Different Hull Styles
HULL STYLE
Sit-on-top or sit-inside? This is one of the most frequently asked questions we hear. The answer largely depends on what kind of kayaking you plan on doing.
Sit-on-Top Kayaks
Sit-On-Top kayaks are easy to get on and off, making them great for casual kayaking and paddlers with mobility issues. If you don't like feeling confined in a small cockpit found on a sit-inside kayak, you may find the sit-on-top to be more comfortable.
You may also want to consider the following:
- Scupper holes make sit-on-top kayaks self-bailing, meaning any water that enters the kayak runs right back out - no pumping required.
- You will get wet on a sit-on-top kayak, which is why they are preferred for warmer weather and water
- If you plan on fishing, you'll likely want the extra stability and space offered by a sit-on-top design
Sit-Inside
Sit-in kayaks offer their own unique advantages. The cockpit provides a closer connection between your thighs, hips, and the boat, allowing for better control of its movements using your body. Many sit-in kayaks feature thigh braces for enhanced control. Additionally, the enclosed cockpit helps keep you warmer, and by adding a skirt, you can stay even drier.