Kayak Seats: Comfort and Function

The kayak seat is probably the single most troublesome--correct seat designs are as varied as the bottoms and backs their supposed to fit. Considering the amount of time you'll spend sitting in it, comfort is of paramount importance.

A lot of kayak manufacturers realize that not all paddlers bodies are alike. Hence, they've designed adjustable back supports. Some adjustable kayak seats have a curved back panel hinged on the bottom, with a mechanism that allows you to change the angle and provide the most comfortable back support.

Mank kayaks come with seats that have a solid back support rigidly molded into the seat itself. These will require some type of padding if you plan on paddling for extended periods of time. It's all a matter of comfort and support.

Fortunately, the kayak seat is also the easiest feature to replace or adapt to your individual needs. Ideally, a kayak seat should provide a low center of gravity (we don't want to be top heavy) while lifting you enough to create a leg position that's comfortable for long periods of time. The seat back should provide adequate lumbar support without interfering with motion. The overall feel should be comfortable, with a secure feel for the boat.

Kayak Seat | What To Look For

A couple of things to take note of when looking at a kayak seat. First, make sure the seat is rigid within the boat. Also, make sure the seat sits low in the cockpit. Low means better overall stability while paddling because your center of gravity is low. High seats make you"tippy".

You'll also require either a padded seat bottom or something that will provide padding. Make sure the front edge of the seat doesn't have a rolled edge. If it does, and presses against the back of your thighs, you'll experience discomfort and your legs will keep going to sleep.

If you find the seat needs to be adapted to your contours, sections of closed-cell foam like that found in backpacking sleeping pads can usually be glued in place with a waterproof adhesive. Some kayakers sit on inflatable backpacking cushions. Replacing hard seat backs with padded back bands or replacing the complete seat are also other options. Take a look below at some of the kayak seat options available today.