Oru kayak gel seat vs Oru seat wedge [TEST]

One of the biggest cons in my two-year Oru kayak review is the included basic seat (they call it a ‘seat wedge’ if that tells you anything). It’s flat, hard, and not very comfortable for paddles longer than 30-45 minutes or so.

So do you need the upgraded Oru kayak gel seat? Yes, and here’s why (but a photo’s worth a thousand words)….

Gel seat is on the left, the basic included Oru kayak seat on the right

Oru Gel Seat vs included Oru Kayak Seat Wedge

Here's a detailed comparison and the reasons why you should consider making the switch.

1. Comfort Level

Basic Seat: The basic seat that comes with the Oru Inlet is functional and does the job for short paddles. However, after 30-60 minutes or so on the water, the limited cushioning can become uncomfortable, especially on longer trips.

Gel Seat: The Oru Gel Seat takes comfort to the next level. It’s gel cushioning molds to your body, providing support in all the right places. Whether you're on a short paddle or an all-day adventure, the gel seat ensures you remain comfortable throughout. See the difference in the photos! After a paddle this week with the new gel seat, I can attest it is a game changer in Oru kayaking comfort.

The Oru gel seat, on the left, offers significant more padding than the basic wedge seat.

2. Support and Ergonomics

Basic Seat: While the basic seat offers minimal support, it lacks the ergonomic design necessary for maintaining good posture over extended periods. This can lead to back discomfort and fatigue.

Gel Seat: The ergonomic design of the gel seat is supposed to promote better posture, reducing strain on your lower back. The additional support helps maintain a more natural sitting position, which is crucial for those long paddling sessions. But keep in mind, with this extra padding, there’s some extra weight and size. The upgraded seat still fits easily in my folded Oru Inlet kayak, but if you hike/paddle, just something to keep in mind.

3. Durability

Basic Seat: The basic seat, though durable for casual use, can show signs of wear and tear with frequent use... The foam can compress over time, leading to reduced comfort.

Gel Seat: The Oru kayak gel seat accessory is built to last, according to the company. The high-quality materials used in its construction are designed to withstand the rigors of regular use without compromising comfort. The gel padding retains its shape and cushioning properties over time, making it a long-term investment in your kayaking comfort (I’m still testing it, but I’ll report back on product durability with my other Oru reviews).

A photo of our recent kayaking adventure in the Oru Lake Sport folding kayak with the gel seat accessory.

4. Temperature Regulation

Basic Seat: On hot days, the basic seat can retain heat, making it uncomfortable to sit on for extended periods.

Gel Seat: The gel material in the upgraded seat has better temperature-regulating properties. It’s supposed to stay cooler on hot days, enhancing overall comfort. I’ll report back after using it lots this summer.

5. Versatility

Basic Seat: The basic Oru wedge seat is compatible with all Oru folding kayak models, except the Oru Lake.

Gel Seat: The gel seat offers greater versatility with its adjustable straps, allowing you to fine-tune the fit for your specific body type and comfort preferences. This feature makes it adaptable for different users and varying paddling conditions.

6. Cost vs. Value

Basic Seat: While the basic seat comes included with your Oru kayak, its value is limited to casual use.

Gel Seat: Although the gel seat is an additional investment, the value it provides in terms of enhanced comfort, support, and durability makes it a worthwhile upgrade. For those who spend considerable time on the water, the improved experience is well worth the cost.

Recommendation: If you’re going all-in with Oru for the first time, consider buying one of their Oru bundles which are a better deal when you starting tallying up the kayak boat, paddle, seat, and even PFD costs.

Conclusion

Upgrading to the Oru Kayak Gel Seat can seriously transform your paddling experience from good to great. The superior comfort, ergonomic support, and long-lasting durability make it a splurge you won’t regret.

For any avid kayaker, especially those who embark on longer flatwater kayaking journeys, the gel seat is a game-changer. So, if you’re an Oru folding kayaker looking to enhance your time on the water and make each adventure more enjoyable, the Oru Kayak Gel Seat is undoubtedly worth the investment.

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