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Advanced Elements: AdvancedFrame 2 versus Convertible Inflatable Kayaks

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This past spring, we received first-hand information on Advanced Elements’ new two-person inflatable kayak model, the 13-ft AdvancedFrame 2. Available in limited quantities, the AdvancedFrame 2 combines features from several current models. The kayak is a lightweight and compact version of the popular Convertible kayak with the silhouette of the Expedition, has a floor and seating setup similar to the Lagoon 2, with a higher 450 lbs weight capacity.

Before they arrived, we began fielding numerous questions on which to choose – the Convertible (shown in blue on the bottom) or the AdvancedFrame 2 (shown in green on top). Here are some things to think about.
What’s the same?
Both the Convertible and AdvancedFrame 2 utilize the same type of hull material and three-layer construction, consisting of a kayak outer cover, with PVC side tubes in their own covered fabric sheath. Both have an integrated tracking fin, landing plate and beefed up bow and stern. Both have the removable bow and stern aluminum ribs, and plastic bow and stern stiffening sheets. Both kayaks come with two seats, repair kit, instructions and carrying case (though the carrying case for the AdvancedFrame 2 is generously oversized). Both have 6 inflation chambers – two military valves and four twistloks. Both have two molded rubber handles – bow and stern – and front bungee deck lacking with d-rings and quick-connect clips as well as four rear d-rings. Both have velcro paddleholders.
Both can use the optional rapidup sail, backbone, high-pressure floor and foot pegs.
This is where the similarities end.

At 13 feet in length, the AdvancedFrame 2 is 2 feet shorter than the Convertible, and at 43 lbs with seats in the carrying case, weighs 9 lbs less. While the Convertible features a 1-PSI PVC inflatable floor with i-beam construction, the AdvancedFrame 2 floor does not inflate; it is constructed from a half-inch thick closed-cell foam – similar to that used under sleeping bags (see photo above). The lower “center of gravity” in the AdvancedFrame 2 is compensated for with inflatable seat bases, while the Convertible features a non-inflatable 1-inch seat base with a stiffer, higher back. As the foam floor “rolls” up, the folded dimensions are not quite as compact – hence the larger carrying case.

While both kayaks have open seating areas, the AdvancedFrame 2 has a slim, one-inch coaming area that helps to keep out water, but can not use a deck or spray skirt. The Convertible features a zippered perimeter that allows one to attach optional single and double spray decks (shown above) as well as optional spray skirts.
The Convertible has more flexibility in seating positions, featuring front, rear and center clipping positions. The AdvancedFrame 2 does not have the center clipping position, and the seat straps

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2016 Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame, Sport and Convertible Kayaks in Stock!

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This past week we picked up our first shipment of Advanced Elements 2016 models, including the red and green AdvancedFrame, updated Sport in orange, and the popular Convertible tandem in red. Limited quantities are available – and going fast.

New features for the best-selling AE1012 AdvancedFrame include an integrated 1-PSI pressure relief valve in the floor bladder, enhanced high-backed seating, redesigned hardware and the addition of velcro paddle holders. The popular model is now available in two colors – traditional red (AE1012R) and hi-vis green (AE1012G). MSRP $539.
The 2016 AE1007R Convertible in red has also been updated with the integrated pressure relief valve, improved seats and redesigned hardware. Like its sibling, the tandem will feature two colors – traditional red (AE1007R) and hi-vis green (AE1007G – available in June). MSRP $749. Matching decks for the green will be available this summer.
Due to factory relocation, the sought-after AdvancedFrame series has been difficult to obtain over the past several months. As explained by Clay Haller, President of Advanced Elements, Inc., “After nearly 15 years in business, and constantly growing demand for our kayaks, we decided it was time to build a new and much larger factory to accommodate growth for years to come.”
Knowing the popularity of the AdvancedFrame line, AirKayaks attempted to stockpile as much inventory as possible in the event of delays, but were still woefully short of demand.
In the fall of 2015, construction of the new factory was completed however the reopening took longer than anticipated, causing delays in spring 2016 production for several models.
Production has been in full swing for a few months now and Clay is thrilled with the progress. “With some key advancements in machinery and the experience of our seasoned management and production techs, we are seeing the same high-level quality – if not better – that Advanced Elements has always been known for.”
The current shipment featured limited quantities – which are selling quickly. More containers with the 2016 Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame and Convertible models (in both red and the new hi-vis green) are on the water, with expected availability in the first or second week of June. These will be followed with Advanced Elements Sport and Expedition models, towards the end of June.

The current yellow AE1009 Expedition had been retired and replaced with the upgraded, ocean blue Expedition AE1009B at $749. The 2016 Expedition features high-backed seating, diamond ripstop material, integrated storage hatch, sculpted riser bar, pressure relief valve, velcro paddle holders and redesigned hardware.  A variation of the blue Expedition was released in 2015 as the Expedition LTD with the same features in non-ripstop material. AirKayaks has a Special Purchase of the 2015 Expedition LTD model at $599.

The 2016 Sport AE1017 also features the integrated

Original Source: AirKayaks >>