Sit-In Kayak or Sit-on-Top Kayak?

How to decide between a sit-on or a sit-in kayak

If you are new to the world of kayaking and trying to work out whether a sit-in or sit-on-top kayak is best for your requirements, then this article is going to run through the pros and cons of each. Both recreational kayaks and fishing kayaks come in sit-in and sit-on configurations and ultimately the choice between the two comes down to personal preference.

What Exactly is a Sit-In kayak?

A sit-in kayak has an enclosed cockpit, which the user will have their legs inside of. Typically, a sit-in kayak will often feature armrests, footrests, a backrest and cup holders inside of the cockpit area for improved comfort. This type of kayak is perfect for those who prefer to stay dry when on the water and it comes with several advantages over a sit-on-top kayak. Of course, being in an enclosed cockpit reduces the amount of maneuverability of the individual, so, if you need to be able to move around easily, then this could be a drawback.

What are the advantages of a sit-in kayak?

A sit-in kayak provides more stability than a sit-on-top kayak due to the fact that the paddler is located inside a cockpit on the waterline. This lowers the center of gravity and means that it is less likely that the kayak will tip over.

A sit-in kayak also has the added benefit of keeping the paddler dry. The elimination of drain holes from the cockpit compartment means that it is watertight and even the roughest of waters will not be able to enter this area. During colder weather, the enclosed cockpit keeps the paddler warmer and helps seal out the elements.

If you appreciate having space to store your fishing gear or personal belongings, then a sit in kayak usually comes with more storage hatch areas than a sit-on-top kayak does. This makes it the perfect choice for those who are going on extended fishing or camping trips and want to keep their gear as dry as possible while paddling.

What Exactly is a Sit-on-Top Kayak?

A sit-on-top kayak more closely resembles a surfboard and features a cockpit or seat that is completely open. The seating position of a sit on top kayak is higher than that of a sit-in, allowing for a better view and a slightly more comfortable sitting position for those with tight hamstring muscles. At the bottom of the cockpit area, most sit-on top kayaks have small drain holes called scupper holes, that are in place to drain away any water that enters the area.

Advantages of a sit-on top kayak

A sit-on-top kayak makes it easy to go from kayak to water. Unlike the sit in kayak, a sit-on-top kayak does not restrict or cover the legs of the paddler, making it idea for wade fishermen, swimmers and divers who need to get in and out of the kayak often. They are also a great choice for the larger than average person who may struggle to comfortably fit into the cockpit of a sit in kayak.

A sit-on-top kayak also makes it easy to access storage areas, which can be difficult to reach when using a sit in kayak. It is also impossible to sink a sit-on-top kayak, as it is a single sealed unit. If it happens to tip over in the water, you simply flip it back into position.

Final Thoughts

Depending on the main purpose of using the kayak, each one has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages. A sit-in kayak will keep you drier in cold conditions and is perfect for and those who appreciate stability, whereas a sit-on-top kayak is better suited for social situations and when easy access to the water is required.

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