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Guide to Choosing Your 2016 Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board

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The new 2016 Red Paddle Co inflatable SUPs are now arriving, and  everyone is inquiring about standup paddle boards. With all the models, sizes, thicknesses and activity types, how does one choose the best board?
We’ve updated our previous post on Choosing your Red Air Paddle Board – now for the 2016 models – which are arriving November 18 through 25th. The tables (below) will hopefully take away some of the guesswork and confusing options when looking at the Red Air iSUPs.

For 2016, Red Paddle Co has 17 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10” to 17’0. This includes the introduction of 3 new models, revamped graphics on several of the current models, and one retiring model. (See a complete list of the new 2016 Red Air Line on this blog article.)
Well-known for their ruggedness throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, each of the Red Paddle Co boards utilize high pressure drop-stitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 15-25 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, traction pads and fins. Most of the board come with the new Titan dual action pump; the two smaller Whip 8-10 and Snapper 9-4 boards come with the Red Air HP EZee pump.
The major change for 2016 is the introduction of a technologically innovative new process named Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology which reduces the weight of each board approximately 20% while increasing the tension and making the boards slightly more rigid. The 2016 Red Paddle inflatable boards now weigh from 15 to 25 lbs, down from 20 to 34 lbs.

All 2016 Red Air iSUPs now come with the roller backpack featuring integrated wheels, making it easier to thread through airport lobbies, while still comfortable enough to pack into the remote country. The new packs are beefed up with tougher sail-cloth construction, larger wheels and heftier zippers that can take a beating – these were rolled in during mid 2015.
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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New Video: Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame DS-XL Inflatable Kayak

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Our most recent video on the new AE1044DS – the AdvancedFrame DS-XL from Advanced Elements. Now 5 inches longer than the standard AdvancedFrame with minimal increase in weight. The streamlined body – in conjunction with the high pressure floor – provides better tracking and increased glide.  See video details on performance, setup and features.

An AirKayaks exclusive! For more details, visit the AdvancedFrame DS-XL product page on AirKayaks.com. You can also see our Detailed Product Review on our blog.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

AquaGlide 2016 Inflatable Kayak & Paddle Board Product Line

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Now entering the third season as a manufacturer of inflatable kayaks, AquaGlide’s paddling line has dramatically expanded the options available to water enthusiasts looking for portability.
A division of North Sports Inc, the Aquaglide brand has grown steadily over the past 15 years, encompassing water sports products such as commercial and residential water trampolines, tow toys, recreational water equipment and the highly popular Multisport 270 – an inflatable windsurf/sailboat/pull toy/kayak combo.

Unveiled at last month’s Outdoor Retailer show, the new 2016 Aquaglide inflatable kayak and paddle board product line has expanded to 22 models – including 2 new kayaks, one new angler SUP and 3 paddle board redesigns – with MSRP pricing from $199.95 to $1099.95.

Biggest news is AquaGlide’s expanded Blackfoot line which targets the popular sport of kayak fishing. 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 inflatable kayak for one or two paddlers. (Image above features the 10-6 Blackfoot, while the image below shows the current 12-8 Blackfoot.)

Designed with the angler in mind, the two Blackfoot HB inflatable kayaks now 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 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 are fishing feature-rich, with integrated Scotty mounts and rod holders.

The new BlackFoot Angler inflatable paddle board is a rugged 11′ 6″ model focused on fishing. With a wider 34 inch beam, beefy 6-inch thickness, integrated Scotty mounts, d-rings and bungee decklacing, the BlackFoot iSUP is guaranteed to comfortably carry an arsenal of fishing gear while providing the stability needed for stand-up fly fishing. Street price is $999.
See our recent Blackfoot Series Sneak Preview for more details on all three models.

On the SUP side, the Cascade inflatable standup paddle board series has undergone a major facelift and overhaul. The Cascades for 2016 feature redesigned graphics now in 10-0, 11-0 and 12-0 sizes with a 32-inch width, 6-inch thickness, higher-density dropstitch material and a longer fin box.

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.

The DLX Pack is joined by the Crossover Roller Pack, a beefed-up backpack with hidden straps and roller

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New 2016 Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayak & Paddle Board Lineup

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At the recent Outdoor Retailer Show held in August, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California unveiled their 2016 product line of inflatable kayaks, SUPs and paddling gear.

The Advanced Elements 2016 lineup features one new model, redesigns on four others, and the inclusion of three 2015 prototype models. Beginning in January 2016, pricing on several kayak models will increase 2% to 9% due to higher material, manufacturing and shipping costs.

The current 11-0 Fishbone inflatable paddle board will be joined by the new Fishbone EX – a 12-6 version with a 30 inch beam and 6 inch thickness. Max payload is 300 lbs, giving it the ability to fit one or two paddlers. Retail price will be $1199. All current inflatable paddle board models – Hula 11, Hula 8, Fishbone, Lotus YSup and Stiffy – will remain the same construction and same pricing as in 2015.

The Island Voyage II – which was available in limited quantities during 2015 – will now be added to the lineup. At 11’2″ in length and a 37″ width, the Island Voyage II features an open design with three seating positions, allowing one to paddle solo or tandem. See our Island Voyage detailed writeup and review. Retail price is $429.
In the AdvancedFrame series, most of the models remain status-quo in features, but with new color and graphic choices.

The popular AE1012 AdvancedFrame and AE1007 Convertible will now be available in the standard orange-red as well as hi-vis lime-green, with matching Convertible deck colors. Prices will increase $40 and $50 respectively, with MSRPs of $539 and $799. The AdvancedFrame Sport will also have a graphics redesign, with the price increasing $10 to $449.

The current yellow 13-ft Expedition AE1009 will be replaced by the popular 2015 Limited Edition Expedition. Now in a navy blue with orange graphics, the Expedition LTD sports a sleeker silhouette with integrated storage. A new “deck lift” – consisting of an aluminum bar – works in conjunction with the current integrated inflatable deck lifts, to create a sculpted look with more knee/legroom as well as shedding accumulated water.  A rear integrated storage hatch with rolltop closure provides easy access to paddling gear. See our detailed Expedition LTD writeup with photos. MSRP $749.
The Lagoon single and tandem kayaks will remain the same, with retail prices increasing $20 and $30. While the current Attack, StraitEdge Angler and StraitEdge 2 models are also unchanged in construction, prices will be increased $25, $20 and $50 respectively.
The Firefly, AirFusion Elite, Packlite and Friday Harbor Adventure inflatable kayaks will remain the same with no change in pricing. The Commander 9 and Commander 12 inflatable dinghies have been retired.
By 2016, most of the kayak models with low-pressure floors will include the integrated 1-PSI pressure

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New WaterTech Gear Cargo & Deck Bags from Advanced Elements

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Last month, Salt Lake City, Utah hosted the Outdoor Retailer Summer Show, one of the  major sporting goods events of the year. Nearly 1700 manufacturers – representing camping, cycling, watersports and outdoor activities – took this opportunity to showcase their 2016 line, unveiling new products and features to retailers around the world.

During the show, Advanced Elements of Benicia, CA – one of the largest manufacturers of inflatable kayaks and gear – introduced their new WaterTech™ Gear line of deck and cargo bags designed to fully complement Advanced Elements inflatables.
As explained by Clay Haller, President of Advanced Elements, Inc., “Although we have always had a quality-built line of gear bags, they never really felt like a unified family of bags. So, we decided to start over from scratch to not only build a well thought-out family of gear bags that integrate with any kayak or watercraft, but a set of gear bags that really integrate well with Advanced Elements kayaks and paddle boards.”
The new WaterTech accessory line consists of seven models ranging in size from 3 to 60 liters.

QuickDraw™ Deck Bag: AE3501
Easily access your essentials while paddling. Designed with adjustable attachment straps and d-rings, the QuickDraw deck bag is equipped with a water resistant zipper, an interior roll-top removable liner, and bungee lacing. A semi-rigid, contoured shape provides visibility when accessing items, making it a handy companion when out on the water. MSRP $59.99.

Deep Six™ Deck Pack: AE3503
The Deep Six™ Deck Pack is a heavy-duty, water-resistant deck bag with a series of unique features. The Deep Six™ provides a series of attachment points and straps to secure your gear anywhere and, with a roll-top opening, it’s easy to load and unload. Other features include cinch flat shoulder straps for snag free travel, a front zip pocket for essentials, and reflective paneling for low-light visibility. Capacity: 30 Liters. MSRP $79.99.

PackLite™ Roll Top Dry Bag Set: AE3506
A nifty, ultra-lightweight set of three rolltop drybags in three sizes – 3, 5 and 10 liters – for dry storage options. Bag measurements are 7 x 8.5 inches, 6.5 x 10 inches and 9 x 16 inches. Available as a set only. MSRP $25.99.

StashPak™ Rolltop Dry Bags: AE3507 and AE3508
Rugged, water-resistant rolltops with detachable straps, four d-rings and a detachable pouch for small essentials. Available in two sizes – 20 and 40 liters – each StashPak can be stored in the compact detachable pouch when not in use. 20L measures 10 x 21.5 inches and the 40L measures 13 x 26 inches. MSRP $49.99 and $59.99.

CargoPak™: AE3502
A rugged, 32-liter, water-resistant roll top pack with comfortable shoulder straps, side mesh pockets and back panel bungee deck lacing. MSRP $69.99.

Abyss™ All-Weather Duffel Bag: AE3505
A large, 60 liter duffel

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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 >>

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 >>