Best Sit-On-Top Kayaks In 2024: Top 10 SOTs That Are A Cut Above The Rest

I’ve paddled my fair share of SOTs over the years – from taking beginners out for their very first outing to pushing my own limits in the company of expert paddlers – and through it all, I learned to appreciate the versatility of sit-on-top kayaks. 

They hold a special place in my heart. After all, they’re like the Swiss knives of kayaks:

You can take and launch them from virtually anywhere, they can carry tons of stuff – and most importantly, they’re fairly easy to get in and out of because they’re very stable. 

That makes the SOT kayaks an excellent choice for newbies and experts – and a more popular choice over their cockpit cousin, the sit-inside kayak.

But with all the brands – including Sea Eagle, Perception, Old Town, and Wilderness Systems – offering same-y models, how do you choose the best one?

Well, that’s what this article is all about. After months of rigorous testing, I’ve made this list of 10 best SOT kayaks you can buy. Oh, and I prepped a nifty little buyer’s guide if you find my picks lacking.

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A Quick Side-By-Side Comparison 

Before we get stuck into the detailed reviews of each sit-on-top kayak, let’s take a quick look at how they stack up against each other in this handy comparison table. This will give you a high-level overview of the key specs, features and ratings of all 10 kayaks featured in the article.

Whether you’re looking for the lightest option, the one with the highest weight capacity, or the best value for your money, this table will help you quickly identify the kayaks that match your top criteria.

You can then jump to the full reviews further down for an in-depth look at each model.

Top 10 Best Sit-On-Top Kayaks – Reviews & Recommendations

What To Consider When Buying A Sit-On-Top Kayak?

The main things you need to consider when buying a sit-on-top kayak are intended use, its length and width, weight limit, and onboard storage options. In addition to that, you’ll have to factor in your budget – and decide between an inflatable and a hard-shell SOT kayak. 

Intended Use 

Intended use – or, more specifically, when, where, and how you plan on using your ‘yak – is what ultimately dictates the physical characteristics and other features you need to look for in a sit-on-top kayak.

That includes everything from the kayak’s dimensions and hull shape to its capacity, onboard storage options, seating, additional gear mounts, and propulsion methods — all of which determine the kayak’s price tag. 

In other words, deciding which features are a must-have based on intended use is up to you. 

Here are a few recommendations: 

• If you’re a recreational paddler, an SOT of average size and capacity should be more than enough; additional features and “bells and whistles” depend on your budget
• If you’re into kayak fishing, you’ll need an SOT that is wide and stable – ideally with a stand-up platform – has a higher-than-average weight capacity, and is equipped with an elevated seat 
• If you’re interested in day-touring, you’ll want a longer and narrower SOT kayak with water-tight onboard storage options 

Weight & Capacity

SOTs are known for having a relatively high weight capacity – especially compared to sit-in kayaks. You can expect a typical sit-on-top kayak to have a capacity of 300 to 450 pounds. 

That said, there’s a difference between the kayak’s maximum and practical weight capacity: 

The former indicates the maximum amount of weight the kayak can support and still remain afloat. Keep in mind the kayak’s stability and maneuverability will suffer once you’ve reached maximum capacity, though. 

So, stick to the practical weight limit – roughly 70% of the maximum capacity. 

Keep in mind that higher capacity sometimes means performance loss, though. Bigger is not always better; your “ideal capacity” should factor in your own body weight and the weight of the additional gear and supplies you typically bring on an outing. 

Length & Width: What Size SOT Kayak Should You Buy?

The two dimensions you need to keep in mind when determining what size SOT you should buy are the hull’s length and width – primarily because they’ll directly impact the kayak’s performance and stability. 

Recreational sit-on-top kayaks are typically between 9 and 12 feet long and 28 and 34 inches wide. 

That said, you also have to factor in your body type – namely, your weight and height – and intended use, and be mindful of how you’ll store and transport your SOT ‘yak: 

A wider ‘yak will be more stable and spacious, so it’s a great option for those with limited mobility – but a smaller one will be easier to handle.

Onboard Storage Options

When it comes to onboard storage options, most SOT kayaks have easy-to-access, open storage areas – tank wells and cargo nets, for example – with bungee rigging and additional tie-down points for securing your gear. 

Dry storage options are typically limited – but some SOTs may come with built-in storage hatches. 

Casual, recreational paddlers likely won’t need much in terms of storage space. However, if you’re into kayak fishing or day touring, you’ll appreciate the extra room for your dry bags, tackle boxes, crates, and other supplies. 

Tip: Don’t assume the kayak’s built-in storage hatch is waterproof – because it might not be. Always keep your valuables and water-sensitive items in a dry bag.

Inflatable Or Hard-Shell SOTs? 

Here’s what you need to keep in mind when trying to decide whether to get an inflatable or a hard-shell SOT:

• Durability – Inflatable kayaks can be surprisingly durable, although the higher-end options with multiple layers of PVC and drop-stitch construction usually come with a heftier price tag.
• Portability – Inflatable kayaks weigh less and can be deflated, making them more portable than hard-shells. If you want a kayak you can take and store anywhere, go for an inflatable.
• Comfort – If you don’t want your behind to be numb, go for an inflatable SOT – but keep in mind that inflatable seats won’t provide much (if any) back support. As for hard-shells, the options range from molded plastic to elevated, chair-like seats. Plus, you can always install an aftermarket seat that meets your needs. 
• Performance – Hard-shells are superior in terms of performance. They’re faster, more maneuverable, and sit lower in water – meaning they’re less affected by strong winds.
• Weight Capacity – Nothing beats inflatables when it comes to load capacity. They’re pretty lightweight – but can still hold up to 500 pounds.

Budget: How Much Do Sit-On-Top Kayaks Cost? 

A low-end SOT can cost as little as $100 – while a high-end can set you back as much as $2000.

There are tons of factors that influence the price of an SOT. 

For starters, there’s the brand. The bigger the brand name – the higher the price.

Then you have the construction and materials. Rotomolded polyethylene SOT kayaks and inflatables are usually more affordable, while high-end kayaks are made from composite materials. 

Many other features affect the kayak’s price tag – including the weight and load capacity, whether it’s equipped with a skeg or a rudder, the addition of specialized gear, and the propulsion method it uses.

Here’s how much you should spend on a SOT kayak:

• Beginners – If you’re a beginner or a recreational kayaker, go for ‘yaks in the $300 to $1000 price range. The lower-end ones might be a bit generic, but you can find ‘yaks with tons of cool features for roughly $1000.
• Anglers – If you’re looking for a fishing kayak, the $500 to $1000 price range should have some cool options. But if you want all the “bells and whistles,” prepare to spend upwards of $2000 on a high-end, fully-rigged ‘yak.
• Tandems – If you’re interested in a tandem sit-on-top kayak, expect to spend at least $500 to $800.

As someone who spends an insane amount of time on the water, I’d just like to add that if you’re a kayaking enthusiast, you’ll find tons of feature-rich SOTs in the $1000 to $2000 price range. 

Additional Features To Consider In A SOT: Mountings, Seating & More

There are some additional features to consider in an SOT that can be crucial for ensuring that your new ‘yak meets your needs and intended use – including:

• Comfort – If you’re going to be spending hours in a kayak, be sure not to overlook comfort. Look for a highly adjustable, ergonomically shaped, padded seat that will support your back and keep you comfortable. You can always upgrade the seat if the included one doesn’t work for you. 
• Fishing-Specific Features – Kayak anglers should focus on SOTs that are fitted with gear tracks, rod holders, mounting points for fish finders, and GPS – the whole nine yards.
• Carry Handles – If the kayak doesn’t come with carrying handles, you’ll have a hard time moving it and bringing it in and out of the water – no matter how much it weighs.
• Scupper Holes – These will allow the water that accumulates on the deck to drain – and without them, you’ll be sitting in a puddle of water – so, the more scupper holes, the better. They can also be closed with scupper plugs when they’re not in use. 
• Propulsion Method – Some SOTs come with pedal propulsion; others can be fitted with a trolling motor. These are great if you want to go hands-free or travel faster – but it’ll cost you extra.
• Tandem & Solo Configuration – If you plan on bringing someone along on your kayaking trip, you’ll want a kayak that supports both solo and tandem configurations. 

Conclusion – What Is The Best Sit-On-Top Kayak?

The trick to picking the best sit-on-top kayaks almost always comes down to determining where and how you’ll use it, what features matter most to you, and how much you’re comfortable spending. 

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker looking for a sit-on-top that will fit right in your active lifestyle or a novice who’s only giving kayaking a shot, there’s a kayak for you somewhere on my list.

Wilderness Systems’ Tarpon 105, for instance, is an outstanding all-around SOT kayak – stable, maneuverable, spacious, and comfortable, with an impressive load capacity and ample storage space to boot. 

If you want a blend of value, design, comfort, and ease of use, the Tarpon 105 is worth considering. That said, if you’re working with a tight budget, Perception’s Tribe 9.5 might be a better fit – at least as far as your wallet is concerned.