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

  • Based on 107 reviews
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Availability: In Stock.
Fulfilled by Amazon

Arrives Tuesday, Jul 28
Order within 23 hours and 58 minutes
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Pattern Name: Kayaks


Color: Blaze


Features

  • Made in the USA, the Perception Zip 9.5 is a uniquely simple and stable "sit on top kayak" perfect for all-around fun. Designed for use on lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and calm coastal environments, it handles a maximum capacity of 325 lbs, catering to a wide range of paddlers.
  • Enhance your paddling experience with the built-in center cup holder, designed to keep your favorite drink close at hand, preventing spills. Weighing only 41 lbs, this kayak is lightweight yet sturdy, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable journey on the water.
  • Self-draining scupper holes ensure a dry ride while keeping you high on the water. This kayak, with a spacious cockpit for easy entry and exit, delivers comfort without compromising the fun factor, regardless of the paddler's size.
  • Stay organized with the Perception Zip 9.5's large rear open storage area, equipped with bungee cord lashes. Whether you're stowing away coolers, dry bags, or fishing crates, this kayak ensures easy access to your gear on any water adventure.
  • Combining convenience with functionality, this kayak is easy to transport and store, thanks to its lightweight design and optimized front and rear handles. It also features a drain plug for hassle-free cleaning, making this "sit on top kayak" a practical choice for any water enthusiast.

Description

Recreational kayak - redefining fun on the water. Visit the Store Visit the Store Visit the Store Visit the Store Visit the Store Visit the Store Visit the Store The Zip 9.5 is a playful sit sit-on -top kayak that offers supreme stability and fun for a wide range of ages and abilities. Perfect for enjoying lakes, ocean bays, light surf, and slow rivers, The Aip 9.5 inspires confidence in a design that's easy to maneuver, stable, and easy for anyone to get in and out of. The shorter length and light weight of this 9' 6" model make it simple to transport and store. The Zip 9.5 offers one of the best values for entry level kayaks. Year of design excellence from Perception Kayaks makes this the most stable boat in its class. It is perfect for family fun on your local lake or slow moving river. The Harmony Drifter Aluminum Paddle offers moderate-sized asymmetrical blades that work well with sit-on-top or recreational and touring kayaks. The Take Apart (TAP) shaft, with large push button, allows you to easily adjust your blade angle to 0 degrees or 60 degrees right. Offering performance and durability at a value, the Drifter will quickly become one of the most popular recreational paddles and for good reason. The Perception Hi-Fi Life Jacket - PFD is a front zip Personal Flotation Device with a nylon shell designed with an innovative ergonomic cut for maximum movement and added comfort for both men and women. The Hi-Fi has adjustable shoulder straps that are reinforced deep into the body of the jacket with 120 in. of additional stitching. Two strategically placed cargo pockets with drain holes let you secure your effects without bulk. Scupper Plugs are an essential item for any kayaker who wants to enjoy the benefits of their sit-on-top kayak all year long, enabling more comfortable cold weather paddling or for anyone who just wants a drier ride. The Perception Scupper Plugs fit all Perception and Wilderness Systems sit-on-top kayaks including all the Tarpon models and all the Ride models from 2007 through the current model. These plugs will fit other sit-on-top kayaks with a scupper hole of 1" - 1-3/8". Sold in a package of 4.

Brand: Perception


Item Weight: 41 Pounds


Material: Polyethylene (PE)


Color: Blaze


Style: Sit On Kayak


Brand Name: Perception


Global Trade Identification Number: 54, 40


Model Name: Zip 9.5


Manufacturer: Confluence Outdoors


UPC: 729282120854


Model Number: 9351890189


Manufacturer Part Number: 9351890189


Included Components: Kayak


Warranty Description: 5 years limited warranty against material or manufacturing defects in the hull and deck and 1 year on installed accessories


Item Type Name: Sit on top Kayak


Seating Capacity: 1


Weight Capacity Maximum: 325 Pounds


Item Weight: 41 Pounds


Item Dimensions L x W x H: 114"L x 32"W x 15.5"H


Color: Blaze


Style Name: Sit On Kayak


Material Type: Polyethylene (PE)


Frequently asked questions

If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is: Tuesday, Jul 28

Yes, absolutely! You may return this product for a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.

To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.

View our full returns policy here.

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Top Amazon Reviews


  • Best quality, comfort and value in a kayak, hands down! Best quality, comfort and value in a kayak, hands down!
Pattern Name: Kayaks Color: Earth
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! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on March 12, 2020 Reviewed in the United States on March 12, 2020 by TechDudeOrlando

  • Perfect!
Pattern Name: Kayaks Color: Earth
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! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on December 27, 2020 by Stacy Baker

  • Ramble on with the Zip! Ramble on with the Zip!
Pattern Name: Kayaks Color: Earth
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. Jae The Rambler is on top. The Zip below. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on May 8, 2020 Reviewed in the United States on May 8, 2020 by Jae

  • I like this kayak for taking a large dog across the lake
Pattern Name: Kayaks Color: Blaze
This kayak is not fast but it is balanced. It is good for taking a bunch of stuff and pets out for a day. I've had another one just like it for 15 years give or take and it still works. I got one for my brother because he takes his dog out on mine. We don't use a seat but I have years ago. You can take lots of gear on here. I take an umbrella hauled sideways with a few large bags on back. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2024 by C

  • Great for price
Pattern Name: Kayaks Color: Earth
Great kayak for the price. Solid and tracks well enough. Prefer it to the Access 9.5 for the extra length and ability to use a proper seat.
Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2023 by RA

  • I LOVE this kayak! Best purchase! I LOVE this kayak! Best purchase!
Pattern Name: Kayaks Color: Earth
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. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on November 23, 2020 Reviewed in the United States on November 23, 2020 by Meagan Shull

  • Perfect for me
Pattern Name: Kayaks Color: Blaze
Wanted one for a long time. Finally pulled the trigger and purchased it. Had to buy back support but that was perfect too
Reviewed in the United States on September 26, 2022 by J. M. Naquin

  • Decent sit on top kayak that paddles fast for its length.
Pattern Name: Kayaks Color: Blaze
I am comparing this to other sit on top kayaks I have tried in the last year. This one excels with its one piece design. I love the molded handles at the bow and stern and also the molded handles for cradling the kayak under one arm for walking it short to medium distances, located on the sides of the cockpit. The scupper holes in the foot area bothered me as water kept coming into the boat a tiny bit. It made me wonder if the holes would drain at all if water came into the boat. This was because the lake water hovered right at deck level in the scupper holes. I got a bucket and dumped water in the cockpit and it drained right away -- no problem! It glides very well in the water and is relatively fast for a mere 9.5 foot kayak. Tracking wasn't great. If you take your paddle out of the water for any length of time you will find yourself doing a 360. But the tracking was better than another Pelican Bandit I tried, but not as good as a Pelican AX100 that I also tested. I like that there are scupper holes on the perception zip -- 4 in the cockpit leg area, 2 in the seat, and 2 in the rear tank well. These were areas where water collected on other sit on top kayaks I tried. I wish it had tie downs in the front tank well as I am afraid a backpack stored there will fall into the water. There are two deck anchor loops right about where you hold your paddle on each side of the seat roughly. I occasionally hit these with my right hand, but it was a minor inconvenience. The kayak comes without a seat, and the two deck anchor loops on either side of the seat area, slight forward from it, are for attaching the seat sold separately. The hardest part for me on this kayak was getting it onto the roof of my car. I couldn't flip it onto my shoulders like I can my Pelican kayaks. It was too bulky and unbalanced with no places to comfortably hold onto the sides of the kayak while flipped for transferring to the roof of the car. I eventually figured it out by laying it face down with the kayak bow/front at the trunk of my car. Then I lifted the kayak and slid it onto the rear cross bar of my car top carrier, and then kept pushing it forward, occasionally lifting it so the deck anchor loops didn't obstruct sliding the boat over the cross bars. After I mastered that method I had confidence I could get it on and off the car singlehandedly and efficiently. Unfortunately I really scuffed the kayak asit fell a couple times as I was learning to put it on my roof racks. But the scuffs didn't compromise the integrity of the kayak. For weight it is slightly heavier than my pelican sit in kayaks but wasn't much heavier. I didn't find it any slower or harder to maneuver as a result of weight...only difficult to lift onto my car top carrier due to shape and bulkiness. I decided to keep the kayak, partly because I really scuffed it up learning to put it on my car. But also because I was satisfied with it. I need it for an orienteering paddle race and found my pelican bandit too ploughy and slow. This one cruises along pretty well and will make the race feasible ...particularly since I have to get in and out of it often. That is the entire reason for buying a sit on top on the first place. Sit-in kakyaks are too hard to get in and out of. Speed: Good for a yak its size. Design: Iots of scupper holes and effective molded handles. Difficult to portage on your head or shoulders. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on June 23, 2025 by The Ideator

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