Best Side by Side Boat Seats for Your Next Boat Upgrade
If you’re seeking comfortable, durable seating that fits beside fellow anglers or family members, side by side boat seats are the right upgrade. This guide highlights five practical options, focusing on folding and high-back designs suitable for bass boats, pontoons, and jon boats. Each pick aims to balance durability, ease of installation, and value, making them ideal for boaters who want extra seating without sacrificing space or performance. The top buyers here are best for: anglers needing cushion and support; casual cruisers seeking quick conversion; and pilots who want lightweight, portable seating.
| Product | Brand | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Boat Folding Seat | TeBaisea | Bass boats and T-Top boats | Waterproof rear bench with folding design |
| Tempress ProBax Orthopedic Folding High Back | Tempress | All-day comfort on long runs | Orthopedic high-back folding seat |
| NORTHCAPTAIN Boat Bench Seat | NORTHCAPTAIN | Fishing boats and pontoons | Marine-grade vinyl with padded cushion |
| Attwood Casting Fishing Boat Seat | Attwood | Budget-friendly fishing boats | Gray UV vinyl for durability |
| DeckMate Universal Classic Pontoon Seat Arm | DeckMate | Pontoons needing a simple mount | Polyethylene construction; bench seat not included |
TeBaisea Double Boat Seat
Tempress ProBax Orthopedic Folding Seat
NORTHCAPTAIN Boat Bench Seat
Attwood Casting Fishing Boat Seat
DeckMate Universal Classic Pontoon Seat Arm
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
How will you mount the seat? Look for bolt-on or clamp-on designs that suit your boat’s rail or deck. Consider the seat’s folding mechanism to save space when not in use. For long days on the water, prioritize high-back or orthopedic padding for back support. Material durability matters: marine-grade vinyl and waterproof fabrics resist sun, salt, and moisture. Weight capacity and overall weight affect handling and performance. If you need versatility, choose seats with interchangeable cushions or modular components.
How to Choose The Right Side By Side Seat
- Boat type: Bass boats and T-Tops benefit from folding rear benches; pontoons gain from wide, stable arms.
- Usage: Recreational cruising vs. serious fishing influences padding, back support, and height.
- Maintenance: Vinyl and plastic bodies with sealed seams reduce moisture damage and cleaning effort.
- Installation: Check existing mounting patterns, space between seats, and leg clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the standard width for side by side boat seats? Widths vary; check your boat’s available deck space and seat mounting pattern before purchasing.
- Are folding seats suitable for high-speed boating? Yes, but ensure secure installation and locking mechanisms to prevent movement at speed.
- Can these seats be used on a pontoon without rails? Some models require rails or a flat mounting surface; verify compatibility with your setup.
- Do seats come with mounting hardware? Many do not; confirm included hardware or purchase compatible kits separately.
- What fabrics are best for saltwater use? Marine-grade vinyl with UV and corrosion resistance provides longer life in harsh environments.
- How do I maintain fading and mildew? Rinse after exposure to salt and sun; wipe with mild soap and water, then dry thoroughly.