Perception Zip 9.5 | Sit on Top Kayak for All-Around Fun | Stable and Fast | Rear Storage with Tie Downs | 9' 6"

I received my new ZIP kayak from Perception and I’m in love! I can’t imagine there’s a nicer boat for the money. I looked at all the cash and carry stores and I was shocked at the light weight and quality of this kayak for the low price, AND I scheduled the delivery around my schedule to my doorstep!I’m about 6’3 and weigh 190 lbs yet I feel balanced and agile on this boat. It really feels great. Nice storage areas in the front and back. I can even cruise safely and comfortably with my 6 year old son on board. The incredible value of the ZIP kayak allowed me to get the matching Sea Passage Paddle and probably the most comfortable life-vest I’ve ever worn in the Genesis II PFD/Life Jacket all in my budget. With all the value it made sense to add the Harmony seat back as well because we all deserve some added comfort right?!?! Added a rod holder and I am ready for Spring!Living in Florida and loving the outdoors this is definitely one of the best purchases I’ve made in a while. Picking up one for the wife soon! THANK YOU PERCEPTION FOR AN AWESOME PRODUCT!

The Perception Zip 9.5 is my first kayak. I bought a Perception Rambler 9.5 for my wife last year and by the time I got around to getting one for myself the Rambler 9.5 is no longer available on Amazon(at least from what I can tell). That's OK because I'm guessing the Zip is the same thing basically as the Rambler with just a few differences. It's an entry-level sit on top kayak from a premier manufacturer in the industry. Don't expect a fast, sleek touring kayak with tons of hatches and a comfy(or ANY for that matter) seat, however.Pros:Beautiful! I don't know what it is, but Perception makes the best-looking kayaks I've seen. The colors POP and look great whether on your vehicle or in the water. In fact, a child said they looked like 'Popsicles' on my car- I'm taking that as a compliment!Price/Value. For $350ish you can have a MADE IN USA boat that will get you on the water. Yes...you need a paddle, PFD, and seat(more on that later), but that's not bad!Stable. This is an excellent boat for beginners! I was on VERY choppy water for only the second time ever(I rented the first time) and never once felt like I would tip over even though other kayakers in sit-inside boats sat lower to the water. The redesigned(not on my wife's Rambler) bow/stern handles seem more secure for carrying and tying to the vehicle. They are now part of the boat instead of rope.Cons:Where's the beef, I mean...seat? The Rambler I purchased last year for roughly the same price came with a Harmony seat. It's not the greatest seat ever, but my wife says it does the job. I purchased an Ocean Kayak Comfort Tech for mine(it was pricey, but comfy). Plan on adding another $40 at least for some cushion/support- you WILL want a seat!Speed(or lack thereof). This boat isn't designed for miles and miles of touring. Granted, I'm new to this and my paddle stroke can best be described as 'a work in progress'. However, just looking at the shape will let you know that it's made for stability- NOT cutting through the water like a knife. Down the road I may purchase another 'faster' boat if I feel the need, but for now this gets me on the water and I'm happy.4 stars for a quality beginner kayak that's just missing a seat.JaeThe Rambler is on top. The Zip below.

I have purchased several Perceptions boats in the past with no problems. I just ordered 2 zip kayaks and I am very disappointed in the overall quality of these boats. They were not well wrapped and had grease on them. There were also several deep rub spots in the plastic that may be impossible to remove.The seat clips were plastic and two were broken. The color was very splotchy and inconsistent. Perceptions used to be my 'go to' Kayak brand. I will need to rethink that!

Nice deep sit on top however was wrapped in thin paper and arrived damaged . Scuff is nearly through plastic. Heavier than expected and I can’t carry alone

I love this kayak! It’s been a great summer with this boat. So much room on the boat, I spend the entire day out and I’m always bringing ice chest, beach bag, towels, and my dog. I research a lot of different brands, I’m so pleased with Perception. The thickness is solid and strong. I’m a thin female, and have no issues with handling, loading. I highly recommend this kayak.

Bought this kayak for my 8 year old daughter as a Christmas gift. We have searched for 2 years for the perfect color! We have 3 other Perception kayaks and only considered this name brand. She was thrilled with this one! Good quality! Kayak was unloaded onto our deck by the delivery drivers... that was great! No complaints!

Bought this for my father. He is 63 and loves the way it rides on the water.

Zip 95 tracks well in water and present very stable platform for kayaking.