Can’t decide between a kayak and a paddleboard? I admit that it can be a tough choice – but, as it turns out, you might not have to choose one or the other after all:
If you opt for a SUP kayak hybrid, you can actually get the best of both worlds.
Sounds great, doesn’t it?
If you would like to know more, be sure to stick around. You’ll find the best paddle board kayak hybrid reviews – and lots of additional information – below!
We may receive a commission if you click a link on this page and then go on to purchase something, but at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.
At A Glance – Here Are Our Picks For Top SUP Kayak Hybrids
-
Overall Winner:
ISLE Switch
“If you want a complete SUP-to-kayak conversion kit that doesn’t feel – or perform – like a regular iSUP that just has a kayak seat attached to it, do yourself a favor and get the ISLE Switch.” -
Runner-Up:
Sea Eagle LongBoard 11 Hybrid Paddleboard
“Sea Eagle’s LongBoard 11 is a great all-around performer – but the limited load capacity means it’s only suitable for small to mid-sized paddlers.” -
Budget-Friendly Pick:
Bluefin Cruise SUP Package
“If you’re working with a tight budget, the Bluefin Cruise paddle board kayak hybrid could be the right fit for you – and your wallet. And it’s as light as a feather, too!” -
Top SUP Kayak Crossover:
Perception Kayaks Hi Life 11
“If you don’t mind the weight and the not-so-portable nature of a rigid hybrid SUP, the Hi Life 11 is a fun option that’s certainly worth considering.” -
Best Inflatable:
BOTE DEUS Aero Sit-On-Top Inflatable Kayak
“The removable top chamber makes the BOTE Deus Aero a versatile choice for anyone who wants an inflatable paddle board and kayak combo.” -
Great For Kids:
Perception Hi Five 6.5 Kids SUP Kayak Hybrid
“If your kids have shown some interest in paddling sports, Perception’s Hi Five will allow them to explore the joys of kayaking and paddle boarding – at the same time.” -
Fishing Ready:
Sea Eagle FishSup 126 Hybrid SUP
“Stable, durable, and equipped with great features, the Sea Eagle FishSup 126 Hybrid SUP is a fantastic fishing platform. Plus, it can be fitted with a trolling motor!” -
Best For Oceans:
Ocean Kayak Nalu 11
“The Ocean Kayak Nalu 11 is a versatile SUP kayak hybrid that feels right at home in the ocean – and is a great choice for long afternoon cruises in coastal waters.”
In A Rush? The Winner After 40 Hours Of Research:
Winner
ISLE Switch Inflatable Hybrid SUP
Why is it better?
- Weighing just 19 pounds, the lightweight, inflatable design – and the included backpack – make it portable, easy to store, and travel-friendly.
- The deck is fully customizable thanks to the ISLE-LINK connection system, featuring webbing loops along the full length of the board’s rails.
- It can be configured for solo or tandem paddling.
- With a weight capacity of 425 pounds and front and rear bungee rigging, it has more than enough room for all your gear.
- The full-length, brushed EVA deck pad provides a soft and comfortable surface – perfect for yoga practice – while improving traction and grip.
- It feels stable and steady as a rock thanks to its 35.5-inch width but doesn’t compromise speed and maneuverability.
- Also includes an inflatable kayak seat and foot brace, a four-piece, two-in-one paddle, a coiled SUP leash, a hand pump, and a center touring fin.
What Is A Hybrid Paddle Board?
A SUP kayak hybrid – as the name indicates – is a paddle board and kayak combo.
It goes by many different names – including hybrid SUP, paddle board kayak hybrid, SUP kayak, stand-up paddle board kayak, hybrid kayak paddle board, kayak/paddle board combo, paddle board/kayak combo and stand-up kayak. As you can see, there are tons of variations, all of them based on the same three words – “kayak,” “SUP,” and “hybrid.”
Whatever you choose to call it, the point remains the same:
These vessels are a sort of crossover between a SUP and a kayak.
Some could easily be mistaken for kayaks at a glance; others are little more than paddle boards with kayak seats attached. Even with the addition of a seat, these hybrids still provide a genuine paddle boarding experience – but with the added touch of versatility and comfort, of course.
You are essentially getting the best of both worlds – which brings me to my next point…
Editor’s Note
It’s common for people to confuse the terms ’hybrid paddle board’ and ‘hybrid kayak’.
While they share similar names, these two types of hybrid watercraft have distinct differences in design and function.
A hybrid paddle board, also known as a SUP-kayak, is a combination of a stand-up paddle board and a kayak, providing both stability and maneuverability. In contrast, a hybrid kayak typically has the handling characteristics of a kayak, but with added features of a canoe.
– Sam O’Brien
Benefits Of Owning A SUP Kayak Hybrid
Both kayaks and paddle boards – as separate vessels, that is – have some unique benefits. They are designed for different kinds of paddling activities and offer distinct ways to explore the water, though, which probably makes you wonder:
What are the benefits of paddle board kayak hybrids?
Well, let’s look at a few perks of owning a SUP kayak hybrid:
- You have the option to switch between two different paddling positions – standing up and sitting down
- You don’t have to own two different kinds of vessels; you get the best of both worlds with a SUP kayak hybrid – which is not only cheaper than buying both a kayak and paddle board but more convenient storage-wise, too
- You engage different muscles groups by switching paddling positions, making it easier to avoid fatigue on longer outings
- Most paddleboard kayak hybrids are inflatable and, as such, more lightweight and easier to transport
- You can paddle while sitting down, which makes hybrids more manageable for beginners who might still be trying to get the hang of balancing on the water
Even with all these benefits of a SUP and kayak combo, there are still a few notable downsides that should be considered, including the following:
- Hybrids have solid all-around performance, but they are not suitable for specialized uses as racing or whitewater.
- A SUP kayak combo can never provide the same kayaking experience as a proper kayak could as it is a compromise between the two designs
- These boards are generally limited to calm and slow-moving waters
- The onboard storage options are limited to bungee tie-downs, and you don’t get as much protection from the water and the elements (as you would in a typical kayak)
Choosing A Paddle Board Kayak Hybrid: Things To Consider
When shopping for a paddle board kayak hybrid, you will obviously have to consider many of the same features and characteristics you would take into account when shopping for a kayak (or a SUP) individually:
The construction, the materials used, the dimensions, and the load capacity – it all contributes to the vessel’s overall performance and your experience on the water.
Of course, that’s not all.
So, let’s go over the most important factors together. That will – hopefully – help you pick the best SUP kayak hybrid for your needs.
Intended Use & Your Experience Level
The first – and, I’d even argue, the most important – things you should consider when choosing a SUP kayak hybrid are your experience level and intended use.
Why are you getting a paddle board and kayak combo? How and where do you intend to use the board? Is there anything specific you hope to get out of it performance-wise?
You should take some time to answer these questions. Why? SUP kayak hybrids are not exactly the definition of high-performance boards. They are great all-rounders, but they won’t give you the same level of performance as a specialized kayak would.
And obviously, beginners will have different needs compared to experienced paddlers:
If you’re new to paddling, you should look for a wider, more stable SUP kayak hybrid that comes as part of a complete package – with everything you’d need to get on the water. As for seasoned paddlers, they will obviously prioritize better on-the-water performance.
The point is:
For some people, a “jack of all trades” board is perfectly fine. Others might expect a bit more out of their boards in the performance department, though.
Plus, if you’re also interested in specific activities – fishing, for example – that’s another thing you need to take into account. As versatile as they are, not all “hybrids” have the necessary features that would make them suitable for fishing trips.
So, decide what you want first – and then look for a hybrid board that meets those needs.
Materials & Construction
The most common – and accessible – choice here would be an inflatable SUP hybrid. Granted, these are essentially just inflatable paddle boards that come with a removable seat, but trust me – the seat makes all the difference here.
If you opt for an inflatable SUP hybrid, the most common choice of material will be PVC. You still need to pay attention to the overall quality and durability of the material used, though, and check if the board was made using single or double drop-stitch construction – the latter being the preferred option.
That said, there are also rigid hybrid SUPs, typically constructed out of rotomolded polyethylene – which, as you can expect, are heavier than their inflatable counterparts. Their main advantage, though, is that they also tend to be more robust and durable – and have a shape and design characteristics more akin to that of a kayak.
Whatever you choose, the key thing is to ensure that you’re getting a board made of high-quality materials because that ultimately impacts the board’s overall performance, weight, durability and lifespan, and price.
SUP Kayak Dimensions & Weight Capacity
Dimensions and weight capacity are something you should generally consider – whether you are going with a SUP, a kayak, or, in this particular case, a combination of both.
The importance of choosing the right SUP size should be obvious enough:
The dimensions of the board – or, more specifically, length, width, and thickness – contribute to its on-the-water performance and overall stability.
Besides, it also impacts the weight, and you don’t want to end up with a SUP kayak that’s too heavy to portage with or transport to the water.
The second important factor is, of course, the weight capacity. As you’re probably aware, most SUPs can support weights of 200 to 500 pounds, depending on the construction and design:
Hard SUPs typically have a lower load capacity, ranging between 200 and 300 pounds, while an inflatable one can handle a bit more weight – around 400 pounds on average.
Additional Equipment & Versatility
SUP kayak hybrids are already incredibly versatile; that’s one of their strongest points. However, since not all models are made equal, you can expect some to be more versatile than others due to the addition of certain features.
You may be surprised to learn this, but the level of versatility offered by a hybrid SUP is a matter of the number of D-rings featured on the board and their positioning.
Why?
These metal rings are used as attachment points for your kayak seat – and any other equipment and accessories you plan on mounting onto your board. So, the more D-rings the board has, the more versatile it will be.
Speaking of versatility, here are a few additional features and must-have accessories you may want to look for:
- An adaptable, two-in-one paddle
- Removable fins for improved tracking performance
- Multiple grab handles
- Rod holders (if you’re hoping to go fishing)
- Front and/or rear bungee rigging for onboard storage
- Removable foot bar or brace for when paddling in kayak mode
- A cushioned deck pad for improved traction, comfort, and foot positioning
Frequently Asked Questions on Paddle Board Kayak Hybrids
Are hybrid paddle boards any good?
Yes, they are. However, that also depends on what you need the hybrid SUP for; being the jack of all trades, they are masters of none – and you can’t expect them to deliver the same levels of performance that you’d get from a dedicated SUP or kayak. But for recreational use, it can be a great choice.
Can you use a paddle board as a kayak?
Yes, you can use a paddle board as a kayak – as long as you have a kayak seat and a second paddle blade, that is. You cannot expect the same level of performance and handling – but it is possible for a SUP to be converted into a kayak-like watercraft that allows you to paddle in a seated position.
How do you attach a seat to a paddle board?
In most cases, attaching a kayak seat to a paddle board is as simple as using D-rings. With that said, the SUP needs to have D-rings at the right place to allow that – and not all boards do. That is one of the main reasons why some SUPs are better suited for seats than others.
Can any paddle board be converted to a kayak?
Technically speaking, yes, any paddle board can be converted to a kayak – as long as it features the necessary mounting points (D-rings) that will allow you to attach the kayak seat. If it doesn’t then it might still be possible using other methods such as drilling holes or using stick-on D-rings, but it is important to note that this may void the warranty of the board.
Is a hybrid paddle board and hybrid kayak the same thing?
No, a hybrid SUP is not the same thing as a hybrid kayak. The former is a cross between SUPs and kayaks; the latter is a watercraft that retains the handling characteristics of a kayak but with canoe-like features. A prime example of that would be Ascend Kayak’s H10.
Best SUP Kayak Hybrid Reviews: Top 8 Picks For 2023
How We Tested & Rated Our Top Picks
The paddle board kayak hybrids featured in this round-up were all reviewed and rated based on the same set of criteria:
- Build Quality – The score is based on the quality of materials used and how durable and rugged the SUP hybrid feels overall.
- Performance – The score is based on how the board “behaves” in a range of different conditions, how stable it feels, and how well it tracks.
- Portability – The score is based on how much the hybrid board weighs, whether it’s rigid or inflatable, and how easy it is to transport to and from the water.
- Weight Capacity – The score is based on how much weight the watercraft is designed to support and how well that aligns with the average paddler’s needs.
- Value for Money – The score is based on rough estimates of how well the it’s features and value align with its RRP (Recommended Retail Price).
Each product then received a score on a scale of 1 to 10, depending on how well it met – and, in some cases, even exceeded – the expectations in each of the categories shown above. Only the highest-quality, top-performing SUP hybrids earned a 10/10 rating
Best Hybrid Board For Small To Mid-Sized Paddlers
Sea Eagle LongBoard 11 Hybrid Paddleboard
Sea Eagle’s LongBoard 11 is a great all-around inflatable paddleboard kayak hybrid.
The six-inch thickness and drop-stitch PVC construction contribute to durability and stability and give the board a rigid feel. Plus, it can be inflated to up to 15 PSI – which is pretty impressive for an inflatable SUP. Although you might want to invest in an electic pump as inflating this manaully took us a little over 12mins, stopping halfway to catch my breath.
I need to warn you that it’s not the best choice for bigger paddlers, though. The board’s capacity clocks in at 200 pounds, which isn’t low per se – but it’s definitely not enough for someone with a body type similar to mine.
On the plus side, it weighs 30 pounds, so it remains pretty portable.
And on the deck, you will find a full-length EVA foam deck pad for improved traction and comfort – complete with a Performance Kick Tail for better foot placement – several D-rings (four of which can be used to attach a kayak seat), and bungee cords for storage at the nose.
Another thing I like about this SUP hybrid is the two-plus-one fin setup. The large, central fin can be removed when you’re in shallow waters – and you can put it back in when you want improved tracking performance.
Technical Specs
- Dimensions: 11 x 2.5 feet
- Thickness: 6 inches
- Materials: 1100 Decitex Reinforced drop-stitch construction
- Weight: 30 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 200 pounds
Pros
- The two-plus-one fin setup ensures flexibility in different water conditions
- It’s relatively lightweight and easy to transport and store
- EVA foam deck pad improves traction and encourages good foot placement
- Feels almost as rigid as a hard board due to high PSI
- Comes with all the essential accessories; paddle, hand pump, carry bag and repair kit
Cons
- The weight capacity is quite low, making it unsuitable for bigger paddlers
- No way to remove the side fins
Sea Eagle’s LongBoard 11 is a fantastic all-around, flatwater board, but do keep in mind that the limited weight capacity means it’s only suitable for small to mid-sized paddlers.
Best Rigid Paddle Board Kayak Hybrid
Perception Kayaks Hi Life 11
The design of this SUP-turned-kayak hybrid has been awarded the bronze medal in the “Sports, Leisure, and Recreation” category at the 2018 International Design Excellence Award. That tells you a lot about Hi Life’s incredible design.
It truly is a versatile vessel – with a sit-on-top design that can be paddled both as a kayak and as a stand-up paddle board.
The Hi Life comes with an elevated seat (for when you’re in the mood for a “traditional” kayaking experience) and deck cushioning that allows you to paddle standing up, as you would on a SUP. And to add to the fun factor, it also features a swim-up platform – which makes it easier to get on board after taking a swim.
Of course, being a SUP-kayak hybrid, it doesn’t offer much in terms of storage, despite boasting a 280-pound load capacity. You do get bungee rigging in the front, built-in gear tracks for adding accessories, and a cooler recess under the seat.
The convertible paddle is sold separately, but that’s not really an issue. I’m way more concerned about storage and portability because, in addition to measuring 11 feet in length, the Hi Life also weighs 55 pounds. That’s 10 pounds heavier than the similarly-sized Nalu 11!
Technical Specs
- Dimensions: 11 x 2.8 feet
- Materials: Polyethylene construction
- Weight: 55 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 280 pounds
Pros
- The deck pad provides a soft-but-grippy surface to stand on
- Has built-in gear tracks for mounting additional accessories
- Features a swim-up platform for easier re-entry
- Elevated seating area with a padded, fold-down backrest
Cons
- Doesn’t track as well as I’d expect from a hard-shell hybrid
- It’s the heaviest SUP hybrid on this list
- Doesn’t offer much in terms of storage
The Perception Hi Life 11 is a board you can have fun with, as long as you don’t mind the weight and the not-so-portable nature of a rigid hybrid SUP, that is.
Best Inflatable Paddle Board And Kayak Combo
BOTE DEUS Aero Sit-On-Top Inflatable Kayak & SUP
I had the pleasure of taking the BOTE Deus Aero out for a spin while I was doing research for a round-up of the best dog-friendly kayaks; you can see my top picks here, by the way. And, at the risk of sounding biased, I still believe it’s one of the coolest hybrid-type inflatables out there.
It starts out as an 11-foot inflatable kayak, but once you remove the top chamber, it converts into a SUP – and an incredibly stable one, at that.
Constructed with AeroBOTE Technology, with military-grade drop-stitch PVC as the main choice of material, the Deus Aero also offers a lot in terms of rigidity and durability.
The deck measures 33 inches at its widest point, features a BVA textured deck pad that delivers cushioning and anti-slip traction, and has a swim-up platform in the back. Even more so, you will find multiple conveniently placed tie-down points (D-rings) and some bungee straps in the front – which act as your onboard storage.
As for the weight, the Deus Aero clocks in at 50 pounds, so it’s definitely one of the heavier SUP hybrids on this list – but the included travel bag adds to the overall portability. Oh, and it boasts a 300-pound capacity, too.
Technical Specs
- Dimensions: 11 x 2.75 feet
- Materials: Drop-stitch PVC construction
- Weight: 50 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Pros
- Features a rear swim-up platform for easier re-entry
- The removable top chamber makes it stand out from typical kayak hybrids
- A pet-friendly option
- Has a textured, non-slip deck pad for comfort and safety
Cons
- Quite heavy for an inflatable hybrid kayak (and one of the heaviest I’ve reviewed)
- Not the most budget-friendly option
With a unique design, and a removable top chamber that transforms this SOT kayak into a SUP, the BOTE Deus Aero is an excellent choice for paddlers who want an all-inclusive paddle board and kayak combo.
Best Budget-Friendly SUP Kayak Hybrid
Bluefin Cruise SUP Package
The Bluefin Cruise 10’8” has long been regarded as Bluefin’s most popular model, and I have to say that that title is more than justified. Like other Bluefin inflatable SUPs – which, by the way, all come with strategically placed D-rings that allow for SUP-to-kayak conversion – it was built to be versatile:
There are a total of 14 attachment points distributed along the length of the board – which allows you to attach the kayak seat in a variety of positions, depending on your needs and preferences. The remainder of the D-rings can be used for attaching gear and accessories, and you have two cargo areas – one in the front and one in the back.
Now, I know that it’s not cheap per se – and I get that you might be skeptical about the whole “budget-friendly” thing. But hear me out:
It costs significantly less than Ocean Kayak’s Nalu 11 or BOTE’s Deus Aero, for example, so it’s definitely a better choice for paddlers on a budget. Besides, you’re getting a complete SUP package here; that alone makes the Cruise a great bang for your buck.
On that note, that’s another thing to love about this one. It comes with everything – and I do mean everything – you need to get out on the water:
You’re getting a triple-action air pump, a lightweight, convertible two-in-one paddle, a removable center fin, a kayak conversion kit, and a heavy-duty backpack.
It boasts durable drop-stitch construction, too – with the Carbon fiber mid-rail, the Flex Reduction System, and a separate inflation-loop chamber for improved rigidity. And it still weighs as little as 14.5 pounds, which is mind-blowing!
Technical Specs
- Dimensions: 10.7 x 2.7 feet
- Thickness: 6 inches
- Materials: Drop-stitch nylon construction
- Weight: 14.5 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 287 pounds
Pros
- It comes as part of a complete beginner-friendly SUP package
- Designed to be light and portable – but durable
- The Carbon fiber paddle is lightweight and easy to handle
- Has two cargo areas
- The seat can be attached in a variety of positions
Cons
- It feels a bit slow and doesn’t track particularly well
- The center fin fits into the housing loosely and may fall out
If you are looking for a complete SUP-to-kayak conversion package, Bluefin’s Cruise might be it – and the best part is that it’s as light as a feather!
Best SUP Kayak Hybrid For Kids
Perception Hi Five 6.5 Kids SUP Kayak Hybrid
Perception’s Hi Five is heavily inspired by the Hi Life 11’s award-winning design. So, in essence, it retains all the main characteristics and features of the Hi Life 11 – but shrinks them down into a child-friendly package.
Does that make it the “ultimate kids’ watercraft,” as Perception puts it?
Well, I am inclined to agree. It’s one of the best SUP-kayak hybrids designed exclusively for kids that I’ve seen so far:
This 6-foot watercraft boasts a spacious front deck area paired with a molded-in, elevated seat – allowing for an effortless transition between kayaking and paddle boarding. And, with the built-in tethering point, your little one can also sit back and take a break while you tow them around.
Plus, it sits higher in the water – thanks to the 8-inch thickness – which could help keep your little ones drier.
Oh, and just like its bigger cousin, the Hi Life 11, it has a swim-up deck platform – which makes it easier for kids to get back onboard after taking a swim.
Another thing worth mentioning is that the board is suitable for kids ages 5 to 14, with a capacity of up to 120 pounds. It features Solo Mount accessory recesses that allow for customization – so it’s versatile in that regard, too.
Technical Specs
- Dimensions: 6 x 2 feet
- Thickness: 8 inches
- Materials: Polyethylene construction
- Weight: 21 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 120 pounds
Pros
- Features a spacious area for standing up
- There’s a swim-up platform in the back
- Suitable for kids ages 5 to 14
- It can be tethered to the parent’s vessel for towing
- Sits higher in the water due to the thicker design
- Has Solo Mount accessory recesses for customization
Cons
- Does not include a padded seat
- Doesn’t come with a non-slip deck pad (it must be purchased separately)
If your kids are old enough to paddle their own vessel, Perception’s Hi Five is the way to go. I’m confident that they’re going to love it, and I believe that it’s a great way to introduce them to both kayaking and paddle boarding.
Overall Best SUP Hybrid Package
ISLE Switch Inflatable Hybrid Paddle Board
I’ll be honest with you; as I was trying all these different SUP kayak hybrids out, I’d sometimes catch myself feeling like the Goldilocks of paddling sports. The mental image you have right now must be hilarious – but before you burst out laughing, hear me out:
Some were a bit too “kayak-y,” for lack of a better word; others felt a bit too SUP-like. But the Switch?
The Switch instantly felt “just right.”
This 11.5-foot inflatable SUP doesn’t just feature a couple of seat attachment points – enough to technically also classify as a kayak. It was designed with the intention of performing as a fully functional SUP or ‘yak – steady as a rock, easy to paddle, and surprisingly maneuverable for its size.
And here’s where the deal gets even sweeter:
The Switch is an everything-you-need type of kit. The list of accompanying accessories includes a four-piece, two-in-one paddle, a hand pump, a travel backpack, an 8-inch coiled SUP leash, a center fin, and, of course, an inflatable kayak seat and foot brace. The only thing that’s missing is a repair kit – but that’s just a minor complaint.
That dual-purpose versatility is clearly reflected in its outfitting, too:
You don’t just get to Switch (pun intended) from a SUP to a kayak. The ISLE-LINK connection system – with webbing loops that run along the full length of the board’s rails – means you can customize it however you like.
You can add accessories, configure it for tandem paddling, and – get this – link up two boards together!
Moreover, it features front and rear bungee rigging, a Velcro paddle holder, and a soft but grippy, brushed EVA traction pad. And the massive 425-pound load capacity is well above the average for the hybrid boards featured in this round-up.
Plus, it weighs a mere 19 pounds; how’s that for lightweight construction?
Technical Specs
- Dimensions: 11.5 x 2.9 feet
- Thickness: 6 inches
- Materials: Air-Tech Fusion Lite construction
- Weight: 19 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 425 pounds
Pros
- The deck is fully customizable thanks to the ISLE-LINK webbing loops
- Can be configured for single or tandem paddling
- Features bungee rigging at the front and back
- The full-length traction pad improves comfort and provides a bit more grip
- It’s wide and stable without compromising maneuverability
- It’s a complete, everything-you-need SUP package
Cons
- I would’ve preferred a Carbon fiber paddle over the aluminum one
- Doesn’t include a repair kit
ISLE’s Switch deserves the Goldilocks seal of approval for being “just right” – the right amount of SUP and the right amount of kayak wrapped up in one incredibly versatile package
Best Hybrid SUP For Fishing
Sea Eagle FishSup 126 Hybrid SUP
You can take one look at this hybrid SUP, and you can instantly tell that it is made with one thing in mind – fishing, of course.
One of the first things I’ve noticed is how stable it feels on the water, thanks to the 40-inch beam and the wide, swallow tail design. Even more so, it’s well-made and rigid, made of military-grade PVC with drop-stitch construction.
It’s also loaded with some great features that make the fishing experience even better:
For starters, you’ll get two universal rod holders, a built-in 36-inch fish ruler, and a paddle pocket to secure the paddle while you reel in fish. And if you are up for covering longer distances, there is an optional motor mount that can support a 55-pound-thrust electric trolling motor.
The best part of choosing the Swivel Seat Fishing Rig Package over Sea Eagle’s “Start Up” and “Deluxe” packages – despite the higher price tag – is the addition of a 360-degree swiveling seat. It does wonders for improving comfort on longer outings.
Even more so, at 500 pounds it has the highest capacity of all the hybrids I’ve reviewed and is the only one that is actually capable of accommodating two adults.
Technical Specs
- Dimensions: 12.5 x 3.4 feet
- Thickness: 6 inches
- Materials: 1100 Decitex Reinforced drop-stitch construction
- Weight: 44 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
Pros
- Wide and exceptionally stable fishing platform
- Has a high enough capacity to accommodate two adults
- Can be fitted with an electric trolling motor
- Tracks surprisingly well for an inflatable board
- Equipped with fishing-specific features and a swiveling seat
Cons
- Quite heavy and tricky to transport for an inflatable SUP
- The Swivel Seat Fishing Rig Package is relatively pricey
The design of Sea Eagle’s FishSup 126 Hybrid SUP is really well thought out – and it truly is one of the best fishing platforms out there, especially for someone who can’t quite decide between a SUP and a kayak.
Best Hybrid For Ocean Paddling
Ocean Kayak Nalu 11
The Nalu 11 looks like a sit-on-top ‘yak – albeit a weird one – at a glance. But the longer you look at it, the more it starts to look like a paddle board. It just looks odd compared to the other hybrids I’ve reviewed.
I’m guessing that’s because it is not quite a SUP – but not quite a kayak, either. It is something in between, with Ocean Kayak’s Comfort Plus seat that mounts directly over the standing area that features footwells and textured padding.
I don’t like how narrow the padded deck area is; I would have preferred a wider surface – like the one you’d find on Perception’s Hi Life 11, for example.
This 11-foot vessel clocks in at 44 pounds, which is not too bad for a board made of single-layer polyethylene. Also, it is designed to carry 275 pounds – nothing too impressive, but it sure beats the LongBoard 11 and its super-limited capacity.
Overall, it is a good choice for beginners and intermediate-level paddlers – especially those who are looking to save some money and still get a versatile SUP that performs well in light surf.
Technical Specs
- Dimensions: 11 x 2.6 feet
- Materials: Single-layer polyethylene construction
- Weight: 44 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 275 pounds
Pros
- Designed to take some serious “abuse”
- Has molded-in fins for improved tracking
- Remains relatively stable (even in rougher waters)
- Stern bungee rigging acts as storage
- Suitable for the ocean and river environments
- A pretty reasonably priced SUP hybrid
Cons
- Not the most lightweight option I’ve tested
- The padded deck area is narrow and doesn’t allow you to move your feet
The Ocean Kayak Nalu 11 is a versatile SUP kayak hybrid that feels right at home in the ocean – as well as river environments – and a great choice for beginner- and intermediate-level paddlers.
A Quick Side-By-Side Comparison
I tried my best to give you an in-depth overview of the best SUP kayak hybrids and share crucial information about each one. That might not be enough for you to make your decision, especially if you’re still “on the fence” about some of these hybrid SUPs.
So, to sum everything up – and help you make an informed decision – I’d like to take a second to do a quick side-by-side comparison of the top-rated picks:
Hybrid Paddle Board: Summary
The hybrid SUPs outlined in this round-up are some of the best options available at the moment – and in that sense, whichever one you choose, I’m certain you will be perfectly happy.
That said, the ISLE Switch stands out as the best paddle board kayak hybrid out of the bunch. The main reason for that is the board’s incredible versatility.
It is one of the very few hybrids out there that can genuinely perform as a fully functional SUP – or kayak – depending on what you need.
Plus, it comes as an all-inclusive paddle-board-and-kayak-combo package, with everything you could possibly need – from a four-piece, two-in-one paddle, a SUP leash, and a hand pump to a heavy-duty travel bag and a center fin.
