Last Updated on May 5, 2021 by Editor
Paddle boarding has been around for years and the sport is constantly evolving. The latest addition to the leisure market is the paddleboard-kayak hybrids – basically paddle boards with a detachable seat. This is a great option for beginners who may get tired quickly and want to change their position to give their legs a rest.
Most of these ‘sit on top’ paddle boards come as complete kits, like the inflatable sup kits, but with the addition of the seat.
Here’s our list of some of the best options from the top brands and a couple of cheaper options for those on a budget.
Contents
1. Bote Deus Aero – Best Overall
We’ll start with the Bote Deus Aero which truly can impress you for days on end with the features built into it. Let’s start with its four-chamber design, self-draining cockpit funnels, open stern, and 10-inch central fin that can be removed at preference. The expected result of these brilliant aspects of design is substantial stability.
Moreover, it has a lot of storage in the shape of bungee ropes. Additionally, it can be stored easily using the AeroUltra technology as it’s converted into a backpack.
Last but certainly not least, this kayak is fully made out of military-grade drop-stitch PVC for supreme durability as it carries up to 300 lb. This weight will be distributed over 11’of length, 33’ of width, and 14’ of depth.
Sadly, it does come at an awe-inspiring price tag, so be ready for that.
Pros:
-AeroULTRA
-Removable foot bar
-Grip handles
-Military-grade PVC
-10’ removable central fin
-Removable seat
Cons:
-Expensive
Final Verdict
This ultimate SUB hybrid versatile, strong, durable, and stable on all waters, wins the race.
2. Surftech Hercules Inflatable – Runner-Up
Hot on the Bote Deus Aero’s tail will be the Surftech Hercules Inflatable, as it shares a lot of its outstanding qualities. This one enjoys an even higher weight capacity of 400 lbs, which can be distributed over 13.1’ of length, 36’ of width, and 6’ of depth. All of this is covered by a double layer of drop-stitch PVC to boost durability and tolerance.
Another thing added to the build of this board will have to be UV stability as the materials here aren’t at all affected by the harmful ultraviolet rays. Additionally, it sports three fins.
It also comes with a high-pressure valve which will work well alongside the included double action air-pump. Speaking of the included stuff, this paddleboard comes with the three fins and the pump, in addition to a rolling backpack, a patch kit, and two removable kayak seats.
Still, just like any other product, it does come with a con or two. Those include its price, which can be a lot for many people, and difficulty of carrying it, even though the board is fitted with four padded handles.
Pros:
-Double layer build
-UV stability
-Accessories included
-Three fins
-High-pressure valve
-Four handles
Cons:
-Expensive
-Hard to carry
Final Verdict
This paddleboard is definitely the perfect choice if you can deal with carrying and moving it around. The two removable seats help you switch up your game without costing you extra.
3. Freein Stand Up Paddle Board – Budget Pick
The Freein Stand Up Paddle Board is our budget pick as it’s relatively affordable while still packing a ton of accessories and stability within its folds.
Primarily, this paddleboard is made out of dual-layer PVC fitted with specific nonslip parts to increase your stability. Moreover, it comes with a central handle for easier carriage and bungee storage for all of your belongings.
All of that is fitted on 10’ of length, 31’’ of width, and 6’ of depth. Sadly, this is our smallest weight capacity today at only 257 lbs.
Still, this board has a few tricks up its sleeve, such as the extra kayak seat with 6D rings in order to place it wherever you see fit. Plus, the ankle leash is here to keep you and the board safe. You also get an extra SUP blade.
Although the aluminum paddle is already so heavy, some might opt out of the blade. Add to that a repair kit, a backpack, and a pump to inflate the board whenever and wherever you want.
Pros:
-Affordable
-SUP blade included
-Double layer PVC
-Ankle leash
-Accessories
-Central handle
-Bungee storage
-6 D-rings
Cons:
-Heavy paddle
-Lowest weight capacity
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a screaming deal, then you have definitely found it with the Freein Stand Up Paddle Board. This paddle board is great for solo and sometimes double trips where you can take a little bit of risk.
4. Bluefin Cruise SUP – Adventure Pick
The Bluefin Cruise SUP boasts a ton of awesome features, with the star of the show being the GoPro mount fitted on this paddleboard.
Moreover, it has a weight capacity of 287 lbs distributed over 128’ of length, 33’ of width, and 6’ of depth. This paddleboard is the only one made out of laminate PVC in addition to ProWeave drop-stitch, so it’s incredibly durable. It will survive countless bumps along with the included fiberglass paddle and the polyurethane composite blade as they can hardly be damaged.
Furthermore, the Bluefin Cruise SUP can easily be transferred from one place to another, thanks to three grab handles; one at the nose, one at the center, and one at the tail. Plus, of course, its ability to deflate.
Speaking of that, this board comes with its own air pump, backpack, leash, waterproof phone case, and a smart lock fin which does not just help you get through the waters but control the movement and direction of the board itself.
Another thing that’s included with the package is the extra kayak seat for comfort. Logically, with its huge size and countless accessories, this board is incredibly heavy, which makes carrying it a tiresome task.
Pros:
-GoPro mount
-Lightweight fiberglass paddle
-Polyurethane composite blade
-Smart lock fin
-Nose, center, and tail grab handles
-Kayak seat included
Cons:
-Heavy
Final Verdict
If you want to capture and document every moment of a fantastic adventure that you’re about to embark on, then the Bluefin Cruise SUP would be an excellent ally.
5. PenBan Deluxe – Seat Only to Convert any Paddle Board into a Kayak
- ★【Durable & Comfortable】PenBan kayak seat is made of durable EVA foam on the interior and 211D polyester on the exterior, ensuring long-lasting comfort. Ideal for kayaking, canoeing, drifting,...
- ★【Better Design】Designed with a high back and padding, the paddle sports seat, especially the fishing kayak seat, offers incredible comfort during water trips. The ergonomic design supports the...
- ★【High-grade Copper Metal Hooks】With excellent corrosion resistance and a long service life, the kayak seat features high-grade copper metal hooks. These hooks enhance stability and balance...
Our final product won’t be a board, but a seat. The PenBan Deluxe is suitable for more than one activity, such as fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. You can place it anywhere you want, and you’ll be happy with the results.
The PenBan Deluxe comes with four straps, two in the front and two in the back, all ending with copper metal hooks. Besides. It’s also fitted with marine-grade solid brass connecting straps to prevent wobbling, which all lead to excellent stability.
Furthermore, it’s made out of EVA foam and polyester exterior, plus extra foam cushioning around all of the pressure points to prevent fatigue.
In the end, though, it might be a bit overpriced for what it is.
Pros:
-Durable
-Stable
-Ergonomic design
-Accessories
-Versatile
Cons:
-Expensive
Final Verdict
The PenBan Deluxe will be the optimal option if you already have a paddleboard or a kayak and you don’t want to purchase a new one.
How to Pick the Best Paddle Board Kayak Hybrids
Here’s our to-the-point guide to navigating paddleboard kayak hybrids.
Weight
Weight is inversely proportional to transportability, so always keep that in mind. Don’t buy a board that you can’t maneuver around with relative ease.
Weight Capacity
Always know the maximum weight capacity that you need and go for it. Also, keep in mind whether you’re used to kayaking solo, or with the company of your friends, or even pets.
Destinations
What kind of water you will be hitting up on a regular basis is essential to know. Some boards aren’t designed for harsh or salt waters at all, and they won’t survive the trip. Others can’t handle overly sunny places as they have no protection.
Storage
Keeping food, water, a repair kit, first aid, a GPS, and a communication device on you at all times while out on the water is a non-negotiable must. It can be the difference between life and death, and that’s where storage, preferably waterproof, comes into play.
Final Thoughts
We’re done with our five products from our list of the best paddle board kayak hybrids. Honestly, these in-betweens are a great way to challenge yourself and elicit more diversion even from your old kayak.
Our top recommendation is the Bote Deus Aero, with its 300 lbs of weight capacity, four chambers, and remarkable stability.
Next is our budget pick, the Freein Stand Up Paddle Board. This one boasts 400 lbs of capacity alongside 6D rings and bungee storage.
Lastly, we’ll talk of our adventure pick, the Bluefin Cruise SUP, with its GoPro holder, 3 grip handles, and smart-lock fin.