A boat seat is an item that ensures comfort when sitting for long hours in your boat. A wonderful time of laying back on board will be interrupted without the right support. To not waste the function of marine seats, you need to have the best boat seat pedestal. When finding one, price is not the only criterion. Here are other factors that you have to check:
- Material: The material is important to consider when buying boat accessories and essential equipment like a seat pedestal. You may find affordable ones that can serve you well. Make sure that the expensive one that you buy has premium materials for longevity. Anodized aluminum and steel are commonly used in producing boat seat pedestals.
Stainless steel parts are heavier than aluminum but they’re denser too. This implies a higher level of durability. The greatest strength of aluminum is found in its resistance to corrosion and rust. It’s an important ability in facing the marine environment where there are UV rays and salt water that can quickly damage seat pedestals.
Using powder coating is one trick that can prolong the lifespan of the pedestal seats for boats. It can improve structural integrity by minimizing exposure to harsh elements, which cause unalterable damages. Wonderfully, it can also improve the finish of boat seat pedestals.
- Easy Installation: After you’ve bought a boat seat pedestal, it’s not necessary to hire someone to mount it for you. It’s easy to install and you can do it yourself. Just choose a simple design so you won’t have to deal with complicated steps. Most seat pedestals come with pre-drilled holes on the mount and base. These parts make it super easy to link with the seat’s bottom and boat’s floor.
- Stability and Shock Absorption: Boat seat pedestals have a vital role in making the boat seats stable even on rough waters. Since the modern creations have a wide base and are screwed on the floor, wobbling is prevented. Make sure that the screws are tight to not allow the occurrence of unwanted movements.
Being able to absorb shock, seat pedestals make you feel comfortable while on boat rides. You won’t be experiencing pressure and vibrations even when you’re facing rough seas. Big waves won’t bother you as the pedestal makes the seat stable.
- Adjustable Height: You can gain a lot of advantages when you have an adjustable boat seat pedestal. By experimenting with a pneumatic riser or gas lift, you can find the height and positioning that is the most comfortable for you. You can also integrate a strategically positioned lever for easy adjustments.
Table of Contents
- Best Boat Seat Pedestal Reviews
- 1. Wise 8WP21 – 18S Boat Seat Pedestal
- 2. Attwood 91320-ADJ Pedestal
- 3. Springfield 3000.9645 Adjustable Taper Lock
- 4. Wise Adjustable Pedestal with Slide
- 5. Attwood Swivl-Eze Lock’N-Pin Pedestal
- 6. Leader Accessories Locking Boat Seat Pedestal
- 7. Wise 8WD2002 King Pin Power Rise Pedestal
- 8. Shoreline Marine SL91289 Seat Pedestal
- 9. Attwood 2385400 Boat Seat Pedestal
- 10. Oceansouth Shock Absorbing Boat Seat Pedestal
- Factors To Consider When Choosing Boat Seat Pedestal
- How Do You Mount A Pedestal Boat Seat
- How Do You Measure A Boat Seat Pedestal
- How Do You Get A Stuck Seat Out Of A Pedestal
- How Do You Adjust The Height Of A Seat Pedestal
- Conclusion
- Sturdy and reliable
- Supporting benches and tables
- Powder-coated finish
Best Boat Seat Pedestal Reviews
1. Wise 8WP21 – 18S Boat Seat Pedestal
Due to the number of positive reviews about this adjustable boat pedestal, I was convinced that it’s a worthy purchase. I couldn’t be happier as this is sturdy and well-made. Toughness can always be expected on an anodized aluminum boat seat pedestal post like this one. Its smooth and thick wall is spectacular!
It works with a swivel boat seat by controlling the top knob. Tighten it to make it motionless and loosen it if you want to take off the swivel part. You’ll find a lower knob to adjust its height. To get started, you have to loosen the bigger knob and pull the smaller knob that has a spring. By moving these knobs, you can raise or lower the sleeve cavity inside the post. Then, you can tighten it through the big knob.
The swivel is so smooth at the right height. It’s also great to pair with a helm seat and bow-mounted casting chair. Therefore, I don’t have to endure discomfort when fishing since I can adjust the height of this seat pedestal. I’m comfortable all the time without exhaustion at the end of the day.
- Sturdy, well-made, and tough anodized aluminum post
- With thick and smooth walls
- Can be with a swivel boat seat
- Can adjust the height
- Makes you feel comfortable when sitting on a boat seat
- Can be a tenting point for a boat cover
- Mounting screws should be bought separately
2. Attwood 91320-ADJ Pedestal
The sturdiness and reliability of this adjustable pedestal are unbelievably awesome for its price. You can rely on its strength due to its welded joints as well as integrated boat seat pedestal base mounting plate and seat mounting plate. The base is designed to withstand offshore harsh conditions. Its body is also covered with a powder-coated finish to prolong longevity.
Boat owners would appreciate its adjustable height from 11.5 inches to 17.5 inches, fulfilling everyone’s preference needs. I spot-welded it on my boat and before doing it, I made sure that it’s the seat height that I wanted. It should be done as you can’t reverse it after welding. You only have to deal with easy installation to make it functional. But you have to buy the necessary screws and nuts because they’re not included in the package.
You may also put it on a stationary box just like what my friend did. This setup allows him to have 360 degrees vision while seated on his boat. He can lower or raise the seating post any time he wants.
- Sturdy and reliable
- With the necessary strength to hold from its welded joints
- The integrated mounting plate of the pedestal and seat
- With powder-coated finish for longevity
- Adjustable height from 11.5 inches to 17.5 inches
- Can be support for benches and tables
- Buying screws and nuts separately
3. Springfield 3000.9645 Adjustable Taper Lock
Weeks of searching for the ideal seat pedestal ended after I discovered this one. It doesn’t cost much but it’s solid and of high quality. The thing that captured my attention is its height adjustability from 13 inches to 16 inches. I can make adjustments with every 2 3/8-inch on the post. With this permissible increment, I was able to settle for a height that won’t make me feel strained when sitting for hours.
Aside from making me feel comfortable, the height adjustment can help me see better when docking. I just have to raise the seat for a better view of what’s in front of me. However, this height adjustable pedestal doesn’t have a gas lift. Nevertheless, it won’t get in the way if you utilize it for the passenger seat or the casual seat.
Since it can be in different types of marine seats, it’s detachable. It gives you the chance to remove the whole system and match it with other seats. Remember, it’s a taper-lock boat seat pedestal. If you prefer to spin around while seated, you can also attach four bolts to turn it into a swivel pedestal.
- Solid and with high quality
- Adjust the height from 13 inches to inches (2 3/8 boat seat pedestal increment; in inches)
- Makes the user feel comfortable
- Taper-lock style and detachable
- Can be a swivel pedestal
- Promises stability and security
- Doesn’t have a gas lift
4. Wise Adjustable Pedestal with Slide
I use this for my captain’s chair and I didn’t expect that it would be so good for the price. It’s functional as I can move the seat up, down, forward, and backward. Rotation is also possible without adding attachment hardware. Thus, you can have a smooth swivel mount. Surely, this shines among pedestal seats for boats!
I sometimes use my powerboat for wake surfing and with this boat pedestal, I don’t have to struggle seeing what’s over the bow. If not for this, I won’t be able to see the view ahead of me when the vessel is ballasted down. I weigh 270 pounds but it doesn’t give up on me because it’s well-made.
This aluminum boat seat pedestal’s height can be adjusted. Even the 12-inch lowest setting adds the necessary height to my driver seat. The maximum extension is 18 inches. You may modify its outer tube if you want a lower seat and drill holes. It has an adjustable pin that works well as long as you use it correctly by tightening the locking mechanism that can rotate 360 degrees.
- Functional as it can be moved to any side
- Works as a smooth swivel mount
- The well-made aluminum pedestal can carry massive weight
- Adjustable height from 12 inches to 18 inches
- Has a locking knob that rotates 360 degrees
- Transferrable with arm slide mount
- Needs to be modified the outer tube if wanting a lower seat
- Mounting screws need to be bought separately
5. Attwood Swivl-Eze Lock’N-Pin Pedestal
Looking for necessary pieces of mounting hardware can be tricky. Thus, getting this boat seat pedestal kit is a wise move. This e-coated seat mount ensures safety and stability as it’s non-threaded. I don’t have to be bothered by wobbly and sloppy seats anymore. Renovating my boat became successful with some contribution from this boat seat pedestal.
The aluminum boat seat base further enhances the security of this pedestal. Mounting hardware is provided, so the installation is trouble-free. A friend of mine also likes this but he only utilizes the base when he needs to put some fish in his boat. I think it’s amazing that just its base can be so useful.
Removal of the mount is not inconvenient at all with the help of silicone spray or bearing grease. However, it’s best to have the ‘top’ lip removed by a beach grinder. Then, you can remove the mount any time you want. Hence, it can be in fishing boats to save space for the catch of the day.
- Non-threaded and e-coated for safety and stability
- Post, base, and all the mounting hardware are in this kit
- Trouble-free installation
- Can securely sit even when the boat is underway
- Meets ABYC Code B standards
- Goes well with the freshwater application
- Needs to remove the ‘top’ lip if you don’t use the mount
6. Leader Accessories Locking Boat Seat Pedestal
I’m happy about purchasing this adjustable boat seat pedestal as the overall quality is outstanding. There’s a perfect place for it on the bow so that no one trips on the chair. It looks bare because it’s made of anodized aluminum. But the truth is there’s a matte brushed satin finish. Just don’t expect a shiny surface. It’s not an issue for me as the strength of the pedestal is the most important.
It truly has high quality considering its rectangular platform, base, and aluminum body. I am 270 pounds and it constantly bears my weight without signs of weakness. The installation didn’t cause any issue as well. I followed the given instructions, and it fits well with my boat seat. It’s great for mounting the captain’s seat.
I use this to lower my seat since it’s adjustable. However, I found that the release adjustment knob rubs against a swivel mount when you put it in the lowest setting. I just discovered it when I checked its lowest capability.
- Outstanding overall quality
- Made of anodized aluminum with matte brushed satin finish
- Can bear massive weight
- No issue installation
- Adjustable height with good slide function
- Promotes comfort when on a boat seat
- Knob rubs against a swivel mount when you put it in the lowest setting
7. Wise 8WD2002 King Pin Power Rise Pedestal
Buying this item for my pedestal boat seats is one of the steps to complete my boat renovation. The previous one that I had doesn’t provide the ultimate comfort as it’s not tall enough. I can gain boat seat pedestal extension from this as it can be adjusted from 22.5 inches to 29.8 inches. Adjustments can be done instantly with a touch of a lever. Thus, it doesn’t take much time to set the height that I want.
Also, it rotates 360 degrees. With this feature, you can attach a swivel seat to it. It’s not a bad idea as it slides smoothly. From what I’ve observed, this pedestal’s quality is reliable because it demonstrates stability and sturdiness. It’s not only used for seats but it also works as a leaning post.
The base is a king pin type, which is similar to the well-known Springfield boat seat pedestal. Typically, it’s suitable for freshwater. With this design, I can easily insert the boat seat mount. Hence, it’s easy for everyone to handle.
- Can be adjusted instantly through the lever
- Smoothly rotates 360 degrees
- Demonstrates stability and sturdiness
- Works as a leaning post
- With an easy-to-use king pin base
- The screws included in the package are not for butt seats
8. Shoreline Marine SL91289 Seat Pedestal
I have all praises for this pedestal after I mounted it as a seat riser for a one-man pontoon. The way it holds my weight proves its solidity and sturdiness. I move forward and backward when sitting but it doesn’t budge. Surprisingly, it allows me to do a lot of twists and turns on a one-man boat. All of these things can be done without overlooking comfort.
I picked this one as it’s the ideal pedestal for swivel padded boat seats. It’s a fact as I don’t have to struggle from the moment I finish installing it. What only delayed me from starting to assemble is the lack of bolts. I had to buy it from a local hardware store but I’m not complaining as this works as expected.
Since it has a strong structure, you can find it in many fishing boats. It allows an individual to sit comfortably and concentrate on his/her task. Hence, it helps many to have a bountiful catch. I can attest to how it helps me catch a big fish all the time and I owe it to its sturdiness. Things work out well because the mounting plate and the base are of the same size.
- Solid and sturdy
- Doesn’t budge even with a lot of movements
- Promises comfort
- Ideal pedestal for swivel padded boat seats
- Used in fishing boats to be able to capture big fish
- Great to use to make a seat higher
- Necessary bolts are bought separately
9. Attwood 2385400 Boat Seat Pedestal
You’ll find a list of the top-rated boat seat pedestals but when it comes to durability, nothing can outshine this one. It even exceeds the standards set by American Boat and Yacht Council. To back up this claim, it was given an A rating.
I can’t help but be in awe of its super satin anodized post that was waged and welded for maximum durability. The seat mount and base with a 9-inch diameter have excellent quality too. Therefore, it doesn’t only match my new boat seat but it will also surely last for a long time. Since I started using it, I don’t question its reliability.
It has sturdiness for users not to be doubtful when sitting. Wobbling or unwanted motion won’t bother you. On the other hand, it can rotate 360 degrees and tilt 3 degrees to allow you to move sideways or in any direction. I don’t have problems with it as it’s pretty stable. Of course, I have installed it correctly to put it to good use.
- Exceeds standard of American Boat and Yacht Council and received A rating
- Welded and waged parts for maximum durability
- Sturdy without wobbling and unwanted motion
- Can rotate and tilt a bit
- Easy installation and mounting of the seat
- Height can be adjusted for comfort and onboard safety
- Not for helm or driver seat
10. Oceansouth Shock Absorbing Boat Seat Pedestal
Not all boat seat pedestals can work with you in facing big waves. But this one does! This shock absorbing boat seat pedestal makes way for a fun ride out in the sea. It’s a one-of-a-kind pedestal as I remain sitting without losing my balance. It doesn’t give up easily even if the boat sways because of waves or currents. Thanks to this, the shock that may creep on the legs doesn’t persist anymore.
Due to its ability to absorb shock, solidity and sturdiness follow. Making me feel comfortable and secure dissolves stress and even fear. I can be at ease when seated. These advantages are possible because of their remarkable components. The post consists of anodized aluminum while the pedestal’s base is a powder-coated aluminum cast. To complete, the top part is made of robust nylon.
These materials are the reason that this pedestal can serve you well. They’re fading and corrosion-resistant. Thus, I know it will last for a long time. The post is permanently attached to the base and it means you cannot remove it. I think it’s better than needing to assemble it.
- Gives a nice ride as it can absorb shock from big waves or current
- Shock won’t creep on legs and back
- Solid and sturdy to make you feel comfortable and secured
- Made of materials that are resistant to fading and corrosion
- 14 to 18 inches height adjustment
- Can’t remove the post from the base
Factors To Consider When Choosing Boat Seat Pedestal
Boat Seat Pedestal Types
Seats are always present in a water vessel but you’ll find a selection of them. There are bucket seats, pro seats, helm seats, and fold-down seats. All of them need a seat mount, post, and base to stand still. Swivels, slides, and other kinds of hardware can be added. To make each type more distinct, American Boat and Yacht Council impose ratings. These categories help boat owners to find the ideal pedestal for their marine seats.
Under the Type A rating are the pedestals that can adapt with any speed. They are divided into the driver position and the passengers. Hence, you’ll find it with helm and bucket seats. The Type B pedestals are for low speed that’s typically lower than 5 mph.
Classifications are also sorted out as Class AP or AN, Class B, and Class AD or AO. Pedestals under Class AP can be used when your boat is afoot at a different speed. Those that are in Class B are used when the boat moves 5 mph or below. Lastly, Class AD is for the driver or helm seat.
Benefits of Using a Boat Seat Pedestal
You can gain maximum comfort from using seat pedestals. Some of them can even absorb shock waves for smooth boat rides. This marine equipment is designed for safety. Adjustments of damping rate are even possible for overweight boaters.
Boat seat pedestals are reliable, not only for their service and functions but also for their durability. You can use it for years without any issues. If you’re fond of traveling the sea where saltwater resides, you can choose a pedestal that is anti-corrosive.
How Do You Mount A Pedestal Boat Seat
Here are the basic steps when mounting a pedestal boat seat:
Step 1. Put the seat in its right position. Make marks on the surface based on the bolt holes found on the pedestal’s base. Once done, you have to put the pedestal aside
Step 2. Puncture an inch pit on the surface to mount bolts. A marine-grade epoxy resin can fill the pits that you made. You have to let it dry for a few days before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3. The pits are in the middle of the epoxy patch after they were given enough time to form. They should be 50% bigger than the bolts that are at the bottom of the seat.
Step 4. Next, you have to put adhesive on the deck and the resin-filled pits that are covered by the bottom base.
Step 5. You have to even out the sealant that you applied on the underneath section of the bottom base. So, you can place the pedestal in its right position. Fix the bolts onto the affixing bolt holes situated in the bottom base.
Step 6. Then, you can start tightening the affixing bolts on the deck to secure the seat’s position. The marine-grade adhesive should give the seat a day to settle.
Step 7. Before you turn on your boat, twist all the bolts.
How Do You Measure A Boat Seat Pedestal
Before measuring a boat seat pedestal, set the boat seat to the height that you’re comfortable with. Start measuring from the boat’s floor to the bottom of the seat cushion. Mark the points where your measurement begins and ends. Then, get the number.
With 17.5 to 19.5 inches, you’ll need an 8-inch pedestal. If it’s from 16.5 inches to 17.5 inches, the 6-inch pedestal is ideal. In terms of 12 inches to 16.5 inches, you need 4.75 inches. It will be shorter when you get below 12 inches. It’s advisable to seek help from the manufacturer or seller for the appropriate post length.
How Do You Get A Stuck Seat Out Of A Pedestal
Not being able to put back the seat to its normal state can be frustrating. Still, you need to be persistent in pulling it out of the mount or making it swivel again. The common reason for this mishap is an inadequate lubricant. The hardening that causes the seat to get stuck sometimes happens because of a prolonged position.
The easiest solution for this is spraying a lubricant or oil. Directly apply it to the affected section. For follow-up, you can utilize a plastic mallet for tapping. It will help loosen the stuck seat. You may need to apply more force in some cases or pull the seat from the mount.
How Do You Adjust The Height Of A Seat Pedestal
The necessary steps depend on the pedestal’s brand and model. The majority of pedestals have a height adjustment lever or pneumatic riser. You just press and release the handle to reach the height that you prefer. When you need to lower the seat, sit on it and press the handle accompanied by downward force. Keep doing it until you get what you want.
But you may use a pedestal with manual adjustment. What you need to do to obtain the desired height is rotating and lifting or pushing the post.
Conclusion
Make your sailing trip fun and exciting with the help of the best boat seat pedestal. This equipment is not only dependable for comfort but also for resistance against corrosion and harsh environmental factors. You won’t regret investing in one as you can use it for many years. Since this review has narrowed down the best options, you can pick the one with the features that meets your needs.
“I am James Harvey – founder of Boating Basics Online. It is established with the drive to help out first-time boaters, which are those desiring to explore their way through the water. So if you are new to boating, start from here with me. “