12 Best Kayak Seats

Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, it’s a good idea to choose a kayak seat that suits your particular rear end requirements. This is especially true if you go on long kayaking trips downriver, out on the lake, or along the coastline.

We understand that when you buy a kayak that fits most of your needs, there may be certain aspects, such as the seat, that could be improved upon. That’s why we’ve put together the 12 best kayak seats that you can get online today.

There’s a wide range of seats to choose from to suit different sizes and purposes – like fishing kayak seats, for example. Plus, we have made sure that only tried, tested, and highly-rated kayak seats have been chosen in this review article.

We have also included some kayak seat cushion options and kayak seat pads into the mix for good measure. So, if you’re searching for a kayak seat upgrade that’ll customize your kayak to the next level, please read on.

Best Kayak Seats

1. Harmony Gear

The Harmony Gear Standard Sit-on-Top Seat is soft, supportive, and easy to put into position.

Key Features

• Nylon-covered foam backrest
• Nylon covered foam seat pad
• Skid-resistant underside
• Articulated design
• Long-lasting/corrosion-resistant
• Soft and supportive

If you want to improve upon your existing kayak seat, the Harmony Gear Standard Sit-on-Top Seat is the perfect quick, inexpensive, and effective solution. It molds perfectly around your body shape and into the kayak because of its articulated design.

Plus, you can adjust the position of the back band without having to leave the boat in the process.

Pros

• Skid-resistant design
• Fits most kayak sizes
• Ideal for sit-on-top kayaks
• Inexpensive upgrade
• Extremely comfortable
• Durable construction

Cons

• The clip attachments can be a little tough to open

Why it’s recommended: For anyone that requires an inexpensive and easy upgrade for their sit-on-top kayak, the Harmony Gear Standard Sit-on-Top Seat is a top choice.

2. PenBan 

PenBan Deluxe Padded Kayak Seat Fishing Boat Seat works for all body sizes.

Key Features

• Strong/durable molded foam
• High-grade hooks
• Various adjustable straps
• Padded support
• High-back design
• Waterproof detachable storage

When comfort is a priority, this PenBan fishing seat will keep you feeling comfortable and confident over extended periods. The EVA foam interior and 210D polyester exterior make it very durable and robust. As well, four adjustable straps ensure that the seat is held firmly in place, wherever you decide to place it.

Pros

• Ergonomic/comfortable design
• Thick foam cushioning
• Extra waterproof storage
• Compatible with various boat types
• Corrosion-resistant hooks
• Easy installation/removal

Cons

• It might be too large for your specific needs

Why it’s recommended: Anyone that enjoys fishing in their kayak, or other similar types of vessel, will get great use out of this well-design and super-comfy fishing seat.

3. OceanMotion 

The OceanMotion Ergo-Fit sit on top Kayak seat is ideal for anyone that wants extra thick padding in their seat.

Key Features

• Reinforced back
• Extra thick padding
• Detachable storage bag
• Universal fit design
• Four attachment straps
• Rigid construction

First and foremost, this OceanMotion ergonomic kayak seat is made to be extremely rigid and durable for extended heavy use. But then it’s also a comfortable build with the soft and thick padding in place. The seat will also fit in a wide variety of sit-on-top kayaks due to its universal design.

Pros

• Wide comfortable design
• Good storage included
• Minimizes fatigue
• Designed for extended use
• Strong reinforced construction

Cons

• Might be too wide for some people’s requirements

Why it’s recommended: If you want a wider and more comfortable kayak seat for use over extended periods, this is a top choice.

4. Skwoosh 

The Skwoosh Kayak Comfort Mid Height Back Kayak Seat is compact and uses a low-profile design to add a more subtle type of comfort to your kayaking experience.

Key Features

• Fluidized gel pad seat
• Low-profile design
• Reinforced backing
• Adjustable lower back support
• Extra side wing support
• Heavy-duty construction

This kayak seat incorporates two fiberglass battens, which make it solid and dependable. It’s designed to provide extra stability and promotes high performance out on the water. Also, heavy-duty fabrics are used to ensure you have a long-lasting US-made kayak seat to support your paddling.

Pros

• Lower side wings for support
• Fiberglass battens
• High-quality fabrics
• Long-lasting
• Made in the USA
• Provides strong stability

Cons

• Some kayakers may want a little extra padding below

Why it’s recommended: This a more subtle and low-profile type of kayak seat that won’t take up too much space but gives you the extra support you need.

5. GTS Expedition

The GTS Expedition Molded Foam Kayak Seat is a thermoformed backrest made for comfortable kayaking.

Key Features

• Contour molded design
• Thermoformed backrest
• Bungee pouch
• 2-inch thick seat bottom
• Adequate water drainage
• 18-inches in height

For those that require a softer and more padded area for their backside region, the GTS Expedition Molded Foam Kayak Seat is a safe bet. It will work well for kayaking expeditions, as it says in its name. Plus, it should contour easily around various kinds of kayak for a snug fit.

Pros

• High-quality construction
• Made to be long-lasting
• Good drainage aspects
• Thick lower seating
• Ideal for long trips
• Inexpensive

Cons

• The thicker padding may cause balance issues in some kayaks

Why it’s recommended: This really is a kayak seat made for long journeys and provides excellent back support.

6. MonkeyJack 

The MonkeyJack Kids Back Support is great for kayaking and various other kinds of water-worthy vessels when kids need something comfortable to sit on.

Key Features

• Durable design
• Adjustable backstraps
• Universal fit for kayaks/canoes
• Strong nylon construction
• Swivel hooks

When the kids need some stability, MonkeyJack has your back with their kids back support. It’s a flexible, simple, and straightforward design that’s easy to install and gives your child that extra support needed when the waters get rough.

It’s also a sturdy construction that comes with snap hooks to hold it down firmly.

Pros

• Children sized
• Tough construction
• Flexible design
• Long-lasting support
• Good adjustability
• Provides extra comfort
• Lightweight

Cons

• Some buyers may want thicker padding

Why it’s recommended: If you’re searching for a straightforward, affordable, and hassle-free kayak seat for one child or more, this option should be considered.

7. Wilderness Systems

The Wilderness Systems AirPro Max Kayak Seat Kit comes in gray and is an impressive raised kayak seat design.

Key Features

• Strong/lightweight aluminum tube frame
• All-weather design
• Breathable textile
• Open weaved fabric
• 3d mesh filler
• Seat angle adjustment
• Seat height adjustment

It’s incredibly strong, easily adjusted, and allows you to simply attach accessories to its slide rails. The Wilderness Systems AirPro Max Kayak Seat Kit is the ultimate kayaking seat, suitable for all kinds of kayaking endeavors.

Furthermore, it’s made to work perfectly with Wilderness Systems Ride115, 115X, and 135 model kayaks – 2013 to the present day.

Pros

• Extremely flexible design
• Rugged and lightweight
• High-grade materials used
• Compatible with Wilderness kayaks
• Raised/lowered easily
• Good weather-resistance

Cons

• It’s a premium-priced option
• Not everyone requires height adjustment

Why it’s recommended: If you’re serious about kayaking and want a truly beneficial seat upgrade, the Wilderness Systems AirPro Max is a great choice.

8. Lixada 

The Lixada Comfortable Soft Padded On-Top Seat Cushion is super affordable and lightweight.

Key Features

• Shock absorbent
• Comfortable design
• Contoured massage points
• Ergonomic positioning
• Compatible with most kayaks

Lixada offers this straightforward yet effective cushion pad that gives you the extra support needed, without going “overboard” on features and sizing. It won’t add any real noticeable weight to your kayak, and it’s flexible enough to fit in most kayak designs.

Pros

• Simple and effective design
• Doesn’t change the feel of your kayak
• Absorbs shocks well
• Provides muscle relief
• Exceptionally lightweight
• Super affordable

Cons

• It’s a very simplistic design

Why it’s recommended: Not everyone is looking for a full-size seat upgrade for their kayak. Lixada comes with a cushion pad that gives you the extra bit of support you might need for extended kayaking trips.

9. 2 Pack Reliancer

The 2 Pack of Kayak Seats with backrests is an excellent package for tandem paddlers that are looking for a good deal.

Key Features

• Neoprene/600D polyester
• UV-resistant
• EVA foam-filled
• Non-slip seat
• Contoured design
• Marine-grade brass clips
• Ventilation system
• 4-way adjustable straps

It seems that you really get two for the price of one here with this pair of kayak seats as one package. The build quality is superb, and the attention to detail makes this package really worth some consideration. The seats are well-padded, ventilated, and marine-grade materials are used throughout.

Pros

• High-quality materials used
• Great value for the money
• Extra thick lower seat
• Extensive backrest padding
• Two free zipper storage bags
• Good waterproofing/ventilation

Cons

• You might not want two kayak seats

Why it’s recommended: This deal is well worth looking into if you have a tandem kayak or a couple of kayaks that you want to upgrade.

10. WDFS

The Kayak Seat Cushion we’re looking at is a very simplistic, inexpensive, yet highly effective way of adding an extra comfort level to your kayak.

Key Features

• Soft/Durable EVA material
• Non-fading design
• Flexible usage
• Portable and lightweight
• 37x33cm size
• Comfortable padding

Here we’re checking out a straightforward padded cushion that should work for numerous kayak types and sizes. It adds that extra element of comfort that you might be craving for a very reasonable price.

The fact that it’s so lightweight means that you can carry it around easily, and it won’t burden your kayak with any serious added weight.

Pros

• Cheap and simple
• Made with quality EVA material
• Quick/hassle-free implementation
• Durable and robust to hard use
• Multiple uses

Cons

• It’s basic padding that’s not fixed into place

Why it’s recommended: It’s incredibly simple but effective for giving you the extra cushioning you might be craving for in your kayak.

11. Pelican 

The Pelican Boats Sit-on-top Kayak or SUP Seat is a universal adjustable kayak seat suited to a sit-on-top kayak or stand-on-top paddleboard.

Key Features

• Water repellent seat
• Durable nylon construction
• Web strap system
• Multi-adjustable
• D-ring attachable
• Articulated design

Pelican Boats offers you this very versatile kayak or paddleboard seat for a reasonable price. It has a multi-adjustable web strap system, and the nylon used is water repellent and super durable. You may require an accessory mount kit to attach to some kayaks, but it does attach easily to a D-ring set-up.

Pros

• Simple design
• Adaptable
• Comfortable padding
• Attaches easily
• Affordable
• Quality materials used

Cons

• No rigid back support

Why it’s recommended: If you require an affordable and flexible kayak or paddleboard seat that’s constructed with high-quality materials, this is a good choice.

12. Yosoo Health

The Yosoo Health Gear Kayak Seat Cushion is a straightforward sit-on-top padded kayak seat.

Key Features

• Filled with cotton
• Uses high-quality synthetics
• Ergonomic design
• Four suction cups/non-slip
• Lightweight/portable design
• Flexible in application

Not only will this kayak cushion give you a more comfortable paddling experience, but it can be used for fishing and various other outdoor activities. It promotes a good sitting posture over extended periods, and it won’t slide around because of the suction cups.

The soft cotton makes it very comfy, and it is reasonably priced.

Pros

• Safe and soft design
• Multiple uses
• Promotes good posture
• Easy to carry
• Remains firmly in place
• Works great for fishing

Cons

• No back support

Why it’s recommended: This kayak cushion is soft because of the cotton filling, and it can be used for various applications such including kayaking, fishing, and much more.

Key Information

How do they work?

As you will have noticed, there are various types of kayak seats, pads, and cushions to choose from, and they can vary in price dramatically. For the most part, however, they are usually inexpensive and built to good quality standards.

Most designs have hooks or clips that hook or clip onto existing outlets on your kayak. This is so they stay firmly in place.

Others might not attach on by these means, but they instead use non-slip materials that keep the cushion or seat solidly in place.

Each design is ultimately unique, and so you will have to double-check before you buy to make sure the seat will fit your particular set-up.

Are they adjustable?

Again, each design will be different. Some kayak seats are incredibly adjustable to the extent of raising or lowering your sitting height in the kayak.

Others are just adjustable for body size, but this is only important if you have a kayak seat with a backrest.

If you are just buying a kayak pad or cushion, there should be no real need for any adjustments.

Moreover, most designs are made to have a close universal fit, so that you don’t have to worry so much about sizing when you buy. If there are adjustments, they usually are made super simple to work with too.

Size options

This is a continuation of the previous section, where we were talking about adjustments. Like we said, there are many which have close to universal sizing.

This, however, doesn’t mean that the seat will be guaranteed to fit your kayak. That’s why it’s always incredibly important to check the dimensions to figure out if the kayak seat is right for your needs.

It also helps to check customer reviews, as sometimes a customer might mention that it works well with a particular kayak – which could be the same or similar to yours.

Do they offer back support?

As you will have seen, many kayak seats offer back support, but to varying strengths. Some have extremely rigid back support to keep your spine relaxed and at ease for long paddles. That being said, the support may have a lot of strength, but it’s important to take note of how much padding has been used in the design.

If you require soft back support, make sure to double-check the padding thickness and, of course, customer reviews.

Seat material options

Seat materials can vary a lot and can have different levels of softness and thickness.

It’s clearly important that the seats are made to be waterproof and offer adequate ventilation.

Another factor to consider is good drainage for when water inevitably splashes into the kayak. EVA material is a good choice, and many other synthetics are good.

Cotton padding is always going to feel comfy, and neoprene is a favorite choice of material for manufacturers to use.

Bottom Line

So, we’ve reached the end of our 12 best kayak seats review article. We hope you now have a much better idea about what is available online at the moment.

The seats, pads, and cushions can vary quite dramatically in price, design, and application, so we think it’s vital that you set out with a clear idea of what you want the seat for specifically.

For extended excursions on your kayak, you may want solid back support and durable padding that will function correctly, trip after trip after trip. If, however, you carry out recreational kayaking on a local lake, river, or on the coastline, it may be that you just require some good padding to add extra comfort.

Whatever the case is, there are plenty of options on the table to sift through. And just to remind you, we made sure only to add highly rated and proven products in this review, so you don’t have to trawl endlessly online comparing dozens of kayak seats and getting most likely dazed and confused.

Thanks for checking this article out, and have fun kayaking!

For more expert product reviews visit our home page OutdoorWorld Reviews.