Paddleboarding is an exhilarating activity, whether you’re navigating lakes, braving rapids, or riding ocean waves. To boost your comfort during these adventures, incorporating the right seat for paddle board is essential.

Especially when you are paddling for a long time – a seat can be a complete gamechanger because they are specially designed to alleviate discomfort in the back, hips, and waist, so that you can paddle for extended periods without pain.

I’ve spent a long time trying to find different seats that I actually enjoyed because I’ve struggled with back pain for a large portion of my life. So I would go and actively search for the best seats, the ones that were completely blowing up online and getting the most reviews so that I could test them out.

I decided to write this article so that you wouldn’t need to go through the whole trial and error process of finding a great seat for you. Just choose one of the 7 seats below and you’re ready to go! 🏄‍♂️

But first…

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The Importance of a Seat for Paddle Boarding

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is a fantastic sport that involves standing on a board and propelling yourself with a paddle. It connects you with nature and provides a solid workout. However, the discomfort from sitting or kneeling on the hard surface of the board can detract from the experience and affect your performance. A premium seat for paddle board can solve this problem effectively.

Types of Seats for Paddle Boards

As of 2024, there are two main types of seats for paddle boards to consider: inflatable and foam. Each type offers different benefits and can be chosen based on personal preference.

Inflatable vs. Foam Paddle Board Seats

• Inflatable Paddle Board Seats: These seats are known for their portability and comfort. Made typically from PVC, they resemble inflatable mattresses. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and can be deflated for compact storage. Their comfort level is high, depending on the quality of the seat.
  
• Foam Paddle Board Seats: Foam seats offer a more rigid structure. They are known for their durability and stability. These seats provide consistent support and are ideal for longer paddling sessions where maintaining a stable posture is essential.

Both types of seats for paddle boards cater to different preferences and usage scenarios, ensuring that every paddleboarder can find a seat that suits their needs.

Which Should You Choose?

On the other hand, inflatable seats offer unmatched portability and convenience. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and can be deflated for compact storage. Inflatable seats are often more adjustable in terms of firmness, allowing you to customize the cushioning to your liking. They are a great choice for casual paddlers or those with limited storage space.

Both types have their advantages in terms of comfort and functionality. Foam seats are more durable and provide a more traditional kayaking feel, while inflatable seats bring a level of convenience and versatility that can’t be matched. Ultimately, your choice should be based on the type of paddling you do most often, storage and transport considerations, and your personal comfort preferences.

12 World-Class Paddle Board Seats To Buy In 2024

So let’s get into the actual seats and give you all the information you need to make a decision.

Here are the highlights:

CATEGORY	BRAND
Best Foam Seat	Thurso Surf Deluxe
Most Comfortable Foam Seat	Montekin Thickened Seat
Great All-Around Seat	Gili Paddle Board Seat
Best Budget Foam Seat	WooWave Seat For Paddle Board
Best Inflatable Seat	BOTE Inflatable Seat
Best Inflatable Roll	ZUP Inflatable Roll Seat

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SEAT FOR PADDLE BOARD EXAMPLES: FOAM

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Seat 1: Thurso Surf Deluxe Seat (Best Foam Seat)

The THURSO SURF Kayak Seat is a top-notch choice for anyone into kayaking or paddleboarding. It’s got a unique unibody design that’s way tougher than the usual seats.

Made from durable, corrosion-resistant PE material, it’s built to last. The seat is super comfy too, with a high ergonomic backrest and thick cushion to keep your back happy on long trips. Plus, it’s got a non-slip bottom for extra stability. There’s a handy detachable storage bag for your small stuff.

Installing it is a breeze with its adjustable straps and clips. And, it’s versatile – you can fit it on kayaks, canoes, and more. The dimensions are practical too, with a good-sized base and backrest.

PROS	CONS
– Big, comfortable and has great back support. – Thick cushioning that will protect your coccyx on long paddles. – The material doesn’t get slippery when wet and also doesn’t hold water like other brands.	– It is quite big when folded over. So if you’re committed to standing on your SUP then it’ll be better to take this off first.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

Seat 2: Montekin Thickened Seat (Best For Comfort)

The Montekin Kayak Seat is a game-changer for anyone into water sports and tired of back pain. It’s packed with thick EVA foam, making long kayak trips way more comfortable.

The design is sleek, like something out of a fancy car, and it’s got deep channels for water to flow out easily. Plus, it’s got sturdy copper hooks and adjustable straps to get that just-right fit. There’s also a cool detachable bag that’s water-resistant for your gear. It fits all sorts of boats and paddleboards with D-Rings.

And if you’ve got any issues, Montekin’s customer service is super helpful and quick to respond.

PROS	CONS
– Made of plush, high quality material that is super comfy – Really easy to install by clipping it to the D-rings on your paddle board. – You can feel the quality on this seat and it will last for a long time.	– More expensive than other seats. This is the most comfortable seat that I found with great support, cushioning and everything else.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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Seat 3: Gili Paddle Board Seat (Great All-Around Seat For Paddle Board)

The GILI Detachable Paddle Board Seat is a versatile accessory perfect for paddleboarders. You can easily switch from standing to sitting, making it great for both SUPs and kayaks.

It’s comfy too, thanks to its thick, cushioned neoprene material that supports your back and fits your body nicely. Perfect for those long days on the water! The straps are adjustable, letting you tweak the backrest angle for ultimate comfort, whether you’re fishing, navigating rough waters, or just chilling. This seat is built tough, with marine grade brass buckles and clips, plus durable neoprene that handles paddling wear and keeps you cool and dry.

Plus, it comes with a handy detachable storage bag for your personal items, gear, drinks, and snacks. It’s an awesome all-around seat for anyone into paddleboarding.

PROS	CONS
– High quality construction with a soft moulding at the base to protect your coccyx. – A great balance of comfort and performance. It’s not too thick and not too thin, they really got the thickness right. – Easy to install with the clips.	– I found that the back support was a bit lower than other brands. It may not be high enough for taller paddlers.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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Seat 4: WooWave Seat For Paddle Board (Best Budget Seat)

The WooWave SUP Seat is a fantastic, budget-friendly choice for paddlers. It offers top-notch comfort with its thickened foam-filled, grooved seat that’s not only comfy but also breathable.

The high back design aligns with ergonomic principles and the anti-slip feature keeps the seat secure. Made from durable EVA foam and 210D polyester, it’s perfect for long-term water sports. It’s practical too, with adjustable straps for a snug fit on most paddle boards, and a waterproof detachable storage bag for extra gear.

Plus, installation is a breeze. And, they offer great after-sales support, including a hassle-free money-back guarantee and a 12-month free replacement policy.

PROS	CONS
– The grooved cushioning is plush and comfortable – Has a nice and high back height that will suit 99% of riders. – Great value	– Less cushioning than the other more expensive brands

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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SEAT FOR PADDLE BOARD EXAMPLES: INFLATABLE

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Seat 5: BOTE Inflatable Seat (Best Inflatable Seat)

The BOTE Inflatable Aero iSUP Paddle Seat is a great pick for on-the-go adventure lovers. It’s made with durable AeroBOTE inflatable technology, making it portable and easy to store. You can quickly inflate it and then put it on your paddle board to start using it in minutes.

The seat is adjustable for maximum comfort while paddling (you can recline it to fit the way you want it to). It’s universally compatible on paddle boards so you know it’ll fit.

The package includes the Aero SUP Paddle Seat, cooler tie-down straps, and a repair kit, making it a versatile and family-friendly choice for your paddleboarding needs. This is the best inflatable seat for paddle board that I’ve ever seen and you’ll love it.

PROS	CONS
– Very comfortable and you can inflate it as hard as you want. – You can recline the back so that you’re sitting exactly how you want to on the SUP – Really portable because you can just deflate it and put it in your paddle board bag.	– It can get punctures if you drop your SUP on rocks or sharp materials.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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Seat 6: ZUP Inflatable Seat (Best Inflatable Roll Seat)

The ZUP inflatable paddle board set, measuring 12″ x 12″ x 30″, offers a versatile ride, allowing users to stand, sit, or kneel. It features side strap handles for easy mounting and is compatible with any paddle board using velcro straps.

Just inflate it with the included foot pump for quick setup and you can start using it immediately. Designed for efficient storage and transport, it deflates and folds down, fitting into a mesh carry bag. Suitable for riders up to 350 lbs, it’s an ideal addition for fun and comfortable paddleboarding experiences.

PROS	CONS
– Multiple people can sit on it. – You can stand, sit or kneel on it and it will still be comfortable. – Because it is an elevated seat, it makes it easier to climb back on your SUP if you fall into the water.	– This uses a different type of valve than your SUP. It comes with a pump but you cant use one pump without a separate valve.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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Seat 7: Huskfirm Inflatable Seat (Best Budget Inflatable Seat)

The Huskfirm Kayak Seat is a versatile, inflatable seat that’s super durable and comfy, made from PVC brushed material. It’s got adjustable straps with metal buckles to keep it firmly in place and prevent slipping. Inflating it is a breeze, taking just 1-2 minutes, and it supports up to 250 pounds.

Once deflated, it rolls up for easy carrying and storage. This seat is perfect for different water activities like fishing or relaxing on a lake, and it fits a bunch of boats, kayaks, and SUPs.

Plus, setting it up or adjusting it is super quick.

PROS	CONS
– Really inexpensive – Comfortable and you can inflate it as hard or as soft as you want. – Has an adjustable back so you can lean back if you want.	– It is a budget seat so it’s more prone to punctures that the BOTE inflatable seat.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

Installing a Seat for Paddle Board

Here are the steps:

1 – Place your SUP normally on the ground (or a paddleboard rack that elevates it) and then place the paddle board seat on the board where you want it to be.

2 – There are two sets of straps (one set in the front and one in the back) – These straps should be attached to the board in the front and the back.

3 – Attach both sets of straps to your SUP and then rearrange the seat so that it is sitting nice and securely.

4 – You’re all set and ready to paddle!

See how easy that is?

Here is a video that will show you step-by-step how to do it in case you’re still confused.

Conclusion

Deciding on a seat for your paddleboard is a personal choice, influenced by factors like your paddling style and body type. The variety of seats available cater to different preferences, whether you’re looking for comfort, durability, adjustability, or a mix of these aspects.

All of the seats that I spoke about above are tested and I have personally used each of them. You can choose anyone and you won’t be disappointed. If I had to give recommendations then it would be the Thurso Surf Foam Seat or the BOTE inflatable seat because these are the most versatile (and comfy) seats.

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FAQs

Can you stand on a board with a seat attached?

Absolutely! Many paddle board seats are designed with versatility in mind. They often have a fold-flat feature, making it a breeze to switch from sitting to standing. This flexibility is great for those who like to mix up their paddling style or need a break from standing.

Here are the best paddle boards on the market in 2024 that are seat compatible: The 8 Best Inflatable Paddle Boards Of 2024 Reviewed

Can any SUP board accommodate a seat?

Most modern SUP boards are equipped with D-rings that facilitate easy attachment of seats. However, if you have an older board, it might not come with these fittings. In such cases, you can purchase and install D-rings yourself, allowing you to add a seat.

Are inflatable seats as comfortable as rigid ones?

Yes, they can be! The comfort of an inflatable seat largely depends on its quality and design. High-quality inflatable seats are akin to inflatable mattresses in terms of comfort, providing ample support and cushioning. They’re ideal for those who prioritize comfort but also need portability.

Can the seat be used for other activities?

While primarily designed for stand-up paddleboarding, these seats are versatile enough for other water activities like kayaking and boating. Just make sure the seat’s attachment and size specifications fit with your kayak or boat.

How do I clean the seat?

Cleaning is straightforward. After use, simply rinse the seat with fresh water to remove salt, sand, or other debris. If your seat has removable covers, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for washing. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance will extend the life of your seat and keep it in good condition for your water adventures.