We recently received our first shipments of the newly updated AE1012 Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak – a classic model blending performance, price and portability. Having paddled the AdvancedFrame through all iterations since 2002, we were interested to see some of the fine-tuned enhancements.
In 2015, Advanced Elements began a factory expansion, moving the production line to Indonesia. While plant construction was completed in the fall of 2015, the reopening took longer than anticipated, causing delays in spring 2016 production for several models. Despite stockpiling, huge customer demand caused the AdvancedFrame to be out of stock for nearly a year.
In late spring 2016, the first shipment of AdvancedFrame inflatable kayaks sailed into port, now featuring an integrated 1-PSI pressure relief valve in the floor bladder, enhanced high-backed seating, redesigned hardware and the addition of velcro paddle holders.
As our previous write-up was several years ago, we took the opportunity to also update our readers with details on the newly updated AdvancedFrame AE1012, a 10’5″ inflatable weighing in at roughly 34 to 35 lbs with an MSRP of $539. (Please note: some of this will be repeated from prior reviews.)
Getting Started with the AdvancedFrame Kayak
The box as received weighs 41 lbs, measuring 32 x 19 x 11 inches. Inside, the rugged carrying case measures 32 x 18 x 10 inches, and houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit and instructions. The kayak folded size is approximately 30 x17 x 10 inches. The case has just enough room to include a small pump and breakdown paddle (not included). AirKayaks note: Take a good look at how the kayak is folded BEFORE setting up, this will help during breakdown.
AdvancedFrame Kayak Setup/Inflation
We re-acquainted ourselves with the kayak by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc.
First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame features an “inner rib” in the bow and stern, which is basically a u-shaped aluminum rib, about a foot long and one-half inch wide.
This comes “pre-assembled” meaning it arrives already inserted into two sleeves inside the kayak cover. Unless you remove the inner bladder, they remain in position. When the kayak is pumped up, the inner bladder with rib presses against the kayak cover – that, in conjunction with two bow and stern plastic sheets, give the kayak a sharp silhouette which aids in slicing through the water.
The kayak features 7 inflation chambers – two military valves and 5 twist-loks. The military-style plunger valves are simple to use – twist one way to inflate and the other to deflate.
The kayak comes with a screw-on adaptor (found in the repair kit in the mesh pocket behind the seat) which will fit some pumps
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