Tag Archives: air sups

Sneak Preview: Pau Hana 10’10” SOLO Backcountry Inflatable Backpacking SUP

Earlier this year we received news of an innovative new inflatable paddle board from Pau Hana Surf Co. – the 10’10” Solo Backcountry. The Solo SUP is a “hikeable” air SUP that fits inside a small backpack weighing in at 23 lbs for the complete package.

Based out of California, since 2006 Pau Hana Surf Supply has been a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative stand up paddle boards. The Hawaiian phrase “Pau Hana” means “the time after work” and for Pau Hana’s founder and designer, Todd Caranto, it’s all about the spirit of play on the water.
While Pau Hana manufactures both hard shells and air sups, the eight inflatable models range in size from 9’6″ to 15’0″, spanning water activities of yoga, surfing, party paddling, racing and fishing – and now backpacking and bike packing.

Pau Hana’s dream was to break down the access barriers to paddling in remote locations by designing an entire paddle board kit – board, paddle, pump, leash, fins and backpack/drybag – which could easily be hiked/biked into the back country.

The result of the redesign created a package that is truly an example of the “whole is the sum of the parts.” Enter the Pau Hana 10’10’ Solo Backcountry – a portable, full-length air SUP replete with gear, that fits into a dry bag/backpack measuring 22 x 12 x 13 inches and weighing in at 23 lbs. The Pau Hana 10’10” SOLO Backcountry now joins the ranks of the popular inflatable packrafts with a paddling alternative – the pack sup.

What’s so special? Beginning with the board, the Solo 10-10 is constructed from an ultra-light dropstitch material. What is dropstitch? An inner core consists of two pieces of fabric held together with thousands of threads, creating an inflatable with the structure and rigidity to be pumped up to 15 PSI.

While one can easily save weight by removing features, the SOLO doesn’t skimp on whiz-bangs, with enough features to enhance the paddling experience.

Two 6″ quick snap-in fins easily connect to the board to provide tracking. The fin boxes are placed on both sides of the board, allowing one to fold the board in half for smaller storage.

There is one military valve for inflation.

Bungee deck lacing on the nose and tail provide numerous places to attach gear

A soft neoprene handle provides a comfortable grip while carrying the board.

The SOLO mini pump features feet and handles that can be unscrewed to create a smaller package.

The new, patented SOLO “soft” paddle may be a game changer. Driven by the challenge to reduce bulk, the paddle is a lightweight fiberglass shaft with a “rollable” soft PVC blade and consists of an adjustable handle, 3 shaft pieces and 2 connectors.  The paddle has been

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

20% Off 2019 Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Boards & Gear

AirKayaks is pleased to announce a special purchase of remaining 2018/2019 Red Paddle Co inflatable standup paddle boards – now 20% off – with savings ranging from $200 to $650 including a carbon breakdown paddle.

Red Paddle Co inflatable boards are well-known throughout the world for their ruggedness, innovation and performance. Over the past 10 years, Red Paddle Co has been the industry leader, introducing the game-changing Tital dual action pump, Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion material technology, Rocker Side Stiffening (RSS) system and the Forward Flex Control (FFC) nose rod on the racing boards.
Over the years, Red Paddle racked up numerous awards throughout the product line, including Gear of the Year from Outside, Men’s Journal and Backpacker magazines.

Red Paddle Co launched the 2019 season by unveiling the Compact 9’6″ inflatable SUP package, a revolutionary new board that rolls up to half the size of a standard inflatable paddle board.

Also for 2019, Red Paddle Co introduced the Red Original line into the US and Canada. Available previously in Europe, the Red Original series features high-end gear and apparel designed to enhance the “Red Experience.”

The 2018/2019 line featured 26 models ranging in size from the surfing Whip 8’10” model to the 22″ Dragon multi-paddler race board.
AirKayaks is  clearing out the current inventory in preparation for the new 2020 line. Now is your chance to get one of the best inflatable SUPs on the market, with prices ranging from $879 to $2639. The incredibly popular Ride 10-6 is now $1039, the Voyager 13’2 is now $1319, while the Sport 11-3 is at an all-time low of $1199.
If that isn’t enough, AirKayaks is throwing in a free adjustable, breakdown carbon SUP paddle – a $199 value with each board. Check out the remaining available inventory on the Red Paddle Co product pages on AirKayaks.com – but don’t hesitate. When they’re gone …. they’re gone.

Each board comes with the rugged Titan hand pump, cell phone case, repair kit, instructions and wheeled roller backpack. Not sure which one is right for you? See our 2018/2019 Guide to Choosing Your Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board.  Or, give us a call at 707-998-0135, email info@airkayaks.com or visit the website at www.AirKayaks.com.
Up to 20% off, free paddle, free shipping in the continental US and no US tax – what are you waiting for!
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Red Paddle Co Compact 9’6″ x 32″ Inflatable SUP Package

This past summer, Red Paddle Co announced the launch of their new 9’6″ Compact Inflatable SUP Package, a revolutionary game-changer in the inflatable paddle board industry.

With the Compact 9’6,” Red Paddle Co introduced the revolutionary PACT technology. Ten years in the making, PACT technology is a new weaving process which creates a denser, high-tensile thread matrix at the core of the board, with a super-strong, malleable outer layer. The Compact 9’6″ utilizes 120mm dropstitch technology, making the board more rigid than many boards yet still allowing the rider to keep a low center of gravity.

Deflating the board is pretty simple. Disassemble the paddle and put into the backpack. Remove the tracking fins and store in the bag. Burp the plunger a couple of times to release some of the pressure, then push the plunger to the open (down) position and immediately the air will swoosh out. Roll up the board from the nose to initially push out most air, and then unroll and fold the board in half down the centerline. Lay the Titan pump down on the nose end and start tightly rolling up the board from the snout. As you roll it up, air will continue to be pushed out of the open valve.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Red Paddle Co Compact 9’6″ x 32″ Inflatable SUP Package

This past summer, Red Paddle Co announced the launch of their new 9’6″ Compact Inflatable SUP Package, a revolutionary game-changer in the inflatable paddle board industry.

With the Compact 9’6,” Red Paddle Co introduced the revolutionary PACT technology. Ten years in the making, PACT technology is a new weaving process which creates a denser, high-tensile thread matrix at the core of the board, with a super-strong, malleable outer layer. The Compact 9’6″ utilizes 120mm dropstitch technology, making the board more rigid than many boards yet still allowing the rider to keep a low center of gravity.

Deflating the board is pretty simple. Disassemble the paddle and put into the backpack. Remove the tracking fins and store in the bag. Burp the plunger a couple of times to release some of the pressure, then push the plunger to the open (down) position and immediately the air will swoosh out. Roll up the board from the nose to initially push out most air, and then unroll and fold the board in half down the centerline. Lay the Titan pump down on the nose end and start tightly rolling up the board from the snout. As you roll it up, air will continue to be pushed out of the open valve.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Closeout Sale on 2017 Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Boards

AirKayaks is pleased to announce a special purchase of remaining 2017 Red Paddle Co inflatable standup paddle boards, now 20% off, with savings as high as $380 – including a carbon breakdown paddle.

Considered the number one inflatable paddle board, Red Paddle’s SUPS are known for their ruggedness, featuring quadruple rail construction, double layering, thick traction pads and fins. Each board comes with the Red Paddle Titan pump, allowing one to inflate a paddle board to 18 PSI in less than 10 minutes.
In 2017, Red Paddle SUPs racked up a number of accolades including Gear of the Year from both Backpacker Magazine and Men’s Journal. The newly-introduced Sport 11’3 was named Outside Magazine’s 2017 Board of the Year and the Digital Trends “2017 Best Recreation Gear of the Year” award went to Red Paddle’s Ride 10-6 inflatable SUP.

The 2017 line featured 22 models with the addition of five new boards in the U.S. – the 10’7″ Windsurf, the Sport 11’3, the Race 14′ and the multi-paddler Ride L and Dragon.

AirKayaks is  clearing out the 2017 inventory. Now is your chance to get one of the best inflatable SUPs on the market, with prices ranging from $939 to $1529. The incredibly popular Ride 10-6 is now $1039, the Explorer 12-6 is now $1279, while the Elite 12-6 is at an all-time low of $1299. AirKayaks also has a few remaining 2016 boards – such as the Sport 11 and the WindSUP 10-8 at $999 – as well as closeout Titan pumps ($99) and Roller Backpacks ($89.95).
If that isn’t enough, AirKayaks is throwing in a free adjustable, breakdown carbon SUP paddle – a $159 value with each 2017 board. Check out the remaining available inventory on the Red Paddle Co product pages on AirKayaks.com – but don’t hesitate. When they’re gone …. they’re gone.

Each board comes with the rugged Titan hand pump, cell phone case, repair kit, instructions and wheeled roller backpack. Not sure which one is right for you? See our 2017 Guide to Choosing Your Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board.  Or, give us a call at 707-998-0135, email info@airkayaks.com or visit the website at www.AirKayaks.com.
Up to 20% off, free paddle, free shipping in the continental US and no US tax – what are you waiting for!
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Guide to Choosing Your 2018 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP

2018 heralds the 10 year anniversary of the Red Paddle Co inflatable SUP brand – these have now hit the market!

For 2018, Red Paddle Co has 23 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10 to 22’0. This includes the introduction of 1 new model – the Voyager Tandem 15’0″ – 6 renames, a limited-edition anniversary model, a consolidation of the racing boards, revamped graphics and added features on several of the current boards. With all the models, activity types, sizes and features, how does one choose the best board? Each year we update our previous posts to reflect the new Red Paddle Co models and product upgrades – use this guide to take away some of the guesswork when looking at the myriad of options with Red Paddle Co iSUPs.

The more noticeable new features include:

Updated graphics and color scheme for most of the boards and paddles.
Further advances in Red Paddle’s innovative new Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. For 2018, Red Paddle again tweaked the material across the entire product line, making the injected, reinforced second layer thicker with increased bond strength.
Boards with removable fins continue to use the standard US Fin box – these are divided into two types. The Sports, Explorers and Whip now feature FCS Connect Tool-less Fin Systems which quickly snap into position without need for hardware or tools, yet now come with a finger screw to ensure the fins are secure. The racing boards (Elites, Max Races) come with a glass race fin.
Each board with removable fin now includes an extra fin pin/screw in the repair kit.
A third set of d-rings with expanded bungee deck lacing on many of the models. This provides a larger surface for attaching gear.
Embroidered logos on the carrying handles, making them softer to touch.
Upgraded deck pads
Inclusion of a second, complementary deck lacing on select boards, allowing one to change the color on the board if desired.
Two versions of the popular Red Paddle backpack – the Classic version and the new All-Terrain Rugged with some upgraded features for traveling comfort.
Expanded list of attachable third-party accessories utilizing the integrated nose mount, from Railblaza.
Updated seals and handles on the Titan dual cylinder hand pump.

Prices are generally remaining the same with some slight decreases over 2017. (See a complete list of the new 2018 Red Paddle Co Line and new features on this blog article.)

All 2018 Red Paddle Co iSUPs  (except the 3 giants) come with either the Classic or Rugged All-Terrain roller backpack featuring integrated wheels, making it easier to thread through airport lobbies, while still comfortable enough to pack into the remote country. Most of the boards come with the Titan dual action pump; the two

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Closeout Sale on 2017 Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Boards

AirKayaks is pleased to announce a special purchase of remaining 2017 Red Paddle Co inflatable standup paddle boards, now 10 to 15% off.

Considered the number one inflatable paddle board, Red Paddle’s SUPS are known for their ruggedness, featuring quadruple rail construction, double layering, thick traction pads and fins. Each board comes with the Red Paddle Titan pump, allowing one to inflate a paddle board to 18 PSI in less than 10 minutes.
In 2017, Red Paddle SUPs racked up a number of accolades including Gear of the Year from both Backpacker Magazine and Men’s Journal. The newly-introduced Sport 11’3 was named Outside Magazine’s 2017 Board of the Year and the Digital Trends “2017 Best Recreation Gear of the Year” award went to Red Paddle’s Ride 10-6 inflatable SUP.

The 2017 line featured 22 models with the addition of five new boards in the U.S. – the 10’7″ Windsurf, the Sport 11’3, the Race 14′ and the multi-paddler Ride L and Dragon.

In anticipation of the new product line for 2018 – expected to hit the market in late November – AirKayaks is clearing out the inventory. Now is your chance to get one of the best inflatable SUPs on the market, with prices ranging from $939 to $1529. The incredibly popular Ride 10-6 is now $1169, the Sport 11 is now $1299, while the Elite 12-6 is at an all-time low of $1389.
If that isn’t enough, AirKayaks is throwing in a free adjustable, breakdown SUP paddle – a $63.95 to $199 value. Check out the remaining available inventory on the Red Paddle Co product pages on AirKayaks.com – but don’t hesitate. When they’re gone …. they’re gone.

Each board comes with the rugged Titan hand pump, cell phone case, repair kit, instructions and wheeled roller backpack. Not sure which one is right for you? See our 2017 Guide to Choosing Your Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board.  Or, give us a call at 707-998-0135, email info@airkayaks.com or visit the website at www.AirKayaks.com.
Up to 15% off, free paddle, free shipping in the continental US and no US tax – what are you waiting for!
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 2018 15’0 Voyager Tandem Inflatable SUP from Red Paddle Co

During July’s 2017 Outdoor Retailer Summer Show, Red Paddle Co unveiled their super 2018 inflatable SUP product line, once again showing what makes the company stand out from the pack.

One new model for 2018 is the Voyager Tandem 15’0.” Billed as a multi-person touring and long-distance exploring workhorse, the Voyager Tandem is an ultra-sleek beast capable of carrying 2 to 3 paddlers. With a whopping 8-inch (200mm) thickness and a 34 inch beam, the Voyager 2 logically fills the gap between solo paddling and “party barges” such as the 17-foot Red Paddle Co Ride XL for up to 8 paddlers.
Two “deck pads” with side handles allow paddlers to position themselves on the board for optimum paddling, while two sets of bungee-deck lacing with d-rings provide ample storage space for camping gear. Three more carry handles – fore, aft and center for a total of seven – provide numerous carrying configurations and more spots to attach gear.
The new Voyager Tandem features the high-level of construction and materials that paddlers have come to expect from Red Paddle Co – advanced Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology, heat-treated seams, layered rail tape and premium inflation valves. The MSL technology creates a highly durable board – both lighter weight and rigid – capable of being pumped up to high pressures. For ease in setup, two military valves allow two people to pump up the board at the same time.
The Voyager Tandem offers a myriad of paddling stances for those that like to travel together – from “both standup paddling” to both sitting/kneeling or one paddling and the other “along for the voyage.” The board is capable of carrying a ton of camping equipment, or remove one cargo section and bring along a small child or canine companion.
The Voyager Tandem comes in a slightly enlarged Red Paddle Original All-Terrain Backpack replete with two pumps – a Titan dual barrel pump as well as an HP pump – repair kit, removable US Box fin and bonus cell-phone case.
MSRP is $1999, making it a more economical choice for those who enjoy paddling together, rather than buying two individual boards.
The Voyager Tandem 15’0″ will be available in late 2017. Stay tuned for more info, or email AirKayaks to get on the notification list.
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Closeout Sale on 2016 Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Boards

AirKayaks is pleased to announce a special purchase of remaining 2016 Red Paddle Co inflatable standup paddle boards, now 15% off.

Rapidly becoming the number one inflatable paddle board manufacturer, Red Paddle’s SUPS are known for their ruggedness, featuring quadruple rail construction, double layering, thick traction pads and fins. Each board comes with the Red Paddle Titan pump, allowing one to inflate a paddle board to 20 PSI in less than 10 minutes.

The 2016 line featured 17 models with major breakthroughs in technology, in particular, the introduction of MSL (Monocoque Structural Laminate) fusion technology. MSL Fusion increases the tension on the boards – making them more rigid – while also reducing board weight up to 20%. The 2016 Red Paddle boards now weigh from 15 to 25 lbs, down from 20 to 34 lbs.

In anticipation of the new product line for 2017 – expected to hit the market in early December – AirKayaks is clearing out the inventory. Now is your chance to get one of the best inflatable SUPs on the market, with prices ranging from $939 to $1529. The incredibly popular Ride 10-6 is now $1099, the Sport 11 is now $1229, while the Explorer 12-6 is at an all-time low of $1359. Those interested in further savings can pick up the few remaining 2015 Sport 11 inflatable paddle boards for $999!
If that isn’t enough, AirKayaks is throwing in a free adjustable, breakdown SUP paddle. Check out the remaining available inventory on the Red Paddle Co product pages on AirKayaks.com – but don’t hesitate. When they’re gone …. they’re gone.

Each board comes with the rugged Titan hand pump, cell phone case, repair kit, instructions and wheeled roller backpack. Not sure which one is right for you? See our 2016 Guide to Choosing Your Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board.  Or, give us a call at 707-998-0135, email info@airkayaks.com or visit the website at www.AirKayaks.com.
Up to 15% off, free paddle, free shipping in the continental US and no US tax – what are you waiting for!
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Adding D-Rings to an Inflatable Paddle Board

We occasionally get questions on attaching d-rings to inflatable paddle boards. Recently, we had the opportunity to purchase preliminary, production-run 2016 AquaGlide Cascade 12-0 inflatable paddle boards.

As the first run did not include bungee deck lacing on the nose, we were able to make a special purchase on the boards, and AquaGlide supplied the deck lacing kits. While the standard AquaGlide Cascade 12-0 production boards retail for $999, the prototype version – without deck lacing but supplied with the deck lacing kit – sells for $699.
We used this opportunity as a learning tool to pass on our experience. While the following instructions are specific to the AquaGlide Cascade 12 prototypes, the method is fairly universal.
The included AquaGlide instructions make it sound pretty simple:
1) Locate where you want to put the d-rings.
2) Lightly clean the board, removing any printed graphics that might interfere with adhesion.
3) Apply adhesive to board and d-rings, twice.
4) Press down and let dry.

What’s included in the AquaGlide bungee lacing kit: 61 inches of bungee cording, instructions, 4 cloth d-rings on pads, HH-66 vinyl cement with cap brush. (Please note, while this kit is included with the AquaGlide prototype paddle board, it is not available as a separate purchase. You would need to source the d-rings, bungee and vinyl cement if you are planning on applying this to another board.)
What tools you will also need: Large piece of cardboard, pencil, ruler, small 1/2 inch stiff brush, small rag, solvent (see below), credit card or piece of stiff plastic to use as a “roller.”
The instructions direct you to place the center of the d-ring/pads 15″ apart front-to-back and 17″ apart side-to-side. While AquaGlide says the d-rings can be attached to the board inflated or deflated, we pumped the board up somewhat firm, to ensure that everything would be centered, using the following method.

Take one d-ring pad and find the center. To do this, measure the pad side-to-side and top-to-bottom marking the center each time. Then run a pencil mark each direction. The center of the included d-rings was just under 1.25 inches each dimension.
Cut a piece of cardboard to measure 15 inches by 17 inches.

Lay the cardboard across the empty bow of the board, with the 17″ inch side-to-side.  Move it around until it is in the position you want, making sure that it won’t be in the way of paddling. We positioned the end of cardboard 5.5 inches from the end of the deck pad. Then we measured the edge of the cardboard to the blue side rail until it was centered, in this case 2.75″ from the blue side rail on the nose side, and 5 1/8 inches from blue side rail on the deck pad side;

Original Source: AirKayaks >>