While some of the kayaking world is enjoying an elevated frame style kayak seat, others are plugging along in the nylon strap down kind that lack cushion and support. I still rock the nylon in some of my kayaks and I wanted to share some seat options that won’t take three bills to ease the back and tailbone pain you have after a long day on the water.
Aside from doing some custom modifications to your rig and a half dozen trips to the local hardware store in the process, here are a few options that are plug and play. Also note that MSRP is listed. It is possible to find these seats for less money. (All statements below are manufacturer descriptions)
Surf To Summit GTS Expedition Kayak Seat, MSRP $194
Whether you’re into fishing, touring, or casual paddling, you will not find a better kayak seat. The GTS Expedition’s patent pending design was crafted from the ground up by paddlers for paddlers. This top of the line kayak seat is designed for all day sitting with maximum comfort. The contour molded, 18” tall, thermoformed foam backrest features comfortable grooves specifically shaped for spine-hugging support and wrap around lumbar stability, and the 2” thick seat bottom has deep comfort channels that also serve as drainage for excess cockpit water. Like all of the GTS line, the Expedition is constructed from our trademarked, thermoformed foam/plastic/fabric blend. This desirable high performance blend is achieved by sandwiching a flexible polyethylene plastic sheet between a molded EVA foam face and a 600 denier high density fabric/foam laminate back. This combination of soft and hard gives the paddler exactly what they need: a high quality, long lasting kayak seat with firm comfortable support for hours of paddling.
Surf To Summit Drifter Kayak Seat, MSRP $130
This kayak seat is specifically designed to complement the Drifter, (one of our favorite fishing kayaks), It raises by 3 inches its namesake’s deep cockpit to deliver a higher and drier angling platform without compromising the boat’s trademark stability. Features an 11.5″-tall thermal- molded foam backrest, channeled seat pad and a generous storage/tackle pack.
Odyssey Pro Kayak Seat from Vibe Kayaks, MSRP $129
The Vibe Kayaks Odyssey Pro Kayak Seat is the ultimate option for paddlers when it comes to comfort seating. It’s unique construction includes an internal skeleton so the seat retains it shape and comfort for hour after hour with no adjustment. The seat base is beefy and plush helping make your paddling experience a more enjoyable one regardless of how long you plan to paddle. Plus, paddlers will appreciate it’s dedicated lumbar cushion that provides extra support in the lower back area.
Skwoosh High Back Kayak Seat with Lumbar Support, MSRP $119
This 20″ High Back Kayak Seat with Adjustable Lumbar Support features a fluidized gel cushion and fully battened, contoured back with lumbar support. It has an easy access bungee net to stow essential gear and is easy to install. The High Back with Lumbar provides comfort and convenience for kayak fishermen and long duration paddlers. SKWOOSH™ kayak seat backs are made in the USA and guaranteed for performance and workmanship.
2 thoughts on “Kayak Seat Upgrades Under $200”
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I can testify to the Odyssey Pro seat for the Vine Sea Ghost 130 kayak. I’m 6’3″ and 250 lbs and tend to get sore from sitting for long periods of time. I’ve found with this seat, I can paddle, sit and fish for 5-6 hours at a stretch and never even think about discomfort with this seat. That’s pretty amazing, but I love it! And after sitting in the kayak for hours at a time, packing up and going home, there’s no pain or discomfort afterward as well, which is also satisfying.
nice, I like GTS Expedition, I will try one in this summer