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Sit On Top vs Sit In KayakTo someone first entering the sport of kayaking, choosing a single kayak from among the many different brands, types, purposes and, constructions can be a bit overwhelming! So, how does a new paddler determine which kayak best suites their individual needs and intended purpose? Well, the first step is to be aware that kayaks are divided into two different types consisting of sit-on-top and sit-inside designs because each design drastically differs from the other and each has its advantages and disadvantages over the other. Therefore, the first step in choosing the best kayak for you is to first determine how you plan to use the kayak and then choose either a sit-on-top or a sit-inside design. Table Of ContentsSit-On-Top KayaksAdvantages of a sit-on-top kayakDisadvantages of a sit-on-top kayakSit-Inside KayaksAdvantages of a sit-inside kayakDisadvantages of a sit-inside kayakFinal Thoughts Table of Contents
Sit-On-Top KayaksSo, what defines a sit-on-top kayak and how does a person recognize one when they see it? Well, as the name implies, sit-on-top kayaks lack an enclosed cockpit and thus, rather than the paddler being positioned inside of the kayak at or below the water level, they are instead positioned on top of the kayak above the water’s surface and, a prime example of this type of kayak is the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120. Therefore, this type of kayak is by far the most popular design among beginning paddlers and kayak fishermen because the sit-on-top design does not make a paddler feel like they are trapped inside of the kayak in the event of a capsize and, they are far easier to reenter if a paddler does accidentally capsize. So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of this type of kayak design? Advantages of a sit-on-top kayak
Disadvantages of a sit-on-top kayak
Sit-Inside KayaksSo, now that you know what a sit-on-top kayak looks like as well as their advantages and disadvantages, what defines a sit-inside kayak and how does a person recognize one when they see it? There again, as the name implies, a sit-inside kayak has an enclosed cockpit and thus, rather than the paddler being positioned on top of the kayak, above the water level, the paddler is instead positioned below the water’s surface and, a prime example of this type of kayak is the Wilderness Systems Tempest. Therefore, this type of kayak is by far the most popular design among intermediate and advanced paddlers because the sit-inside design provides a significantly lower center of gravity and thus, a much higher degree of secondary stability (the kayak’s tendency to stay upright when the kayak is leaned on its edge for turning and when paddling in rough seas). So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of this type of kayak design? Advantages of a sit-inside kayak
Disadvantages of a sit-inside kayak
Final ThoughtsSo, as you can see, both sit-on-top and sit-inside kayak designs have both advantages and disadvantages over the other. Consequently, sit-on-top kayaks are generally favored by both beginning paddlers and kayak fishermen who are looking for a kayak with a high degree of initial stability for short range excursions whereas, sit-inside kayak designs are generally favored by both intermediate and advanced paddlers who are looking for a fast kayak for long rage day paddling, extended camping trips, and expedition paddling. Therefore, when choosing a kayak, it is very important that you first identify your intended purpose for the kayak and then purchase either a sit-on-top or a sit-inside design according to the purpose for which you intend to use the kayak most often. More From KayakHelp:
Author: Peter SalisburyPete is the Owner of KayakHelp.com. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he grew up kayaking, fishing, sailing, and partaking in outdoor adventures around the Great Lakes. When he’s not out on the water, you can find him skiing in the mountains, reading his favorite books, and spending time with his family. What is a sit on top kayak?In a sit on top kayak (or SOT), the paddler simply sits directly on top of the kayak’s deck. 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.
What is the difference between sitSit-on-top kayaks are much easier than sit-in kayaks to re-enter in the all too common event of capsizing. Furthermore, the paddler doesn’t feel confined within a tight space when paddling or even during a capsize. Thanks to their design, sit-on-top kayaks have a much higher center of gravity.
What are the pros and cons of a sit inside kayak?One downside of the Sit-inside kayaks is that you don't have the same freedom to move in and out of the water. And if you do flip for some reason, recovery is a complicated process because your kayak will likely be filled with water. Like sit-on-tops, recreational sit-inside kayaks are very stable, fun, and easy-to-use.
What is a sitSit-inside kayaks can vary a lot more in shape and size and in purpose. In fact, sit-inside kayaks can be broken into two distinct categories, you've got recreational sit-inside kayaks, and you've got touring (or sea kayaks). The recreational boats are wider, they're shorter, and they have these big cockpits. So they don't feel confining it at all.
Which is better sitThere's no question that sit-in kayaks perform better than sit-on-tops. There are several reasons for this: Your center of gravity is lower, which allows the kayak to be narrower and still maintain stability. A narrower kayak moves through the water more efficiently than the wider sit-on-top.
Are sitDue to their significantly lower center of gravity, a sit-inside kayak can also be made much more narrow than a sit-inside design and thus, they are generally much faster than a wide, sit-on-top, kayak design.
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