support from the sides too.

Adjustable straps let you find your sitting sweet spot, whether you want to sit tall or lean back on a bit of an incline. The brass spring clips attach to the existing eyelets on most kayaks. With high-back support and ventilation, you should be able to stay out on the water longer than before.

BEST FOR: WET, SLIPPERY RIDES 

This seat has a non-slip seating surface to keep you from losing traction when you get wet. In addition, the secure straps stay in position so you can sit upright or recline without gradually sinking. Reviewers remind us that the seat could stand to be a little more stiff with a bit more padding under the bottom, but it definitely extends your comfort.

This particular seat was made with sit-on-top kayak models in mind but can successfully be installed in sit-inside models with a few minor adjustments. Either way, the additional storage in the bonus detachable zippered pouch adds a little something extra you can definitely use.

BEST FOR: THE MOST CREATURE COMFORTS

This top-of-the-line kayak seat has some of the most impressive comfort features of any of the seats listed here. The tall height and superior padding make your ride much more enjoyable than your standard-issue seat. That means you can spend more time immersed in nature.

Brass swivel buckles attach to your kayak from any angle while the adjustable straps help you find the level of incline you want to keep. The sturdy seat is nice and firm so it doesn’t bend and fold so easily against your weight. Some kayakers appreciate this feature while others feel it’s a bit too rigid.