Can I Sit on a Paddle Board

When you think of paddle boarding you think of the opportunity to stand up on water. That thought is totally accurate and a major thrill to the whole SUP experience. With that being said, there are also other ways to enjoy the paddle boarding experience, which can include sitting on a paddle board. Adding a seat to your paddle board can open up new ways to enjoy paddle boarding.

Can you sit on a stand up paddle board? Absolutely! Even though a SUP was designed for standing, there are many different chair options that make it simple to convert your board. Even without a chair, it’s fairly easy to ride around while on your knees or just sitting when your board is stationary.

Reasons to Sit Instead of Stand

Taking Pictures

When you are out on your SUP, observing nature can be a wonderful way to spend your time on the water. Sometimes you want to capture your surroundings and the beauty around you through photography.

Having someplace to sit, can make it easier to get those still shots on a paddle board. Standing and trying to balance with your camera can take a little finesse.

Rest Your Legs

Maybe you just want to take a break from standing, I totally get it. If that’s the case, than it’s nice to have the option to just take a seat.

Some of us may struggle with maintaining our balance for a long time, so those quick seated breaks can renew us.

Create a Boat Experience

One thing that I frequently discuss in my posts is the versatility paddle boards can provide. You can replicate so many experiences with your paddle board to allow you to enjoy the water in a variety of ways.

Not only can you stand up and paddle board, but you can create something similar to a kayak or small boat by adding a chair and some minor tweaks.

Riding with Others

I enjoy taking my kids out on the paddle board with me, but sometimes when they are moving around, it’s difficult to maintain balance. Having a chair or chairs can help create that extra stability when needed.

The same can be said for when your bringing things like your dog with you. Here is my post on how to paddle board with your dog that you should checkout.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

Having a chair can allow you to just kick back and relax. Maybe you just want to enjoy some good food and beverages with some friends out on the water. It’s a bit difficult to do that while standing up.

Take a look at this post on creating an amazing date with paddle boarding, that discusses things like picnicking with your significant other.

Fishing

When you are trolling the lakes on your SUP, sometimes it’s nice to drop a line in and see what you can catch.

SUP fishing has become immensely popular and one of the best things you can do with your SUP. Unless you are fly fishing, it’s helpful to have a place to sit and watch that bobber.

Best Options for Sitting on a Paddle Board

Let’s take a look at some of the best options available to create a sit down SUP ride. Here are a couple great chair options as well as paddle board bundles that incorporate a chair.

Saturn Aluminum Lightweight Folding Beach Chair, Fishing Seat, SUP Paddle Board Seat

My favorite chair! I really like that it sits more elevated, so you can bend your knees more when sitting. If you purchase these D-Rings, you can use bungee or tie-downs to secure the chair to your SUP.

YYST 4 X Stainless Steel White D-Ring Pad/Patch

• It’s aluminum, which means that it’s lightweight
• Has good back support
• Water can flow under the chair to keep the seat dry
• Side pockets are on the chair for storage

iROCKER Inflatable Paddle Board Kayak Seat

If you’re looking to create more of a Kayak experience with your paddle board, than this seat is for you! iRocker makes high quality SUP products and is a great brand.

• 4 straps and clips, 2 on each side, which are used for holding the seat in place with your paddle board
• The seat is made with the highest quality material to provide optimum back support
• This seat has been designed for maximum comfort and durability

Bluefin SUP Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board with Kayak Conversion Kit | Ultimate iSUP Kayak Bundle

This is a great looking bundle that comes with everything you need to get out and ride. I love that you can easily convert this into a kayak style board. Check it out!

• Converts into a Kayak
• Holds up to 410 lbs
• Great for Beginners
• Large sizes available to do what you need
• 6 inch thickness for great comfort and support

Blue Water SUP and Kayak | 10’ Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board/Kayak

Another really great combo option. This is a little bit smaller board, so I like this inflatable pack for those more interested in speed, than size. Check it out!

• Easily converts to a Kayak
• Holds up to 300 lbs
• Drop stich technology for added durability and quality
• Everything you need to get out on the water
• 6 inch thickness for added support and comfort

To summarize, not only is stand up paddle boarding, just for standing, but sitting as well. Sitting provides a change of pace to the traditional stand up and paddle ride. We’ve outlined some of the reasons for adding a chair to your list of SUP accessories and how it can optimize your SUP riding experience.

Please comment below on anything that you’ve enjoyed from this post or how you’ve incorporated a seat into SUP.

 photo credit: Sami Farin Sup via ref=”http://photopin.com”>photopin (license)</a