We’re familiar with SUPs. And we’re familiar with kayaks. So call us baffled when we first saw the Perception Hi Life, which looks like a SUP with appointments that were borrowed right off a kayak. So what exactly is it?
Turns out, it’s both. A SUP and kayak hybrid, the watercraft can be used for stand-up paddling much like any regular deck. Unlike traditional SUPs, however, you can sit down on the raised seating area and ride it like a kayak, so you can rest your weary legs while enjoying the local waters.
The Perception Hi Life has a low-profile hull shape that allows it to be perfectly stable on the water, while still facilitating smooth tracking and satisfying acceleration while paddling. A raised platform standing 11.25 inches high serves as the seat, complete with a padded back rest and seat bottom for comfortable use and a pull-up strap for standing assistance in case you get cramps while plopped down. It has track pads on the stern and mid-ship to help you find secure footing, while a low rear swim deck with molded-in handles makes it easy to re-enter the deck when you fall on the water.
Features include a fold-down back rest (so it doesn’t get in the way when you paddle standing), a cooler storage area under the seat, a tankwell in the back for extra storage, a cup holder, and a center rail that runs from bow to seat allows you to mount extra accessories. It measures 11 x 1.8 feet and has a maximum weight capacity of 280 pounds.
Available now, the Perception Hi Life is priced at $799.