Should I Get A Sit-In Or Sit-On Kayak?

Kayaking is a great way to explore our coastline. It’s relatively simple to pick up the basics, it’s accessible and it’s a lot of fun.

If you’ve reached a point where you want to buy your own kayak, one of the first decisions you’re going to have to make is whether you want a sit-in or sit-on kayak. It might seem obvious from the name what the main differences between the two are, but there are important considerations with both other than where you’re sitting.

Sit-on kayaks are generally considered to give you more freedom of movement. They also allow you to enter and exit the water easily. The downside to them is that you’re bound to get wet while you’re paddling in them. If you’re only planning to go out on warm, sunny, summer days then that might not be an issue though.

They also have a reputation for being unsinkable, with scupper holes in the hull allowing any water that does enter your seating area to drain away.

Sit-in kayaks aren’t without their advantages too though. Because you sit inside them, you’ll be able to stay dry while you’re paddling - a big advantage if you’ll be on long kayak tours or using your kayak in cold water and in colder weather.

They also tend to be more stable than sit-on kayaks, and their shape and design means they’re typically faster at cutting through the water. Of course, you do lose that freedom of movement and, if you do roll your kayak, it can be more difficult to right.

If you’re not sure what is most appropriate for you, come and speak to us about our range of kayaks and get some advice about the best options based on what kind of paddling you intend to do.