Tag Archives: air kayaks

Why Choose an Inflatable Kayak or Paddle Board?

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Why Inflatables?
Gone are the days when inflatables were simply pool toys. With recent dramatic increases in technology, today’s inflatables have evolved into everything from family recreational fun to high-tech specialized  watercraft.

So why choose an inflatable?

Lightweight
Simple to inflate and set up
Easy to repair.
Rugged and stable
Perfect for traveling, whether by bike, mass transit, airplane, RV or car
Spur of the moment fun
Uses little storage space – keep it in your car, condo, garage or RV
Roof racks unnecessary
Many sizes and styles to choose from for a wide range of water activities. From oceans to lakes, slow moving rivers to white water or wave running.
Pack it into the back country to get to places others can’t.
Often less expensive to buy than to rent kayaks on vacation
Great for all ages!

Unlike other businesses, AirKayaks.com is focused only on inflatables. With dozens of styles to choose from, we understand it can be difficult weighing all the options. We’re always happy to answer any questions. Feel free to give us a call at 707-998-0135 or email info@airkayaks.com

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Kokopelli Packraft Summer Sale – 15% to 20% off thru May 31st

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With sizzling summer days just around the corner, now is a great time to pick up a Kokopelli Packraft during AirKayaks’ Summer Kickoff Sale. All in-stock Kokopelli Packrafts are 15% to 20% off through May 31st.
Photo by Colin Arisman
Now starting at $699, the Kokopelli product line consists of eight models for whitewater, lakes, rivers and ocean, ranging in size from 7’1″ to 10’2″ with a weight range of 4.6 lbs to 18 lbs.
Photo credit: Birch Block
The Adventure Series consists of two models – Rogue and Rogue-Lite – geared towards extremely packable “adventures.” As a “Gear of the Year” selection winner from Men’s Health magazine, both feature a thinner hull material with beefed-up Kevlar reinforcement which packs down smaller and is lighter, making it more desirable for carrying long distances.

New for this year is the bomb-proof 18-lb. Kokopelli Recon, a beefy packraft built to “take a licking and keep on ticking.” The Recon joins the classic Kokopelli Nirvana Self Bailer and Nirvana Spraydeck, perfect for rushing rivers through Class III.

Those interested in calmer paddling experiences will find the Castaway XL or Twain Tandem perfect for exploring remote lakes and fishing holes.

Need help making a decision? Read about the 2019 Kokopelli Product Line, or peruse through our Guide to Choosing Your Kokopelli Packraft. You can also give us a call at 707-998-0135.
Free shipping in the lower 48 states, and NO TAX, so shop early for best selection!
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Convertible Elite High Pressure Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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 Advanced Elements of Benicia, California recently introduced one of two new kayaks for the 2019 product year. The AE1007E Convertible Elite is a package upgrade to the long-standing, popular AE1007R Advanced Elements Convertible inflatable kayak for one or two paddlers.

First launched in 2003 as the AE1004 AdvancedFrame2, the original model featured an integrated deck for double paddling. The kayak was reintroduced in 2006 as the AE1007R AdvancedFrame Convertible, sporting an open cockpit design which could be enclosed with optional single and double decks for solo or tandem paddling.
The new AE1007E Convertible Elite features the identical kayak materials and construction as the current AE1007R, but with upgraded accessories and features. The Convertible Elite now comes with a 4-6 PSI drop stitch floor, rather than the standard 1 PSI PVC floor with i-beams. The increased floor rigidity enhances the paddling experience with better tracking and glide.
The Convertible Elite arrived this past month so we took the opportunity – during a brief break in the rains – to put it through its paces. Here are details on the AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite AE1007E, a 15 foot inflatable kayak with high-pressure floor weighing in at roughly 54 lbs.
Getting Started with the Convertible Elite
The box as received weighs 60 lbs, measuring 34 x 21 x 12 inches.

Inside, the rugged backpack-style carrying case houses the kayak body, floor, seats, thwart, repair kit and instructions. The kayak with backpack and parts weighs in at 52.4 lbs, while the kayak body is 44 lbs.

Please note: A quick “overview” of set up is now sewn into the inside of the carrying case – we highly recommend that you read this.
Convertible Elite Setup/Inflatation
We began by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc. 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. (Please note: We will repeat some of the details previously mentioned in other writeups.) The AdvancedFrame series of kayaks feature an “inner rib” in the bow and stern, which is basically a u-shaped aluminum rib, about a foot long and one-half inch wide.

This comes “pre-assembled” meaning it arrives already inserted into two sleeves inside the kayak cover. Unless you remove the inner bladder, they remain in position. When the kayak is pumped up, the inner bladder with rib presses against the kayak cover – that, in conjunction with two bow and stern plastic sheets, give the kayak a sharp silhouette which aids in slicing through the water. (Please note: We removed

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2019 Kokopelli Inflatable Packraft Product Line – What’s New

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We recently received news on the new 2019 Kokopelli lineup of inflatable packrafts and gear.

For those unfamiliar with the term, “packrafts” are loosely defined as an inflatable raft weighing under 10 lbs, that can easily be packed/rolled up, making them a great choice for accessing remote locations. While the sport originated in Alaska, the popularity is rapidly expanding globally.
Photo by Colin Arisman
Kokopelli Outdoor Inc. of Denver, Colorado entered the packraft market in 2014, beginning with a handful of models. Last year’s Kokopelli line-up consisted of four whitewater models – the Nirvana and Nirvana XL in self-bailing and spray deck versions; three touring series – the Castaway, Castaway XL and the Twain Tandem; and two ultra-packable models – Rogue and Rogue Lite.
For 2019, Kokopelli continues to streamline and upgrade the product line, adding one new model and some new accessories. The packrafts have been regrouped into three categories – Whitewater, Lake and Adventure.

The 2019 Whitewater series now consists of two current models – the Nirvana Spraydeck (above) and the Nirvana Self Bailer – each with tizip options. While there has been no change to the dimensional specifications or weights, the Nirvana Self Bailer is the only packraft with an inflatable floor (elevating the paddler above any water) with integrated seat base and separate backband. Prices remain the same at $1050 for the base models, and $1200 for packrafts with the tizip option.

The third Whitewater model is new for 2019 – the Recon. Weighing in at a beefy 18 lbs, the Recon features a robust 9mm PVC construction with self-bailing design for intense whitewater or rugged conditions. The Recon sports a 90 x 37 inch exterior, a 57 x 15″ interior with 9mm nylon ripstop floor, and is available in Arctic blue without tizip options. MSRP $900 which includes a bellows foot pump with integrated pressure gauge, but not an inflator bag.

The 2019 Adventure series consists of two models – Rogue (above) and Rogue-Lite. While similar in size and dimensions to the Nirvana, the Rogue with spray-deck features a thinner 210 denier hull material with beefed-up Kevlar reinforcement. The thinner denier material packs down smaller and weighs roughly 2 lbs less, making it more desirable for longer distances, while the Kevlar construction makes it nearly as durable as the Nirvana. The Rogue-Lite features an open cockpit and slightly shorter length, weighing in at a mere 5.4 lbs. Both Rogues are available with or without tizip. MSRP is $825 for the Rogue-Lite and $1050 for the Rogue. Tizip options on both Rogues are an additional $125.
Both the Rogues and Nirvana’s now sport an improved material with thicker TPU coating for added durability and abrasion resistance which also adds a slight 0.2 lbs to

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New Ergonomic Energy Kayak Paddles from Accent Paddles

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Accent Paddles of Minneapolis, MN recently released details of their new Accent Energy Line of kayak paddles. The Energy Line features a soft rubber grip – the Advantage Grip – which simulates the ergonomic benefits of a bent shaft paddle at a more economical price.

At first glance, bent shaft paddles may seem unintuitive.Despite the appearance, bent shaft technology is considered to be an ergonomic, user-friendly design, reducing stress and grip pressure by offsetting the paddler’s wrist angle. Bent shafts also guide the paddler’s hand placement, reducing stress on forearms and shoulders.
While bent shaft paddles can typically retail for hundreds of dollars, the Accent Energy series ranges in price from $99 to $199.

Accent Paddle spent two years creating a “bent shaft paddle” design without the high costs. They accomplished this by taking a standard, non-bent paddle, and simulating the design via a soft rubber grip. The Accent Advantage Grip technology features an ergonomic 7° wrist offset angle which lessens forearm, wrist and shoulder fatigue. The rubber grip material is vibration dampening, and has a soft feel that – when held – reduces wrist, forearm and shoulder strain as well as providing minimal fluctuation in shaft temperature. The placement of the grip forces proper hand placement, ensuring longer more enjoyable outings.
The Energy Advantage comes in three models – the Energy Aluminum, Energy Hybrid and Energy Carbon.

At $99, the Energy Aluminum paddle features an aircraft-grade aluminum shaft with a simple push-button ferrule for three blade angle settings. The fiberglass-reinforced blade is the perfect size blade for most kayaking situations and a great entry-level paddle.

The Energy Hybrid is a step up, featuring an all-carbon shaft providing a high strength to weight ratio. The fiberglass-reinforced nylon blade is durable, and the perfect sized blend for both high and low angle paddling. A Kingpin ferrule connection system provides 12 paddling angles. MSRP $159.

The top-of-the-line Energy Carbon is constructed with premium materials for the kayaking enthusiast. A carbon shaft, paired with Accent’s proprietary carbon-reinforced APX polymer blades, provides the highest strength to weight ratio. The blade design is a perfect blend for both low and high angle paddling, delivering efficiency with each stroke. A Kingpin ferrule connection system provides 12 paddling angles. MSRP $199.

All three paddles at AirKayaks feature 4pc breakdown construction for portability in a 230cm length.
For more details or to purchase, visit the Accent Paddles product pages at AirKayaks.com. You can also watch Accent’s video on the Energy paddle line, below.

 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Innova Thaya Hi-Pressure Dropstitch Inflatable Kayak for 2+ Paddlers

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Late last year we had the opportunity to take our first look at Innova’s newest product for 2019, the Thaya DS inflatable kayak. Designed for 1 to 2+ paddlers, the Thaya DS is a 13′ 5″ inch 7-PSI touring kayak – similar in design to the Innova Solar – now featuring a unique blend of Innova’s traditional Nitrilon material and dropstitch technology.

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. Secondly, the manufacturing process produces kayaks that can become quite compact, making them a great choice for travel. And third, the kayaks are environmentally-friendly as they are mostly PVC-free.
The Innova Thaya DS is constructed from a 1200 denier rubber-coated laminate material called Nitrilon (also referred to as Nitrylon) – this consists of a synthetic rubber coating over polyester on the inside and outside of the tube.
Nitrilon 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.
The Thaya is different from Innova’s other kayaks, as the Nitrilon material is used for the floor’s drop stitch construction.
Drop-stitch technology consists of two layers of fabric held together by thousands of threads, allowing the chambers to be inflated to much higher pressures. This creates a kayak body that is quite rigid, stable and maneuverable. The Thaya features a 34 inch beam with a max payload of 595 lbs (persons and gear) and weight of 39 lbs.

Features include molded rubber carrying handles, tie-lines, two inflatable seats, two inflatable foot braces, multiple d-rings, gear rigging, removable tracking fin, a nifty 80-liter backpack, repair kit and sponge.
The Thaya is touted for 1-2+ paddlers; the numerous d-ring attachment points allow one to reposition the seats for optimal paddling comfort, as well as for securing extra gear, or adding an optional seat to carry a child. The Nitrilon material is rugged and easy to clean, yet still packs up extremely flat and compact.

The Innova Thaya is estimated to be available in the States in late April or early May, with an MSRP of $1199. Stay tuned, we will have our detailed write-up on the Innova Thaya next month. You can also ask to get on our Notification List at AirKayaks for further updates on availability.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New Convertible Elite High Pressure Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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Advanced Elements of Benicia, California recently introduced one of two new kayaks for the 2019 product year. The AE1007E Convertible Elite is a package upgrade to the long-standing, popular AE1007R Advanced Elements Convertible inflatable kayak for one or two paddlers.

First introduced in 2003 as the AE1004 AdvancedFrame2, the original model featured an integrated deck for double paddling. The kayak was reintroduced in 2006 as the AE1007R AdvancedFrame Convertible, sporting an open cockpit design which could be enclosed with optional single and double decks for solo or tandem paddling.

The new AE1007E Convertible Elite features the identical kayak materials and construction as the current AE1007R, but with upgraded accessories and features. The Convertible Elite now comes with a 4-6 PSI drop stitch floor, rather than the standard 1 PSI PVC floor with i-beams. The increased floor rigidity enhances the paddling experience with better tracking and glide.

Other new features include the high-backed lumbar seat, now with a padded seat base. This increases the comfort providing a stiffer seat with inflatable lumbar support, and a slightly higher position that compensates for the rigid floor.

The standard carrying case has also been replaced with the roomier, backpack style case. making it easier to transport.

The current Convertible remains in the product line in the standard red color (AE1007R) as well as the high-visibility green color (AE1007G). Street price is $699.

The AE1007E Convertible Elite is available in red with a street price of $949.

AirKayaks also has the top-selling Convertible DS AE1007B-DS inflatable tandem with the same features as the Convertible Elite yet includes a front foot brace, double action pump with gauge and the StashPack 20L deck bag for a street price of $899.
Optional single and double decks are available for all three colors – red, blue and green.
See the AirKayaks.com website (links below) for more details or to purchase. AirKayaks also features customized and bundled packages at additional savings.

AE1007R Convertible in Red
AE1007G Convertible in Green
AE1007E Convertible Elite in Red
AE1007B-DS Convertible DS in Blue

The new Advanced Elements Attack Pro high-pressure inflatable whitewater kayak will be coming late spring 2019. Stay tuned for details.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

AquaGlide Inflatable Kayak and SUP Product Line for 2019

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We recently received details on AquaGlide’s inflatable kayak and paddle board product line for 2019.

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.
Now entering the sixth season as a major manufacturer of inflatable kayaks and SUPs, AquaGlide’s paddling line has dramatically expanded the options available to water enthusiasts looking for portability.
Last summer, the North Sports product line, including the AquaGlide series, was purchased by Connelly Skis of Lynwood, Washington. Established in 1965, Connelly Skis is well known for their water skis and water sports equipment. While the North Sports headquarters shifted to Lynwood, the AquaGlide product line remains intact, with some minor updates for 2019.
The 2019 inflatable product line consists of 21 models including six paddle boards and 15 inflatable kayaks. The AquaGlide kayak models include the Rogue, Chinook, Columbia, Chelan, Blackfoot and Klickitat series. The SUP line includes the Cascades and Blackfoot fishing boards.
The overriding change consists of a new naming structure for all the models. The new names focus on the kayak length to help minimize confusion among potential customers.

The three Chinooks are being reintroduced as the Chinook 90, 100 and 120 XL while the Rogue 2 becomes the Rogue 100.

The Columbia One, Two and Tandem XL models will be renamed Columbia 110, 130 and 145 XL.

The high-pressure Chelans are now the Chelan 120 HB, 140 HB and 155 HB XL, while the Blackfoot SL and XL become the Blackfoot Angler 110 HB and 125 HB, and the Klickitats become the Klickitat 95 HB and 125 HB.

Along this line, the Chinook 90, Columbia 110, Chelan 120 HB, Blackfoot 110 HB and Klickitat 95 HB are all single-paddler models while the Chinook 100, Columbia 130, Chelan 140 HB, Blackfoot Angler 125 HB and Klickitat 125 HB are models for 1 or 2 paddlers. The remaining three XL models – Chinook 120 XL, Columbia 140 XL and Chelan 155 HB XL – are longer kayaks designed for 1-2+ people, allowing paddlers to bring along a child, furry friend or extra gear.
The name changes will be rolled out throughout 2019.

The current high pressure line – including the Blackfoots, Chelans and Klickitat kayaks – will feature screw-in drain plugs rather than the current friction-fit plugs. This will minimize potential issues of water leaking into the kayak.

On the paddleboard side, the Cascade 10, 11 and 12, as well as the Blackfoot Angler 11 and Angler Tandem continue unchanged. The new WIndsup series – Cascade 11 WS arrived midway through the summer of 2018. These come as a

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Red Paddle Co Compact 9’6″ x 32″ Inflatable SUP Package

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This past summer, Red Paddle Co announced the launch of their new 9’6″ Compact Inflatable SUP Package, a revolutionary game-changer in the inflatable paddle board industry.

With the Compact 9’6,” Red Paddle Co introduced the revolutionary PACT technology. Ten years in the making, PACT technology is a new weaving process which creates a denser, high-tensile thread matrix at the core of the board, with a super-strong, malleable outer layer. The Compact 9’6″ utilizes 120mm dropstitch technology, making the board more rigid than many boards yet still allowing the rider to keep a low center of gravity.

Deflating the board is pretty simple. Disassemble the paddle and put into the backpack. Remove the tracking fins and store in the bag. Burp the plunger a couple of times to release some of the pressure, then push the plunger to the open (down) position and immediately the air will swoosh out. Roll up the board from the nose to initially push out most air, and then unroll and fold the board in half down the centerline. Lay the Titan pump down on the nose end and start tightly rolling up the board from the snout. As you roll it up, air will continue to be pushed out of the open valve.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

10 Neat Gift Ideas Under $25 for Paddlers

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It’s “that time” again, and the pressure is mounting to find the perfect gift for a fellow paddler. AirKayaks has put together the Guide to 10 Neat Paddling Gift Ideas Under $25 – guaranteed to please a variety of water enthusiasts without breaking your budget.

1) Seattle Sports Digi Wallet & Audio Case – $9.95
Two compartments with two levels of protection for phones or personal items while on or near the water. The wallet side is waterproof and totally protects phones, cameras, MP3 players, money, credit cards and personal items – you can even talk, text and manage music right through the case. Features a headphone pass-through port with audio capability for your smartphone or MP3 player.
 

2) Chinook 40-Liter Rolltop Dry Bag – $16.95

Economical dry storage, perfect for a day of gear on the water. Measures 12 x 24 inches unrolled. Also available in 57L size.
 

3) Paddle Leash from Seattle Sports – $17.95
Don’t be caught “up a creek without a paddle!” The streamlined, low-profile, retractable Paddle Leash cord is easy to pack and stays out of the way while providing an eight-foot expansion. A unique quick-release feature allows your paddle to be quickly and easily attached to and from the leash. Length 34.25 inches expanding to 8 ft, weight 1.8 oz
 

4) Seattle Sports Diamond RollTop Dry Bag – $19.95
An economical solution to protecting your gear. The large H2Zero Diamond RollTop Dry Bag from Seattle Sports offers a good combination of functional privacy at an economical price. Built with a rugged polyester exterior, the H2Zero Diamond RollTop Dry Bag features a clear, diamond-shaped window for easy visual access to gear. Great for clothing, food, gear.

 
5)  Seattle Sports Paddler’s Bilge Pump – $19.95
A must for any boater. The Seattle Sport 8 gallon per minute Bilge Pump features an easy-grab handle, super-strong pump shaft and heavy-duty impact resistant plastic.
 

6) Seattle Sports E-Merse XL Original Cell Phone Waterproof Case – $19.95
The Seattle Sports E-Merse R/S Original XL Cell Phone Waterproof Case offers maximum, submersible, waterproof protection for your electronics and valuables when properly closed. Use your cell phone while on the water – text, call and access APPS right through the case!

7) Aqua Marina Magic Adjustable 90L BackPack for Inflatables – $20.80
The adjustable 90-Liter Aqua Marina Magic BackPack is a simple way to transport your inflatable, paddle, and pump – at an economical price!
8) Chinook Aquatight 5-Map Chart Organizer – $23.95
A unique dual-section, trifold map case holds up to 5 standard-sized maps! Two waterproof compartments with view windows and four attachment points for lashing to kayaks, canoes, backpacks and bicycle handlebars. Available in gray or black.

9) Seattle Sports Magni-Map Pro Splashproof Chart Case. $24.95
Rugged and waterproof map case sized to fit maps up to 14.5

Original Source: AirKayaks >>