When it comes to choosing between sit-on-top (SOT) and sit-inside kayaks or canoes, understanding the differences and considering safety aspects is crucial for beginners.
SOT kayaks are characterised by their open cockpit design, where the paddler sits on a moulded seat atop the kayak’s deck rather than inside a closed cockpit. This design offers several advantages for beginners. Firstly, SOT kayaks are inherently more stable than sit-inside kayaks due to their wider hulls and flat bottoms. This stability provides beginners with a greater sense of confidence and reduces the likelihood of capsizing, making them ideal for learning the basics of paddling.
Sit-on-top kayak
Sit inside kayak
Additionally, SOT kayaks are easier to enter and exit, which is beneficial for beginners who may not yet be comfortable with the enclosed feeling of sitting inside a kayak cockpit. If the kayak does happen to capsize, there is no need for advanced skills like rolling the kayak to recover, as paddlers can simply climb back onto the kayak from the water. If you do not have the skills to roll the kayak you will have to push out of the cockpit and then the kayak will fill up with water and you are left in a potentially dangerous situation.
Trying to roll a sit in side back upright
Furthermore, SOT kayaks are self-bailing, meaning any water that enters the cockpit drains out through scupper holes located on the kayak’s deck. This feature eliminates the need for bilge pumps and ensures that the kayak remains buoyant even if it takes on water, enhancing safety for beginners, especially in rougher conditions.
On the other hand, sit-inside kayaks or canoes feature a closed cockpit design, where the paddler sits inside the hull of the kayak or canoe with their legs enclosed. While sit-inside kayaks offer a more traditional paddling experience and provide better protection from the elements, they may not be as beginner-friendly as SOT kayaks. Some people experience the feeling of being trapped inside but a simple push with the legs usually lets one slip out of the kayak.
One of the main differences between sit-inside and SOT kayaks is the level of stability. Sit-inside kayaks often tend to have narrower hulls, which can make them less stable than SOT kayaks, particularly for beginners who are still developing their balance and paddling skills. However, some sit-inside kayaks are designed specifically for beginners with wider hulls, a lower seat position and increased stability.
Another consideration is the risk of entrapment in sit-inside kayaks, especially in the event of a capsize. Paddlers may become trapped inside the cockpit if they are unable to execute a wet exit, where they flip the kayak upside down and swim out from underneath. While proper training and practice can mitigate this risk, it is a factor that beginners should be aware of when choosing a kayak.
Despite these differences, both SOT and sit-inside kayaks have their own unique advantages and are suitable for beginners depending on their preferences and intended paddling environment. Ultimately, safety should always be the top priority, and beginners should choose a kayak that offers stability, manoeuvrability, and ease of use to ensure a safe and enjoyable paddling experience.