Sit-on-top kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks are an excellent choice for kids and adult beginners. Most offer an excellent balance between stability and maneuverability, thus providing a great platform for learning how to paddle. There’s no need to worry about getting trapped inside if the kayak capsizes, you simply slide off. Most are equally easy to get on.
Sit-on-top kayaks can be equally attractive to more experienced paddlers, whether for relaxing, fishing or touring. These are watercraft that really do offer something for everyone.
Sit-on-top kayak materials
Sit-on-top kayaks can be divided into two basic groups: inflatable and rigid.
Inflatables generally use PVC or the synthetic rubbers Hypalon and Nitrilon. PVC-coated canvas might be used for bottoms. PVC is cheaper, but subject to attack by the ultraviolet rays in sunlight, so it needs to be UV-protected.
Thickness is either given as gauge or more often as denier. Numbers can be confusing because gauge becomes thicker as numbers go down, whereas denier gets thicker as the number goes higher. 18-gauge or 800D and upwards are common, but many manufacturers do not provide precise specification.
Most rigid sit-on-top kayaks are made of high-density polyethylene. It’s low cost, relatively easy to mold and offers good durability. Glass-reinforced plastics may also be used. They can be tougher but generally cost more. Aramid (Kevlar) fibers can be added for extreme toughness, but these are usually only found on sit-inside kayaks used for white water kayaking.
Sit-on-top-kayak size and function
Youth kayaks are usually 6 feet long and quite wide to give the necessary stability for safety and to build confidence. They are generally shallow which keeps weight down and makes them easy to get on and off.
Sit-on-top kayaks for adults start at around 9 feet and can go out to 14 feet. Shorter craft tend to be more maneuverable, whereas longer models track well (maintain a straight line).
Adult craft are divided into recreational kayaks — designed for relaxing paddling on calm lakes and rivers — and fishing kayaks, which are kitted out with rod holders and storage for tackle. However, fishing kayaks can also be versatile all-rounders. The storage provided could be used for picnic gear, photography equipment or even a lightweight tent for overnight stops.
Inflatable kayaks come as solo, two- or three-person models. Most rigid kayaks are solo models. It’s not easy to find quality two-person rigid kayaks at a reasonable price, and we found no three-person models at all.
Sit-on-top-kayak extras
An invaluable extra found on high-quality inflatable sit-on-top kayaks is the provision of multiple air chambers so in the event of a puncture, the whole craft doesn’t deflate. A degree of buoyancy is retained, and paddlers can more easily get to dry land. Seats are quite often inflatable too, which can provide more comfort than found on rigid craft. Inflation pumps are often included, but it’s not always the case.
The hull design of rigid sit-on-top kayaks will have a big impact. Some are designed to maximize stability, others for fast, straight-line travel. A skeg — a keel extension — helps tracking. Often these are removable. Rudders are also available, usually on longer kayaks.
It’s worth considering the storage available. Often this is just an open well. Bungee cord areas offer lots of flexibility. Closed compartments are always a good idea but are seldom fully waterproof, so it’s a good idea to put gear in plastic bags first. Some storage compartments have carrying handles and are designed to be detached from the kayak and taken with you.
Fishing kayaks invariably have a number of rod holders, but there might also be a holder for your smartphone. Rail systems can take accessories like camera mounts.
Finally it’s worth thinking about how you’re going to carry your kayak. Weight will have a bearing, but it’s also worth checking for convenient hand holds, hooks or straps.
Best sit-on-top kayaks
The following are what we believe to be the best sit-on-top kayaks currently available. They offer something for all ages and experience levels whether kayaking for recreation, angling or even touring.
Best youth sit-on-top kayaks
Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak: available atHome Depot
Designed for ages 5 and up, this 6-foot kayak is made from tough, durable HDPE and offers terrific value. It has a weight rating of 130 pounds and includes a paddle. Multiple footrests accommodate kids’ growth.
Pelican Solo Youth Kayak: available at Amazon
This lightweight 6-foot kayak is ideal as an introduction to paddling with a capacity of 100 pounds. It has good stability yet remains maneuverable. The basic model is very affordable, or upgrade to include seat and paddle.
Best inflatable sit-on-top kayaks
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak: available at Amazon
This is perhaps the ultimate portable kayak for recreation or fishing. The laminate PVC skin has a polyester core for damage resistance. Package includes high-pressure pump, paddle, rod rests, phone holder, seat, carry bag and more. Weight rating is 220 pounds.
Intex Explorer 2-Person Kayak: available at Amazon
A great value two-person kayak for gentle paddling on calm waters. The 10-foot length offers plenty of space, and capacity is 400 pounds. Seats are adjustable. Paddles and pump are included.
Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak: available at Amazon
Made from tough 18-gauge PVC and 1000D tarpaulin, this kayak has multiple air chambers and is NMMA-certified for safety. Suitable for recreation or fishing. A trolling motor could be fitted. Weight limit is 470 pounds.
Sea Eagle 3-Person Kayak: available at Amazon
This kayak is 12.5 feet long and has a 650-pound capacity. It’s rated for class 3 white water, but equally suitable for gentle cruising. While capable of carrying three people only two seats are provided.
Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak: available at Amazon
Made from heavy-duty PVC and tough tarpaulin, this 12-foot-3-inch kayak offers three adjustable seats and is NMMA-certified to 490 pounds. It is guaranteed leak-free with multiple air chambers to help maintain flotation.
Best solo sit-on-top kayaks
Lifetime Tamarack Angler 10′ Kayak: available at Amazon
Made of UV-protected HDPE, this is a durable and versatile craft with adjustable seat and multiple footrests to accommodate different paddlers. It has two storage hatches plus bungees fore and aft. Weight rating is 275 pounds.
Perception Pescador Pro 12 Kayak: available at Amazon
This kayak offers a wide, stable fishing platform with an adjustable seat that can be lowered for paddling and raised for casting. Storage compartments and bungees accommodate plenty of gear. Capacity is 375 pounds.
Riot Kayaks Escape 12′ Kayak: available at Amazon
The fact that this kayak has five rod holders gives a clear indication of its specialty. It’s a large craft with a rudder for easy steering. Features include closed and on-deck storage, a comfortable seat and adjustable foot rests. Weight limit is 300 pounds.
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105: available atBackcountry
Touring kayaks are usually sit-inside models, but the flexibility of this model means it can be used for leisure, fishing or nights away. It’s a comfortable, fast craft with lots of storage space and accessory rails. Maximum weight is 325 pounds.
BKC PK13, 13′ Fishing Kayak: available at Amazon
This is a remarkable vessel in many ways. It has a pedal-drive system for hands-free progress. The aluminum-frame seat provides excellent support. The kayak is broad enough to fish standing. It has watertight cargo hatches, large bungee cord areas and three rod holders. Weight rating is 550 pounds.
Best tandem sit-on-top kayaks
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two: available at Amazon
The Ocean Malibu is a sturdy 12-foot recreational kayak with a weight capacity of 435 pounds. It is capable of comfortably seating two plus child or pet. It is the only rigid tandem kayak to meet our criteria of quality and affordability.
Bob Beacham is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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