Tag Archives: airkayaks.com

Airkayaks Guide to Inflatable Kayak Pumps (updated for 2022)

We field questions almost daily on inflatable kayak pumps, types of pumps, whether or not to use a pressure gauge and valve adaptors. Here is a short guide, answering some of the most asked questions, but feel free to ask any others!

Note: this article is an update from our article on the subject in 2011.

Types of Inflatable Kayak Pumps

There are a number of pumps available to inflate your kayak, both manual and electric. Here are some types:

Airkayaks Universal Inflatable Kayak Hand Pump – Gauge Close Up – Inflatable Kayak Pumps

Dual Action Hand Pump 

A barrel-type cylindrical pump that has two options – by turning a knob, one can go from double action mode (quickly pump up an inflatable) to single action mode (more easily pump to higher pressures).

Airkayaks.com Recommends: Best dual action pump

Airkayaks has released the Airkayaks Universal Hand Pump. It is lightweight at 1.7 lbs, compact, and provides single or double-action pumping with a built-in gauge to 15 psi, an aluminum shaft, and folding feet that’s ideal for all Inflatable Kayaks. The feet fold, and the handles are removable to save space in your kayak bag or backpack, and there are not a ton of extra valves that you will wind up not using.

The reason why we chose to have this pump with a 15 PSI Gauge is so that you can also use it to pump up your inflatable SUP. It includes a 4 ft. (1.25 m) hose, and Halkey-Roberts, Boston, and stem fittings. If the HR valve is not fitting perfectly, we’ve put both sizes of common O-Rings on the pump as well.

Note: For Advanced Elements Kayaks with an AE Spring Valve, simply friction fit the spring valve adapter included with your AE kayak on top of the boston valve. (or use the AE2011 Hand Pump).

Double Action Hand Pump 

This is a barrel-type cylindrical pump that pushes air in on the up and the down stroke. Tougher than a foot pump, but also larger. Typically has an inflate and deflate position on the pump handle. These are great for lower pressure inflatables, up to about 4PSI. Can be used on higher pressure inflatables, but you will earn every muscle getting it up there. Will pump up an inflatable faster than the single action pump or bellows foot pump.

For Advanced Elements Kayaks, we recommend the AE2011 as it includes the Advanced Elements Spring Valve Adapter. Dont have the AE2011 pump and have an AE kayak? Put the AE Fitting on top of a Boston Valve. It will “friction fit” – note this is a tight feeling and it will

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2022 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP Boards – What’s New

2022 Red Paddle Co Range Highlights:2 New Boards – 12′ Compact, and 12′ Voyager – Redesigned Compact Line – Upgraded Carry Bag on most models – New Paddle Designs – Upgraded Bungee system on most boardsKyle McKinney – Airkayaks.com

We recently received details on the 2022 Red Paddle Co’s inflatable SUP lineup. Red Paddle Company inflatable boards are well-known throughout the world for their ruggedness, innovation and performance – each Red board is the result of rigorous quality assurance during the 72 hours of build time. Red Paddle Co’s private board facility is touted to be completely waste free with all materials being reused or recycled.

2022 Red Paddle Co Range Highlights

2 New Boards – 12′ Compact, and 12′ VoyagerRedesigned Compact LineUpgraded Carry Bag on all models*New Paddle DesignsUpgraded Bungee system on all applicable boards

About Red Paddle Co

Throughout the past 14 years, Red Paddle Co has been the industry leader, racking up numerous awards throughout the product line, including Gear of the Year from Outside, Men’s Journal and Backpacker magazines. Innovative features include the game-changing Titan dual action pump, Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion material technology, Rocker Side Stiffening (RSS) system, the Forward Flex Control (FFC) nose rod on the racing boards and the Compact low-profile boards.

Red Paddle’s philosophy? If you plan on taking to the water on an inflatable board then you need a super durable board that is up for the challenge. And if you haven’t seen them, the Red Paddle endurance videos – pitting Red Paddle boards against teens, dogs, tractors, big rigs, martial arts and more – are definitely a testament to durability.

Predictions for 2022 Hit Features

In each year, Red always seems to surprise with a homerun new feature or board in every year, In 2020, Red Paddle Company raised the bar by offering an unheard-of 5 year warranty on all Red Paddle boards (with product registration), the result of the Red Paddle TEC quality assurance program. For 2021, they redesigned the Titan pump into the best in class Titan 2 pump (easily the best included pump offered with any SUP on market). This model year – 2022, we expect the hit to be the redesigned ATB (All Terrain Bag) Transformer Bag.

2022 Red Paddle Co ATB Transformer Board Bag

Brand-new for 2022 and exclusively available with 2022 boards is the ATB Transformer Bag. Its not just a highly engineered adjustable and ergonomic paddle board bag but also a revolutionary bag-less carry system that has been designed with all paddle boarders in mind.

For adventurers, you can now go further and access more remote waterways without the need of a heavy bulky bag. Inflating your board at more remote waterways (previously inaccessible with an inflated or rigid board) is now a real possibility.Equally as perfect for families, it’s now easier, quicker and more convenient to pack up your kit

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Airkayaks.com Labor Day Kayak Stock Status Update

Finally inventory has started to arrive at Airkayaks. With over 150 inflatable kayaks and iSUPs offered at Airkayaks, we saw inventory dwindle to less than 30 models in stock at one point this summer.

Todays most popular kayaks, the Blackfoot Angler 130, and Advanced Elements AirVolution2 are both in stock at Airkayaks.com, along with great kayaks for 1 or 2 paddlers from as low as $299.

Below are a list of In-Stock Kayaks as of 9/5/21 and the next availability date for out of stock kayaks.

If you are not sure which kayak is right for you, try our FIND MY KAYAK quiz.

Call us at 833-743-0199 with questions.

And use code GOAIRKAYAKS for a free Airkayaks Hat with order!

Advanced Elements In Stock

AE3030 AirVolution2AE3029 AirVolutionAE1020-PP Firefly – $274 with code GOAIRKAYAKSFIREFLYAE3023 Island Voyage 2AE1007G AdvancedFrame Convertible GreenAE1006 StraitEdge Self BailingAE1006 StraitEdge AnglerAE3021 PackliteAE1062 Lotus YSUPAE1010 Hula SUPAE1064 Fishbone SUPAE3022-G Ultralite kayak – End of AugustAE1007-E Convertible Elite – Open for Pre-Order (note – we can make a Convertible Elite with our 1007DS Floor)

Advanced Elements Coming Soon

AE1017-O Sport – Early SeptemberAE1055 Angler Pro – Early SeptemberAE1009XE – Mid SeptemberAE1012R – Mid SeptemberAE1007-DS – OctoberAE1044XL – OctoberAE1044XLC – OctoberAE1017DS – OctoberAE1007R AdvancedFrame Convertible Red – September

Tahe Sport In Stock

Tahe Beach LP1 inflatable Kayak (free Feather Pump with purchase)Tahe Beach LP2 inflatable Kayak (free Feather Pump with purchase)Tahe Beach LP3 inflatable Kayak (free Feather Pump with purchase)Tahe Breeze Wing 11 SUPTahe Beach Wing 11 SUP – on sale at $399Tahe SUP-YAK 11-6 – Now Open to Preorder – Ships in September!!!!

Tahe Sport Coming Soon

Tahe SUP-YAK 10-6 – NovemberTahe SUP-YAK Conversion Kits – late September

Aquaglide In Stock

Cascade 10 iSUP – floor model available at discountCascade 11 iSUP – floor model available at discountKush 11 iSUPBlackfoot Angler 130Chelan 120Chelan 155Deschutes 110Deschutes 130Deschutes 140Navarro 110Navarro 130Navarro 145Chinook 100Backwoods Expedition 85 – floor model available at discountBackwoods Purist 65 – floor model available at discountBackwoods Angler 75 – floor model available at discountBlackfoot Angler 11 SUPRoam 12-6 SUPMcKenzie 125

Aquaglide Coming Soon

Chelan 140 – mid-SeptemberChinook 120 – Sold Out for SeasonChinook 90 – Sold out for SeasonBlackfoot Angler 160 – Sold Out for Season

Kokopelli In Stock

Moki 1XPDRogueNirvanaRogue R-DeckTwainRecon

Kokopelli Coming Soon

Moki – Lite – October

Aire / NRS

Tomcat Solos – Blue and Red in StockTomcat Tandems – expected in October Star Paragon 1 in StockStar Raven 2 in Stock
The post Airkayaks.com Labor Day Kayak Stock Status Update appeared first on GO AIRKAYAKS.COM.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Chelan 155 and Blackfoot 160 kayaks available at Airkayaks.com

For the 2nd time of the year, we have open to buy inventory of the Chelan 155 and Blackfoot 160 inflatable kayaks from Aquaglide!

Last time we had the Blackfoot 160s they sold out in 6 minutes. This batch is currently en route to Airkayaks.com, and expected to ship before the end of August.

As they say, here for now, but not for long!

The post Chelan 155 and Blackfoot 160 kayaks available at Airkayaks.com appeared first on GO AIRKAYAKS.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Aquaglide Chelan 155 HB XL Inflatable Kayak for 2+ Paddlers

Last year, AquaGlide unveiled their updated inflatable kayak lineup for 2020, which included a series of new models – Deschutes, McKenzies and Navarros – with revamps to the Chinook model. For 2021, Aquaglide completed the line by redesigned two remaining models – the Chelans and the Blackfoots.

With inventory rapidly becoming as scarce as the 2020 paddling season, we decided to snag a few of the new models for inflation and review, initially focusing on the AquaGlide Chelans.
Our first review on AquaGlide’s revised products for 2021 was on the Chelan 120, an 11′ 4″ long, high-pressure, inflatable kayak designed for solo paddling. We will now turn to the Chelan 155, a 15’6″ foot tandem that is roomy enough for 2+ paddlers, yet can still be paddled solo. (Please note: some of the information will be repeated from other writeups.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Chelan 155:
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, backpack, instructions, 2 foot braces, tracking fin, 2 Pro-formance seats, one jumper seat, valve adaptor, four mesh pouches, two plastic splash guards and a repair kit. The repair kit contains glue, patch material, valve wrench, instructions, adaptor, screws for the universal mount and some repair brushes. First thing to note – the kayak is nicely packaged with bubble wrap protecting valves, handles, etc. Also to note – the repair kit features generous-sized repair patches.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs approximately 38 lbs. The kayak with seats, fin and braces – all in the backpack – weighs 54 lbs with a backpack size of roughly 39 x 17 x 18 inches. All boxed up, the dimensions are 30 x 22 x 16 inches with a shipping weight of 61 lbs.
(AirKayaks Side note #1: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded. This is probably the most overlooked step and it is VERY helpful when trying to get the kayak back into the bag.)
We started off by reading the instructions. While Aquaglide’s manuals were somewhat sketchy in the past, the included instructions were detailed and easy to use (all languages are now in their own section). Additionally, a QR Code tag is now attached to the kayak; a quick scan with your cell phone allows you to access the instructions online.

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.

There are three military valves (both sides and the floor) with three more small chambers utilizing a twistlock valve for the seat bases. The military-style plunger valve is simple to use – with your finger, twist the plunger slightly to the “up” position to inflate (air goes in but doesn’t come back out) and “down” to

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Advanced Elements AirVolution Dropstitch Kayaks for 2021 – What’s New

Last summer, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California introduced two exciting new kayaks as precursors to the 2021 season – the AirVolutions. What makes them so special? The AirVolution solo and AirVolution2 tandem are constructed entirely from dropstitch material. With just two inflation chambers, and inflation pressures of 10 to 12 PSI, the kayaks are extremely rigid.

The sleek new models feature heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin which offers a smooth, hydrodynamic outer skin, making them easy to dry. The wide cockpit provides easy entry and exit, while the hull has a unique V-shape that transitions to a chined hull for greater on-the-water performance.

The kayaks were an immediate hit, and the demand outpaced the inventory – the AirVolution2 sold out by the end of summer.

Based on feedback from the intro models, Advanced Elements has tweaked the designs for 2021. The newly updated AE3029 AirVolution and AE3030 AirVolution2 tandem kayaks are enroute, with estimated availability of late March.

You can read our detailed writeups on the 2020 AirVolution solo kayak and the Airvolution2 for one or two paddlers.

So what’s new on the AirVolutions for 2021?

The AE3029 AirVolution also had the valves relocated; they are now behind the seat, closer together and out of the way. The drain well was also moved forward 4 inches.

Each of these are detailed in the new instruction manual, which can be downloaded here.

Weights and dimensions remain the same, but the prices have increased due to tariffs. The AirVolution AE3029 single is $1199 while the AE3030 Airvolution2 for one or two paddlers in $1499. The new models will be arriving mid-March and can be purchased at AirKayaks.com

The post Advanced Elements AirVolution Dropstitch Kayaks for 2021 – What’s New appeared first on GO AIRKAYAKS.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Advanced Elements AirVolution Dropstitch Kayaks for 2021 – What’s New

Last summer, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California introduced two exciting new kayaks as precursors to the 2021 season – the AirVolutions. What makes them so special? The AirVolution solo and AirVolution2 tandem are constructed entirely from dropstitch material. With just two inflation chambers, and inflation pressures of 10 to 12 PSI, the kayaks are extremely rigid.

The sleek new models feature heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin which offers a smooth, hydrodynamic outer skin, making them easy to dry. The wide cockpit provides easy entry and exit, while the hull has a unique V-shape that transitions to a chined hull for greater on-the-water performance.

The kayaks were an immediate hit, and the demand outpaced the inventory – the AirVolution2 sold out by the end of summer.

Based on feedback from the intro models, Advanced Elements has tweaked the designs for 2021. The newly updated AE3029 AirVolution and AE3030 AirVolution2 tandem kayaks are enroute, with estimated availability of late March.

You can read our detailed writeups on the 2020 AirVolution solo kayak and the Airvolution2 for one or two paddlers.
Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements
Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution2 Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

So what’s new on the AirVolutions for 2021?

Both models now come with an inflatable foot brace. For the AE3030, this will only be used in tandem mode for the front paddler.
Seat Improvements: The backrest is now stiffer and more supportive. Additionally, the adjustment straps have been shortened up and cleaned up. The webbing ends have been better melted to prevent fraying, and folded and bar-tacked for a cleaner finish.

Seat d-ring locations: The d-rings on the floor have been moved forward a few inches and also relocated to the sidewall of the cockpit. A new d-ring has been added to the front of the cockpit for clipping an additional item such as a water bottle, etc.
The Pressure Relief Valve rating has been lowered from 19 to 14 PSI, and the ring around the PRV reflects this.
Valve Location and Drain Well: The valve locations were flipped so that they are now on the same side, with the inflation valves on the left and Pressure Relief Valves on the right. This makes it easier to push out air when folding.

The deck bungee now sports heat-shrink material for a cleaner look
The pump was transitioned to a rugged Bravo dual-stage pump.
As a nifty little bonus, each of the kayak packages now includes a 12-volt, low-pressure battery operated inflator. The pump runs on 4 D-Cells (not included). While the pump does not have enough power to pressurize the kayak, it will rapidly fill out the body, saving physical pumping time and effort. The Bravo dual-action pump can then be used to get it

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Aquaglide’s New Blackfoot Angler Inflatable Kayaks for 2021

In late 2020 we posted information on Aquaglide’s upcoming new inflatable kayak line for 2021, consisting of 20 models for recreational, touring, fishing, whitewater/crossover and back-country. While twelve models remain the same, the Chelan and Blackfoot series were redesigned. We expanded the details in our Sneak Preview on the Aquaglide Chelan series, and we now turn to the updated Blackfoot fishing kayaks.

The Blackfoot Angler series for 2021 is comprised of the Blackfoot 130 – a single angler that can become a double with purchase of an optional seat – and the new Blackfoot 160 XL – a true tandem.
Just like the new Chelan series, the key words for the 2021 Blackfoots are comfort, performance and appointments, now featuring beefed-up graphics and even more storage options and gear attachments for a better fishing and paddling experience.

The previous Blackfoot 125 has been redesigned as a slightly longer 13 foot by 40 inch width Blackfoot Angler 130 for one paddler, but with space enough to outfit it as a double by adding an extra seat. A new BlackFoot Angler 160 – at a whopping 16 feet with 40 inch width – is a true tandem with all the bells and whistles and an 800 lb payload. The Blackfoot 110 solo has been retired.
Each of the new Blackfoots is constructed from Aquaglide’s commercial-grade Duratex material consisting of a lightweight, stiff and durable skin that dries easily. The high-pressure floor is covered with a diamond-cut EVA traction pad for secure footing and comfort while casting or standing.
Four threaded drain plugs can be opened or closed, dependent on the type of water action – open for self-draining in rough water or closed when in calm settings.

Front and rear splash decks with bungee lacing keep water out and gear intact.
The Blackfoots come standard with Aquaglide’s new High-Low Frame Seat with two seating options; the high setting offers better visibility and makes it easier to stand up when casting, while the low setting provides more stability in rougher waters. An adjustable, high backrest gives solid support, while the breathable fabric keeps one cooler. A storage shelf under the seat is perfect for tackle boxes while further storage options can be found on the seat back. As an added bonus – the seat can be removed, providing comfortable seating on the beach or around a campsite.

New Molle plates – as found on military backpacks and gear – are integrated onto the side tubes. Each can be used for attaching a multitude of aftermarket gadgets, such as first aid kits, multi-tool cases, waterproof gear pouches or Aquaglide’s optional, new, vertically-mounted cup holder. The Blackfoot series comes equipped with mesh storage pouches which attach to the molle plates.

A series of universal mounts on

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

AirKayaks Guide to Choosing Your 2021 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP

Throughout the past 13 years, Red Paddle Co has been the industry leader in the inflatable paddle board arena, racking up numerous awards throughout the product line. Innovative features include the game-changing Titan dual action pump, Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion material technology, Rocker Side Stiffening (RSS) system, the Forward Flex Control (FFC) nose rod on the racing boards and the Compact low-profile boards.

Red Paddle’s philosophy? If you plan on taking to the water on an inflatable board then you need a super durable board that is up for the challenge. And if you haven’t seen them, the Red Paddle endurance videos – pitting Red Paddle boards against teens, dogs, tractors, big rigs, martial arts and more – are definitely a testament to durability.

The 2021 Red Paddle Co product line continues with 20 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10″ to to 22’0.″ This includes revamped graphics unifying the product line appearance while keeping subtle differentiations between paddling categories, as well as added features on many models. Three models have been retired and one reinvented. Prices are remaining the same. Read our writeup on the 2021 Red Paddle Co Product Line – What’s New to find out all the nifty new features and technical upgrades.

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.
How do you use the following tables? First, ascertain your size from the list:
Big & Tall – 210+ lbs and 6’1? plus inches in height
Average – 140-200 lbs, 5’7? to 6’0? inches in height
Small – Under 140 lbs, Under 5’7? inches in height
Child – Under 100 lbs, under 5’0 inches in height
Then decide the type(s) of paddling you want to do (paddling situations):
Touring – Ocean, waves, long paddles, camping
Recreational – Lakes, sloughs, slower rivers, coastal, calm
Whitewater – Fast-moving maneuvering with eddies, drops.
Downriver – Wide-open moving water.
Surfing
Fishing
Racing
Yoga
Determine what attributes are important (or not!) to you – do you want versatility or storage capacity? Stability or speed?

Rank your experience level, realizing that the more you get out on the water, the better you will get. More experienced paddlers can get away with smaller boards. Last of all, will this be used by various members of the family? Do you want the ability to bring along a child, dog or gear? Might two people be on this together?
Multi Paddlers/Family: Two Adults, Adult and child or dog.
Beginner
Intermediate/Medium
Advanced Paddler
Follow the color key to decide what board is good for varying sizes and activities:
Blue – The board is great!
Green – The board is good.
Yellow – This board

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution2 Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

Advanced Elements of Benicia, California recently introduced two exciting new kayaks as precursors to the 2021 season – the AirVolutions. What makes them so special? The AirVolution solo and AirVolution2 tandem are constructed entirely from dropstitch material. With just two inflation chambers, and inflation pressures of 10 to 12 PSI, the kayaks are extremely rigid.

We initially posted a Sneak Preview on a pre-production sample of the solo AirVolution.
The Airvolution production models arrived this past week so we took the opportunity to check them out. Here are details on the Advanced Elements AirVolution2 AE3030 (Patent Pending), a 14.5 foot high-pressure inflatable kayak weighing in at roughly 52 lbs.
Getting Started with the AirVolution2
The box as received weighs 68 lbs, measuring 45 x 23 x 15 inches.

Inside, is a super-sized, backpack-style carrying case with wheels (7 lbs) , kayak body (47 lbs), 2 EVA seats (2.2 lbs each), pump with gauge (3.25 lbs), tracking fin (0.45 lbs), cinch belts, repair kit (0.8 lbs) and instructions. The kayak with backpack and parts weighs in at 62 lbs, while the kayak body with seats is 52 lbs. The folded kayak size is roughly 44 x 18 x 10 inches.
We began by reading the manual. This includes pump set-up, inflation, deflation, folding, repairs and troubleshooting. And here we come to AirKayak’s Tip #1: No matter how excited you are, take a good look at how the kayak is folded before you set the kayak up, so that you can get it back into the carrying case.

First step, unfold the kayak.

The Advanced Elements AirVolution2 utilizes two main military valves for inflation, similar to the ones found on many standup paddle boards. These are very simple to use and feature an inflate mode (spring plunger is UP) and a deflate mode (spring plunger is DOWN). By using your finger to gently push on the plunger, it can be moved to the inflate mode (air goes in and doesn’t come back out) and deflate mode (air goes in and comes back out). Before you go to all the effort of inflating the kayak, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.

Next, set up the pump. The AirVolution2 comes with a very nifty, collapsible, dual-action pump with built-in pressure gauge. First step, attach the feet.

The bottom of the pump barrel features tabs that match up to slots on the feet; if you look carefully, you will see that two of the slots are longer than the third – meaning the foot will only go on one way. Line up the tabs, push the barrel into the foot and then twist to lock into position. Attach the hose to the side that says Inflate (there is also a Deflate

Original Source: AirKayaks >>