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Best Kayak Seats

For a Back Back: Protect Your Lower Back Kayaking

Best Options and Reviews

Published July 16, 2022

Do you know how important it is to protect your lower back while kayaking? A good seat can help with that. If you have a bad back or lower back problems, which cause pain when sitting in a kayak, having the right type of seat can make it easier on your body.

But, many types of kayak seats are available in the market, making it difficult for you to get the right and comfortable seat suitable for a bad back. If you are looking for the best kayak seat for bad back, you are at the right place.

I’m going to review some of the best and most comfortable kayak seats for bad back. I have tested them in the last few months, and my recommendations are based on my personal experiences.

So, let’s get started.

Best Kayak Seats For A Bad Back: Summary

7 Best Kayak Seats for a Bad Back: Tested & Reviewed

Here are the 7 best kayak seats for a bad back that you can consider buying in 2022. I hope my recommendations will help you get the best seat to relieve your back pain.

1. Penban Universal Padded Kayak Seat

599+ Reviews
4.4/5

The first on my list of best kayak seats for bad back is Penban Universal Padded Kayak Seat. It is a comfortable seat that you can use in multiple ways. This seat features a large storage bag for easy transport and storage. The seat is designed with high-quality materials for long-lasting use, and it can be removed from the kayak easily for use as a traditional seat in other boats or vehicles.

Detailed Review of this Kayak Seat:

The Penban Kayak Seat is a versatile and multi-functional product that can be used for various purposes. It is designed to provide comfort to the user by adjusting the seat according to the rider’s height. The seat is made from high-quality polyester material, making it durable and long-lasting.

This product has been designed with an adjustable strap that can be adjusted according to the user’s height. This ensures that you will have a proper fit and maximum comfort while using it. The seat is also portable as it comes with a storage bag, so you can easily carry it around when traveling or just want to take a hike elsewhere.

Pros

Cons

  • Lightweight and easy to carry.
  • It’s comfortable and provides support for your back.
  • It’s durable and can support heavy-weighted riders.
  • This seat is affordable, which makes it an excellent option for anyone looking for a comfortable kayak seat.
  • Don’t have many adjustment options.

My Verdict:

The Penban Universal Padded Kayak Seat is a great product for those with bad back or lower back pain issues. It’s a fishing boat seat but can also be used for recreational and other kayaking purposes.

2. Thickened Padded Kayak Seat from CLIO

60+ Reviews
4.4/5

The second one on my list of the best kayak seats for bad back is Thickened Padded Kayak Seat. The padded seat has four fixed d-rings that allow you to attach your paddle or other gear to the sides of your kayak. This is particularly useful when moving quickly through rough waters while keeping your boat stable.

Detailed Review of this Kayak Seat:

I have been using Thickened Padded Kayak Seat for the past few months. I have been using it in my kayak, and it is great. It is very comfortable, and I can sit for hours without getting tired. The padding is thick and soft and doesn’t hurt my back. It gives me the support I need to keep me from getting sore on long trips.

I love that you can adjust the seat height so that you can be as tall or short as you want without making any adjustments to the seat itself, which means no more needing a stool or ladder while sitting down on your kayak.

Overall this is a great kayak seat that makes kayaking trips much more enjoyable because it allows me to sit comfortably while still keeping my feet on the floor of my kayak, allowing me better balance and control over what happens next.

Pros

Cons

  • It is an extra thick padded kayak seat.
  • It has a built-in lumbar support system.
  • It comes with 4 adjustable D-rings and 4 tie-down pads.
  • The seat may be too small for some heavily weighted users.

My Verdict:

It’s very comfortable and is made from a really sturdy material. The padding is very thick, which makes it very comfortable to sit on. The seat also comes with 4 D-rings & 4 tie-down pads, making it easy to strap your kayak to the boat. So, anyone with lower back issues can consider buying this kayak seat.

3. Valwix Inflatable Seat for Bad Back Kayakers

40+ Reviews
4.3/5

The Valwix Inflatable Seat for Kayaks is a great option to relieve your back pain while enjoying the kayaking experience. It’s designed to be easy and comfortable, so you can spend more time paddling and less time worrying about your back.

Detailed Review of this Kayak Seat:

The Valwix Inflatable Seat is made of high-quality materials, including thick foam padding and water-resistant fabric that won’t fade or feel stiff after multiple uses. This means that your kayak will feel as comfortable as possible.

It has a waterproof construction that will protect it in all weather conditions, but that also means it’s easy to clean when it gets dirty. The material is also durable enough to use repeatedly without worrying about anything breaking down on you.

It also comes with an adjustable shoulder strap, making it easy to carry around while on the water. You can also adjust the seat height depending on your height requirements to have proper support when sitting down or standing up during your paddle trip.

Overall, this kayak seat is great for anyone who wants a little extra cushioning but still wants something lightweight enough to carry around during their trips out on the water.

Pros

Cons

  • Fits any kayak
  • It can be used with sit-on-top kayaks or stand-up paddle boards
  • Adjusts to your body’s shape and size, so you can use it for any length of time
  • It’s an Inflatable Seat.

My Verdict:

The seat can be adjusted to any position, including a standard seat or a standup paddleboard seat, and its height can be adjusted according to your preferences. So, this is a perfect option for anyone who wants to enjoy kayaking while relieving their lower or upper back.

4. Sea Eagle Inflatable Kayak Seat

19+ Reviews
4.8/5

The Sea Eagle Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seat is a great addition to your inflatable kayak, providing you with comfort and support. The seat has an adjustable backrest and an adjustable height for ultimate comfort. The seat has a convenient storage bag, and it’s easy to inflate and deflate.

Detailed Review of this Kayak Seat:

The Sea Eagle Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seat is a comfortable, durable option for your kayak. It’s made of high-quality materials and is designed to be sturdy and stable. The seat is designed to fit perfectly in any kayak and won’t take up much space.

The main feature of this seat is its durability; the material used for it is constructed from heavy-duty PVC that can hold up to wear and tear. You can rest assured that this seat will last you a long time.

It is lightweight yet sturdy enough to support you while on the water. It will hold up under most weather conditions, and its high-quality construction ensures that it lasts a long time.

It has an adjustable backrest that can be moved up and down to fit your size and comfort level. The seat is also easy to clean, so you don’t have to worry about getting it dirty.

Pros

Cons

  • Easy to inflate and deflate.
  • Lightweight, with a high-capacity air chamber and an extra-large carrying bag.
  • Adjustable leg straps for a custom fit.
  • Durable, made of high-quality materials that won’t break down over time.
  • Putting it away when not in use can be tricky, as the valve needs to be closed and locked before stowing it away.

My Verdict:

The Sea Eagle Deluxe Inflatable Kayak Seat is an excellent choice for anyone who wants an easy-to-use and comfortable option for their kayaks. So, you can consider this comfortable kayak seat when buying.

5. FOMI Premium Orthopedic Kayak Seat

280+ Reviews
4.3/5

If you are looking for a seat that will help relieve your pain and improve your posture, the FOMI Premium Orthopedic Kayak Seat is a great choice. This is a unique seat because it’s made from gel material that conforms to your body shape and provides maximum comfort.

Detailed Review of this Kayak Seat:

The FOMI Premium Orthopedic Seat is a great product for those looking for a solution to lower back pain. This means you can get pressure relief and support while still comfortable riding. The seat is also foldable and will fit into your car or bag.

The seat cushion is made of high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. This makes it ideal for commercial use as well as home use.

The gel material is soft and gives off no odor or smell, so you won’t have to worry about being smelly while using this product.

The seat cushion also comes with an extra pillow that can support your lower back when sitting for long periods, such as at work where there is little movement, such as sitting behind a desk.

Pros

Cons

  • The backrest is very comfortable, and it has soft material.
  • The padding is thick and has a nice, plush feel.
  • It’s lightweight, which makes it easy to carry around.
  • It’s easy to set up and fold down.
  • It may not fit well in all types of kayaks.

My Verdict:

If you have a bad back, this is your seat. It’s made of different layers of foam with a gel pad between them. This means you can get pressure relief and support while still comfortable riding.

6. GTS Expedition Kayak Seat

70+ Reviews
4.4/5

If you are looking for a kayak seat that’s more comfortable than your standard plastic seat, GTS Expedition Kayak Seat is the one. It’s made of molded foam, so it’s soft and cushy. The cover is waterproof, so you can use it in the rain without worrying about getting wet. And the seat comes with a backrest that lets you sit straight and relax while paddling.

Detailed Review of this Kayak Seat:

The GTS Expedition Kayak Seat is a reliable and comfortable seat for recreational kayaking. It’s constructed of molded foam, making it durable and lightweight. It is a must-have kayak seat when you have back issues, but you also want to enjoy touring on the water.

The seat comes with a backrest that can be adjusted to fit all sizes of kayakers and features an integrated storage compartment that allows you to keep your valuables safe.

It is perfect for anyone who wants a reliable, durable product that won’t break the bank. It’s easy to set up and use once you have set up the factory-installed straps, so you can get out on the water without any hassle.

Pros

Cons

  • Foam is incredibly comfortable.
  • No pack is needed.
  • Great for kayaking with children, adults, and those with back problems.
  • It’s easy to set up and adjust.
  • The foam is a little too firm for some people.

My Verdict:

I have bad back issues, so I was looking for a seat that would be comfortable and supportive but also give me enough support to keep my back from getting sore. The GTS Expedition has done all of that for me. It’s easy to adjust the seat height with the handle, so it’s always in a comfortable position for me.

7. Expedition High Back Kayak Seat

45+ Reviews
4.4/5

The Expedition Kayak Seat is a high-back kayak seat designed to help you sit back in your kayak, making it easier to relax and enjoy your time on the water. It also has a padded lumbar roll that will keep your lower back comfortable during long paddling sessions.

Detailed Review of this Kayak Seat:

The Expedition High Back Kayak Seat is a comfortable and supportive seat that helps you keep your back straight as you kayak. The seat is designed to fit most kayaks and features a high-back design with a lumbar roll for extra support. The nylon gel seat bottom keeps your body steady and prevents numbness from sitting for too long.

This kayak seat has been designed for people who suffer from bad backs or other injuries, including arthritis. It features an ergonomic design that allows you to sit upright without causing pain in your back or neck.

The Expedition Seat is made from durable materials and has been designed to meet or exceed industry standards for safety, comfort, and durability. It also features drainage holes in the bottom of each seat for extra drainage when you get out of your kayak at the end of the day.

Pros

Cons

  • Great for people with bad backs or anyone who is generally tired at the end of their day.
  • The seat is comfortable, and it’s easy to adjust the lumbar roll.
  • It’s a good option if you want to spend more time on the water.
  • It’s lightweight and easy to carry around.
  • Not as comfortable as a padded seat, but still much better than a hard plastic seat.

My Verdict:

This is a perfect kayak seat for anyone with a backbone or lower back problems. It can be used with flat-bottomed and round-bottom kayaks, and it’s made from durable materials that are easy to clean.

Kayak Seats for Back Pain: FAQs

can you go kayaking with a bad back

Is kayaking well for a bad back?

Yes! Kayaking is an excellent form of exercise for people who suffer from back problems. The sport requires a lot of balance, which helps to build and maintain strength in the core muscles.

But, you will need to have a special kayak seat to relieve back pain while you paddle in the water.

How do you prevent back pain when kayaking?

The best way to prevent back pain when kayaking is by using proper form and technique. The best way to prevent back pain, in general, is to warm up properly before working out or exercising. This will help your muscles get ready for activity and will help relieve any pain that may occur during your workout or exercise session.

Another thing you can do is stretch before starting your activity. This helps reduce muscle tightness and stiffness, which can lead to injury from overexertion on the joints and muscles.

Are sit in or sit on kayaks better for a bad back?

Sit in or sit on kayaks are both great ways to get around in the water. But which one is better for a bad back?

Well, the answer is, it depends!

Sit-on kayaks are great if you want to pull yourself up and down the kayak. This may be difficult for people with bad backs because they will have to use their arms to lift themselves out of the water and into the boat. Sit-on kayaks also tend to be heavier than sit-in models, so you must choose a model that can operate easily without hurting yourself.

On the other hand, sit-in kayaks are easier to move around when there isn’t much weight in them. They also tend to be lighter than sit-on models, so if you are looking for something for whitewater rafting trips or other activities where you also have to consider your back pain, sit-in kayaks are best for you.

How do I Choose a Kayak Seat? Tips to Get the Best kayak Seats for a Bad Back

Following are some tips to get the best kayak seats for a bad back. These tips will help you choose the right kayak for yourself according to your needs and budget.

Choose a seat that will be comfortable for your back: Choosing a kayak seat that will be comfortable for your back is important. It’s also a good idea to choose a kayak seat that is padded with comfortable material and offers lumbar support. These features will help make sure you get the best experience out of your ride.

Look for high-back seats if you need more support: High-back kayak seats are designed to give you more support than lower-back ones. They typically have a higher backrest and wider seat opening, which makes them more comfortable. High-back seats also tend to be sturdier and less likely to break than low-back ones.

Consider the amount of padding on the seat: Padding can help cushion your back from the hard plastic of a traditional kayak seat or from sharp edges in a sit-on-top model. So, look for padded seats that are thick enough that they don’t slide around as you paddle, and check whether they’re removable so that you can wash them if necessary.

The seat should have adjustable height or reclining options: You will want to find a seat with an adjustable backrest so that you can customize it to fit your body perfectly.

Consider the quality of the materials used in the construction of your seat: A well-built kayak seat will be made from durable materials like molded foam or Gell that will last for years without wearing out. So, always choose the one that is made out of durable materials.

Kayak Seats for a Bad Back: Conclusion

Choosing the right kayak seats for a bad back is essential as it can provide comfort and protection for your lower back. This way, you can get the most out of kayaking and enjoy your time on the water.

I have reviewed some of the best kayak seats available in the market. These seats will provide support to your lower back that you need while you are paddling. I hope this recommendation list will help you get the best kayak seat to relieve your back pain.

Jay Schwartz author of Kayak Guidance

About the Author - Jay Schwartz:

Hey there kayak lovers! I’m Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! You know water sports – you know me! My life is all about it. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. 

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