Buying your first kayak can be a daunting experience with the many options available. They are available in a wide range of sizes, designs, colors, and prices.
In this article, we list the best sit on top kayak under 300. These kayaks are of great value and will provide years of fun on the water.
Best sit on top kayak under 300 – our top 5 picks:
Like the name suggests, a sit on top kayak is a kayak where your legs are exposed, and the seat is built on top of the material of the kayak itself. In a sit inside kayak, your legs will be underneath the kayak but your body will be surrounded by the kayak’s body.
One of the things that make sit on top kayaks popular is that it offers increased mobility. So if you want to wade out in the water, go fishing, or go exploring, it’s very easy to get on and off your kayak.
Read on to learn more about the best sit on top kayaks under 300, including the features for each.
Also, we hope you find the links here useful. We may get a commission if you purchase something through a link on this page, so thank you!
Also, for an excellent kayak, take a look at our top pick, the Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak:
Best Sit on Top Kayak Under 300 – Our Top 5 Picks!
1.Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak
The Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak is ideal for lake or river use. In just 5 minutes, you can have this kayak all set up, giving you more time to spend on the water.
It also has a convenient backpack system that turns into a kayak seat.
The Sevylor Kayak has a 21-gauge PVC construction, a tarpaulin bottom, and multiple air chambers. The air chambers are separate and help keep each other inflated in case one gets punctured. This kayak has an airtight system that is guaranteed not to leak and double lock valves that help make inflation and deflation quick and easy.
The Sevylor Quikpak K1 has a backrest that lets you lean back and enjoy the ride, as well as multiple position footrests. You can also make use of the secure storage area that has bungees.
2.Intex Explorer K2 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
If you don’t want to be in a kayak by yourself, the Intex Explorer K2 2-Person Inflatable Kayak is the kayak for you. This kayak has an adjustable, inflatable seat with a backrest that will keep you and your kayak partner comfortable.
It also has a removable skeg, which gives directional stability. Since this kayak is bright yellow in color, it can be easily seen in case of an emergency.
If you are mainly kayaking on small bodies of water, the Intex Explorer 2 Kayak is the ideal choice. It was made for smaller bodies of water, such as smaller lakes and mild rivers.
It features heavy-duty, puncture-resistant vinyl and 2 separate air chambers. Boston valves make inflation and deflation a breeze. The maximum weight for this kayak is 180kg or 400lb.
3. Lifetime Lotus Sit on Top Kayak with Paddle
The Lifetime Lotus Sit on Top Kayak with Paddle is another great choice if you’re looking for a sit on top kayak under 300. It is made of polyethylene and your purchase includes the kayak paddle.
This kayak has a bungee cord lacing, which you can use to secure loose items. It comes with multiple footrest positions to accommodate different size paddlers. It also has a center carry handle that makes transporting to the waterfront easier.
The
important numbers to know when it comes to the Lifetime Lotus Sit on Top Kayak
with Paddle are:
Max user weight capacity: 250lb, or 113.4kg
Max user height capacity: up to 6ft, or 128.8cm
Warranty: 5 years limited warranty
4. Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak with Paddle
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak with Paddle is a sit on top kayak designed primarily for children aged 5 years and up with a 130lb weight capacity. Kids will find this easy to transport thanks to its lightweight design and molded finger handles on each side.
This kayak has a sloped end with a swim-up step. This step allows the user to re-enter the kayak from the water easily. It features durable HDPE construction with UV protection. It will not fade, crack or peel.
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak has a twin fin design, which helps in tracking and surf riding. It also has an ergonomic cockpit design that helps enhance the rider’s balance and motor skills. This kayak is backed by a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty.
5. Sun Dolphin Camino SS 8-Foot Sit on Top Kayak
The Sun Dolphin Camino SS 8-Foot Sit on Top Kayak is a square stern kayak that offers maximum stability. You’ll find getting in and getting out a breeze thanks to its large, open cockpit.
This sit on top kayak also has an adjustable, padded seat with a high backrest that will help keep you comfortable for a longer period of time.
The Sun Dolphin Camino kayak has a recessed drink holder, storage compartments, and graduated footwells. It has convenient carrying handles that are molded in the kayak too.
Choosing the Right Sit on Top Kayak
You
should research the bodies of water in your area to help you determine the best
kayak to fit your needs. For instance, small rivers move faster than larger
ones, and sit on top kayaks are great for up to Class II rapids. Most sit on
top kayaks will have self-bailing features that will help when small rapids
wash over the deck.
You’ll find that the sit on top kayak can handle larger rivers and lakes with ease. These larger rivers and lakes are ideal for fishing, day trips, and even overnight camping. However, the larger the lake, the more boat you will need. The greater length and width will help in keeping it stable.
It also helps if you determine how you will be using your sit on top kayak. Here are the many ways you may use your kayak.
Recreational Use
If you’re just a casual paddler and you want to use your kayak for fishing, paddling, etc., you’ll enjoy the sit on top kayak. Since these have a wider frame, it helps increase stability whenever you paddle, especially when you enter and exit the kayak.
Touring Use
There are sit on top kayaks that are meant specifically for
touring. These are usually longer and a bit narrower compared to the
recreational ones. Kayaks like this have plenty of storage space where you can
pack your sleeping bags, tents, and hammocks.
Tandem Kayak
If you are looking to introduce your children to kayaking, tandem kayaks are a great choice. It is also great for paddling pairs so that you don’t have to buy two separate kayaks. Such kayaks are long and wide, providing extra stability.
Fishing Kayak
Fishing kayaks are usually earthy colors or camouflaged, compared to the brighter colored ones. This type is built to hold and carry fishing gear with a seating position ample enough to help you reel in your catch.
Conclusion – Best Sit on Top Kayak Under 300
Choosing the best sit on top kayak under 300 doesn’t have to be difficult. You just need to determine where you’ll be using it and what activities you will use it for. There are a lot of other higher-priced kayaks, but we’ve limited the choices in this blog post to those under $300 so that they are budget-friendly.
It’s also an ideal choice if you’re just starting out on kayaking and you want to get a feel for this activity. In case you find that you don’t like it, at least you didn’t break the bank!
Here are a few helpful tips for taking care of your sit on top kayak:
While paddling out on the sun is fine, your kayak is exposed for excessive periods of time in the sun. Doing so can make the colors fade, and plastic kayaks can even be deformed.
When you’re finished for the day, you can rinse your kayak with clean water and a tiny bit of bleach or vinegar. This will stop the salt in saltwater from eating away at your boat.
If you’re storing the kayak under a tarp, be sure to dry it first to prevent mold and mildew. Cover your kayak when you’re not using it. You can use a cockpit cover. But if that’s not available for you, you can always use a well-placed tarp.
See our other sit on top articles for more info and product reviews:
