When you are in the market for kayak seats, it can be hard to know where to start. Do you need seats that are specifically for kids? There is so much information out there on the internet and in stores – with no clear direction of what is best! That’s why we’ve created this article: a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect kayak seat. We cover things like how many people usually ride in your boat, whether or not they will need back rests, and even some special considerations just for kids!
A kayak seat is a type of seating that you install in a kayak to provide comfort and support while paddling. They are typically made out of foam, plastic, or wood and can be either removable or fixed. The best kayak seats will have good back support, which is essential for preventing fatigue and discomfort during long trips.
The way a kayak seat works will depend on the design of the particular seat. However, in general, the seat will be attached to the bottom of the boat with screws or bolts, and it will then be secured to the inside of the cockpit using straps or buckles. This will keep it in place while you paddle and prevent it from moving around too much.
If you’re going to be spending any significant amount of time in your kayak, then it’s important to have a good seat. A comfortable kayak seat will provide support for your back and hips, which can help prevent fatigue and pain. It will also keep you more stable in the boat, which is especially important if you’re fishing or shooting photos from your kayak.
In addition, a good kayak seat can make the experience more enjoyable by providing extra padding and insulation against cold weather. And finally, many seats come with built-in storage areas that can be used to store gear or food while you’re paddling.
Kayak Seats Reviewed
The Surf to Summit Outfitter Backpack kayak seat is a great choice for enthusiasts who are looking for an affordable, lightweight, and portable seating option. It weighs about 12 pounds in total so it’s easy enough to carry around by yourself .
One of the best features of this model is its backpack design which allows you to store all your gear in the main compartment while paddling. Plus there’s also additional storage space on each side that can be used to hold smaller items like wallets or water bottles . This set up makes it perfect for longer trips when you need more supplies than usual . Unfortunately though, the bag isn’t waterproof , so if you get caught out in bad weather conditions then everything inside will likely get wet.
The Outfitter Back also features a comfortable back panel and shoulder straps which make it easy to wear for extended periods of time . And since the seat is made from durable 600 Denier Polyester, you can be sure it will last for many trips to come.
- Lightweight and portable design
- Backpack storage allows you to take all your gear with you while paddling
- Comfortable back panel and shoulder straps
- May not be suitable for larger individuals
The Ocean Kayak Comfort Plus Seat Back is one of the most popular and best-selling kayak seats on the market today. It offers a level of comfort that’s hard to match, thanks in part to its adjustable design . You can easily change up the angle at which it sits so you’re always sitting straight up and facing forward while paddling.
Another advantage with this model is its lightweight but durable construction, which means it won’t be too much trouble when carrying around by yourself for longer trips. And since it only weighs about 12 pounds in total , you’ll have no problem lifting or moving it into your car before heading out on fishing expeditions either .
Unfortunately though, there are some issues worth mentioning with these kayak seats. One is that the backrest doesn’t offer as much support as some people might need, which could lead to discomfort over long periods of time . Additionally, it can be a bit tricky to get the seat installed properly on your kayak – you’ll definitely need someone else’s help for that.
- Adjustable seat angle to find your perfect position
- Easy transport as it doesn’t weigh much and is made of durable material.
- None
The Sea Eagle Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seat is a great option for those looking for an affordable, portable kayak seat. It can be easily inflated and deflated so you can store it away when not in use, and it only weighs about two pounds overall. It is recommended for kayaks with a width of 16 to 23 inches.
This Sea Eagle Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seat comes as one piece and features contoured seating for comfort. The backrest can be adjusted, and it also has lumbar support built in so you will not slump down while paddling or boating. This seat measures about 11 by 15 inches when deflated but expands up to 12 by 19 inches when inflated. There are two air chambers that allow the user to adjust inflation levels based on their weight preference and level of firmness desired, making this ideal for those who prefer more give than others might like.
- Inflation and deflation is quick and easy
- Very affordable option for those looking to save money
- Lightweight so it can be deflated, stored away, and brought along on camping trips without adding too much weight overall
- Only comes as a one piece seat so there are no options if you want convenience of storage with the ability to move around or sit in different positions easily
The Saturn Deluxe Molded Foam Kayak Seat is a high-quality option for those looking for a comfortable, durable kayak seat. It is made of molded foam that will not lose its shape over time and it has an adjustable backrest so you can find the perfect position for paddling. This seat also comes with a built-in storage area underneath so you can keep your gear handy while out on the water.
This kayak seat measures about 18 by 21 inches and it fits most standard kayaks. The weight limit is 250 pounds, making it ideal for people of all sizes. It has been designed to reduce fatigue and discomfort when spending long hours in a kayak, making it perfect for fishing trips or extended tours.
The Saturn Deluxe Molded Foam Kayak Seat is a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable kayak seat.
- Comfortable molded foam construction
- Adjustable backrest
- Built-in storage area
- None noted
The Pactrade Marine Adjustable Kayak Seat is a great option if you are looking for a comfortable and adjustable kayak seat. This seat can be easily adjusted to fit nearly any body size, making it a good choice for people of all shapes and sizes. The seat also features high-density foam padding that provides plenty of comfort while paddling.
The Pactrade Marine Adjustable Kayak Seat is made of heavy-duty marine-grade vinyl and it has a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds. It measures 18 by 21 inches and fits most standard kayaks. This seat is also easy to install, making it a good choice for those who are not very experienced with kayaking.
In general, the Pactrade Marine Adjustable Kayak Seat is a good option for those who are looking to upgrade their current kayaks with a more comfortable seat. This product can be easily adjusted and it features large pockets that store essentials such as cell phones or sunglasses while you’re paddling.
- Comfortable
- Adjustable to fit most body sizes
- Heavy-duty construction
- Easy to install
- None identified.
The Skwoosh Expedition Kayak Seat is a good option for those who are looking for a comfortable and durable kayak seat. This seat is made of heavy-duty foam and it has a weight capacity of up to 350 pounds. It also comes with a five-year warranty, making it a good investment for long-term use.
The Skwoosh Expedition Kayak Seat measures 18 by 21 inches and it fits most standard kayaks. It is also easy to install, making it a good choice for those who are not very experienced with kayaking.
The Skwoosh Expedition Kayak Seat also comes with a lumbar support option that allows you to adjust the lower part of the back in order to get even more comfort when sitting down in your kayak . On top of all these benefits, the Skwoosh Expedition Kayak Seat is very affordable and light-weighted , making it an excellent choice for those who are looking for both affordability and durability .
- Has a five year warranty
- Heavy duty foam
- Light weighted
- Easy installation
- Too large or too small depending on boat
The Leader Accessories Deluxe Padded Kayak Seat is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable kayak seat. This deluxe padded kayak seat has lumbar support and it can be adjusted to fit most standard-sized seats, with the back fitting perfectly on most types of boats .
This paddling accessory comes in three different colors (black, blue or gray), making it easy to find one that will match your boat’s design. The Leader Accessories Deluxe Padded Kayak Seat weighs only two pounds , which makes it extremely lightweight yet durable enough for rough waters . It is made out of heavy duty molded plastic and its high density foam allows you maximum comfort when sitting down in your kayak for hours .
All these benefits make the Leader Accessories Deluxe Padded Kayak Seat a good option for both beginners and experienced kayakers , who are looking for an affordable yet durable seat that offers maximum comfort when paddling.
- Lightweight
- Three colors to choose from
- Adjusts to fit most kayaks
- Very comfortable
- None
The GTS Expedition Molded Foam Kayak Seat is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable and comfortable kayak seat. This molded foam kayak seat has high density foam, which makes it very comfortable to sit in for hours on end. It also comes with lumbar support, so you can be sure that your back will be well-supported when paddling.
This kayaking accessory is made out of heavy duty molded plastic and it comes in four different colors (black, green, red or yellow), making it easy to find one that will match your boat’s design. The GTS Expedition Molded Foam Kayak Seat weighs only two pounds , which makes it extremely lightweight yet durable enough for rough waters.
One downside to this kayak seat is that it does not have any straps or clips to keep you in place, so you may find yourself slipping around a bit while paddling. Overall, the GTS Expedition Molded Foam Kayak Seat is a great option for those looking for an affordable and comfortable kayaking seat.
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- No straps or clips to keep you in place
The Cascade Mountain Tech Folding Fishing Kayak Seat is a great option for those looking for a kayaking seat that can be easily stored away when not in use. This fishing kayak seat folds up and it weighs only five pounds , so you will have no trouble carrying it around with you on the boat or off of it.
This adjustable kayak accessory comes equipped with high-density foam, which makes sitting very comfortable even over long periods of time . It also features lumbar support, making your back feel supported while paddling.
One thing to note is that this kayak seat does not have a backrest, so it may not be the best option for those looking for extra support while paddling. However, if you are looking for a comfortable seat that can easily be stored away when not in use, the Cascade Mountain Tech Folding Fishing Kayak Seat is a great option.
- Weighs only five pounds
- Easy to store away when not in use
- Does not have a backrest.
The Yakpads Cushioned Seat Pad is a great option for those looking to upgrade their kayak seat with some extra comfort. Not only does this kayak accessory provide excellent back support, it also comes equipped with built-in pockets that can be used to store small items . This means you will not have to worry about losing anything from your pocket while out on the water.
Another benefit of choosing the Yakpads Cushioned Seat Pad as your replacement or spare kayaking seat is that it’s extremely easy to attach and detach from any standard canoe or kayak using three quick release buckles . The pads themselves are made out of high quality materials, so they should last long time even if you use them frequently.
- Comes with built-in pockets
- Easy to attach and detach from kayaks or canoes
- May be too bulky for some users
Key Considerations for Buying a Kayak Seat
- Basic Seat
The simplest type of kayak seat is the basic seat. This is a simple, foam-padded seat that is designed to provide comfort and support while you paddle. It is usually attached to the bottom of the boat with screws or bolts, and it can be secured to the inside of the cockpit using straps or buckles.
Basic seats are a good choice for beginner paddlers or people who only plan on using their kayaks occasionally. They are typically inexpensive and easy to install, but they may not offer as much support or padding as more advanced seats.
- Deluxe Seat
Deluxe seats are a step up from basic seats, and they typically provide more comfort and support. They are made out of thicker foam padding, which can help prevent fatigue and pain during long trips. Deluxe seats also often have built-in backrests, which can be helpful for people with back problems or who need extra support while paddling.
Deluxe seats usually attach to the kayak in the same way as basic seats, but they may require a little more effort to install. They are also more expensive than basic seats, but they offer a lot of value for the price.
- High Back Seat
A high back seat is a type of deluxe seat that has an extra-high backrest for even more support and comfort. It is perfect for people who need extra support while paddling, and it can also be helpful for those who suffer from back pain.
High back seats typically attach to the kayak in the same way as other deluxe seats, but they may require a little more effort to install. They are also more expensive than basic or deluxe seats, but they offer a lot of value for the price.
The type of padding that a kayak seat has will have an impact on its comfort and support. Foam is the most common material for padding, but other materials like gel can also be used.
- Padding
Padding made out of foam tends to provide good support without being too bulky or heavy. It may not last as long as some other types of padding, and it might wear down over time, especially if you’re using your kayak regularly. However, it’s usually more affordable than seats with thicker padding such as gel pads or air cells .
- Gel
Gel pads are often found in high back seats because they allow the paddler to sink into them while still providing cushioning against their body weight. Gel doesn’t absorb water so these types of seats are a good choice for kayakers who paddle in cold weather. They can also be quite comfortable, but they are often more expensive than other types of padding.
- Air
Air cells are another type of cushioning that is becoming increasingly popular in kayak seats. They offer a lot of support and comfort, and they typically stay cool even on hot days. However, they can be bulky and heavy, which can make them difficult to transport or store.
The size and style of a kayak seat can affect its ease of use, comfort, and fit. Most seats are designed to be used by people who weigh between 100 pounds (45 kg) and 250 pounds (115 kg). However, there may be some exceptions depending on the brand or model that you buy.
Most basic seats come in one standard size which is large enough for most adults . Deluxe models usually come in two sizes: regular or large , so it’s important to choose the right one based on your weight. High back seats typically only offer one size option because they’re built specifically for taller paddlers.
The back height of a seat is how far it extends above the kayak itself. Some people need more support than others, so different types of paddlers will have different needs when it comes to back height.
- Short
The average person’s upper body measures between 16 inches (40 cm) and 18 inches (45 cm). If you’re shorter than this range then you might need a lower-back seat with less length .
- Taller
If your torso is longer than 17 inches , which is around the midpoint for most adults, then you may benefit from either an adjustable or high-back style instead of standard seats with short backs. This ensures that there are no gaps in your lumbar area while seated in the kayak.
However, there are always exceptions to this rule depending on your body shape and type of seating position that you prefer.
The mounting straps on a kayak seat are what attach it to the kayak itself. They come in different styles, but all of them should do their job well if they’re made from high-quality materials.
Most seats use either buckles or clips to fasten themselves to the kayak. Buckles are more common because they offer a lot of adjustability and can be used with almost any type of strap . However, some people find them difficult to use because they require two hands to fasten .
Clips are easier to use than buckles, but they can’t be adjusted as easily. They also have a tendency to pop open if not properly secured .
Both types of straps should be adjustable so that you can get the right fit in your kayak.
Next thing to consider when purchasing a kayak seat is the color. Most seats are available in bright colors like yellow, green, or orange so that they can be easily seen by other boaters. This is especially important if you’re paddling in a group or on a busy waterway .
Some people also find that brightly colored seats help them stay more alert and focused while paddling.
It’s important to consider the storage options of a kayak seat. Some models come with built-in pockets or mesh netting that can be used to store gear while paddling. This is a handy feature if you don’t have much space on your kayak for extra gear .
Others include a removable backpack that can be worn while paddling, which is perfect for long trips when you need to take a lot of supplies with you.
Next thing to look for when purchasing a kayak seat is the quality of the materials. It’s important that the seat is made from durable, water-resistant materials so that it can withstand extended use on the water.
Seats with mesh backs are typically more breathable and comfortable than those with solid fabric backs, but they’re also less durable . So if you plan on using your seat often, it’s best to go with a model that has a solid fabric back.
Finally, be sure to check the warranty information before making your purchase. Most good quality seats come with at least a one-year warranty .
The last thing to consider when buying a kayak seat is whether you want a sit-on or sit-in model. A sit-on style typically has more surface area and offers greater stability, but they’re also heavier which makes them less portable .
In contrast, a sit-in style weighs much less so it’s easier to transport from place to place. However this type of seating position can be uncomfortable if the backrest isn’t ergonomically designed because all your weight will be concentrated at one point on your lower back .
As with most things in life though, there are always exceptions depending on personal preference and how often you plan on using your kayak seat. Always keep these factors in mind while making your purchase decision.
How To Install A Paddle Board Kayak Seat
- Remove old seat
- Measure the area where new kayak seat will go
- Take measurements and cut hole to size in kayak (or have a professional do it)
- Install new kayak seat with screws or bolts, making sure its secure
- Enjoy your new kayak seat!
Tools And Supplies:
- Kayak Seat
- Drill
- Screwdriver
FAQs
Conclusion
Kayak seats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the key is to find one that fits your needs. If you’re looking for comfort or want something lightweight, we can help you choose which kayak seat will work best for you. Read more about how to install a paddle board kayak seat if this sounds like what interests you most. Whatever type of kayaking you enjoy doing, there should be plenty of information on our blog post page to help get the perfect fit!