I want to buy a Hobie 16. Are there ways to make it more comfortable for sitting or the back? I saw the Sit'n Sail but it looks hard and is kind of pricey.
Are there other altenatives?

If you're looking for comfort you should consider a Wave or Getaway.

If you're looking for comfort and the ability to sit up straight, look at cats with wings. That would include the Hobie Getaway, the 18 Turbo and the 17. I actually think the 16 is a very comfortable cat compared to many of the other cats out there. You're not sitting right on a fiberglass hull, you are on the side rail or on a comfortable tramp. Put some carpeting on the side rails to soften them up a bit, that helps alot. There are kits for that in the Hobie catalog. Or just get out on the wire!

I too was in search of more comfort for all day sailing and this is what I came up with. I like it because the back angle is adjustable and the thing will fold flat on the boat while trailering home. Made a huge difference in how my back feels at the end of the day. I have even folded them up on deck while trapping. If you dont want them on, it takes 5 min to take them off.





I have maybe 50 bucks in the whole set up.

Check out this report

http://www.catsailor.com/forums/ubb...;Main=12651&Number=120161#Post120161

Sit 'N Sail is out of business. The most comfortable place on a Hobie 16 is out on the trapeze.