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Sit on top kayaks are the best choice for people who enjoy kayaking but don’t like the feel of being enclosed with nothing above them. If you are one of them and searching for the best sit on top kayaks under $300, you are at the right place.
Being an experienced kayaker, I have compiled a list of the best sit on top kayaks that you can buy for under $300 this summer.
I have been kayaking for several years now and have tried out a lot of different kayaks like sit on top kayaks, touring kayaks, recreational kayaks, etc.
So, I’m going to review some best sit on top kayaks under $300 to help you guys get the best out of them.
The first kayak on my list of best sit on top kayaks under $300 is Pelican Sonic 80x Youth Sit Kayak. The Sonic 80X kayak is designed to answer the needs of the most demanding recreational paddlers. Its short length makes it easy to maneuver, and its ergonomic cockpit allows a relaxed and comfortable paddling position.
Size: 7 feet 9 inches long, 2 feet 5 inches wide
Material: Plastic
Weight: 20 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: Seat, Footrest, Cord, and Plugs
This kayak is 7 feet 9 inches long and 2 feet 5 inches wide. It’s easy to transport and perfect for youth.
The comfortable, sit-on-top design gives you plenty of room to relax. It features a removable seat back and adjustable footrests so you can find the position that’s just right for you. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry, even when it’s not in the water.
It is made from quality materials. The sides and bottom are made of Polyethylene plastic, which gives it strength and durability.
The top is made from a material called RAM-X. It is a multi-layer material that provides strength and stiffness to the kayak. The overall build quality is excellent, and it can last long.
This kayak has a weight limit of 225 lbs. This means that an average human can ride on this kayak with all their belongings and fishing or other equipment.
It offers the utmost stability and comfort for your long tour of the waters. It is the best kayak for recreational use. It has a wide body with enough space for legroom, has storage hatches, and has a comfortable seating arrangement that makes it easy to handle this kayak.
There is a storage compartment given with the cord that you can use to keep your belongings. But, it’s not waterproof; you will have to use the waterproof bag in order to keep your fragile items safe from water.
It’s made from high-quality materials, so it’s built to last. If you want something that’s going to last through some seasons, this is the kayak for you.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride on this Kayak. This kayak is perfect for those who can’t get enough of the sun and water. The Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Sit on Top Kayak has above-average stability, so you don’t have to worry about capsizing while you’re out having fun. The seat is simple, but that’s all you really need to have a great time on the water.
The Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Sit on Top Kayak is a safe and protected kayak that has a secure cockpit. There are holes inside the kayak to drain water when it is filled.
Pros | Cons |
· Premium Grade Plastic Body · Drainage holes for extra safety · Storage Chamber to store items · Lightweight to easily carry around | · The seat is not comfortable enough · Rider can get wet |
The Pelican Solo 6 Feet Sit-on-top Youth Kayak is the perfect first watercraft for your young ones. Designed with a wide cockpit and a carrying handle. Besides, it is lightweight and easy to transport.
Size: 6 feet long, 2 feet 4 inches wide
Material: Plastic
Weight: 9 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: Medium Size Paddles and Flag
The Pelican Solo Sit-on-top Youth Kayak is 6 feet long and 2 feet 4 inches wide, making it the perfect choice for kids and lightweight short adults.
Design is simple. There is nothing special in the design itself, but there is a flag given to help others spot your kayak. Besides, the hull is sharp, which provides a smooth paddling experience.
The Pelican Solo Sit-on-top Youth Kayak is made with the finest quality plastic. This boat has been designed to withstand even the harshest conditions, allowing you to go on adventurous trips without worrying about any damage.
It can easily handle 100 lbs of weight while being on the water. But, if you are an experienced kayaker, you can put 150 lbs of weight, but the handling will become difficult.
It is a great choice for entry-level kayakers who are looking for a lightweight and easy maneuver kayak. The square stern design makes the kayak stable and suitable for use in lakes and slow-moving rivers.
There is no dedicated storage compartment given to store your items. Instead, you will have to keep your belongings in a plastic waterproof bag and keep them in the cockpit area.
The Pelican Solo Sit-on-top Youth Kayak is quite durable as it is made with RAM-X material which makes the kayak very sturdy and lightweight.
As you may know, Sit On Top hardshell-made kayaks are not considered comfortable. But, this kayak is designed to provide extra comfort to your feet and legs while going on a lengthy ride.
The Pelican Solo Sit-on-top Youth Kayak has some minor holes in the floor that quickly drain the water that comes from the water splashes. This makes it a safe and secure sit on top kayak.
Pros | Cons |
· Compact Design and Easy to Handle · Good for Beginners · Made with the finest materials · Comes with paddles · Stabilize and Flip Resistant Design | · Not recommended for Adults · Doesn’t have a storage compartment |
Forget the hassle of hauling a kayak down to the water. This one-person recreational kayak packs up into a backpack, and all you have to do is unfold it and inflate it using the included Double Lock valves.
Size: 8 feet 7 inches long, 3 feet wide
Material: 21 Gauge PVC Material
Weight: 18 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: Hand Pump, Paddle, and Backpack
The k1 is 8 feet 7 inches long, 3 feet wide, and weighs 18.9 pounds. When you’re ready to pack it up and go, it can be folded into a bag that weighs just 26 pounds.
The kayak design is made in a way that the rider can take turns and control the kayak easily while enjoying the weather at the same time. The Kayak is light weighted and has a handle that allows easy transportation to and from the water.
The kayak is made with 21 Gauge PVC sheets that provide protection against punctures. It also has a tarpaulin bottom that protects from punctures from rocks and other objects on the floor.
The Sevylor K1 1-Person Kayak can easily hold up to 400 lbs of weight, so you don’t have to worry about who your friends bring along for the ride when you take out your kayak.
This is one of the best sit on top kayaks under $300 that you can handle easily. The hull is designed very sharp, and it can easily cut water, providing you the convenience to smoothly increase the speed.
Don’t let all your stuff get wet while you’re out on the water. This kayak has a front storage compartment with a mesh window to keep all your stuff within reach but not in the water.
If durability is your main concern, then the Sevylor K1 1-Person Kayak is the perfect inflatable kayak for you. Now you don’t have to worry about getting punctured during your paddling trip. This makes it durable and reliable so that you can enjoy your vacation without any hassle.
The seat given in this kayak is very comfortable and padded. You can sit comfortably for long times without hurting your back. Besides, a special footrest is designed in the cockpit to help you place your legs.
The sturdy PVS material used to construct the body of this kayak is capable of resisting harsh, rough waters. It doesn’t easily get punctured. Moreover, the presence of multiple air chambers adds to the safety of the rider. So, the Sevylor K1 1-Person Kayak is quite safe to sit on top boat.
Pros | Cons |
· Inflatable and easy to set up kayak · Comfortable seat and cockpit · Dedicated storage chamber · Designed to last long · Lightweight | · Paddle that comes with the kayak is of average quality. |
Another good kayak on my list of best sit on top kayaks under $300 is Bestway Hydro-Force Inflatable Kayak. It is a portable and versatile option for casual kayakers. The kayak is made with lightweight vinyl. The kayak has two handles on the back and one on the front to make grabbing it easy once it is inflated.
Size: 8 feet 10 inches long, 3 feet 3 inches wide
Material: Mixed PVC and Other Materials
Weight: 20 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: Paddles, Air Pump, and Puncture Kit
The Bestway Hydro-Force Inflatable Kayak is 8 feet 10 inches long and 3 feet 3 inches wide, so it’s a great size for one person. Its dimensions make it easy to store and transport and spacious and roomy enough to comfortably accommodate taller people.
Designed specially for fishermen, the Bestway Hydro-Force Inflatable Kayak is lightweight and portable, allowing you to bring it with you on your next fishing trip. There are also some fishing rod holders given for your convenience.
The Bestway Hydro-Force Inflatable Kayak has a build quality that will last you for years.
The kayak uses a combination of PVC, ABS, PP, POM, AL, and other materials to make the kayak highly durable and long-lasting.
The Bestway Hydro-Force Inflatable Kayak is a perfect kayak for any individual looking to have some fun while enjoying the lake or river. It has an incredible weight limit of approximately 330 lbs.
This kayak is made to be user-friendly, so you can maneuver it with ease. It’s equipped with two removable fins for extra stability that you can use or remove depending on the type of water conditions you’re up against.
There are two storage compartments given for you to store your belongings. These compartments are protected by ropes that will prevent your belongings from falling out. This is especially useful when the kayak is in motion, and the storage compartments could potentially open.
It is made using very high-quality materials that are extremely durable and long-lasting. The body of the kayak is constructed using heavy-duty PVC, while the floor of the kayak is made using a drop stitch material.
The most important feature of this kayak is its comfort. First of all, the seat is very comfortable. It is as comfortable as my Car’s seat. It has a soft backrest, and the straps are soft too. There are 4 built-in footrests that you can use to keep your posture according to your needs.
The Bestway Hydro-Force Inflatable Kayak is designed to make your kayaking experience safe and fun. It has multiple air chambers to give you peace of mind while you’re cruising, and it’s made with sturdy, durable material that can withstand hard and rough water.
Pros | Cons |
· Comfortable Seat and Cockpit · 2 Storage Chambers for Extra Convenience · Strong and Sturdy Material · Extra length for better Speed and Handling | · Not recommended for long time usage as the air-filled in it may lose after some hours |
This rugged, lightweight kayak is made from high-density plastic for superior strength and durability. The kayak has a weight capacity suitable for kids ages 5 and up. It comes with backrest support and a flat bottom with deep tracking channels to keep your youngster stable in the water.
Size: 6 feet long, 2 feet 8 inches wide
Material: Plastic
Weight: 18 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: 1 Paddle
The Lifetime 90479 Youth 6 Feet Wave Kayak is a one-person youth kayak that is six feet long and 2 feet 8 inches wide.
It is made from blow-molded high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, which makes it both durable and lightweight. The kayak has a paddle cradle with shock cords on the deck to secure your oar when not in use.
Youth 6 Feet Wave Kayak is a smaller version of the classic Lifetime boat, specially designed for kids. The materials used in this kayak are long-lasting and provide a great outcome.
It has a maximum weight capacity of 130 pounds and is the ideal choice for kids ages 5 to 12 years old.
Handling this kayak is simple. The removable fin gives extra stability and handling, so your kid can easily take turns and enjoy the ride without putting extra pressure on the paddles.
There is no on-boat storage compartment given due to the compact design. But, if you need to carry some items with you, you can put them in a bag and keep it under your legs.
The blow-molded plastic used is high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is very durable and resistant to cracks and dents and dings, UV rays, and chlorine. This means that this kayak can withstand harsh weather conditions without damaging the kayak.
The cockpit is designed for comfort and maximized space and has multiple footrests for added support. This kayak provides the ultimate performance with shock cord straps, multiple footrest positions, and great stability while you are out on the water.
Lifetime 90479 Youth 6 Feet Wave kayak is safe for kids to use in the lakes and rivers. Its design and size are just right for them to maneuver and navigate. The holes on the body of the kayak help drain water easily so that it doesn’t get sink easily.
Pros | Cons |
· Small Size and Compact Design · Specially Designed for Children · Drain Holes for extra Safety · Multiple Footrests | · No Storage Compartment · No Carrying Handles |
This kayak is designed specifically for kids. It’s safe, sturdy, and easy to get in and out of. In addition, its bright green color will be sure to catch your eye every time they go out on the water.
Size: 6 feet long, 2 feet wide
Material: Hard Plastic
Weight: 18 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: 1 Adjustable Paddle
This kayak is 6 feet long and 2 feet wide, making it comfortable and easy to maneuver for any kid or teenager.
It’s designed to be easy to use, sturdy, and lightweight. With no extra frills or bells or whistles, you don’t have to worry about whether or not you have the right gear for your trip; just grab this kayak and go.
The Lime Green Youth Wave Kayak is made with a lightweight hard plastic material that makes it easy for children or teens to maneuver themselves around.
The Lime Green Youth Wave Kayak is perfect for kids up to 130 lbs and will keep them safe on the water.
You can take this kayak out for a spin in any weather because it’s made to be resistant to corrosion. It even comes with a paddle, so you’re ready to hit the water from day one.
There is no on-boat storage on this kayak as it is a simple and easy-to-use boat for kids.
This kids kayak is made of ultra light-weight, durable plastic that’s easy to carry and tough enough to withstand tough use. This makes it durable and long-lasting for children. Besides, there is no chance of flips and punctures on this kayak.
The Youth Wave Kayak is designed with a flat bottom that’s stable and safe. The cockpit is designed for comfort, making it easy for kids to maneuver themselves and stay dry while they do it.
This kayak is equipped with a durable material that makes it easy for you to enjoy yourself without worrying about what could happen if you take a spill. The Lime Green Youth Wave Kayak can be used in a variety of different settings, including lakes and rivers.
Pros | Cons |
· Ideal for Kids and Teens · Lightweight and Easy to Carry · Easy to Handle · Safe and Secure for Kids | · Only for Kids under 130 lbs · Doesn’t have any room for storage |
The Goplus Inflatable Sit-On-Top Kayak is a great kayak for fishing, and that is why it is on my list of best sit on top kayaks under $300. It comes with an inflatable I-beam floor for rigidity and comfort and an inflatable seat cushion to help you stay comfortable on those long days on the water.
Size: 10 feet 8 inches long, 2 feet 10 inches wide
Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate and Polyvinyl Chloride
Weight: 37 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: Adjustable Paddle, Footrest, and Air Pump
When it comes to kayaking, size matters. That’s why this Goplus Inflatable Sit-On-Top Kayak is 10 feet 8 inches long by 2 feet 10 inches wide, giving you plenty of room to stretch out on the water.
The overall design is perfect for a single kayaker. It is made in a way that flipping is impossible, so you will always have a stable ride. Besides, there is a removable fin given for extra stability.
It is made with a durable Ethylene Vinyl Acetate and Polyvinyl Chloride construction. This long-lasting combination of materials has created a vessel that is sure to last you for years to come.
According to Goplus, the weight limit capacity of this kayak is approximately 280 lbs. However, I have tested it with 300 lbs, and it works just fine.
It’s quick and easy to inflate, so you can get right on the water without any trouble at all. And when you’re done? It packs flat for easy transport and storage. That means no expensive racks or trailers, no heavy lifting, and no worries about where your kayak is going to go when you’re not paddling around with it.
There is a storage compartment given and protected by ropes to keep your fishing equipment. It also comes with a waterproof dry bag that can carry your phone and other important things, plus an aluminum oar, so you have everything you need to hit the water.
The Goplus Inflatable Sit-On-Top Kayak is a great option for recreational kayakers who need to be able to store their boat in a small space. It comes with its own backpack, so you can easily carry it anywhere, and it has the same durability as any other boat in this price range.
It comes with an inflatable I-beam floor for rigidity and comfort and an inflatable seat cushion to help you stay comfortable on those long days on the water.
The Goplus Inflatable Sit-On-Top kayak is one of the safest and most comfortable ride-on kayaks on the market.
It’s equipped with multiple safety features, including a Drain valve and inflatable I-beam floor to give the boat more structure.
Pros | Cons |
· Ideal Size for all types of Riders · Strong Build Quality · Finest Materials used · Comfortable Footrest | · The Paddle given with this Kayak is not good for long term usage |
You’ll fall in love with the Zupapa Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Kayak that is convertible right away. You can take this paddleboard with you on every adventure. The convertible design lets you have a kayak or paddleboard at any time, and the oversized deck gives you plenty of room to set up camp.
Size: 10 feet long, 2 feet 6 inches wide
Material: PVC
Weight: 17 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: Adjustable Paddle, Air Pump Adapter, Footrest, and Seat
The 10-foot length and 2 feet 6 inches width make this paddleboard ideal for adults or kids. It’s wide enough to support multiple people at once, and the non-slip deck ensures that everyone stays safe while they’re having fun in the lake or river.
This paddle board has a convertible design that allows you to switch from a standard kayak to a stand-up paddleboard by simply removing or adding the seat whenever you please.
The kayak is made from durable PVC and other materials that can support a variety of weights. It’s also designed to be conveniently transported.
The weight limit for the Zupapa Inflatable Sit On Top Paddle Board Kayak is 330 lbs.
This board has been designed to be incredibly easy to use, whether you are paddling on your own or with others. As well as being highly versatile, this paddleboard is also easy to transport and store, thanks to its inflatable design.
There is no on-boat storage given for you to store your items. So, you will need to keep your items in a waterproof bag and stick it with the provided hooks.
The convertible kayak is constructed using Drop Stitch technology, making it exceptionally rigid and durable while also lightweight. The board provides an anti-slip deck pad, which ensures that you stay stable while on the board.
It features a removable seat so you can sit comfortably when kayaking and D-rings that allow you to attach accessories, like a cooler or fishing rod holder.
Zupapa inflatable sit on top paddle board kayak is a very safe product. The materials used for this product are all high-quality, durable, and environmentally friendly. So, you can buy this undoubtedly and enjoy the river or lakes.
Pros | Cons |
· Comfortable and Easy to Use Kayak · Quick Set-Up · Good Stability · Non Slip design for additional safety | · Seat is not that comfortable · It can easily get punctured |
The Perception Hi Five is a durable and stable sit-on-top kayak that’s great for kids who are ready to take their first solo paddle on the lake or slow river. The Hi Five features plenty of deck space for easy entry and exit, a comfortable seat deck, plus molded-in footwells for security and comfort.
Size: 6 feet 6 inches long, 2 feet 4 inches wide
Material: Polyethylene
Weight: 21 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: Only Paddle
The Perception Sit on Top Kayak is 6 feet 6 inches long and 2 feet 4 inches wide.
The Hi Five’s lightweight design also makes it easy for kids to carry and maneuver in and out of the water. Equipped with comfortable handles, footwells, and scupper holes, paddlers can rest assured that they’ll stay safe and comfortable throughout their paddle.
The Perception Sit on Top Kayak does have a few minor problems, but overall it is a very solid kayak. The only real issue with the build quality of this Kayak is that it has a tendency to leak. This can be easily fixed by adding some sealant to the areas where there are leaks.
This kayak has a maximum weight capacity of 120 lbs., making it perfect for kids or beginners who want to experience the excitement of kayaking. It’s also easily transportable because of its size, so you can take it with you on your next outdoor adventure.
The hull features a bite graphic that looks like the front of an alligator. The size of this kids’ kayak makes it easy to handle whether you’re at the beach or on the river. This sit-on-top kayak has an open cockpit so kids can move around easily, with plenty of room for their feet.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t provide any dedicated on-boat storage space. This means that you’ll need to use a separate bag in order to keep your stuff with you on board.
This durable, lightweight kayak weighs just 21 pounds and can be carried easily by young adventurers on their own. It’s made of roto-molded polyethylene, so it’s sturdy enough to withstand years of paddling.
The Hi Five features molded-in handles for easy transport and comfortability and an open cockpit that leaves plenty of room for gear and legroom. This model includes a paddle, so your child will have everything they need to hit the water right away.
Perception Sit on Top Kayak has a wider hull than other options; it offers your child some protection from tipping over when getting in or out of the kayak. It also provides a good surface area for beginners who are still learning how to balance while they paddle.
Pros | Cons |
· Small and Compact · Ideal for Kids and Lightweight teens · Handling is Easy · Safe for Kids as it doesn’t flip over | · Can get leak by using in harsh waters · Only suitable for younger kids |
The final kayak on my list of best sit on top kayaks under $300 is Lifetime Volt Kayak. If you are looking for a kayak that is easy to use and easy to maintain, then this is the perfect kayak for you. It is made of a high-density polyethylene material that provides excellent impact resistance, UV protection, and stability.
Size: 8 feet 5 inches long, 2 feet 5 inches wide
Material: Polyethylene
Weight: 40 lbs
Seating Capacity: Single Person
Items Included: Only Kayak with Essential Accessories
The lifetime Volt kayak measures 8 feet 5 inches long and 2 feet 5 inches wide.
The Lifetime Volt Kayak is designed with a hull rocker profile to help you maneuver in and out of tight spots. This kayak has a streamlined, lightweight design with a stable flat bottom that provides ultimate stability in rough waters.
This kayak is designed for paddlers of all skill levels and is constructed from high-density polyethylene plastic to be durable and sturdy.
Although this Kayak is made to be a sturdy, durable kayak, a weight limit must be observed. It has a maximum weight limit of 225 lbs.
It has an open cockpit design that makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak. It also features a padded seat and backrest for extra comfort while paddling. The kayak is lightweight, so it’s easy to transport from one place to another.
There are two on-boat storage options given for you to store your items. The storage compartments are given on both the front and back of the kayak and are protected by the net fabric and net cord.
This kayak is built with the highest quality materials and is designed to last for years. Its sleek design and sporty colors mean it will look great even when it’s not in use.
The Volt kayak is equipped with an adjustable padded seat back and front and footrests to accommodate paddlers of all sizes. This makes it very comfortable for everyone to use.
The Lifetime Volt Kayak is designed to be both safe and comfortable. The multi-chine hull design ensures a stable ride, and the Volt’s streamlined shape makes it easy for you to paddle through the water.
Perception Sit on Top Kayak has a wider hull than other options; it offers your child some protection from tipping over when getting in or out of the kayak. It also provides a good surface area for beginners who are still learning how to balance while they paddle.
Pros | Cons |
· Strong and Sturdy for Long Term Usage · Convenient and Easy to Handle Design · 2 Storage Compartments · Comfortable Seat | · No paddles are provided with the kayak · Heavy Weighted |
The answer is yes, sit-on-top kayaks are more stable. This is mainly because of their design; sit-on-top kayaks are designed to be more stable than sit-in kayaks. They are also wider and have less surface area exposed to wind and water, which makes them less prone to tipping over.
When compared to traditional kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks are not considered safer. There are several reasons for this. First of all, these boats don’t have a cockpit covering your legs and hips, which means they have less protection than other boats.
In addition, they lack bulkheads in the bow and stern, which means that they’re more prone to sinking when they are full of water.
Sit-on-top kayaks are better for beginners because you don’t have to sit in the boat; you just sit on top of it. This allows you to get up and back in easier, without having to do all that awkward wiggling around and getting stuck in the boat like you would with a sit-in kayak.
Also, it’s really easy to just get up and back in your boat if you tip over.
Absolutely! In fact, you can probably use a sit-on-top kayak anywhere!
Sit-on-top kayaks are very versatile and are used in all manner of environments. They have open tops, so capsizing is not a concern.
They are used in rivers, lakes, bays, and in the ocean. Ocean kayaking is particularly popular, but some people like to use sit-on-top kayaks for river running as well.
Sit-on-top kayaks are designed with a series of holes on the bottom of the boat. Those holes are called scupper holes. They allow water to drain from your sit-on-top kayak back into the lake or ocean, which is important because sit-on-top kayaks tend to be self-bailing.
That means that if water gets into your boat, it will automatically drain out through the scupper holes.
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.
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.
Welcome to KayakGuidance.com! If you’re looking to have some fun outdoor water adventures, then you have come to the right place. We help our readers find the best kayaks and water related equipment to help you have the best time of your life whenever you are engaging in water activities.
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