Seating Options

Let's Get Comfortable

Along with color, seating is probably the most subjective of choices. What works for one body type doesn't suit another. Seat options are best determined through a demo paddle or via an interview with a Slipstream Team member.

The standard Touring Tall seat pleases most paddlers. For those who prefer a bit more luxury, the Comfort High Back seat with a butt gel pack and an adjustable lumbar support is very popular.

The Options

Touring Tall

Has a nice tall back and small wings that provide support without restricting movement.
Cushion is adequate for most, although fishermen who spend several hours in the boat without moving much prefer the Extra Comfort Tall seat.
The seat back is easily adjustable to forward, vertical and aft leaning positions.
It is also adjustable forward and aft to compensate for added gear or a dog that may force the hull out of proper trim for optimal paddling.

Back Strap & Seat Pad

This is a minimalist set up.
It’s most popular with paddlers who portage their boat long distances or where weight is the most critical factor.
Back strap is adjustable and its comfort is acceptable.
The seat pad is minimal and sacrifices comfort for weight savings.
Easily adjusted fore and aft to adjust proper hull trim.

Kneeling Thwart

Some paddlers prefer to kneel and use a canoe paddle rather than sitting low and using a kayak paddle.
This position is for experienced paddlers - those who enjoy the increased responsiveness of a canoe paddle appreciate the kneeling position.
Some paddlers combine this option with thigh straps for increased control and stability.
The thwart is fixed and may not be adjusted fore and aft.

Contoured Cane

Slipstream uses only contoured cane or webbing traditional seats
Solid Ash Frames or by special request, Cherry, Walnut and options for different patterns
Some that include a yoke incorporated into the seat

Contoured Webbing

Slipstream uses only contoured cane or webbing traditional seats
Solid Ash Frames or by special request, Cherry, Walnut and options for different patterns
Some that include a yoke incorporated into the seat

Bucket Style

On occasion, a paddler will ask for a permanently installed bucket seat.
It is available but has the disadvantage of being fixed in place which prevents it from moving fore and aft to adjust for proper hull trim.
Many paddlers have brought excellent boats, from other manufacturers, to our shop in order to have their fixed bucket seat removed.
They became fatigued at trying to balance hull trim with rocks or water bags.