Do you find it hard to get in and out of a Kayak? Well, it seems like you have chosen a wrong Kayak. There are hundreds of different types of Kayaks available in the market and not all the types are ideal for you. Some Kayaks are good for paddling in sea whereas some are only useful for recreational purpose.
So, if you are looking for a vessel that does not require a great wealth of knowledge and expertise to operate it smoothly on water, probably you need to choose a Sit-On-Top Kayak. Sit-On-Top Kayak is great for small trips or for some fun activities. To make it easier for the paddlers to enter and exit the vessel, Sit-On-Top Kayak has abandoned the idea of having a covered cockpit. It sports an open top that allows paddlers to get in and out of the Sit-On-Top Kayak easily without capsizing the boat and making a fool out of himself before others.
Ideal for diving, fishing and other similar fun activities, Sit-On-Top Kayaks are mainly developed for calm water and sunny weather. Compared to their traditional counterparts that get titled all the time, Sit-On-Top Kayaks offers a reasonable level of stability and they are nimble and flexible enough to wade through choppy water.
Now, as you can understand, choosing a sit-on-top kayak is not an easy job. There are so many things involved that might make you feel overwhelmed. To help you out, here we at Kayak Manual have reviewed top 7 sit-on-top kayaks, so that you can make a better buying decision.
Best 8 Sit on Top Kayaks
1. Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 9-Foot Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
This Sit On Top Kayak is what it transpires to be. It meets all your checklists and still manages to wow you. It has a sleek and shiny look that will definitely make other Kayakers go green with envy. The seat of this Sit On Top Kayak is very comfortable and does not bother you at all even if you seat on it hours. Hatch fittings seem to be made from high quality materials and therefore, they should last long.
Attached to the back of the board is a drain plug. At this price point, this Sit On Kayak is a complete steal. This Kayak is a huge hit among anglers who want to travel long distances to catch fish and to have a good time. It is extremely lightweight and that means, you will not need extra pair of hands to load or unload it from a truck.
It has 4 fishing pole holders in place which is a great tiding for an angler and there is a storage container where you can keep your supplies and other important things like Phone etc. Vibe Kayaks Skipjack Sit On Top Fishing Kayak can operate at optimum level even if the condition is rough. On stormy or windy weather, Vibe Kayaks Skipjack Sit On Top Fishing Kayak can keep its balance easily and turning it in different directions should not be a big issue at all.
Crucial Features –
- This Sit on Top Kayak is 9 feet long and it weighs 46lbs.
- It is ideal for fishing and other similar activities.
- Some of the accessories that come loaded with this Vibe Kayaks Skipjack Sit On Top Fishing Kayak are – mounting points, capped flush mount rod holders and Vibe mount accessories.
- To make it easy to transport this Sit on Top Kayak, the company has attached 4 easy-grip carry handles.
- Two paddle parks are attached to the Kayak so that you can keep your paddles there when you are not paddling.
Pros
- Easy to move around
- Comes loaded with accessories like storage, plugs, paddles etc.
- Compact design
- Durable and stable
Cons
- There is no option to attach a crate behind the Kayak.
- It is way too compact in design and that means those of you who are into bass fishing; this may not be the ideal Kayak type.
- The seat seems to have some stability issues.
2. Perception Hi Life – Kayak & Standup Paddleboard (SUP)
The Perception Tribe has brought out this Kayak and it looks that this Sit on Top Kayak has lived up to the expectations. Perception Sit on Top Kayak is known for its flexibility and versatility. Its nimble design has added to its already impressive performance. Ideal for beaches and coastal bays, this Sit On Top Kayak promises to offer superior level of performance. Paddling this Perception Sit on Top Kayak will instill faith and confidence in your peddling abilities and definitely have a positive impact on your Kayaking skills. The speed and the performance of Perception Sit on Top Kayak will definitely make you all fall in love over it.
Comfortable
The structure of the Kayak is highly adjustable. You can change the positions of the seat and the paddles offers good grip. The paddles are lightweight and that means they will not make you feel tired even if you have to paddle for hours. Seating System has ventilated padding that adds to the overall comfort level and the seatback can be reclined backward or forward depending on your requirements. Also, you don’t have to keep your feet in a certain position all the time. Multiple footrest options are there to allow you to change your position whenever you want.
Performance
If you are overtly worried about getting wet while kayaking in open water, you should opt for Perception Sit on Top Kayak. Known for its speed and high level of performance, Perception Sit on Top Kayak can be moved around easily and effortlessly but that too without making any kind of compromise on the stability front. Perception Sit on Top Kayaks are available in three different sizes.
Safety
Don’t get worried about boat capsizing because almost all Perception Sit on Top Kayaks enjoy high level of buoyancy. Considered to one of the safest kayaks on the planet earth, this Sit on Kayak has these following features –
- Cup holder
- Bungee cord lashes
- Large compartments to store items dry on both rear and front side
- Protective lid
- Enter hatch
The company has done an incredible job to keep the weight of the kayak in check. It is way too heavy to move around and not too lightweight as well. High-density polyethylene has been used to manufacture this Kayak model. Replaceable skid plate is there to drag the Sit on Top Kayak to the water without hurting yourself in the process.
Here are some of the unique features of this Kayak –
- Multiple footrest options
- Adjustable seatback
- Incredibly Comfortable
- 11’5’’ Length
- 52 Weight
3. Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak
It appears that a lot of hard work has gone into making Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak. The design looks stunning and it tracks straight. It is a small Kayak for sure, just 9 feet long but don’t get duped by its small size but it punches above it weight when it comes to performance. Since it is a lightweight kayak, you can lift it up and place it anywhere you want without straining your muscles. So, transporting Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak should be least of your concern.
The seat of Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak is extremely comfortable and it has pads that provides cushioning and comfort at the same time. The seat is made from high quality material that adds to its longevity. Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Kayak boasts off a specious stern tank which is mainly used for storing important items. Some other popular kayaking accessories that come loaded with this Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Kayak are – side handles, rear skid plates, cup holders and bow and stern carry handles. Thanks to its immaculate design, this Kayak can float easily on water and you should not be facing any issue while getting in and out of this Sit on Top Kayak.
Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak is available in different colors and though it is small in size, it is immensely flexible in nature and highly responsive too. This Kayak is ideal for kids but that does not mean, adults can’t have fun with it.
Features
- Maximum capacity is around 275 to 325 lbs
- Length is 9 feet.
- Replaceable rear skid plate
- Bow and stern carry handles
- Molded in side handles
Pros
- Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak is extremely durable in nature.
- It offers a solid performance despite the fact that it is just 9 feet long.
- Specious in design.
- Extra cushion can be added to the seats and the foot holders are adjustable too.
Cons
- If you are a big guy, you might find the seat a bit small and stuffy. You might wanna find another Kayak with large seat.
- This Sit on Top Kayak though extremely stable in nature might get a little wobbly at times in case you are paddling it for the first.
- Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Kayak does not get damaged easily but it does get damaged, it might need multiple rounds of repairs to get the Kayak fixed.
- It does not have a cup holder. Yes you have heard that right. This might sound inconsequential to most, but some people get really mad about it.
4. Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top Kayak
Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top Kayak is known for its superior performance on flat water. It is highly stable and thus ideal for those kayakers who want to learn the basics of kayaking. Though it is mainly designed for inland water bodies, you can take to beaches where the waves are not that high. The seat is adjustable and offers ample support to your back. The body of this Sit On Top Kayak is made from Polymer that adds to its longevity. Its rugged design adds to its overall popularity.
Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top Kayak is also low on maintenance and it is also resistant to abrasion. Drink holders and side handles are included. It flaunts an impressive built-in buoyancy that adds to its impressive stability on the water. Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top Kayak is made from high-density polyethylene and is resistant to both UV rays and impacts.
5. Elkton Outdoors Auklet Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
Elkton Outdoors Auklet Sit On Top Fishing Kayak flaunts a compact design and comes loaded with numerous features. Precision, stability and agility, these three are the hallmark qualities of this Elkton Outdoors Auklet Sit On Top Fishing Kayak. Inclusion of SmartTrack Rudder System makes it super easy for the paddler to move the boat on a dime. Elkton Outdoors Auklet Sit On Top Fishing Kayak is mainly designed for rivers and lakes but you can take it to oceans where the waves are small and forgiving.
Elkton Outdoors Auklet Sit On Top Fishing Kayak flaunts Rotomolded Exterior Shell that adds to its impressive durability. This Sit On Top Kayak can slice through the water like a knife through butter and thus helps you cover more ground without paddling arduously. Elkton Outdoors Auklet Sit On Top Fishing Kayak has additional storage spaces to keep all your gears close at hand.
6. Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Kayak
Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Kayak is ideal for a family kayaking expedition. It has enough space to take your furry friend with you on a nice kayaking trip. Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Kayak is ideal for flatwater. Since it tracks smoothly, you would not have to move your muscles all the time to keep it straight. If you are looking for a kayak to enjoy the magnificent view of the outside world without getting much into a steep learning curve, you should put your trust on this Sit On Stop kayak.
Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Kayak is extremely strong built and has a maximum weight capacity of around 500 lbs which is more than enough for most of us. It has got an extra center seat that you can utilize either for solo paddling or paddling with kids. Driftsun Teton 120 Hard Shell Recreational Tandem Kayak draws its strength from its High-Density Polyethylene. To facilitate easy transportation of this Sit On Top kayak, 4 carry handles are attached to this kayak.
7. Perception Pescador Pro 12 Sit on Top Fishing Kayak
Perception Pescador Pro 12 Sit on Top Fishing Kayak is ideal for those paddlers who want to go on a day-long fishing trip. It has a generous amount of storage space to keep all your gears safe, secure and dry and at the same time, it has multiple mount options. The inclusion of camp chair has endowed it with a uniquely distinct look and feel and it is extremely comfortable too.
Perception Pescador Pro 12 Sit on Top Fishing Kayak is short but that its size does not have any impact at all on its overall performance level. It is lightweight too, weighs just around 64 lbs and the maximum weight capacity of this Sit on Top Fishing kayak is 375 lbs which are impressive by any standard.
All the parts of Perception Pescador Pro 12 Sit on Top Fishing Kayak get manufactured in the United States and it has got a leak-proof design.
8. Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 13 Foot Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 13 Foot Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak offers the best of both worlds – stability and speed. Rudder system comes pre-installed in this Sit On Top Fishing kayak and this rudder system can be controlled easily and effortlessly by using your toe. Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 13 Foot Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak tracks smoothly regardless of the conditions outside. Vibe Hero seat offers ultimate comfort and thus will make your day-long trip a truly memorable one.
Known for its superior stability, Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 13 Foot Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak is engineered in such a way that it remains stable even when the paddler is standing upright on it.
What Are the Benefits of Sit-On-Top Kayaks?
SOT Kayaks are of course not as much popular to that of its counterparts – Sit-In Kayaks. The reason could be anything. But that should not deter you from purchasing a good Sit-On-Top Kayak. To win your trust and to reassure you of its numerous benefits, allow me elaborate its benefits –
- Sit-On-Top Kayaks are more compact in design and therefore, they offer more stability compared to other types of Kayak variants available in the market.
- There is little chance of boat capsizing. Getting in and out of the boat should not be an issue.
- Sit-On-Top Kayaks are ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming.
- This is a perfect kayak for novice paddler or for the beginner.
- It is wide in size.
Sit-On-Top Kayak Buying Factor
There are several factors that you need to consider carefully before zeroing in on a Sit-On-Top Kayak. Here we are going to discuss some –
Getting Out After Boat Capsizing
Believe it or not, your will end up capsizing a boat at some point in your kayaking journey. But the good thing about these Sit-On-Top Kayaks is that when the Kayak gets capsized, it does not get flipped over along with you. What it usually happens is that you fall off of the kayak. There is no question of getting trapped inside a Sit-On-Top Kayak in case the Kayak gets overturned in the water. And you don’t have to drag the Sit-On-Top Kayak out of the water to get it upright; nope just flip it over and hop in and you will be all good. The water will get drained scuppers that are already molded into the kayak.
Sit-On-Top Kayak is almost Unsinkable
Already well known for their stability, Sit-On-Top Kayak enjoys open cockpit and its inner and outer wall is filled with air, making it extremely lightweight and adds to its buoyancy. It might come off as a surprise but you can actually stand on it without risking the kayak of getting capsized. Yes it is that stable. Kayak with that level of stability is a good morale booster for all beginner kayakers and certainly the preferred choice for all anglers and professional photographers.
Access to Gear
To store all your equipment, you can use the Open Tank Well or the watertight hatches of your Sit-on-top kayak. Easy access to gear is one of the main advantages of Sit-on-top kayaks. So, it is no surprise that Sit-on-top kayaks have become quite popular among anglers. It has so much space that you can even take your dog with you in this Kayak.
Comfort
Sit-on-top kayaks are probably one of the most comfortable kayaks available in the market. It does not matter whether you are a 6 feet long guy with heavy torso because Sit-on-top kayaks have ample space available to ensure a comfortable journey ahead. The opening of the cockpit is not confining at all. There is enough room available to stretch your legs or move them around. You can even try different posture while kayaking.
Different Types
of Sit-On-Top Kayaks
Sit-On-Top Kayaks are available in different shapes and forms. Here we are going to discuss some of those types in detail –
1. Recreational Sit-on-top kayaks
Recreational Sit-on-top kayaks, as the name suggests, are great for excursions and other similar exciting activities. This type of Kayak is more suited for still water and not optimal for surfing or similar types of adventurous activities. They tend to have sample space for storage purpose.
2. Surf Sit-on-top kayaks
If you like surfing a lot, you will have to purchase a Surf Sit-on-top kayak. These Kayaks are short in size but they offer amazing level of stability that you will require for surfing. Don’t even think of taking them for paddling on flat water because they suck at that.
3. Scuba Sit-On-Top Kayak
This type of Kayak is ideal for scuba driver and is designed to withstand large waves. The major downside of Scuba Sit-on-top kayaks is that they don’t enough storage space.
4. Touring Sit-On-Top Kayak
Designed for longer trips, these Touring Sit-On-Top Kayaks have ample space for storage. They can track straight through the water and they tend to be a longer in size.