Sit-on-top kayaks are designed with an open cockpit which allows for easy entry and exit. This style of kayak is great for those who might be new to kayaking and do not like the idea of being in a traditional closed cockpit. Sit-on-top kayaks also tend to be very stable and difficult to capsize. Overall, beginners and experts alike enjoy sit-on-top kayaks for the open feel and versatility they offer.
Here are the Top 5 Sit on Top Kayaks on the Market
Emotion Spitfire Sit on Top Kayak, 8 Feet
The Emotion Spitfire is a compact kayak that offers excellent stability and tracking. The compact size and wide width also means his kayak can turn on a dime. The Spitfire has plenty of storage space at the back and an open, comfortable seating area. The small size means it can be loaded into an SUV or pickup truck with no problem.
This kayak is getting a lot of attention because it can handle anything from slow moving water to rapids. The small side and high maneuverability means it works well in fast flowing water and is very stable. The paddling position also helps with maneuverability as this kayak positions you towards the front so you can use your body to shift direction. Being a sit on top also means it won’t hold water when on the rapids and the drainage holes quickly clear out the cockpit area.
If you want a sit on top kayak that feels at home on the rapids, pick up the Emotion Spitfire.
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Sun Dolphin Journey 10-Foot Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak
The Sun Dolphin Journey 10 is a fishing kayak that balances sit-on-top comfort with a cockpit design for added stability. The cockpit is open but also has sidewalls so it is a hybrid of a sit on top and traditional design.
The Journey 10 has a host of fishing-specific features that make it an excellent choice as a fishing kayak. There is a dry storage compartment that can also double as a fish holder and “portable accessory holder” than can be towed behind the kayak. The cockpit design is spacious and has knee padding and a rod holder built in. There are also foot braces to allow for extra maneuverability.
If you’re going to use your sit on top kayak for fishing and want a purpose-built model, this makes for an excellent choice. It also scores consistently high with sit on top kayak reviews.
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Ocean Kayak Scrambler 11 Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak
The Ocean Kayak Scrambler 11 is a kayak that has been in production for 20 years and is consistently upgraded with new materials and construction techniques. This is a time-tested, sturdy and stable kayak that is considered to be one of the best sit on top kayaks.
The kayak is made in the USA and features a long length that adds to versatility. The long length and added weight means this kayak can be taken on rivers, ponds, lakes and even out onto the ocean. The long length also means there is plenty of storage space in the front and back of the kayak.
Inside, the kayak has a comfortable, adjustable seat and multiple footpads so that you can find a stable paddling position. There is also a dry storage compartment, drainage holes by the foot bed and a paddle holder.
If you want a durable, comfortable and large sized kayak, look no further than the Scrambler 11.
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Lifetime 8 Foot Lotus Kayak
Available for around $250, the Lifetime Lotus 8 foot is an inexpensive choice for your next kayaking adventure.
The Lotus 8 foot is suited for recreational kayakers looking for shorter trips on open lakes or ponds. The kayak is intended to be used by less-experienced paddlers with a hull design that is built for stability and is very difficult to tip over. The smaller size also means it has a low overall weight, so getting the kayak to the water is not a problem.
The Lotus has a large bungee compartment at the rear for stashing away food or gear. It also has an adjustable backrest for added comfort. The footrest positions are placed about a foot apart so you will be able to find a comfortable paddling posture.
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Ocean Kayak Frenzy Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak
The Ocean Kayak Frenzy is popular kayak built for recreational use easy transport. This kayak is 9 feet in length and weighs 43 pounds, so it is easy to pack in a pickup or on a car roof for transport to the water.
The Frenzy has a wide shape, meaning it feels very stable in the water but also tracks very well. The wide shape also means it is easy to maneuver and change directions. The kayak really hugs the water and feels more connected than other sit-on-top models. It is a traditional design for a sit on top but one that is suited for beginners all the way to advanced paddlers.
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Read our full review of the Frenzy here
Conclusion
These kayaks are the best sit on top kayaks. Whether you’re looking for a fishing-specific version, one suited for rapids a traditional design or inflatable kayak, the kayaks above offer the best blend of quality, durability and ease of use. Buying a sit on top kayak means you will have a kayaking option as a beginner to experienced kayaker.
Product images sourced from Amazon.com
