Sit-on-top Kayak for Whitewater kayaking isn’t for the faint-hearted. It is mainly the daring, bold, and lovers of sports that make the adrenaline rush. But of course, you won’t have a swell time whitewater kayaking without the best sit on top Kayak for whitewater.
Now, the question is, how do you decide which sit-on-top Kayak is perfect for your whitewater kayaking expenditure? Frankly speaking, it’s challenging to streamline your options, especially when the market is oversaturated.
However, this guide will lead you to the best whitewater sit-on-top kayak. You’ll also discover our best options. Keep reading.
Best Sit-on-top Kayak for Whitewater Buying Guide
You’ll most likely buy a shoddy whitewater sit-on-top kayak if all you do is invest in a random one. This section will explore all the essential factors. Keep reading.
Weight
Although most sit-on-top kayaks for whitewater might share physical similarities, they can’t all handle the same weight capacity.
So, before investing in any whitewater kayak, you must check out how much weight it can handle.
But first, decide how much weight you’ll need your Kayak to carry. For instance, if the plan is to go whitewater kayaking with the family, you’ll have to get a kayak that can handle up to 480lbs or more.
But if you’re kayaking alone, get an adult kayak that can hold up to 200lbs.
Types
Below are the types of whitewater sit-on-top kayaks.
- Tandem kayaks: If your idea of a perfect whitewater kayaking expenditure is to experience it with the family, you should consider investing in a tandem kayak.
They are designed to aid double paddling. So, you can paddle with your family member or a life partner.
- Folding Kayaks: They may not be as good as their rigid shell counterparts, but they have advantages. They always come in handy if you have issues with storage.
For instance, if your apartment isn’t’ spacious enough to store your Kayak, one way to utilize the tiny space is to invest in a foldable kayak instead.
They might lack versatility, but they are a great option to consider for the sale of storage.
- Inflatable Kayaks: Among this list of whitewater sit-on-top kayaks, inflatable kayaks are the famous variants. The reason is that they are as easy to store as folding kayaks.
More so, inflatable kayaks from great brands offer fantastic balance and stability. This option is your best bet if you want to kayak on flowy water.
- Recreational Kayaks: When next you plan a camping trip with family and friends and add kayaking to the list of activities, you should go with a recreational kayak.
They are lightweight and carved from ABS plastic. They are fashioned explicitly for flowing on flat surface water to aid fishing and relaxation.
- Pedal Powered Kayaks: Photographers and wildlife lovers would indulge their love when they kayak with this sit-on-top whitewater kayak.
Check Also: Best Kayak for Crabbing.
It comes with pedals. So, you can engage in other activities like taking pictures.
You can watch the sea animals play in the sea or capture the moments for your sea wildlife portfolio.
Material
Kayaks are carved from different materials. But not all materials are a good option. The reason is that some materials can’t’ withstand dwelling in water for long.
Others might start to lose their value while in storage for long periods. So, the best material for kayaks you should look out for is the high-density class of Polyethylene material.
From research, kayaks made with this material are durable. They are also UV protected.
Stability
Whether you’re looking to invest in a children’s or adult Kayak, you have to pay attention to the stability of the Kayak. It’s going to flow on the water.
So, you want to ensure the Kayak won’t toss you into the river -from staggering in instability. When you get a whitewater sit-on-top kayak, check its stability before investing.
Safety
You should watch out for the safety features of a whitewater sit-on-top kayak. It would protect you from getting into an accident.
A vital feature you should look out for is whether it is puncture-proof or not. Puncture-proof kayaks prevent objects in the water from tearing into the Kayak while you’re riding it on the sea.
This type of Kayak should also have enough drainage holes.
Handling Mechanism
Another feature to consider when shopping for the best Kayak to use in whitewater is the handling mechanism. It dictates the kind of experience you’ll have kayaking.
Here’s what I mean. If the handling system consists of a sturdy paddle that only requires intuition, then you’ll most likely have fun paddling.
The reason is that you’ll’ quickly figure out how the paddling works and blend into the mechanism easily.
Comfort
Before you invest in any kayak, look out for the comfort features. For example, does the Kayak have a padded backrest and seats?
Does the Kayak have a footrest to place your feet? If it has a footrest? Is it adjustable?
You want to ensure these features are flexible and respond to anybody- regardless of height. They make it easy for you to go on lengthy kayaking trips.
Setup
You should consider the setup timeframe for your Kayak before buying it- especially if you’ve chosen to purchase the inflatable option.
Some of the best sit-on-top kayaks for whitewater that are inflatable do not take up to 5 minutes to set up. Others might take longer. Look out for brands that simplify the setup process.
Speed
The speed of the Kayak is vital too. Based on research, kayaks that run faster hardly collide with obstacles in the water. Instead, they’ll speed over it quickly.
The trick for buying a fast kayak is to invest in a long one. They are usually the faster variants. Shorter kayaks are generally slower.
10 Best Sit on Top Kayak for Whitewater Reviewed
Perception Pescador 10
Perception is no stranger to designing high-quality kayaks at a budget-friendly price. Of course, this Pescador 10 followed this same pattern.
The best part is that this Kayak is pretty.
My impression
The feature I enjoyed the most about this Kayak is its versatility. When I went camping with friends, we took it for a fishing expenditure. Then, I turned around and cruised with it.
Peering into the technicalities of this Kayak, I was amazed by its stability and comfort. As I derived maximum comfort cruising, I noticed that the seats were extra padded for comfort.
Standout Features
- Weight capacity is 325lbs, perfect for a blend of adults and kids.
- Reinforced with leak-proof for added safety
- Padding for support is thick and ventilated
- The storage area has bungee lashing to secure your items.
- It has five years limited warranty.
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak K2
Intex came through with this 2-seater Kayak that allows you to share a bonding moment with a friend or life partner. Intext weaved a couple of fantastic features into this excursion pro kayak K2.
My impression
When it comes to Intext kayaks, they know how to blend quality with their products. This K2 Intex excursion pro is a 2-person kayak constructed with polyester material coated in PVC.
The PVC coating is suitable for many reasons. For starters, it protects the Kayak from getting bullied by sunlight. It also makes it lightweight, which makes it easy for you to travel anywhere with it.
But that’s not all. The PVC coating is also responsible for the impact-resistant feature. Another feature I loved about this Kayak was the I-beam floor that made the floor rigid.
Standout Features
- 400lbs weight capacity
- D-rings for storage are carved from stainless steel
- Deploys 3-ply super construction for impact and abrasion resistance.
- Meets the ABYC standard.
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak
Although Lifetime hardly invests in the aesthetics of their kayaks, you can tell that they are forged with high-quality material.
For instance, the qualities of this Tamarack Angler sit-on-top kayak prove that Lifetime makes legendary products. Let’s quickly explore this product.
My impression
Starting with the hull, this Kayak was carved with molded SKEG and deep channels that run at the center.
They stabilize the entire Kayak for an easy ride. It also comes with a multi-chine hull that boosts the overall stability of the Kayak. It didn’t wobble, and there was no fear of tumbling into the ocean.
Another thing I noticed was how spacious this Kayak is. I could conveniently store my gear in the storage space without hassle. Sadly, this Kayak is a solo one.
Standout Features
- The High-Density Polyethylene material boosts durability.
- Storage compartments are 6.”
- Deploys chine rails for stability
- It is protected from harmful UV rays.
- 275lbs weight capacity
Lifetime Manta Tandem Sit on Top Kayak
Lifetime strikes again with this sit-on-top Kayak for whitewater. The only difference between this Kayak and the Tamarack is that this is a tandem kayak.
It also has a brighter color. But, of course, the core of this Kayak was framed with agility. Let’s check it out.
My impression
When I first encountered this Kayak, I felt it was rigid, and I was correct. For starters, it is perfect for a maximum of two people. It can also accommodate a pet without getting wobbly. Thanks to its ability to carry 500lbs weight capacity.
Aside from that, it’s’ one of the best whitewater kayaks for beginners.
You don’t need all the experience in the world to cruise around with this Kayak.
Let’s talk about the stability and tracking feature. The hull design of this Kayak played a massive role in ensuring the Kayak was stable.
Then, the entire Kayak is reinforced with comfort. First, the seats are forged with enough pads for comfort. You can also adjust the footrest.
Standout Features
- Compatible with the Motor Mount Accessory from Lifetime
- Adjustable footrest
- Ultra stable Hull design
- 500lbs weight capacity
- Vinyl, lightweight grip.
Explorer K2 Kayak
Again, Intex steals a spot on our list. Intex is one of the brands you can rely on for kayaking with inflatable kayaks on small bodies of water.
My impression
For starters, this Kayak is affordable. So, I naturally didn’t’ expect much from it. Nevertheless, it still kind of blew my mind.
The first reason they get a spot on our list of best sit-on-top Kayaks for whitewater is that paddling this Kayak comes easy.
As a 2-person kayak, it was designed with directional stability. So, you and your partner can rest assured that the Kayak won’t tumble over. Of course, you have the SKEG to thank for that.
Setting up this Kayak wasn’t time-consuming. With the Boston valves, inflating and deflating the Kayak came easy. The best part is that it comes with a carry bag that makes it easy to travel anywhere.
Standout Features
- SKEG enforces the directional stability
- Boston valves simplify inflating and deflating process
- Has 3 additional air chambers.
- The I-beam floor is inflatable, making it rigid.
- 400 pounds weight capacity.
Lifetime 90806 Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
Lifetime makes some of the best kayaks in the field. So, it’s’ not surprising that another of their products made it on our list.
You’ll’ get value for money on any Lifetime kayak you invest in. Check out how this kayak standout.
My impression
From the construction and design, this Kayak is mostly for anglers. So, this Kayak would do the trick if you don’t feel like whipping out a boat to fish. And here’s why.
To begin, the hull of this Kayak blends the beauty of multi-chine and flip resistance to achieve stability. It also deploys the power of an integrated SKEG.
Ultimately, the result is a solid and stable kayak that can achieve near-perfect tracking. The exciting part of this Kayak is the deep hull. It was built to boost its maneuverability. So, you’ll feel in control of the Kayak.
Standout Features
- Three-rod holders
- Integrated SKEG
- Deep hull for maneuverability.
- It is UV protected, so you can freely fish under the sun.
Driftsun Rover 120 / 220 Inflatable Tandem White-Water Kayak
Driftsun is another brand that makes outstanding kayaks in the field. They blend top-notch comfort with high-quality materials to create fantastic products.
My impression
The Driftsun rover 120/220 kayak is another tandem sit-on-top whitewater kayak on our list. It has a 300lbs weight capacity which is not bad for a tandem kayak.
When I used it, I sat in it with my dog- Larry. If you’re particular about your pet leaving claw marks on your Kayak, this Kayak solves that issue. The PVC material forged this Kayak with abrasion resistance.
My favorite part about this Kayak is its fast setup time. Although it’s a tandem kayak, it only requires 9 minutes to set up. The Kayak is rugged as it withstood the Class VI rapids I did with it.
Standout Features
- PVC material
- 300lbs weight capacity
- It has 4 handles to aid in transporting the Kayak anywhere
- Tracking SKEG is removable.
- Ergonomic grip.
Emotion Spitfire Sit-On-Top Kayak
Emotions spitfire sit-on-kayak for whitewater would make you spitfire. This Kayak is perfect for beginners and any level of kayakers who love kayaking for the fun of it.
My Impression
When I came in contact with this Kayak, I knew it was forged for recreational activities. The Kayak has judicious space laced with bungee cords. Frankly speaking, I think this Kayak owes its storage space to the hull length.
When it comes to the weight capacity, it can only take up to 300lbs. Realistically, you can only kayak solo on it with your gears keeping you company.
Standout Features
- Scupper holes expel water from the tank well and cockpit.
- Handles easy aid transportation.
- High-Density Polyethylene aids UV protection.
- Fantastic hull design.
Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak Blue
Sevylor is another king in this field. They proved their awesomeness in this Quickpak K1 single-seat kayak. It’s the perfect Kayak for loners who love to enjoy alone time on the sea.
My impression
This blue inflatable sit-on-top Kayak from Sevylor has multiple air chambers. If you puncture one of the air chambers while cruising on the sea, another will keep you going.
It is also portable and easy to store. Simply fold it into a backpack and keep it somewhere safe. But when you set it up, the backpack area stretches out to form the Kayak’s seat.
While it’s a great idea, the seat is not comfortable. The manufacturers built this Kayak with SKEG to aid the tracking. But while that aids the tracking, it’s not perfect.
Since it’s an inflatable kayak, it’s not difficult to set up. You’ll get it up and running within 10-15 minutes.
Standout Features
- Folds into a backpack
- It uses double lock valves
- The floor is made of tarpaulin.
- Storage secured with bungee.
Solstice Inflatable Kayak
Solstice devoted time to creating this inflatable Kayak. They whipped it with top-notch features that would blow your mind away.
As one of the top Kayak manufacturing companies in the field, it’s safe to say that they outdid themselves in this whitewater sit-on-top kayak.
My impression
Solstice wired this Kayak for maximum performance. I could tell with the use of the 22 Gauge K-80 PVC blended with the 1000 Denier nylon material. With the presence of the Durango, you can transform this Kayak into a 2-person kayak.
But that’s not all. Solstice designed this Kayak with their unique Solstice inflatable technology that makes it portable. It also contributes to the storage space of the Kayak.
I loved the tri-chamber construction as it made the Kayak feel 100% stable as I rode in it. The best part is that this Kayak is perfect for any kayaker. Beginners and pro kayakers will find it easy and beautiful to ride.
Standout Features
- Tri-chamber construction
- Designed with Nylon and PVC material
- Created with Solstice inflatable technology.
- 440lbs weight capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you do whitewater in a sit-on-top kayak?
Yes, you can. However, you can’t’ do it in all contexts. For instance, it’s’ a bad idea to do whitewater in a sit-on-top kayak on grade 3 rapid or higher.
What type of Kayak is best for rivers and lakes?
Rivers and lakes are usually flowing or still. So, if you’ll paddle a kayak on them, it’s best to opt for short kayaks designed for recreational purposes. They could be sit-on-top or sit-in kayaks; the choice is yours to make.
Can a sit-on-top kayak handle rapids?
Yes, a sit-on-top kayak can handle some level of rapids. For instance, they can handle level one rapids easily. The reason is that you’ll find sit-on-top kayaks easier to navigate with a bit of kayaking experience. But you’ll’ need to arm yourself with the necessary safety kit.
How do I choose a whitewater kayak?
The best way to choose a whitewater kayak is to consider certain factors. But more importantly, you must consider the whitewater type you prefer to paddle in. They’ll help you streamline the kind of Kayak that can paddle on the whitewater.
Is a sit-on-top Kayak better?
A sit-on-top kayak is better for specific contexts. For starters, it’s an excellent choice for beginners. Anyone can learn to ride sit-on-top kayaks with little kayaking experience. It’s also great for summer and camping.
Read Also:
- How to Get Out of a Kayak With Bad Knees?
- How Does a Fat Person Get In a Kayak?
- How to Store a Kayak in an Apartment?
Conclusion
Now that you know some of the best sit-on-top kayaks for whitewater, you can shop for them at your convenient time. But while you shop, you should take your time to read and understand our buying guide.
That way, you’ll know which Kayak on our list will suit your needs. The ball is now in your court. Have fun deciding.