In this article, we will compare and contrast sit in kayaks vs sit on top kayaks and which one is better for different types of needs and situations.
Both of these types of kayaks have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so read on to see which one is right for you!
Sit In Vs Sit On Kayak: 5 Key Differences
There are some key considerations to consider when looking at sit on top vs sit in kayak options.
We’ve outlined the major difference between sit in and sit on kayaks below.
The Cockpit Is Different In A Sit In Kayak vs Sit On Kayak
The kayak’s cockpit is where the kayaker sits. In a sit in (or SIS) kayak, the kayaker climbs in and sits inside of the hull of the kayak with their legs under the kayak’s deck.
In a sit on top kayak (or SOT), the paddler simply sits directly on top of the kayak’s deck.
Sit On Top Kayaks Are Easier To Get In And Out Of
Quick entry and exit is easier for sit on top vs sit in kayak because there’s no hull to “slide” in or out of on a sit-on-top kayak.
This makes a sit on top kayak better than a sit inside kayak better for warm weather climates because you can easily get in and out for swimming.
Sit In Kayaks Are Better For Keeping You Dry
As far as keeping dry, the winner in sit in vs sit on kayak is definitely the sit-in version.
Sit in kayaks allow you to seal the cockpit opening around you by using a watertight “skirt” that keeps the water out of the hull and off of your body.
Sit on top kayaks leave you much more exposed and the water will splash onto the deck and on to you.
Sit On Kayaks Are Safer In Case Of Tipping
When comparing sit on top vs sit in kayak models, it’s important to consider the process you have to follow with each in the event of tipping.
Although tipping a kayak is rare, if you tip in a sit-in kayak, you’ll need to bring it to shore and drain it before you can re-enter it.
With a sit-on-top kayak, you can simply get back on the kayak and get moving again.
Sit In Kayaks Are Faster And More Nimble Than Sit On Kayaks
When comparing the design of sit in vs sit on kayaks, sit-in kayaks are typically narrower and longer, making them easier to maneuver and overall faster than sit-on kayaks.
Sit on kayaks usually favor a wider hull to promote stability and don’t need as much speed for activities like fishing or other recreation.
Sit Inside Kayak Vs Sit On Top Kayak Pros And Cons
Sit In Kayak Pros:
- Faster movement through water
- Lower center of gravity
- Lighter than sit on top kayaks
- Easier to keep you dry
Sit In Kayak Cons:
- Harder to get in and out of
- Getting back in after capsizing is difficult
- Traditional kayaks fill easily with water if you tip over
Sit On Kayak Pros:
- Easy to get in and out of
- More stable than traditional kayaks due to wider hull
- Easy to get back on if you tip over
- Won’t fill with water when capsizing
- Wider range of movement
- Better for other activities like fishing
Sit On Kayak Cons:
- Water and waves will continuously splash on you
- Sit on kayaks are heavier than sit in kayaks
- More energy is required to paddle sit on top kayaks
- Higher center of gravity
Which Is More Stable: Sit In Or Sit On Kayak?
We often hear people ask: are sit in kayaks more stable?
Although they’re close, sit on top kayaks are more stable than sit in kayaks.
Both kayak styles have plenty of stability, but the design and details are a little different on how they work.
The higher the kayak’s seat is from the water, the more it impacts the kayak’s stability.
Sit-in kayaks have the seats lower to the water, which don’t require as wide of a hull as sit-on kayaks.
Many sit-on kayaks are used for activities like fishing and have seats higher up, so the hulls are wider, which do give them a bit more stability compared to sit inside kayaks.
Sit On Top Or Sit In Kayak For Beginners: Which One Is Better?
Neither type of kayak is better for beginners, as it really depends on what activities and climate you’ll be kayaking in.
For those who want to explore or may be padding in cold water, a traditional sit in kayak will be best.
For kayaking in warm weather or for fishing, a sit on top kayak will be best.
Sit On vs Sit In Kayak For Fishing: Which Is Best?
Sit on top kayaks are best for fishing.
Fishing requires easy access to gear and a wide range of movement in both your upper and lower body, which is hard to do if your body is slid all the way into the hull of a traditional kayak.
Sit On Top Or Sit In Kayak: Which Is Better For 2 People?
Just like we advised for deciding which type of kayak is best for beginners, which tandem kayak type is best all comes down to what you’ll be using it for.
For rough waters or traveling long distances quickly, you’ll want to select a traditional or sit-inside kayak.
For fishing or situations where you’ll be camping or hauling lots of gear, you’ll want to go with a sit on top kayak.
Check out our guide to the best 2 person fishing kayaks for some great suggestions.
Which Is Best: Sit In Vs Sit On Kayak
To find the perfect kayak for you, it’s important to think about what kind of trips and conditions that will be in store.
If these are longer multi-day excursions or you plan on going into the sea, lean toward a traditional sit in kayak.
If you’ll be fishing or will be using your kayak in climates that are warm year-round, you’re best off with a sit on top kayak.
Which did you choose between a sit in kayak vs sit on kayak? Let us know in the comments below.
