KAYAK SEAT BUYING GUIDE

A Beginner's Guide to Choosing a Kayak Seat

Part One – Sit-On-Top Kayak Seats

Kayaking is one of the best ways to connect with nature, find peace on the water, and enjoy a satisfying outdoor workout. But nothing can turn a serene paddle into an endurance test like an uncomfortable seat.

If you’re a sit-on-top kayak owner, the world is your oyster: just about any full seat should fit on your kayak. Unlike sit-inside kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks aren’t limited by a cockpit’s narrow dimensions, and most sit-on-tops come with convenient attachment points, often called deck loops or eye pads, to secure your seat.

Our all-time #1 top-selling product and top-selling kayak seat at Comfykayak.com is the GTS Expedition. What makes this seat so special is the 2” of compression molded foam on the seat bottom as well as the seat back for unprecedented cushioning and comfort. What’s more, the solid PVC-plastic backing in the 18” high seat back—standard in all seats belonging to the GTS series—provides the firmest back support available. The seat bottom of the Expedition is also pleated to facilitate water drainage. We simply don’t know of a better kayak seat out there.Regarding other seats in the GTS series, unfortunately, Surf to Summit recently announced the discontinuation of the GTS Pro, the GTS Elite and the GTS Sport. As of late November 2024, Comfykayak.com still carries these three seats, but quantities are limited.

Kayak seats from most other brands are typically made with durable canvas covering foam and use fiberglass battens on either side of the center seat back to hold the seat back upright. An exception is the Comfort Zone, which like the GTS seats has a solid PVC-plastic backing, which may be why it has become one of our more popular seats.

Why Sit-On-Top Kayak Seats are Unique

Sit-on-top kayaks are known for their open, spacious design. Instead of being enclosed in a cockpit, paddlers sit atop the kayak, which offers greater mobility, easier reentry after capsizing, and a more flexible range of seat options. Because sit-on-top kayaks often have a flat deck and integrated attachment points, you can add a variety of seats—from cushioned pads to full-back seats with lumbar support.

This flexibility gives you access to different styles, materials, and features to suit your needs, from all-day touring to quick paddles on your local pond. The challenge? With so many options available, choosing the right seat can be daunting. Here are some key factors to consider.

1. Comfort is King: Padding and Support

When choosing a kayak seat for your sit-on-top, comfort is a top priority. Your time on the water will be infinitely more enjoyable if you have a supportive and well-cushioned seat. Consider these factors when evaluating options:

• Padding Thickness: Look for seats with generous padding, particularly if you plan on long paddling trips. High-density foam offers excellent support and comfort for prolonged use.
• Ergonomic Design: Contoured seats that mold to the natural curve of your spine can provide much-needed lower back support, reducing the risk of pain or discomfort. Many seats, like the Comfort Back, the High Back Lumbar or the Big Back Deluxe Seat come with an adjustable lumbar pad to support the curvature in your lower spine.
• Material Quality: Many high-end seats use durable materials like nylon or polyester with breathable mesh panels for better ventilation. Waterproof materials are a plus for resisting moisture and maintaining cushioning integrity.

2. Backrest Height and Adjustability

A sit-on-top kayak’s open design allows you to add seats with a range of backrest heights. Think about your personal preferences and paddling style:

• Low Backrests: If you enjoy freedom of movement for active paddling, a low-back seat is a good choice. These are lighter and less bulky but offer limited back support.
• High Backrests: For those who prioritize comfort and prefer a more relaxed paddling experience, high-back seats provide robust support. They’re perfect for longer trips and offer excellent lumbar support, helping to maintain an upright posture. The High Back Series from Skwoosh, which includes the High Back, High Back Lumbar, and Expedition High Back, offers the tallest seat backs on the market at 20 inches.
• Adjustability: Most full kayak seats come with forward and backward straps with sliders to allow you to adjust the seat back height. Having this adjustability is vital.
  
  Tip: when you are kayaking, tighten your seat straps hourly. Over time the sliders will give, causing your seat back to lean. Always be aware of how tight your straps are and the level of back support your seat back is providing.

3. Ease of Attachment

Most sit-on-top kayaks come equipped with built-in attachment points, making it easy to secure aftermarket seats. These attachment points, often referred to as deck loops or eye pads, provide versatile options for adding or changing seats:

• Strap Configuration: The most common attachment method involves straps that hook onto deck loops or wrap around the kayak’s body. Make sure the straps are easy to adjust and provide a snug fit to prevent the seat from slipping or moving while you paddle. Most of the seats we sell come with brass clips, which resist rust and so provide maximum durability. However, if weight is a concern, you may want to explore lighter options such as plastic clips.
• Non-Slip Bottoms: Some seats feature a non-slip material on the underside to keep the seat firmly in place, providing extra stability during rougher paddling conditions.

4. Seat Styles and Features to Explore

The market offers a wide range of sit-on-top kayak seats, from simple cushioned pads to feature-rich, fully adjustable models. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Deluxe Seats with Storage Pockets: If you like having gear within arm’s reach, consider a seat with built-in storage compartments or mesh pockets. These allow you to stash small items like snacks, sunscreen, or safety gear. Other extras may come in the form of water bottle holders or rod holders. The GTS Seats as well as the Transformer Seat from Watspo have detachable packs which can be swapped out.
• Full-Back Seats: These seats often come with padded backrests that provide excellent support for your entire back. Some even include lumbar support and adjustable straps, making them ideal for extended trips.
• Outfitter Seats: These kayak seats are designed at a reasonable price point but with rugged materials with Outfitters in mind. 
• Gel-Infused Seat Bottoms: Skwoosh offers a line of seat cushions as well as kayak seats which come with Skwoosh’s patented, medically proven pressure-relieving gel pad technology built into the seat bottom. Gel seats mold to your body, evenly distributing pressure and helping to prevent numbness during long paddles.

5. Specialty Features to Consider

When shopping for a sit-on-top kayak seat, you may also encounter some unique features designed to improve your paddling experience:

• Ventilation Panels: Breathable mesh panels promote airflow and evaporation, to keep you dry under wet conditions or cool during hot summer outings.
• Waterproofing and UV Resistance: High-quality kayak seats often come with waterproof or water-resistant materials to prevent damage from exposure to water and UV rays.
• Drainage Channels: Seats with built-in channels help to drain excess water away, keeping your seating area dry and comfortable.

6. Budget Considerations

Price is always an important consideration when shopping for kayak accessories. Sit-on-top kayak seats range from budget-friendly options to high-end models with premium features. While you don’t have to spend a fortune to find a good seat, investing in a quality product can enhance your comfort, extend your time on the water, and protect your back and hips from strain. Looking for a decent price point on your kayak seat purchase? We have a page for Basic Kayak Seats which can be a little easier on your budget.

6. Be Wary of Cheap Imported Knock-Offs

The kayak seat market has become inundated with cheap knock-offs from China. While many US-based makers outsource some or all of their production to China, quality standards (and thus prices) are typically higher than the off-brand seats that often look identical to many top US-company designs. What you gain by paying less you may lose in quality, due to poorer stitching and poorer quality of materials. Want to by US-made only? Kayak seats from Watersports Warehouse are all Made in the USA with top quality materials. “Watspo” is the source of many of the original designs for kayak seats and other essential paddling accessories on the market. We have enjoyed working with them since our opening in 2010.

Final Thoughts on Choosing a Seat for Your Sit-On-Top Kayak

Selecting the right seat for your sit-on-top kayak is a matter of personal preference, intended use, and budget. Whether you opt for a minimalist cushion or a fully padded seat with all the bells and whistles, the key is to find a seat that keeps you comfortable and supported throughout your paddling adventures. Take your time, try out different options if possible, and consider your unique needs on the water. If you have questions, call our office at:
1-800-568-0727 and one of our reps will be happy to assist you in selecting the best kayak seat for the best price to fit the kayak you own.

Stay Tuned! Our next blog will focus on choosing a kayak seat for sit-inside kayaks, covering the unique considerations for these more enclosed designs. Happy paddling!