Tag Archives: air kayaks

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 >>

Product Review: Rival Nass 12’0″ Inflatable Paddle Board from Hala Gear

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Well-known for eye-catching graphics and innovative technology, Hala Gear is one of the few standup paddle board companies focused on the inflatables market – most feature hard-shells with a few inflatables thrown into the mix.

Founded in 2011 by Peter Hall, Hala Gear headquarters is based out of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The company philosophy is centered on performance, durability and quality – in fact, each of the Hala inflatable boards carries a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.
For 2018, Hala has 20 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing ranging in size from 6’11” to 14’0.
Our first review centered on the Carbon Nass with Hala’s unique carbon stringer. Based on that, we opted to test out the economy version Rival Nass package, which features the roller pack, dual-action pump and a breakdown paddle – part of Hala’s “Straight to the Water” package series.
So, here is our product review on the Rival Nass inflatable SUP, a 12’0 by 32″ x 6″ recreational and touring model from Hala Gear.
Hala Rival Nass 12’0″: Getting Started
The box as received weighs 42 lbs, measuring 39 x 22 x 12 inches.

Inside the box is the SUP body, high-pressure dual-action pump, pressure gauge, roller backpack, cinch belt, removable blue race fin, breakdown paddle, instructions and repair kit with valve wrench, fin plate and patch material (no glue) – as well as a bonus 12-volt car pump. Once rolled up, the SUP board and pumps fit into the backpack, as well as the paddle.
Weight is 35.5 lbs for backpack, board, paddle and pump, which all easily fit in the back of a small car. The board alone is 23 lbs, while the pump is 2.5 lbs, the paddle is 2.35 lbs and the backpack 5.4 lbs.

For your first set up, remove and unroll the SUP body. Lay it out face up so that you can access the military valve.

The Hala Rival Nass 12’0″ utilizes one spring-loaded military valve for inflation. These are very simple to use and feature an inflate mode (spring plunger is UP) and a deflate mode (spring plunger is DOWN). By using your finger to gently push on the plunger, it can be moved to the inflate mode (air goes in and doesn’t come back out) and deflate mode (air goes in and comes back out). Before you go to all the effort of inflating the board, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.
If using only the dual action pump, you will pump up the board in the UP (inflate mode) position.

If you are near your vehicle, you can start off with the included 12-volt car pump, which uses a slightly different process. Insert the cord into the car power point, and then extend the

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 >>

Hala Gear Inflatable Paddle Boards – What’s New in 2019

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Well-known for eye-catching graphics and innovative technology, Hala Gear is one of the handful of standup paddle board companies focused on the inflatables market – most feature hard-shells with a few inflatables thrown into the mix.

Founded in 2011 by Peter Hall, Hala Gear headquarters is based out of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The company philosophy is committed to performance, durability and quality – in fact, each of the Hala inflatable boards carries a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.
For 2019, Hala has 19 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 6’11” to 14’0″. This includes the introduction/evolution of two new models – the Carbon Playita 2+2 and the Peno 2+2 – and the retirement of both the Daze workhorse and Luya. All 2019 boards feature updated graphics and color schemes. Boards range in price from $999 to $1599, with some minor pricing changes.

For 2019, Hala Boards continue to feature three general construction types – carbon, core and fusion. The Carbon boards feature a carbon/kevlar-type woven stringer, strategically placed to give an extra layer down the central length of the board for rigidity and performance. The Core boards are constructed with two layers of drop-stitch material and are typically found in the boards that will see more hard-core action. The Fusion SUPs utilize a newer laminating technology that saves material and weight, making them lighter and less costly.

Also for 2019, Hala has refined their previous 3-style rocker construction, now separating the full rocker into surf and river, while maintaining the progressive and glide rockers. The Surf rocker features a minimal rise in the tail with a curved nose; this places the center of balance back further to allow the nose to rise naturally. The River rocker features a precise curve from tail to nose allowing maneuverability and surfability. The Progressive and Glide rockers continue to focus on performance and speed.

A new, patented “double stack ” technology debuts on the 9′ x 32″ Carbon Playita 2+2 and has been revamped on the 6’11” x 32″ Peno surf boards. The double stack technology is a method of construction that gives the boards a narrower 2-inch rail, which is then double-stacked 2″ for rigidity, stability and volume. This creates a surfing inflatable that handles closer to a hard board. Both boards feature the new “surf” rocker; with the Playita geared towards performance ocean surfing and the Peno as performance river surfing. The two boards will debut at $1499 and $1299 respectively.

All 2019 Hala boards now feature woven mesh d-rings rather than metal d-rings. The mesh d-rings are softer, lighter-weight with a higher tensile strength, eliminating scratching issues associated with metal. The d-ring locations have become more centralized, allowing better control over weight distribution

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Innova Inflatable Kayaks now up to 15% off

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Save up to 15% on all in-stock Innova inflatable kayaks during AirKayaks’ End-of-Season Sale!

Innova kayaks from Gumotex are made in the Czech Republic from PVC-free materials. With 10 models to choose from, water enthusiasts will find a wide variety of 1, 2, or 3 person kayaks for sale, designed for touring to whitewater. And they’re highly portable – Innova kayaks are a great choice for travel!

We’re cleaning out the warehouse in anticipation of Innova’s new 2019 kayak line. Now is a great time to pick up a lightweight, environmentally-friendly kayak at super savings!

Pick up the popular, lightweight Twist 1 or Twist 2, now starting at $339 and $449.

Need more interior space? Check out the Innova Solar 401C boasting open seating for 1 to 2+ paddlers, now $639.

Looking for a more enclosed option? The Innova Swing series now range from $509 to $769.

Save $150 on the popular Innova Seawave performance touring model, which features an open design for 1 to 2+ paddlers and the ability to add optional decks or rudders.
Shop early for best selection. For more details, visit the Innova Kayak Product Pages at AirKayaks.com. Or give us a call at 707-998-0135.
Stay tuned, we will be posting on the upcoming Innova Kayak Line for 2019.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: Advanced Elements Sport DS High-Pressure Inflatable Kayak

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Our latest video on the new Sport DS Inflatable Kayak – manufactured by Advanced Elements exclusively for AirKayaks.com.

The new Sport DS high-pressure inflatable kayak is fun, nimble and paddles beautifully. Compact and lightweight with a 4-6 PSI floor, the Sport DS features a simpler, streamlined, open cockpit design best suited for lakes, bays, calm rivers and inland waters. At 10 feet 5 inches, 28 lbs and a payload of 250 lbs, the Sport DS is perfect for all ages and experience levels, appealing to price-conscious individuals who simply want performance.
The Sport DS is fourth in AirKayaks’ high-pressure inflatable kayak series, joining the 10’10” AdvancedFrame DS XL, the AdvancedFrame DS XLC with zip out deck, and the Convertible DS tandem for one or two paddlers.
The Sport DS series for AirKayaks comes with upgraded accessories:

High-pressure double action pump with a pressure gauge
High-backed lumbar seat
Blue diamond rip stop fabric
4-6 PSI inflatable drop stitch floor for extreme rigidity compared to the standard pvc floor.

For more info on set up, features, specification and performance, see our detailed product review/write-up with photos on the Advanced Elements Sport DS inflatable Kayak. To purchase, visit the Sport DS product page at AirKayaks.com. You can also contact us at info@airkayaks.com or give us a call at 707-998-0135.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Hi-Pressure Sport DS™ Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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Earlier this spring, our first shipment of the new AdvancedFrame Sport DS arrived in port, becoming the fourth addition to the popular Advanced Elements DS series* of high pressure inflatable kayaks.
Manufactured by Advanced Elements exclusively for AirKayaks.com, the new Sport DS features the same footprint as the current low-pressure AE1017 Sport, but with high-pressure floor and upgraded accessories for added comfort and performance.

Following are details on the AdvancedFrame Sport DS AE1017DS, a 10’5″ hi-pressure inflatable weighing in at roughly 28 lbs with an MSRP of $499. (Please note: some of this will be repeated from prior reviews.)
Getting Started with the AdvancedFrame Sport DS Kayak
The box as received weighs 36 lbs, measuring 31 x 18 x 11 inches.

Inside, the rugged carrying case measures 33 x 19 x 11 inches, and houses the kayak body, high-backed lumbar seat, high pressure floor, repair kit, double action pump, gauge and instructions. The kayak and pump in the case weighs 30 lbs, while the kayak and seat alone are 28 lbs. The case has just enough room to include a breakdown paddle (not included). AirKayaks note: Take a good look at how the kayak is folded BEFORE setting up, this will help during breakdown.
AdvancedFrame Sport DS Kayak Setup/Inflation
The instructions are located in a small plastic pocket inside the carrying case. The manual included is for the standard low-pressure Sport, with an additional sheet on using the high-pressure DS floor. The inflation procedure is similar for both versions of the Sport, with the one difference the floor inflation pressure of 4-6 PSI for the dropstitch floor.

Additionally, a short version of the DS inflation can be found on the tag attached to the rear carrying handle.
First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame Sport DS – along with all AdvancedFrame models – features 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.

The kayak features 5 inflation chambers – two military valves and 3 twist-loks. The military-style plunger valves are simple to use – twist up to inflate (this is the closed position where air goes in and doesn’t come out) and down to deflate (air goes in and comes back out).

The pump comes with a screw-on adaptor for the main chamber, but a standard Boston valve adaptor will friction fit

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New AirFusion EVO Dropstitch Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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Nearly eight years ago, Advanced Elements debuted the original AirFusion kayak – an inflatable hybrid designed to rival the handling and speed of skin-on-frame kayaks. The AirFusion was unique in that it featured a blended design of aluminum alloy frame poles and pressurized air tubes, resulting in a high performance rigid frame system.

This was followed by the AirFusion Elite, which featured a streamlined set up procedure with fewer poles, a wider beam and integrated rear storage hatch.
At last summer’s Outdoor Retailer show, Advanced Elements unveiled their 2018 inflatable kayak product line with announcement of the new AE1042 AirFusion EVO a 6-8 PSI high-pressure model constructed from dropstitch material, with a Barbie-sized 24″ waistline.
Just this week the first AirFusion EVO arrived, a double cardboard box measuring 37 x 25 x 12 inches and weighing in at 47 lbs.
Getting Started with the Advanced Elements AirFusion EVO
The rugged carrying case/backpack houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit, foam floor, screw-on and Boston pin adaptors, instructions (located in the small plastic pocket inside the backpack), two thwarts, nose and stern bags, and anodized aluminum poles. The kayak folded size is approximately 34 x 17 x 8 inches. Everything in the case weighs 37 lbs, while the kayak with seat is 33 lbs. The case has just enough room to include a small pump and breakdown paddle (not included). AirKayaks note: Take a good look at how the kayak is folded BEFORE setting up, this will help during breakdown.
The manual is pretty well-written though initially a little daunting. (AirKayaks note: Some of the initial AirFusion EVO boxes contained instructions for the droptstitch floor. The AirFusion EVO does not use an inflatable floor, so you can just toss those.) After the first read-through it seemed simple enough – piece together the poles, position the floor, pump up side chambers partially, insert bottom pole through the thwarts connecting both ribs, pump up thwarts, finish pumping up side chambers, pump up bow & stern tubes, attach seat, inflate coaming tube. Done!
AirFusion EVO Setup/Inflation

Unfold the kayak body, locating the kayak bow (front) and stern (rear) – this is easy as the integrated storage hatch is located at the stern.

Next, put the foam floor into position, setting the wider end inside the center of the cockpit – this will position the small rectangular cutout over the velcro tab in the floor. Make sure you pull the velcro tab through the cutout. Tip: the foam floor only covers the area where your feet rest.

Layout the bow and stern thwarts. Each of these is tapered. The front airbag (which also acts as a foot brace) is larger than the rear airbag, while the larger side of each airbag faces the cockpit/center. Lay

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New AdvancedFrame Ultralite 17.5lb Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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At last summer’s Outdoor Retailer show, Advanced Elements unveiled their 2018 inflatable kayak product line with announcement of the new AE3022 AdvancedFrame Ultralite – a redesigned version of the AdvancedFrame Sport, weighing in at a minimalist 17.5 lbs.

We avidly waited for the first shipment to arrive in early March. The boxes had not been off the truck for two hours, before we were headed down to the beach.
So following is our “hot off the truck” review of the new Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Ultralite – a 10 ft 5-inch performance kayak.
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Ultralite
The box as received weighs 29 lbs, measuring 32 x 19 x 11 inches.

The rugged carrying case/backpack houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit, foam floor, screw-on adaptor, instructions (located in the small plastic pocket inside the backpack), foot brace, deck riser and deck pole. The kayak folded size is approximately 29 x 18 x 9 inches. Everything in the case weighs 21.5 lbs, while the kayak with seat is 19.5 lbs. The case has just enough room to include a small pump and breakdown paddle (not included). AirKayaks note: Take a good look at how the kayak is folded BEFORE setting up, this will help during breakdown.
AdvancedFrame Ultralite Kayak Setup/Inflation

First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame Ultralite – along with all AdvancedFrame models – features 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.

Now unroll the foam floor, centering it under the two main chambers, with the narrower side pointing toward the nose. The first time this can be a little tricky – smooth out the hull so it’s not wrinkled and then try to evenly position the foam. This can be fine-tuned later.

The kayak features 2 inflation chambers utilizing military valves and 1 twist-lok. The military-style plunger valves are simple to use – twist up to inflate (this is the closed position where air goes in and doesn’t come out) and down to deflate (air goes in and comes back out).

The kayak comes with a screw-on adaptor (found in the repair kit in the mesh pocket behind the seat) which will fit some pumps based on the hose fittings. Otherwise, a standard Boston valve adaptor will friction fit into the opening. AirKayaks note: Make sure to attach the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New AE1017DS AdvancedFrame Sport Hi-Pressure Kayak from Advanced Elements

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AirKayaks.com, an internet-based retailer of inflatable kayaks, paddle boards and paddling gear, today announced the addition of a fourth inflatable model to the popular Advanced Elements DS series* of high pressure kayaks – the AdvancedFrame Sport DS.
Manufactured by Advanced Elements exclusively for AirKayaks.com, the new Sport DS features the same footprint and silhouette as the current low-pressure AE1017 Sport, with upgraded accessories in a Limited Edition blue.
The concept behind the new Sport DS was explained by Chuck Lamb, co-owner AirKayaks, “The AdvancedFrame Sport 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 for those that don’t need a lot of “bells and whistles. But, what if you take a great design like the AdvancedFrame Sport, and repackage it with upgraded accessories so that it will have even more universal appeal? That is exactly what we did with the Sport DS.”
The Limited Edition Sport DS Series includes the following accessories (a $284 value) with each kayak:

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 for the ultimate in a comfortable, adjustable back rest.
Carrying case, one year warranty, repair kit and instructions

According to Lamb, “The Sport DS is pretty snappy, maneuverable and paddles well – in short, it’s fun. The enlarged cockpit opening provides easier entry and taller paddlers may be happier as their knees can be bent without hitting the upper deck. It’s an excellent choice for beginners and experienced kayakers alike, looking for a great performing kayak at an economical pricepoint.”
The Sport DS joins the two AdvancedFrame AE1044DS-XL and XLC kayaks as well as the Convertible DS tandem kayak.

The two AdvancedFrame AE1044 DS models are 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.

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.

The three kayaks join the popular Convertible DS – a 15 foot inflatable kayak with high pressure floor for solo or tandem paddling. The Convertible DS also comes with two high-back lumbar seats and double action pump with gauge, and is exclusive to AirKayaks. Matching blue single

Original Source: AirKayaks >>