Sit on Top or Sit In - How to Choose

So, you're new to the sport and trying to figure out which kayak is best for you, scrolling through an endless and confusing array of options... let us help you understand some differences!

Really, when it comes down to it choosing between sit on top and sit-in ends up being how you prefer to be out on the water. Of the two pictures above, which appeals to you the most?

STAYING WARM AND DRY

Generally, a sit-in kayak is warmer and keeps you drier. You are protected from any water splash, and the paddle doesn't drip on you. Your feet and legs are going to get at least a little bit wet in a sit-on-top, there's no way around it!

This means, with a sit-in you can be out on the water earlier in the spring, and later in the fall. You can also be out having fun even if it's raining or cool. If you are only planning on being on the water on hot sunny days, a sit-on-top may be the kayak for you!

That being said, Point65 modular sit-in kayaks have very room cockpits and cockpit openings. Can you pop your legs out to relax and enjoy the sun while partaking of your favorite cold beverage? Yes, as this picture illustrates 😁

TRACKING AND CONTROL

What is tracking? It's the ability of the kayak to go in a straight line. Think of it as being similar to having your wheels balanced on your vehicle - there's nothing worse than having to fight the steering wheel to keep going in a straight line, right?! This is especially tricky when you have a tandem kayak.

As a general rule, sit-on-top kayaks do not have the control and tracking of a sit-in. The reason for this is simple - they don't generally have much of a rudder. Most sport a tracking fin, but little more. Another reason they don't have the same tracking and control ability is that they are generally wider and flatter, to make a more stable sitting platform.

For these reasons, if your primary interest in paddling is to make miles and see shoreline, a sit-in may be best for you, especially if it has a decent rudder system. If your primary interest is to crank the tunes and suntan, and still paddle around a bit, you may enjoy a sit-on-top!

The Mojito modular kayak blows all those reasons out of the water, however. It is a sit-on-top, but it boasts a triple hull design that cuts through the water very well, and also has a built-in rudder that is steered via foot pedals. Point65 is a Swedish company, so their kayak designs are with colder waters in mind. This boat gives you the best of both worlds, sitting you high up above the water and giving you great control and speed in case you wanted to do more than float around the dock. Check out the video below, featuring the maneuverability of the Mojito using the foot controlled rudder:

MOBILITY ISSUES?

This is definitely something to pause and think about. Will getting in and out of a cockpit be difficult for you? Do you need to adjust regularly due to back pain? A sit-on-top kayak can give you the freedom to still enjoy this sport, as getting in and out is alot easier, and you can sit in different positions more easily.

And the added bonus of a modular kayak is, there's no hoisting on roof racks required, and the individual pieces are manageable.

So there you have it! Either way, you are going to have a great time as you explore the sport of kayaking. Enjoy your summer!