Many people prefer Stand Up Paddle Boarding because you can paddle in multiple positions. But what about those who want to sit permanently?
Sure you can sit down on the board, but as us older folks know it can be a strain on the back being hunched over all the time. The solution?
SUP Seats!!
Our top pick is the iRocker SUP to Kayak conversion package. It provides a high-quality seat with comfortable padding and a bonus paddle of your choice.
This seat is also compatible with a number of different paddle boards, and as a bonus, it’s small enough to stash in the cargo area on your board and lays flat when not in use.
We’re outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy testing gear to find out what works best, and paddling trips to places like Ontario and British Columbia give us incredible opportunities to put items to the test in real-world scenarios. With over 20-years of experience, I’ve put countless hours into testing gear so we can recommend the best of the best.
Check out our list below of top stand-up paddle board seats, what we like about them, and what other riders have to say. We’ll also cover essential features, installation, comfort, and what materials make up these seats. If you are looking at paddleboard kayak hybrids checkout our guide here!
Kayak Seat Reviews
Below are our top picks based on 35 hours of dedicated research and testing.
1. iRocker SUP to Kayak Conversion Package – (Premium Pick)
Features
- Durable bolt snap hooks
- Compatible with different paddling styles (single blade and double blade movements)
- Small enough to stash in the cargo area on your SUP
- It lays flat so you can use it as a seat cushion without the back
Comfort
The iRocker SUP to Kayak Conversion Package is one of the best SUP seats available thanks to the thick cushioned seat made of neoprene and the adjustable straps that won’t get in the way as you move.
This seat dries quickly, so you won’t be sitting in water for long, and the multiple anchor points offer better support across your back than other comparable seats.
SUP Compatibility
This SUP seat works with all Nautical, iRocker, and Blackfin SUPs but can work with other inflatable SUPs. If you don’t already have D-rings in place on your SUP, you need to install those first, so the seat has an anchor point.
Installation
Set the iRocker seat in the center of the SUP near the handle and use the bolt snap hooks to secure the front straps to the D-rings on your board. Adjust the front straps until they’re the right length to hold the seat in place, and then fasten the rear straps and shorten them until the SUP kayak seat remains in place.
What’s It Made of?
This SUP seat features thick neoprene materials and durable nylon straps that dry quickly but have a lot of strength. There are also metal fasteners and heavy-duty plastic adjustment clips secured to the bottom of the seat.
What Customers Think
Customers like the storage on the rear of the seat that allows them to keep necessary items close at hand. Users also like that this seat takes up very little space and works well with both single-blade paddling and double-blade paddling.
Pros
- Works with many different SUPs
- Folds for easy storage and transport
- Installation takes very little time and no tools
- Works even if there’s more than one person on the board
Cons
- More expensive than other options
- The cushioning is a little thin for comfort on long trips
- It only comes in black/ grey color combination
2. Nixy Premium Kayak Seat – (Quality Add On Pick)
Features
- Durable, water-resistant neoprene
- Easy to adjust positioning for better posture
- Storage pouch on the back to hold necessary items
- Super easy installation process
Comfort
The Nixy Premium Kayak seat features a robust EVA cushion that makes for a very comfortable paddle board chair that won’t take up much space. This paddle board seat features two anchor points with metal fasteners so you can quickly adjust your seat positioning while on the board.
SUP Compatibility
This paddle board SUP seat is an excellent option for those with a paddle board with D-rings and want an easy-to-install option. This seat is compatible with a wide assortment of boards. It can be used in other environments outside of paddle boarding as well!
Installation
Installing the Nixy kayak seat is super easy as there are only two anchor points and two straps to adjust. The installation process takes only a few seconds, and you can store the chair in the cargo area of your SUP when it’s not in use.
This is the preferable universal pick as many SUP’s just come with the two D rings in the middle of the board.
What’s It Made of?
The Nixy seat features an EVA cushion and a neoprene outer for added water resistance. The straps feature nylon and metal fasteners with heavy-duty plastic clips to adjust the strap length. Again, Ideal for many different SUP’s with D rings placed near the middle of the board.
What Customers Think
Customers appreciate the breathability and comfort of this seat and that it can work with solid or inflatable paddle board kayak seat anchor points. Users also love the simplicity of only two straps because it’s easier to add or remove the seat from the board while out on the water.
Pros
- Thick EVA cushion
- Durable nylon straps
- Easy to store in the cargo area of your board
Cons
- It only comes in black/grey color
- No straps for anchoring behind the seat
- The storage pouch could be bigger
3. Gili Sports SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit – (Best Storage Option)
Features
- Fits all GILI paddle boards and comes with your choice of paddle
- A detachable storage bag that clips in place
- Connects to your paddle board via D-ring anchors in seconds
- Articulated seat cushion on back and bottom
Comfort
The Gili kayak seat features a large back and base with a moderate amount of padding, so it’s comfortable for longer rides in rougher water conditions. Four anchor points ensure the seat stays firmly in place on your board.
SUP Compatibility
This kayak seat works with all GILI brand paddle boards and other SUPs with four D-ring style anchor points.
This limits the compatibility to other inflatable boards. In this case the boards must have D rings in the middle and back of the board. Brands like Thurso, iRocker and Gili to name a few.
Installation
Installing this seat works like any other kayak seat with four anchor points and requires no tools. First, put the seat where you want it on your board and secure the rear anchors. Tighten or loosen the straps until they are snug before anchoring the front two clips of the seat and adjusting the straps.
What’s It Made of?
This kayak seat features durable neoprene material, metal snap hoods, and nylon straps for added durability.
What Customers Think
Customers like how secure this seat is on their board even when the water is choppy, and conditions are windy. Users also like that this seat is easy to store in the cargo area and easy to install.
Pros
- Generously sized detachable storage pouch
- Four-point anchoring system
- Compatible with all GILI paddle boards and many others
Cons
- The upper seat cushion near the neck isn’t useful
- Not enough padding in the bottom cushion
- Challenging to install while on the water
4. Thurso SUP Kayak Seat – (Best for Active Paddlers)
Features
- Rigid PE backing for added support
- The simple installation process with D-ring anchors takes seconds
- Small footprint and easily stored in the cargo area on your board
- Bonus storage bag for necessary items
Comfort
This SUP seat features a rigid back behind a layer of foam which sets it apart from other seats and offers better support. The small footprint doesn’t mean less padding either, and this seat features some thick foam and four anchor points to keep it firmly in place.
SUP Compatibility
This SUP seat works for Thurso paddle boards with four D-ring anchor points, but it should also work with any brand of SUP that has the appropriate anchor points in place.
Installation
Anchor the seat using the back two straps and tighten the straps, so it rests in the location you want before securing the front anchors. With the front snap hooks secured, you can adjust the front straps to secure the seat fully.
What’s It Made of?
This seat features a PE foam that lends some rigidity and nylon straps with metal snap hooks. The seat has a custom made style compared to many others on this list.
What Customers Think
Customers appreciate that this seat is on the smaller side but has a more rigid back for added support.
The four-point anchoring system is easy to install, and users like that this seat is small enough to have installed without it getting in the way when you use the SUP in a standing position.
Pros
- Durable seat with a rigid, comfortable base
- Easy to install without tools
- Small enough to have in place and use the SUP in a standing position
Cons
- Difficult to get the straps even
- The backrest flops over when not in use
- The pouch is on the small side
5. Paddle Sit Kayak Seat – (Ergonomic Pick)
Features
- A unique kneeling design for the best ergonomic position while you paddle
- Adjusts for height and angle
- Allows for seated paddling with a quick flip of the seat
- Requires no straps for installation, and it floats
Comfort
The Paddle Sit kayak seat features a design that allows you to comfortably kneel with very little weight placed on your knees and also sit by simply flipping the seat down to become a backrest.
This feature allows riders of various heights the ability to choose the most comfortable position for them.
SUP Compatibility
This SUP seat works with any stand-up paddle board for SUP kayaking as the unit uses the high grip of the board surface. This unit also features holes for optional straps, or you can secure it with a leash to ensure it doesn’t get separated from your board if you flip over.
No D Rings Required!
Installation
Installing this seat involves placing the seat on the board where you want it, and you’re ready to paddle!
You can paddle while sitting on the board instead of kneeling by flipping the seat portion towards the front of the board to use it as a backrest.
What’s It Made of?
The frame of this seat is metal, and it features some thick foam padding covered in a synthetic material.
What Customers Think
Customers love the support and ergonomics of this seat and how easy it is to install. Its definitely something completely different but we love how Paddle Sit thought about SUP Seats in a different fashion.
Pros
- Super easy installation with no straps or anchors required
- Multiple ways to anchor it to your board
- Multiple positions and adjustments
Cons
- More expensive than other seats
- Heavy
- Difficult to store
6. Pelican Sport – (Budget Pick)
Features
- Two anchor points with metal snap hooks
- Minimalist design with a low back
- D-rings on the backrest for attaching a storage pouch or other accessory
- Highly flexible cushioning for a comfortable fit
Comfort
The Pelican Sport seat is smaller and more flexible than other seats. It offers far less padding and back support as well. This is a seat that would be more recommended for shorter trips or younger folks.
SUP Compatibility
This SUP seat should work with any SUPs with D-ring anchors in place, and there’s also an accessory kit available with mounting gear.
Installation
Installing this seat is easy if you have anchor points on your SUP. Just set the seat where you want it, clip the hooks to the anchor points, and adjust the straps until snug.
What’s It Made of?
This seat features nylon construction with metal fasteners and plastic clips to adjust the strap length.
What Customers Think
Customers love that this seat is lightweight and helps keep you dry. Unfortunately, this seat provides only minimal back support, which limits the comfort it offers.
Pros
- Small and lightweight design
- Easy to store in the cargo area on your SUP
- Water repellent exterior
Cons
- Not much back support
- Anchor points don’t keep the seat firmly in place
- No storage pouch
7. WooWave High Back Seat – (Storage Pick)
Features
- Four-point anchoring system with adjustable straps
- Large detachable storage pouch
- Skid-resistant foam cushion for added durability
- High-back design for enhanced ergonomics
Comfort
The WooWave seat offers good support with a very large back cushion, but the bottom portion is thinner and provides less cushion. The four-point straps keep the seat firmly in place and make the rider feel secure.
SUP Compatibility
This paddle board seat works with a wide variety of SUPs, including inflatable versions. You’ll need 4 D-rings to anchor this seat in place.
Installation
Installation requires no tools, but you will need to adjust the straps in the front and back to keep the seat in one location.
What’s It Made of?
This seat features nylon straps, metal fasteners, an EVA foam cushion, and a 210D polyester outer.
What Customers Think
Customers love the size of this seat and the added support from the higher-backed design. Users also appreciate the four-point anchoring and extra-large storage pouch that detaches.
Pros
- Large detachable waterproof storage pouch
- Extra padding on seat and back
- Anti-slip base and reinforced straps for added security
Cons
- The bottom seat cushion is a little thin
- Challenging to install while on the water
- A little big to fit in the cargo area of your SUP
8. Harmony SUP Seat – (Best Minimalist Seat)
Features
- Lightweight design that fits in the cargo area of your board
- Corrosion-resistant hardware
- Skid-resistant bottom grips well to the deck of a SUP
- Fully adjustable straps
Comfort
This seat provides minimal cushioning to the rider but is light and easy to carry wherever you go. The adjustable strap design and articulated back create a custom fit for each rider.
SUP Compatibility
This SUP seat works with any paddle board that has 4 D-rings for anchoring. If your SUP lacks the appropriate hardware, it’s possible to add anchor points that work with this seat.
Installation
Place the seat where you want it on your paddle board, and connect the hooks to the forward anchor points. Adjust the straps until snug.
What’s It Made of?
The Harmony SUP seat features nylon fabric over a foam cushion. There is also a skid-resistant bottom and corrosion-resistant metal hardware.
What Customers Think
Customers love how lightweight this seat is, and they also enjoy the stiffness provided by the articulated design.
Pros
- Easy to fold up and stash in the cargo area of your board
- The articulated back provides greater comfort
- The skid-resistant bottom keeps riders in place
Cons
- The bottom cushion provides very little padding
- Not enough overall cushioning for longer rides
- Doesn’t stay in place well on a SUP
9. LeaderAccessories Kayak Seat – (Most Breathable Seat)
Features
- Molded foam cushion intended for all-day comfort
- Four-point anchoring system
- Reinforced hooks for added durability
- Large, waterproof, detachable storage pouch
Comfort
The LeaderAccessories seat features thick EVA foam that provides long-lasting comfort for riders. The articulated high-back design also supplies better back support than many other seats.
SUP Compatibility
This seat will work well with any SUP with four anchor points on the deck.
Installation
Like most other seats with four anchors, you’ll first place the seat where you want it and secure the front hooks before tightening the straps and repeating the process with the rear anchors.
What’s It Made of?
This seat features EVA foam cushioning encapsulated by 210D polyester. There are also high-quality reinforced hooks made from a corrosion-resistant material.
What Customers Think
Customers like how easy it is to install this seat and the excellent support provided for the back area. The bottom seat is breathable, and users love that they can sit and stand without this seat getting in the way.
Pros
- High-quality reinforced hooks for a longer service life
- Generously sized storage pouch that is waterproof
- Easy to adjust anchoring straps
Cons
- It only comes in black/grey color combination
- The back is too flexible for some riders
- The bottom pad is on the thin side for extended rides
10. OceanMotion Ergofit Kayak Seat – (Most Generously Padded Seat)
Features
- Universal design fits most kayaks and SUPs
- Non-slip bottom and adjustable straps
- Extra thick cushioning with a reinforced back for added support
- Generously sized storage pouch
Comfort
This seat features a high level of articulated padding, which gives the rider a more custom fit and provides ample cushion for longer rides.
SUP Compatibility
The Ocean Motion seat will work with any SUP that has the appropriate anchor points. The straps extend up to 22-inches to reach the D-rings on your board. Ideal if your boards D Rings are further back on the board.
Installation
This seat requires no tools for installation. Put the seat where you want it and secure the front two hooks before adjusting the straps until they fit snugly. Repeat this process for the rear straps.
What’s It Made of?
This SUP seat features all synthetic materials including metal fasteners and nylon straps.
What Customers Think
Customers love how thick the bottom cushion on this seat is and how long they can ride before getting uncomfortable. They also like the more rigid back and the support it provides.
Pros
- Rigid and articulated back for additional support
- Extra thick bottom seat for enhanced comfort
- A four-point anchoring system and a non-slip base keep the seat in place
Cons
- A bit stiff for some riders
- The seat doesn’t stay put on all SUPs
- Straps slip and need re-tightening every so often
How Do I Choose A SUP Seat That’s Right For Me?
Before choosing a SUP seat, you’ll want to determine how many anchor points your board has and the level of comfort you need from a kayak seat.
Often, companies have specific brand name kayak seats for their paddle boards, but you can buy other seats with added features such as more storage or different amounts of padding.
How to Install a Kayak Seat to a SUP
To install your kayak seat on your SUP, place the seat where you want it on the deck and adjust the straps to secure either the rear or the front two attachment hooks.
Readjust the straps until snug and connect the remaining anchoring hooks. Adjust the straps for all of the anchors to ensure proper snugness, and you’re all set!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best SUP seat for you is a somewhat personal process, but choosing a high-quality option from our list gives you the best chance of happy paddling for many future trips. The winner in our review was the iRocker Sup to Kayak Conversion Package.
Choose a seat with the right amount of padding and anchor straps for your board, and don’t be afraid to try out a few different models before you decide.
Installing all of the above seats doesn’t require any tools and only seconds to complete, so it’s an easy upgrade that can save your back and make you more comfortable for longer rides.
