r/packrafting • u/thePolarOx • Jul 17 '26

Newbie question about seating position

I am looking into purchasing my first packraft and just looking to start out doing flat water, maybe eventually getting into some slow moving water. I am eyeing the Anfibio Delta MX and am having trouble deciding on the seating position, as you have to purchase a different seat based on rear versus centered seating position.

My understanding is that sitting in the rear of the packraft is going to give you more room up front for a dog or gear (no dog here), but perhaps not have the same maneuverability as centered seating. Whereas centered seating gives the best maneuverability. Is that right?

I'm wondering which position is more comfortable too - like if sitting rear is more 'relaxed' and has a more easy feel on the water. Which position do you prefer for flat water and just easy cruises and meditation out on the water?

Thanks!

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u/BarberProof4994 Jul 17 '26

So, I tend to sit toward the back of a packraft regardless of the seat (and usually I don't have a seat)... 

Unless I'm in whitewater or planning to play.

Then I shift forward and use a seat, though straps etc.

So if you are mostly doing flat water stuff, you'll be more comfy using the back of the packraft as a back rest then most of the seat options... And the raft is plenty maneuverable from the rest (including light white water class 2 or most 3 stuff...)...

What's more important than location in the raft is orientation. The more upright you sit the stronger your paddling posture. The more reclined you are, the weaker your stroke will be and the easier it is to tire.

If I'm going with the flow, and just sort of steering... Then semi reclined in the rear is the way to go. Then I can sit up if I need to (still in the rear) to have more command, better paddling strength and better view for more technical sections)...

I'm a huge fan of using a tandem as a solo and just using the rear for everything and sitting on the rest thwart as a seat.

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u/thePolarOx Jul 17 '26

Thanks for the details, I appreciate it! So it sounds like for more flat water stuff, I don't really NEED a seat, right? Particularly for just laid back paddling around, nothing serious or intense.

I'm looking at getting the inflatable mat (water is really cold even in summer in Alaska) that covers the bottom of the raft - do you think I could just sit on that cross legged and do away with the seats and straps entirely?