Tag Archives: innova inflatable kayaks

Product Review: New Innova Twist 2 N Inflatable Tandem Kayak

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In June we received our first shipment of the newly-updated Innova kayaks for 2019 – in particular the Twist N, Swing N and Solar 2019. Made in the Czech Republic, the Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Nitrilon (N), the same rugged material used in the traditional Innova Sunny, Helios and Safari models. Nitrilon is known for making the kayaks more rigid as well as water and abrasion resistant, without substantially increasing weight. It’s also PVC-free, thus environmentally friendly.

Our first selection was a review on the Twist II N. The Twist 2 interior has been redesigned slightly to include additional d-rings, providing an easy conversion from a tandem to a solo kayak, thus more versatile for larger paddlers or those needing more space for extra gear. While the kayak silhouette remains virtually unchanged, the added material thickness increased the kayak weight from 24 lbs to 29 lbs as well as a price increase.
This week we had the first opportunity to take out the revamped Innova Twist II N, an 11 foot 10-inch two-person inflatable weighing a mere 29 lbs (including seats and foot brace) with a selling price of $599.
Please note: Some of this information will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Innova Twist IIN: Getting Started
The box as received measures 23 x 16 x 10 inches, weighing in at 32 lbs.

Inside is the Twist II N body, cinch strap, multiple instruction sheets, tracking fin, foot rest, repair kit, two seats, bilge sponge, valve adaptor and a drawstring stuff-sack. The Twist II N body with seats and brace weighs 28 lbs with a folded size of 20 x 16 x 8.
Innova Twist 2 N Inflatable Kayak Setup/Inflatation
We read through the included instruction manuals. As with all the Innova manuals to date, the instructions are quite detailed – there is one instruction sheet for fin installation, one for utilizing the valves, one on refolding and another on the kayak in general. Most include IKEA-style graphics which are occasionally just short of a brain twister, and while some steps are dauntingly detailed, some are not mentioned. As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body.

What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated.

Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. The Twist II N utilizes a single fin with double slots. Slip the end with the larger slot in first, making sure that the fin is pointing towards the “back” of the kayak. This enables it to slide in enough to fit in the second slot. While the first time can be a struggle to get the back side into position, after a

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2019 Innova by Gumotex Inflatable Kayak Line Update

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We recently obtained details on the upcoming 2019 inflatable kayak and canoe product line for Innova Kayaks by Gumotex.
Gumotex is well-known in Europe as a manufacturer of high-quality inflatable kayaks and canoes which are environmentally friendly as they use minimal PVC. Each can be inflated up to 3-PSI, making them more rigid for better performance. Additionally, the manufacturing process and materials produce kayaks that are quite compact, making them a great choice for travel.

In 2016, Gumotex acquired the company and assets for Innova, Gumotex’s US-based dealership, and began importing more of the Gumotex product line to the US under the name Innova Kayaks by Gumotex.
For 2019, the Innova product line has been redesigned with product tweaks, material upgrades, price changes and the introduction of one new model featuring high-pressure, drop-stitch material.

On the entry-level side, Innova has redesigned the popular 8’6″ Twist 1 and 11’10” Twist 2. Both kayaks are now constructed from Nitrilon, the rugged material used in the original Sunny and Helios models and currently used on the Solar and Safari models; the 2018 models were produced using Light Nitrylon, a less rugged and lighter material. Nitrilon (also called Nitrylon) consists of a synthetic rubber coating over polyester on the inside and outside of the tube; it is stronger, more abrasion and puncture-resistant than PVC as well as being greener – there is minimal out-gassing.
While the kayak silhouettes remain virtually unchanged, the added material thickness increases the kayak weights from 16 and 24 lbs, to 20 and 29 lbs respectively. With the material upgrade comes price increases. The Twist 1 pricing will rise from $399 to $449, while the Twist 2 increases from $519 to $599. The Twist 2 interior has been redesigned slightly to include additional d-rings, providing an easy conversion from a tandem to a solo kayak, thus more versatile for larger paddlers, or those needing more space for extra gear.

The 13’5″ Solar 410C has been redesigned as the Solar 2019 and can be considered for 1-2+ paddlers. While material construction remains the same, the interior has undergone some updates with seating placement, splash guards and added bungee deck lacing. The kayak comes with two seats, but there is the option to purchase a third inflatable seat, allowing two adults and a small child. The Solar comes with the upgraded 80L backpack similar to the one included with the Sunny and Helios. Prices remain the same at $759.

The decked Swing series – consisting of the 10’4″ Swing 1 and the 13’2″ Swing II – have also undergone changes. While the upper deck still features a polyester (PES) fabric with polyurethane (PUR) coating, the kayak hulls have transitioned to Nitrilon, matching the construction of the current 13’6″ Swing

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Comparing Innova Inflatable Kayaks: Seawave vs. Solar 410C for 1 to 3 paddlers

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We recently reviewed two of the new Innova inflatable kayaks – the Solar 410C and the Seawave – which are both billed as kayaks for one to three paddlers.

Innova kayaks are manufactured in the Czech Republic under the Gumotex label. The Innova kayaks are well-known for their portability and PVC-free construction, making them a great choice for back-country trekking, plane flights, and environmentally-conscious paddlers. In the photo above,  the Solar kayak is green (but also available in red), while the Seawave is red.
One of the most commonly asked questions is – which one is right for me? Below we have compiled a list of similarities and differences to help guide you in making that personal decision.
What’s the same in both kayaks?
Both kayaks are constructed from the same 1200 denier, rubber-coated laminate Nitrylon hull material. Both main chambers can be inflated to 3-PSI, and the smaller chambers to 1-1.5 PSI. Each has the same-style carrying bag, molded rubber handles, removable tracking fin, 3 main military valve chambers and four smaller twistlock chambers. They also have the same rear foot brace, seat attachments, seat straps and loop attachments.
Each comes with two seats, two braces, instructions, adaptor, repair kit and sponge. Each has the option to paddle double, solo, or add an optional third seat for a small child.
So what’s different?
 

While there are many items that are similar, the Innova Solar 410C (green in photo above) is a simpler, recreational kayak suitable for calmer waters. The Solar features shorter front and rear splash decks with a short length of rope line. There are four sets of tube d-rings for attaching seats and gear, five sets of floor loops/straps with four plastic d-rings, for attaching gear and braces. An integrated “numbering system” on the floor guides solo paddlers where to place the foor brace, based on their height. The front foot brace features a “double hump” system, and the seat back is two inches higher. A rear netting system with 4 clips expands the gear storage options.
At 163 inches long and 32 inches wide, the Solar 410C is shorter; the interior space of 160 in length and 14-15 inches wide is also shorter. There are no options for attaching decks or a rudder system. There is no blow hole. The weight is lighter at 38 lbs for the pack and contents. The carrying capacity is slightly higher at 591 lbs while the MSRP is lower at $749.

The Innova Seawave (red in photo above) has been set up with numerous optional enhancements, making it a better touring choice. The Seawave has longer front and rear splash decks, with rope line running the perimeter of the  kayak. Integrated numbering systems on the side hull guide the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Innova Seawave Inflatable Touring Kayak for 1-3 paddlers

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This past week we had the opportunity to take our first look at the Innova Seawave inflatable kayak – a two+ person kayak with a versatile design that allows one to attach optional spray decks, spray skirts and a foot rudder system.

The Innova line is unique for a number of reasons. First, all the kayaks are handmade in the Czech Republic; the factory has manufactured inflatable boats for well over 50 years. In Europe, a similar line is marketed under the name Gumotex.
We previously published our review on the new Solar 410C, Innova’s other 2+ person inflatable introduced into the US market simultaneously. So here is our write-up on the the Innova Seawave inflatable tandem kayak, which weighs 44 lbs in the pack, is 15 feet in length with a payload of 551 lbs for two+ persons and gear. (Please note: some of the information will be duplicated from other Innova reviews).
Getting Started with the Innova Seawave
The box as received weighs in at 48 lbs, measuring 27 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches.

Inside is a very nifty 100L backpack with adjustable shoulder straps, front pouch pocket and roll top closure. This contains the kayak body, tracking fin, foot rests, repair kit, instructions, cinch belt, valve adaptor, seats and sponge. Packed dimensions are 24 x 17 x 12 inches as received in the bag, with a weight of 44 lbs. The kayak with seats and foot rests is 41 lbs. (Please note: This is the actual kayak weight, NOT the 29 lbs as stated from the manufacturer’s literature.)
Innova Seawave Kayak Setup/Inflatation
We read through the included instruction manuals. Just like all the other Innova  products, the Innova Seawave manual is surprisingly detailed in some aspects, while lacking in others. As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations and can sound more complicated than it actually is. Additionally, some of the translations are a bit difficult to understand.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body. What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated – of course, this makes it quite compact for travel.

Next, flip the kayak over to install the tracking fin before inflation, locating the fin “shoe” towards the stern. Slip the end with the larger slot in first, making sure that the fin is pointing towards the “back” of the kayak. This enables it to slide in enough to fit in the second side.

The instructions suggest attaching and inflating the foot braces and seats first, though these actually come pre-attached from the factory. (If they are not attached, start with the foot braces. There are five buckles on the floor – when paddling tandem, use the 1st and

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: Innova Twist 2 LN Inflatable Kayak for 1-2 Paddlers

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Watch our latest video on the Innova Twist 2 LN inflatable kayak, updated for 2017!
The Innova Twist 2 LN is a PVC-free, environmentally-friendly tandem option. And at 26 lbs, it’s one of the lightest tandems on the market – great for travel, RV’s, camping, backpacking and vacation travel – while the near 12 foot length is great for two paddlers, adult with child/dog, or one paddler with plenty of room for gear.
And now featuring a lower price-point of $519!

 
Need more info? Read our Detailed Product Review on the Innova Twist 2 LN, outlining product setup, features, specifications and performance.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Innova Swing 1 LN High-Pressure PVC-Free Inflatable Kayak

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In May we received our first shipment of the newly-updated Innova Twist LN and Swing LN inflatable kayaks for 2016. Made in the Czech Republic, the new Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Light Nitrilon (LN), a lighterweight version of the rugged material used in the traditional Innova Sunny, Helios and Safari models. Light Nitrilon is known for making the kayaks more rigid as well as water and abrasion resistant, without substantially increasing weight. It’s also PVC-free, thus environmentally friendly.

Other new features on the Swing LN include an improved coaming area which can take optional redesigned spray skirts.
This week we had the first opportunity to take out the revamped Innova Swing I LN, a 10 foot 4-inch one-person inflatable weighing a mere 22 lbs (including seat and foot brace) with a selling price of $599.
Please note: Some of this information will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Getting Started with the Innova Swing I LN Inflatable Kayak
The box as received weighs 26 lbs with dimensions of 29 x 16 x 12 inches.

Inside is the Swing I LN body – neatly folded with a cinch strap – multiple instruction sheets, 2 metal insertion bars, tracking fin, seat, foot rest, repair kit, sponge, and valve adaptor. At 23 lbs for the combined package with accessories, and a folded size of 25 x 16 x 11 inches, the Swing I LN is small enough to fit inside plane overhead cargo bins.
Innova Swing LN Setup/Inflation
The main instruction manual covers set-up for both the Swing I LN and Swing II LN kayaks, thus there will be overlap in both of our write-ups. As with all the Innova manuals to-date, the instructions are quite detailed – there is one instruction sheet for fin installation, one for utilizing the valves, and another on the kayak in general; the Swing has added instructions detailing the “insertion bars.” Most include IKEA-style graphics which are occasionally mind-boggling and while some steps are dauntingly detailed, some are not mentioned.  As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body. What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated. Ascertain which is the bow and which is the stern; while the instruction manual says the stern has the Innova logo, the logo and the floor valves are located at the front of the kayak.

Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. The Swing I LN utilizes a single fin with double slots.

Slip the end with the larger slot in first, making sure that the fin is pointing towards the “back” of the kayak. This enables it to slide in enough to fit in the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Updated Swing and Twist Inflatable Kayaks from Innova

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Innova Kayak of Burlington, Washington, recently announced changes to their 2016 inflatable kayak line involving the popular PVC-free Twist and Swing models.

New for 2016, both models now feature Light Nitrilon (LN) material.

Light Nitrilon is a lighter-weight version of the rugged Nitrilon material used in the traditional Innova Sunny, Helios and Safari models. The base polyester ripstop material is coated with an outer layer of synthetic rubber, improving longevity as well as making the kayaks more rigid, water and abrasion resistant, without substantially increasing the kayak weight.

The Twist I and Twist II models have also had a design change. Both models now sport improved seating, with removable inflatable seats and beefed up foot braces. The new seating arrangement makes it easier to reposition the paddling point, optimizing paddling performance and comfort.

The Swing I, Swing II and Swing EX now sport improved seating and foot rests, while the cockpits have been stiffened for enhanced spray skirt attachment.
The first shipment of the new Twists and Swings have reached the US, and will start being distributed in late April. MSRP is the same as in 2015, at $449, $549 respectively on the Twist I and Twist II, and $599, $799 on the Swing I and Swing II.

The updated Swing Ex will also remain at 2015 pricing levels of $999, and will be available in May.

Innova’s long-awaited new Halibut inflatable fishing kayak should be available in June.
For updates and details, visit the Innova Product pages at http://www.AirKayaks.com. In anticipation of the new shipment, remaining 2015 inventory of Twists and Swings are now on sale, starting at $399.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New Halibut Inflatable Fishing Kayak from Innova

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Innova Kayaks, Inc of Burlington, Washington recently announced the latest addition to the Innova inflatable kayak line – the Halibut, a 3 PSI fishing model.

At 12-feet 4-inches in length, with a 38-inch width and capacity of 440 lbs, the Halibut is a rugged, stable, angling model with a myriad of gear attachment options.
Feature-rich details include rod holder and fish finder mounts, tracking fin and stripping deck. High pressure floor boards and an inflatable, high seat chair allow the option of standing or sitting. Other amenities include integrated splash decks, drink holders, anchor line and paddle rests (paddle not included).

Like its siblings, the Helios, Safari and Sunny, the Halibut is made from an environmentally-friendly, 1200 denier rubber-coated laminate material called Nitrylon – this consists of a synthetic rubber coating over polyester on the inside and outside of the tube.
Nitrylon is the same material used in high-end Zodiac-type yacht tenders, and is stronger, more abrasion and puncture resistant than PVC as well as being greener – there is minimal out-gassing. Each of the kayaks are handmade in the Czech Republic.

Weighing in at 46 lbs, the Halibut still packs down to a smaller size of 28 x 18 x 12 inches. MSRP: $1499.
Stay tuned. The Innova Halibut should be available in spring, 2016. For upcoming details, watch the Innova Product Pages section at www.AirKayaks.com or contact us to get on the notification list.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Nordstrom Chooses Innova Swing 1 Inflatable Kayak as a Holiday Fashion Statement

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When is a kayak a fashion accessory? Apparently now.
Noted designer Olivia Kim chose an Innova kayak for the Gift&Go Pop-In Shop, a special installation featured at  eight Nordstrom stores across the US.

Launched in October 2013, Pop-In@Nordstrom is an ongoing series of themed pop-up shops that transitions every four-to-five weeks to offer a new shopping experience and batch of exclusive merchandise. Pop-In@Nordstrom is the brainchild of Olivia Kim, the Director of Creative Projects at Nordstrom, who hand-picks merchandise spanning the high-to-low price range to match each new theme.

Nordstrom included the Innova Swing I inflatable kayak as one of the holiday special gifts for their Pop In Shop, which features gifts that range from a stylish handbag to a $26,400 Rolex; the Innova kayak is the only outdoor product highlighted.
The Innova line is unique, as the inflatable kayaks are handmade in the Czech Republic rather than China or Korea. Additionally, the Swing line – as well as the Twist series of Innova kayaks – utilize materials that are PVC-free, making them a greener option than most kayaks on the market.

The Swing I is a high-pressure 10’4″ solo inflatable weighing a mere 23 lbs, with a selling price of $599. A 2-person version is also available. The Swing II is a 13 ft 2-inch tandem inflatable kayak weighing a mere 28 lbs with a selling price of $799.

This summer, Innova Kayaks announced the addition of the Swing EX to the Innova line-up. At 13.5 feet in length, with a 29-inch width and capacity of 396 lbs, the 29 lb Swing EX is a longer, skinnier version of the popular Swing I.  The Swing EX – short for Expedition – is designed toward the multi-day touring paddler needing extra room for gear. The Swing EX is now in stock.

All three kayaks pack down into a small backpack which can fit in a plane overhead compartment, making them a great choice for travel.
The Swing I can be seen at Pop-In@Nordstrom: Gift&Go – which will be found at http://www.nordstrom.com/pop – and in the following Nordstrom locations:

Seattle, WA
Bellevue Square, WA
NorthPark Center, TX
San Francisco Centre, CA
Tysons Corner Center, VA
Oakbrook, IL
Garden State Plaza, NJ

For more details, visit the Innova line at www.AirKayaks.com. AirKayaks special through Dec. 31st – free 45 liter deck bag ($49.95 value) with purchase of any Swing inflatable kayak.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 13.5 ft Swing EX Inflatable Kayak from Innova

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Innova Kayaks, Inc of Burlington, Washington recently announced the latest addition to the Innova inflatable kayak line – the Swing EX, a 3 PSI touring model.

At 13.5 feet in length, with a 29-inch width and capacity of 396 lbs, the Swing EX is a longer, skinnier version of the popular Swing I.  The Swing EX – short for Expedition – is designed toward the multi-day touring paddler needing extra room for gear.
The longer waterline provides better glide, while the increased hull space now offers side deck zippers, and more square footage of bungee deck lacing and netting for attaching gear. Initial tests clocked the Swing EX cruising speed at a comfortable 3 to 3.5 knots with minimal effort.

The cockpit on the Swing EX has been redesigned, allowing paddlers to use a standard spray skirt.
The Innova Swing EX uses a double “tubeless” system, making it inherently lighter, while the double tubes allow it to be inflated to 3 PSI and provide better rigidity across the added length.

A unique deck support system uses aluminum arches – two fore and one aft – of the cockpit opening. These arches are set crosswise and provide deck shape and structure. The arches contribute to the stiffness of the Swing EX for paddling in rough water. These arches can be removed easily for a compact folded package.
Like its siblings, the Swing 1 and Swing 2, the Swing EX is made from an environmentally-friendly, PVC-free ripstop material which sheds water quickly. The deck features a coated urethane, while the hull is a teflon-treated LitePack.
And weighing in at a mere 29 lbs, the Swing EX still packs down to a small size – it fits in the optional Swing backpack – making it a viable choice for global travel and back country treks.
MSRP: $999.
Stay tuned. The Innova Swing EX should be available in early 2015. For upcoming details, watch the Innova Product Pages section at http://www.AirKayaks.com.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>