Canoe Seats
Your back will thank you.
Whether you’re in for a long or a short paddle, your back will thank you for a comfortable seat with some support. There are a few different options available on the market and our Guides and Outfitters share with us the ones that win their approval.
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We compare and contrast two canoe seats in this category as the primary ones we see and hear about from our Guides and Outfitters community. Those two are the GCI Sitbacker and the Crazy Creek Canoe Chairs (both the III and the IV). They are pretty distinct from each other, allowing most to have a real sense of which they prefer. The basics of each are laid out in the descriptions below.
The Crazy Creek III is a staple in most canoe-country outfitting storerooms. It’s lightweight, highly packable, and folds down easily to fit in a backpack, duffel, or just about any bag. Built with durable, water-resistant, and puncture/tear-resistant materials, it’s made to handle the rigors of wilderness travel. While not the cheapest option, it earns high marks for its incredible versatility—working as a camp chair on the ground or fastened to a log for added support.
The Crazy Creek IV builds on the success of the III, offering enhanced comfort and durability while maintaining the same portability and convenience. Still relatively new, it hasn’t yet seen wide use among our pros, so feedback is more limited. However, the Crazy Creek name is trusted by Guides and Outfitters, and early reviews suggest this updated model is a worthy addition for anyone looking to upgrade their wilderness seating.
The GCI Sitbacker takes a more rigid approach, delivering greater back support thanks to its solid frame. While it’s still relatively light, it can’t quite match the packability and convenience of the Crazy Creek chairs. That said, many of our more seasoned Guides and Outfitters lean toward this design—the stiff back and sturdy frame go a long way in easing the aches and stiffness that can follow long days of paddling.
