- Editor Rating
- Perception Kayaks Sound 9.5
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- Build Quality
- Storage Capacity
- Comfort
- Stability
- Maneuverability
Kayaking novices often suffer from a bit of sticker shock when investigating their first kayak; after all, some of the nicer models available brandish price tags in excess of several thousand dollars. But kayaking newcomers needn’t spend that much money to get started in the sport.
In fact, there are a number of great entry-level kayaks available for a fraction of this price. And while they may not come with all of the high-end features that characterize crafts that appeal to advanced kayakers, a few models – such as the Perception Kayaks Sound 9.5 – are excellent options for anglers who’d like to try their hand paddling around the water.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight kayak that is easy to carry and launch
- Surprisingly stable, thanks to the cockpit’s low center of gravity and the tri-keeled hull
- Affordable enough for anglers with very tight budgets
- Can be fitted with a spray skirt to keep you drier while riding
- The included seat is very cushioned, and the seat back is adjustable
Cons
- Very little storage space is included with the kayak
- The tracking is adequate for a rudderless kayak, but you’ll likely find that it drifts a little off course during long stretches
- Not stable enough to allow anglers to stand
- No paddle keepers are included with the kayak
- No carrying handles are provided on the sides of the cockpit
Build Quality
While the Sound 9.5 is a very affordable kayak, it is still built with the type of materials and craftsmanship that are common to high-end kayaks. Made from high-density, roto-molded polyethylene, the Sound 9.5 is exceptionally durable and will resist the damage caused by scrapes, collisions and UV rays.
It also features saltwater-ready hardware and finishes, which makes it just as ready for the ocean as your local pond.
Storage Capacity
The Sound 9.5 is a relatively small craft, so it doesn’t have an abundance of storage options. There aren’t any water-tight compartments or hatches included in the unit, but it does feature a dashboard panel with bungee cords for temporarily storing small items.
It also features a cargo area in the rear (which also comes equipped with bungee cords), for storing coolers, backpacks and similar items. Two flush-mount rod holders are situated to either side of the cockpit, and a drink holder is located near the seat.
Comfort
Despite being small in size, the Perception Kayaks Sound 9.5 is big on comfort. The cockpit is surprisingly roomy for such a tiny kayak, and the perimeter features plenty of padding to help keep your knees, legs and elbows comfortable during paddling and fishing.
The seat not only features very thick padding, but the seat back is adjustable too, so that you can dial in your comfort. The footrests are adjustable, so kayakers of any size and shape can achieve a comfortable ride.
Stability
Although the Sound 9.5 is a fairly narrow kayak, which only measures 28 inches across, it is quite stable. Its sit-inside design helps to lower a paddler’s center of gravity and provide the kind of stability all kayakers can appreciate, and novices require.
The Sound 9.5 also sports a tri-keeled hull, which helps to not only provide additional stability but improved handling and tracking as well. Unfortunately, the Sound 9.5 is not stable enough to permit standing.
Maneuverability
The Sound 9.5’s small size and tri-keeled hull help to provide incredible maneuverability for anglers. It not only tracks quite well for a small and rudderless craft, but it cuts through the water like a knife and turns on a dime.
It may get blown around on the water a little bit, as it only weighs 38 pounds, but because it is so light (and features molded-in handles at the bow and stern), the Sound 9.5 is very easy to carry. Even relatively small kayakers should be able to carry this craft from the car to the lake and back with ease.
Summary
The Perception Kayak Sound 9.5 is not a great option for advanced kayakers or anglers who need tons of storage space. Nor is it well-suited for anglers who intend on fishing in exceptionally deep off-shore waters or rough rivers.
However, for those who plan on paddling around their local lake or river (and catching a bunch of fish in the process), the Sound 9.5 is a great choice. Additionally, because it is so affordable, stable and easy to maneuver, this kayak is excellent for beginners, who are trying to learn the ins and outs of kayaking.
| Brand | Perception Kayaks |
| Model | Sound 9.5 |
| Price | Check on Amazon |
| Type | Sit-On-Top |
| Color(s) | Red Tiger, Seaspray |
| Length (ft / cm) | 9'6" / 290cm |
| Width (in / cm) | 28" / 71cm |
| Height (in / cm) | 20" / 51cm |
| Kayak Weight (lbs / kg) | 38 lbs / 17kg |
| Weight Capacity (lbs / kg) | 300 lbs / 136kg |
| Cockpit Size (in / cm) | N/A |
| Hull Material | Polyethylene |
| Transducer Compatible | No |
| Number of People | 1 |
| Inflatable | No |
| Salt Water Friendly | Yes |
| Peddles | No |
| Tracking Enhancement | None |
| Adjustable Seat | Yes |
| Rod Holders | 2 |
| Adjustable Foot Braces | Yes |
| Paddles Included | No |
| Other Included Items | None |