Sneak Preview: Expanded BlackFoot Angler Fishing Series from AquaGlide Kayak

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Earlier this month, Aquaglide of White Salmon, Washington unveiled their expanded Blackfoot Angler lineup for 2016, including two inflatable fishing kayaks and one inflatable fishing paddle board. 
Two new models – the 10′ 6″ Blackfoot HB Angler SL inflatable kayak and 11′ 6″ Blackfoot ISUP – are joining the current 12′ 8″ Blackfoot HB Angler XL.
AquaGlide’s expanded Blackfoot line targets the popular sport of kayak fishing. A recent survey conducted by OutdoorIndustry.org, showed that angler fishing increased 28% in 2014 alone.
Designed with the angler in mind, the two Blackfoot HB inflatable kayaks include both a single model, and one for 1-2 paddlers. Each features a 6 PSI high-pressure floor.

The current 12′ 8 BlackFoot HB XL can easily be switched from solo to tandem paddling, with a street price $999.

The new 10′ 6″ Blackfoot HB Angler SL is a scaled-down version for one paddler, with a lower pricepoint of $799.

Both kayaks feature integrated Scotty mounts which can be used to add anything from rod holders to GPS.

Forward-mounted accessory straps and plentiful tie-downs provide easy stowage for dry bags or other gear.

A single “Core” seat  includes mesh storage pocket and integrated fishing-rod holders. Four adjustable straps and the velcro strip system allow one to place the seat virtually anywhere in the cockpit.

The kayaks are constructed from a smooth-skin Duratex, cutting down on drying time. Designed with extra width for added stability, the 6-12 PSI high pressure floor is extremely rigid and durable enough to stand-up and fly fish.
The longer waterlines and tapered bow are designed for quickly covering distance. In whitewater settings, the front splash guard help keep paddlers dry, while cockpit drains allow pooled water to pass through quickly.

The Blackfoot HB Angler XL features two additional accessories not included with the smaller version. An integrated Fishing Cooler utility bag works as a cooler or dry storage. The bag includes 4 rod holders, two side pockets, a clear map and license window, 4 side d-rings and a mesh pocket inside the lid. Velcro strips on the kayak floor allow one to reposition the utility bag nearly any place in the kayak. The fishing cooler is also available as an optional accessory, street price $69.95.

The Core seat is also mounted on a removable, “booster seat” raised platform for a higher seating perspective, providing more ergonomic comfort. In 2016, the raised platform will also be available separately at a street price of $69.95

While the Blackfoot HB Angler XL kayak comes with one seat and the booster base, by removing the utility bag and adding a second Core seat (not included but available as an optional accessory at $74.95), the kayak can be used by two paddlers on slow and fast moving water through Class

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New AE1044 AdvancedFrame DS-XLC Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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Two years ago, AirKayaks introduced the specially-packaged, high-pressure AdvancedFrame DS series of kayaks from Advanced Elements. Featuring the same high quality construction and materials as the standard AE1012 AdvancedFrame and AE1007 Convertible, the DS Series™ was bundled with upgraded accessories to enhance performance and comfort.
The upgrades included:

AEDS High-pressure inflatable 4-6 PSI dropstitch floor for extreme rigidity
AE2011 Double action high-pressure 14 PSI handpump with pressure-gauge
AE2013HB High-back lumbar seat(s) for the ultimate in a comfortable, adjustable back rest.

The kayaks were wildly popular, and this past week, AirKayaks introduced the next generation in the DS Series – the AdvancedFrame AE1044 DS-XL™* and DS-XLC™*.
The new DS-XL series is an elongated version of the classic AE1012 AdvancedFrame. With an additional 5 inches in length and an adjustable foot peg, the kayaks are comfortable enough for both taller and smaller paddlers. The longer, streamlined body – in conjunction with the high pressure floor – provides better tracking and increased glide with minimal increase in weight.

We grabbed two from the limited supply that recently arrived – more are available in mid-September. Our first review focuses on the AE1044 AdvancedFrame DS-XLC (Cover). This kayak features a zip-on deck with storage options, allowing paddlers the flexibility of paddling an open style design for easy entry, or a closed deck design which can take an optional spray skirt.
So here are details on the AdvancedFrame AE1044 DS-XLC, a 10′ 10″ inflatable with zip-in cover, weighing in at 35 lbs. in the carrying case.
Setup/Inflatation

We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, carrying case, instructions, repair kit, foot brace, double action pump with gauge, zip-on deck (installed on the kayak) and high-back lumbar seat. The kayak with seat, floor and brace weighs 35 lbs, or 39 lbs in the bag with the pump. Bag measurements are approximately 32 x 19 x 10 inches. The kayak box as arrived weighs 40 lbs, measuring 33 x 21 x 10 inches. The dropstitch (DS) floor weighs 5 lbs and comes in a second box with adaptor and repair kit.
(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.)
Set up is straight-forward and simple  – unpack, unfold, inflate. As this is similar to the standard AdvancedFrame in many respects, we will re-copy much of the instructions found in the writeup on the standard AE1012. The DS XL Series will have two sets of instructions – one can be found in the inner side pocket of the carrying case. This details the basic kayak instructions for inflation, deflation and

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: AdvancedTrak Kayak Rudder Kit from Advanced Elements

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At the recent summer Outdoor Retailer show in Utah, Advanced Elements introduced their inflatable kayak, paddling gear and SUP product line for 2016.

Top on the list is the innovative new AdvancedTrak Kayak Rudder Kit, which can be added to your Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame series kayak.
The AdvancedTrak system adds turning and tracking performance to Advanced Elements Convertible, AdvancedFrame, Expedition and Sport kayaks.
How does this work? An injection molded end cap is glued to the stern of the kayak, acting as a rudder mount. Cables run up to adjustable foot pegs with added rudder control pedals. The rudder is quick to set up and remove, and locks into place.
The AdvancedTrak Rudder Kit AE4005 includes the end cap rudder mount, glue, rudder, rigging kit, instructions, a set of AE4003 adjustable foot pegs and pedals. MSRP $299 for the system, with availability in spring of 2016.
Watch a YouTube Video prepared by Adventure Kayak Magazine during the Outdoor Retailer show.

For further details stay-tuned, watch the Advanced Elements products page on AirKayaks.com, or ask to get on our notification list.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New AdvancedFrame DS-XL and XLC High-Pressure Inflatable Kayaks from Advanced Elements

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AirKayaks.com, an internet-based retailer of inflatable kayaks, paddle boards and paddling gear, today announced the arrival of two new inflatable kayaks in the Advanced Elements DS series™* of high pressure kayaks – the AdvancedFrame DS-XL™ and DS-XLC™.

Manufactured by Advanced Elements for AirKayaks.com, the new DS-XL series™ is an elongated version of the classic AE1012 AdvancedFrame. The longer, streamlined body – in conjunction with the high pressure floor – provides better tracking and increased glide with minimal increase in weight, as well as being comfortable enough for both taller and smaller paddlers. The kayaks now come standard with an adjustable foot brace.
The concept behind the new DS-XL series was explained by Chuck Lamb, co-owner AirKayaks, “The AdvancedFrame kayak is a time-proven, excellent-performing kayak with thousands of loyal owners. At 10′ 5″ long, it represents a great balance of size, weight and tracking ability. With a host of accessories designed to accommodate the diverse needs of paddlers, it has proven to be an excellent choice for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.”

Lamb further states, “But, what if you take a great design like the AdvancedFrame, tweak it a bit so that it will have even more universal appeal? That is exactly what we did with the DS-XL and DS-XLC models. Our company worked out details with the designers at Advanced Elements and have produced two kayaks that we feel will further advance the popularity of this classic model. The DS-XL and the DS-XLC are both 5 inches longer, which means that taller paddlers like me (6’2″) will have plenty of leg room for long, comfortable trips. Fitted with an adjustable foot brace, both models will allow comfortable paddling for shorter paddlers as well.”

The AdvancedFrame DS-XLC kayak also features an included zip-on deck with storage options, allowing paddlers the flexibility of paddling an open style design for easy entry, or a closed deck design which can take an optional spray skirt. Extra d-rings are also provided.

According to Lamb, “While the DS-XL cockpit geometry is the same as the standard Advanced Frame, the DS-XLC (Cover) has a removable deck similar to the AE1007 Convertible. This allows you to use the kayak as either a semi-enclosed kayak like the DS-XL or as an open-frame model with easier access and – depending on your preferences – more paddling comfort. Personally I prefer open kayak designs for that reason.”

Both kayaks are supplied with a high-backed lumbar seat for paddling comfort, a double action pump with gauge, and the very popular 4-6 PSI, high-pressure, dropstitched floor. Both can use optional Advanced Elements spray skirts, as well as most other Advanced Elements products such as the Rapidup sail.

The two kayaks join the popular Convertible DS – a 15 foot inflatable

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 2016 Inflatable Paddle Boards from AquaGlide

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At last week’s Outdoor Retailer Summer Show, Aquaglide of White Salmon, Washington unveiled their redesigned inflatable SUP line for 2016.

The new AquaGlide inflatable SUP lineup includes three updated Cascade models, and one new fishing model.

Biggest news is the introduction of the BlackFoot Angler inflatable paddle board, a rugged 11 foot model focused on fishing. With a wider 34 inch beam, and beefy 6-inch thickness, the BlackFoot iSUP is guaranteed to comfortably carry an arsenal of fishing gear while providing the stability needed for stand-up fly fishing.
The BlackFoot iSUP sports two sets of bungee decklacing – bow and stern – three carry handles and six Scotty mounts, which can be used to attach optional Scotty fishing rod holders and other gear. Four side d-rings are strategically positioned to allow one to attach an optional cooler, crate or gear boxes. Street price is $999.

The three Cascade inflatable SUPs have been re-designed with updated graphics and construction. All three models now sport a higher-density drop stitch material with a proprietary Powerstrip on the hull underside, providing an extra layer of rigidity without making the boards overly heavy. A longer fin box allows a wide variety of fins to be used.
The Cascade 10-0 is now constructed in a beefier 6-inch depth with a 32 inch beam, providing more buoyancy and carrying capacity than the previous model. The two other Cascades are now 11-0 and 12-0 in length, also in a 6-inch thickness with 32 inch width.

A new Bravo slim-barrel high-pressure pump with aluminum shaft and pressure gauge is now standard with each of the SUPs.

The current backpack has been replaced with an upgraded Crossover DLX Pack – constructed from a 600 denier polyester/PVC laminate, the pack has been redesigned for long distance travel. This comes as standard equipment with each of the inflatable SUPs.
Street prices on the three Cascades with high-pressure pump, gauge and backpack are $699, $799 and $899.

The DLX Pack is joined by the Crossover Roller Pack, a beefed-up backpack with hidden straps and roller wheels, allowing the pack to easily transcend from remote back country hiking to airport travel. Street price on the Crossover is $119; the DLX Pack will also be available separately at $89.

AquaGlide is also introducing the HP 25 PSI ISUP pump, a more ergonomically-engineered high-pressure pump with aluminum shaft, that fits both military and Boston valves for use with high pressure iSUPs and kayaks. Street price is $49.95.
The new boards should be available in late 2015. Stay tuned for details or watch the AquaGlide pages on the AirKayaks.com website. You can also ask to get on our Notification List.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Inflatable SUP Paddle Board Steals and Deals at AirKayaks.com

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We’re now well into the summer season here in the Northern Hemisphere, and outdoor water activities are in full swing.  AirKayaks currently has some special purchases and deals on inflatable paddle boards and gear – but act soon, they’re going fast! Save 15% to 40%.
Inflatable Paddle Board Deals

Remaining 2014 Red Paddle Co inflatable SUPS now $899. This is a great time to get one of the world’s best selling paddle boards – but the inventory is quickly dwindling! We’ve sold out of most 2014 models, but still have a few left – this includes the Allwater 9-6, Surfer 10-0 and Venus 10-0. Originally $1199, now $899 with free paddle – prices will never be lower!

C4 Waterman 2015 Summer Sale! Save 15% and get a free paddle on all in-stock C4 Waterman inflatable SUPS, now through August 11th. Originally $1099 to $1479, prices now starting from $934 – use Coupon Code 15C4 at checkout.

Past season JP-Australia inflatable SUPS. Special purchase on new, past season inventory. We have the CruisAir 11-4 and SportstAir 12-6 at $899 and $999 respectively – with a free paddle! Originally $1390, save 27%.

Past season Advanced Elements Hula 8 iSUP. Originally $699, now $399 on the Advanced Elements past season Hula 8, save 28%. This is a great choice for smaller people and kids in a 4-inch thickness.

Mistral Inflatable SUPs. The world’s lightest inflatable SUPs are now $300 off! Starting at only 15 lbs, the Mistral Crossover and Equipes feature a revolutionary new drop stitch material, making them up to 20% to 40% lighter than comparable-sized boards. Free paddle with purchase, originally $1699 to $1799, now starting at $1359.

Special purchase on past season Mistral AllRound 11’5″ X 31.5″ X 6″ inflatable SUPs. Comes with free Mistral breakdown fiberglass paddle, originally $1199, now $999.
Past season Jobe Inflatable SUP packages. Special purchase on past season Jobe Inflatable SUPS. We have the 2014 Jobe 11-6 and Jobe 12-6 inflatable SUP packages, originally $1099 and $1199, now at $749 and $849 respectively – and each comes with paddle, pump, gauge, backpack and ankle leash! This is a great price for “getting on the water!”

Accent MAX Fiberglass Kryptonite breakdown paddles. Originally $159, now $119. Available in 74-82 inch length, or 78-86 inch lengths.

Accent MOXIE carbon adjustable breakdown paddles. Cosmetic blemishes, originally $189 now $139.

Seattle Sports SUPSTOW ankle leash/fanny pack combo, orginally $49 now $29.
Also check out our list of demo inflatable SUP models and paddling accessories on the AirKayaks.com website! Act now before the summer is over!

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Summer SUP Sale – 15% off current C4 Waterman Inflatable Paddle Boards thru 8/11

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With the summer season halfway over, now’s your chance to grab a great inflatable SUP at an even greater price! Now through August 11, all in-stock C4 Waterman inflatable SUPs are 15% off with a free paddle!

The 2015 C4 Waterman ISUP line features 12 different models normally priced from $1099 to $1379, now $934 to $1172 – with a free paddle!
Last year, C4 Waterman became part of Wenonah Canoe, one of the largest makers of paddle sport watercraft in the world. C4 Waterman is a Hawaii-based lifestyle and adventure sports equipment company focused on providing high quality water boards, paddling gear and outdoor wear to the paddling industry.

The twelve 2015 models span a wide range of paddle-boarding choices, from the new Opae 8-6 and 9-6 downriver whitewater boards, to the Crossover 11-0 and 12-6 iTrekker touring models. The Opaes now start at $934, while the Crossover and iTrekkers are on sale for $1105 and $1147 respectively.

C4 Waterman’s classic biggest selling recreational models – the CMAC 10-6 and the 10-9 XXL – are now $1062 and $1088.
Other models include the 9-11 and 10-11 BK Pro, 10-0 Rapid Rider and the two Outfitter models. Sales prices on these range from $977 to $1147.

All models include a Bravo single-action high pressure pump, gauge, repair kit and rugged clamshell backpack, making the C4 Waterman ISUP an ideal traveling companion.
As a bonus, AirKayaks is offering a free breakdown paddle with every purchase. Pick up a board during the C4 Waterman Inflatable SUP Summer Sale and get on the water in no time – before the summer ends!
For more details or to purchase a C4 Waterman inflatable SUP at 15% savings, visit the product pages at AirKayaks.com. Use coupon code 15C4 at checkout.
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: The Titan High-Pressure Inflatable SUP Pump from Red Paddle Co.

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Earlier this year, we received our first shipment of Red Paddle Co’s long-awaited Titan high pressure SUP pump. The Titan pump was touted as a game-changer, with the ability to cut inflation time in half.

For years, the standard inflatable SUP pump was the Bravo HP single-action, high volume/low pressure pump, a squatter, thick-barrel single-action pump designed to put in more air volume, which in turn took more effort to reach higher pressures.
Higher pressures in an inflatable board vastly improves the board performance, by increasing rigidity (reducing flex).

In 2013, Red Paddle Co introduced the HP EZee  single-action, low volume/high pressure pump, a taller, thin-barrel single action pump designed to put in less air per stroke, thus allowing one to more easily pump to higher pressures.
As the pros and cons of each are obvious – one fills a board up more rapidly, while the other takes longer but is less of a struggle to reach 18-20 PSI – numerous paddlers opted to purchase both pumps.
In response, other manufacturers expanded the slim-barrel design to a double-action pump, putting air in on the up and down stroke. While theoretically this will put air in twice as fast, in actuality it becomes a struggle on the “up” stroke.

In 2015, the Titan made its debut. What makes the Titan different? The Red Paddle Co Titan pump is an amalgamation of the two pumps. The new Titan pump has two chambers, basically one side is a high volume/low pressure, and the other a low volume/high pressure. A unique double gear system actually combines the two chambers, so that when initially pumping, paddlers are using BOTH chambers to fill the board, allowing them to put in a whopping 4.71 liters, compared with just over 2 liters for the standard HP pump. When the pumping starts to get tough, one can switch the internal gear over to the high pressure chamber, allowing one to easily attain higher PSIs with less effort. An integrated pressure gauge allows one to monitor the process.
While we were keen to test out the new pump, the Titans sold out before we had a chance. Our intent was to review the Titan, as well as update our Guide to Choosing A High Pressure Inflatable SUP Pump – which we published last summer. As we no longer had the Red Paddle Venus 10-0 used in the original comparison, we pulled out the Red Paddle Ride 9-8 – which is fairly similar in specs.
Three shipments later, we snagged the last Titan off the shelf.
So, here is our review of the new Titan dual-barrel high pressure inflatable SUP pump from Red Paddle Co.
The pump as arrived couldn’t be simpler – pump body with integrated pressure gauge and a

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Island Voyage 2 Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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This week we received our first shipment of the Island Voyage 2 inflatable kayak from Advanced Elements. New in 2015, the Island Voyage 2 is a recreational model with an open-design – allowing one to easily switch from single to tandem paddling – yet economically-priced at $399.

Following is our writeup on the Island Voyage 2, an 11 ft 2 inch kayak. Please note, some of this will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Getting Started with the Island Voyage 2
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, drawstring duffel bag, instructions, repair kit, tracking fin and two seats.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs 25 lbs while the kayak with seats in the duffle is 30 lbs. The drawstring case is roughly 37 x 28 inches. Boxed up, the dimensions are 25 x 19 x 14 inches inches with a shipping weight of 35 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.)
Island Voyage 2 Inflatation and Setup
The included instructions appear adequate and include diagrams with inflation details.

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

The first step is to attach the removable tracking fin, which enhances paddling/tracking in deeper water. Make sure the fin is pointing towards the rear of the kayak, then insert the front of the fin, pushing down and back, to lock the front end. Then move the fin back until the holes line up, and replace the retaining pin. At this point, pull up on the fin to make sure you have it locked in position. AirKayaks side note #2: You may want to bring along a towel, as the fin and bottom hull of the kayak are black, and become quite burning in the sun.

There are three inflation chambers utilizing Boston valves – the floor and two side chambers. Boston valves are two-part, screw-on valves. The bottom portion is threaded onto the kayak, the top valve is screwed open for inflation and then tightened shut after inflation. Air is easily released by unscrewing the base connector. How does it work? A flap inside the valve opens when air is pumped into the kayak, and falls shut when not pumped so that air will not rush back out.
(AirKayaks Side note #3: The Boston valves have a tether that keeps the valve attached to the kayak, ensuring that the valves don’t get lost after deflating. Make sure this does not get in the way when screwing on the valve base, and the valve is not cross-threaded, or

Original Source: AirKayaks >>