Sit on top kayaks are popular for beginners, experts, and average kayakers alike. They are fun and practical, and they can be used for touring, fishing, and as a platform for many water activities.
Here we share some of the best sit on top kayaks. We’ll focus on single and double options, those for beginners and fantastic all-rounders.
What is a sit on top kayak?
A sit on top kayak, as the name suggests, is a kayak that you sit on top rather than inside of. There are numerous reasons to opt for a sit on top kayak. They’re easy to get back onto if you tip out, they provide more space for taller paddlers, and they can be used in various settings like rivers, lakes and beaches.
Sit on top kayaks come in a range of designs, some boasting unrivalled comfort and others created to be super fun to paddle. With single, double and even triple sit on top kayaks available, you can choose between solo paddling and having a fun day on the water with friends and family.
The best sit on top kayaks for beginners
Sit on top kayaks are a great choice for beginners as they offer a little more space and freedom than those you sit inside.
Feelfree Move Sit On Top Kayak
The Feelfree Move Sit On Top Kayak is a great single option for children or smaller adults seeking a stable, dependable kayak that’s perfect for gentle waters. It’s ideal for calm rivers, estuaries, lakes, and sheltered coastlines. Easy to manoeuvre, the Feelfree Move Sit On Top Kayak has optional rod holders, a secure front storage hatch, and further storage space at the back.
Specifications
Length: 2.7m
Width: 75.5cm
Weight: 19kg
Hydroforce Lite Rapid Sit On Top Kayak
Despite being inflatable, the Hydroforce Lite Rapid Sit On Top Kayak is just as durable and comfortable as hard-shell options. This kayak seats up to three people which makes it a fun choice for beginners and family or friends who want to head out onto the water with others. The Hydroforce Lite Rapid Sit On Top Kayak has been created using puncture resistant material which protects against damage and gives it excellent stability.
Specifications
Length: 3.8m
Width: 1m
Weight: 7.31 kg
The best sit on top kayaks for experienced kayakers
Those with years of kayaking experience will also find a sit on top kayak to suit them, with options to customise vessels to meet your needs.
Tootega Prophecy 135 Huntsman
Designed for those seeking adventure on the water, the Tootega Prophecy 135 Huntsman is a comfortable sit on top kayak with features that make it a joy to paddle for hours at a time. This kayak’s enviable legroom, cushioned heel pads, adjustable footrests, and raised seating position combine to make the perfect option for experienced kayakers. Its sleek design gives it the ability to be fast, graceful, stable and lots of fun!
Specifications
Length: 4.1m
Width: 73cm
Weight: 28kg
Perception Triumph 13 Sit-On-Top Kayak
The Perception Triumph 13 Sit-On-Top Kayak is noticeably quick but remains stable, even on choppy waters that may not be suitable for other sit on top kayaks. This kayak has great storage features and can be used for touring and fishing. There’s a child’s seat in the front should you want to take your future kayaker onboard with you, plus moulded footrests and a backrest for comfort.
Specifications
Length: 4.09m
Width: 75cm
Weight: 27kg
The best tandem sit on top kayaks
Fancy sharing your sit on top kayak with a friend? These tandem options are ideal.
Feelfree Gemini Sport
For those wanting to head out onto the water with a buddy, the Feelfree Gemini Sport is a fantastic option. Perfect for paddles along the coast, down rivers and across lakes, this kayak is quick and fun. It can also be used as a base for swimming, snorkelling, fishing and a whole range of other water-based activities. Easy to carry, simple to transport, and boasting features that provide comfort and storage, it’s no surprise that the Feelfree Gemini Sport is one of the UK’s bestselling tandem sit on top kayaks.
Specifications
Length: 3.7m
Width: 82cm
Weight: 31kg
Vibe Kayaks YellowFin 130T
The undoubtedly comfortable Vibe Kayaks YellowFin 130T is a great tandem sit on top kayak for couples and duos but is also a fun option for heading onto the water by yourself. Designed to be suitable for both touring and fishing, this kayak boasts features that keep you comfortable, dry and secure, no matter how long you’re out paddling for. The Vibe Kayaks YellowFin 130T can be further customised to meet your needs, making it a double kayak option you’ll never tire of.
Specifications
Length: 3.96m
Width: 88.9cm
Weight: 35kg
The best sit on top kayak all-rounders
If you’re searching for a sit on top kayak that offers a bit of everything, one of these all-rounders is sure to tick all the boxes.
Feelfree Nomad Sport
The Feelfree Nomad Sport is a great sit on top kayak for all water options, making it ideal for beginners, experts and everyone in between. Choose to slowly explore coastlines, glide along rivers, or paddle across lakes in this durable, stable single kayak. The Feelfree Nomad Sport’s hull shape ensures it’s easy to manoeuvre and it also travels smoothly in a straight line. Additional features can be added depending on what you’re looking for, including thigh straps for surf adventures and padded seats for extra comfort.
Specifications
Length: 3m
Width: 78cm
Weight: 20kg
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100 is the perfect sit on top kayak if you’re looking for comfort, great manoeuvrability and stability. Offering a fun paddling experience with features rarely found on similar kayaks, the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100 boasts an Airpro seating system, self-bailing scupper holes, a slidetrax accessory system, and comfort carry handles. It’s ideal for touring, fishing and exploring. Plus, this single kayak is available in a choice of fun, vibrant colours too.
Specifications
Length: 3.05m
Width: 74cm
Weight: 24kg
Specialist kayak insurance through Insure4Boats
Ready to take to the water with a sit on top kayak? You may want to consider protecting it against theft, accidental damage, malicious damage and salvage charges, with specialist boat insurance.
You can also opt to include Third Party Liability and contents protection, so you have nothing to worry about when cruising the waterways.
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Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.