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Guide to Choosing Your 2019 Hala Gear Inflatable Paddle Board

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In the northern Hemisphere, summer is around the corner and water activities are heating up. While the standup paddle board craze has been on the rise during the past decade, more recreationalists are hopping onto inflatable boards due to ease of storage and travel-ability.
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.
As shape, thickness and construction all make a difference in a board’s performance under varying conditions, we’ll first give a little insight into the thought-process behind Hala boards.
Hala boards have 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 – think “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 – think “bombproof.” The Fusion SUPs utilize a newer laminating technology that saves material and weight, think “lighter” and “value-priced.”

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.

All 2019 Hala iSUPs come with the Back Country Comfort Rolling Backpack or Travel Tough Backpack – both feature integrated wheels, making it easier to thread through airport lobbies, while still comfortable enough to pack into the remote country. All boards come with the Hala pump and pressure gauge, a nifty little 12-volt car pump that allows you to fill out the board quickly, repair kit and instructions. The Rival series and Asana

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Guide to Choosing Your 2018 Hala Gear Inflatable Paddle Board

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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 2018, Hala has 20 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 6’11” to 14’0″. This includes the introduction of 3 new models – the Carbon Playita 9’0″, Rival Nass 12’0″ and Rival Playa 11’0″ – and some minor revamped graphics on several of the boards. Boards range in price from $999 to $1599.
As shape, thickness and construction all make a difference in a board’s performance under varying conditions, we’ll first give a little insight into the thought-process behind Hala boards.
Hala boards have 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 – think “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 – think “bombproof.” The Fusion SUPs utilize a newer laminating technology that saves material and weight, think “lighter” and “value-priced.”

Besides construction type, the rocker (how straight or curved is the side view from nose to tail) makes a difference in board attributes. Hala has three generic types – glide, progressive and full. The Glide Rocker feature a slight rise in the nose and tail, which increases glide and speed, yet still allows some maneuverability. The Full Rocker boards have a more precise and pronounced curvature from tip-to-tail for superior maneuverability and surfability – great for surf and whitewater. The Progressive Rocker sits in-between the two, allowing the boards to be playful yet maneuverable – more “all-round.” The photo above shows the Glide Rocker, followed by the Progressive Rocker, then Full Rocker.

All 2018 Hala iSUPs come with the Back Country Comfort Rolling Backpack or Travel Tough Backpack – both feature integrated wheels, making it easier to thread through airport lobbies, while still comfortable enough to pack into the remote country. All boards come with the Hala pump and pressure gauge, a nifty little 12-volt car pump that allows you to fill out the board quickly, repair kit and instructions. The Rival series and Asana fitness board – called the Straight-To-The-Water package – also include an adjustable, aluminum breakdown paddle.
With all the models, activity types, sizes and features, how

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2017 Red Paddle Co: Guide to Choosing Your Inflatable Paddle Board

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The 2017 Red Paddle Co inflatable paddle boards have hit the market! With all the models, activity types, sizes and features, how does one choose the best board? Each year we update our previous posts to reflect the new Red Paddle Co models and product upgrades – use this guide to take away some of the guesswork when looking at the myriad of options with Red Paddle Co iSUPs.

For 2017, Red Paddle Co has 22 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10” to 22’0. This includes the introduction of 5 new models – Sport 11’3, Race 14’0, Dragon 22’0, Windsurf 10’7″ and Ride L – revamped graphics, added features on several of the current models and updated accessories.

The more noticeable new features include:

Further advances in Red Paddle’s innovative new Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. For 2017, Red Paddle again tweaked the material across the entire product line, making the injected, reinforced second layer thicker with increased bond strength – producing a lighterweight yet more rigid board than most competitor’s.
Boards with removable fins now sport standard US Fin boxes which fit 90% of the fins on the market.
Introduction of the FCS II Connect Tool-less Fin System on several models –  these quickly snap into position without need for hardware or tools.
Integrated RAM mount threads on several models, allowing one to add an optional universal RAM mount socket. With this socket, paddlers can purchase a myriad of RAM accessories allowing one to attach a cell phone holder, camera mount, fishing gear, Go-Pro fixture or cup holders.
Forward Flex Control (FFC) stiffening rod on the two Elite racing models. Working in conjunction with the RSS Rocker Stiffening System fiberglass battens, nose flex is removed, ensuring an incredibly rigid ride while retaining the portability and storage advantages of an inflatable.
Beefed-up features on the Titan dual cylinder hand pump as well as an internal upgrade.
Foil lining on the wheeled backpack and integrated paddle holder.

Prices are generally remaining the same with some slight increases over 2016. (See a complete list of the new 2017 Red Paddle Co Line and new features 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 16-22 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, traction pads and fins.

All 2017 Red Paddle Co iSUPs 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. Most of the boards come with the Titan dual action pump; the two smaller Whip 8-10 and Snapper 9-4 boards – as

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New 2017 Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board SUP Lineup

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We recently received details on Red Paddle Company’s exciting new inflatable SUP lineup being introduced for 2017.

Well-known throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, the Red Paddle Co line has steadily gained traction in the US. Noted for their ruggedness and performance, each of the boards utilize high pressure drop-stitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 16-22 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, thick traction pads and fins.

For 2017, Red Paddle Co has 22 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10” to 22’0. This includes the introduction of 5 new models – Sport 11’3, Race 14’0, Dragon 22’0, Windsurf 10’7″ and Ride L – updated accessories, revamped graphics and added features on several of the current models. Prices are generally remaining the same with some slight increases over 2016.
2017 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP Construction

In 2016, Red Paddle introduced a technologically innovative new process named Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. In the past, the “board within a board” was glued together, creating extra weight and the potential for hand-gluing errors. The new process consisted of industrially fusing the second layer of polymer to the dropstitch core at the raw material stage. The end result was a material structurally more sound, even more rigid, as well as lighter – in fact, many of the MSL boards are now 5-10 lbs lighter than previous models. For 2017, Red Paddle again tweaked the material across the entire product line, making the injected, reinforced second layer thicker with increased bond strength.

Except for the boards featuring fixed fins (Rides, Snapper) the Reds with removable fins have been revamped with a fairly standard US Fin box which fits 90% of the fins on the market. Theses are divided into two types – the Sports, Explorers and Whip now feature FCS Connect Tool-less Fin Systems which quickly snap into position without need for hardware or tools. The racing boards (Elites, Races) come with a glass race fin.

New for 2017 is an integrated thread which allows one to add a universal RAM mount socket, available in two sizes. With this socket, paddlers can purchase a myriad of RAM mounts, allowing one to attach a cell phone holder, camera mount, fishing gear, Go-Pro fixture, cup holders – you name it! The RAM mount threads can be found on the recreational boards such as the Rides, Explorers, Snapper, Whip and Sports.

The big news is development of the Forward Flex Control (FFC) stiffening rod on the two Elite racing models. The patented FFC system works in conjunction with the current RSS Rocker Stiffening System fiberglass battens. Before fully inflating the board, the FFC rod is clipped to a mounting lever

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Save $200-$250 on a 2016 Red Paddle Co Sport Inflatable SUP

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Coastal Sports, the US and Canadian distributor for the global Red Paddle Co inflatable SUP line, has announced a Super Summer Sports Sale. Now through August 31st, a limited amount of the popular Red Paddle Co Sport 11 and Sport 12-6 models will be available with a whopping $200-$250 off coupon code.

Red Paddle Co is a UK-based company, rapidly becoming the leader in inflatable paddle boards. The Red Paddle Co line now features 17 models ranging in size from 8’11 to 14’0, covering surfing, racing and everything else in-between.
The Sports are the perfect bridge in Red Paddle Co’s 2016 line – great for gliding across bays, lakes, up rivers. The secret lies in their shape. The narrower, bullet shape and longer water line make the Sports zippier and better performing than the Rides. They cut through the water cleanly with better glide, while the squared off tail provides more stability. And they’re easier to inflate and carry around than the Explorers.
Both models feature the patented RSS Rocker Stiffening System. For 2016, the introduction of MSL (Monocoque Structural Laminate) fusion technology resulted in a higher-quality, high-pressure material utilizing less glue. That – coupled with screen-printed graphics and the low-profile, heat-pressed deck pads – culminated in a  lighter board that is slightly more rigid, yet is also easier to roll up.
Which Sport to choose? The Sport 11’0” – with its smaller air volume – offers fast inflation, more weight-savings and great flat-water performance for riders up to 200 lbs, while the Sport 12’6” is also suited to longer touring trips and can be used by larger riders up to 300 lbs.

Each of the Red Paddle Co Sport models come complete with the Red Paddle roller-wheel backpack, repair kit, instructions, deep water fin, RSS battens, cell phone case and special Red Paddle Co Titan hand pump with pressure gauge, which makes large volume inflation to 16-22 psi easier, leaving you more time to paddle.
As a bonus, AirKayaks is offering a free Accent Max adjustable breakdown SUP paddle, free UPS ground shipping in the lower 48 states, and no US sales tax!
To save $200, visit the 2016 Red Paddle Co Sport 11-0 product page at AirKayaks.com and use coupon code 11sportsale or 126sportsale for $250 savings on the Red Paddle Co Sport 12-6.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Adding D-Rings to an Inflatable Paddle Board

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We occasionally get questions on attaching d-rings to inflatable paddle boards. Recently, we had the opportunity to purchase preliminary, production-run 2016 AquaGlide Cascade 12-0 inflatable paddle boards.

As the first run did not include bungee deck lacing on the nose, we were able to make a special purchase on the boards, and AquaGlide supplied the deck lacing kits. While the standard AquaGlide Cascade 12-0 production boards retail for $999, the prototype version – without deck lacing but supplied with the deck lacing kit – sells for $699.
We used this opportunity as a learning tool to pass on our experience. While the following instructions are specific to the AquaGlide Cascade 12 prototypes, the method is fairly universal.
The included AquaGlide instructions make it sound pretty simple:
1) Locate where you want to put the d-rings.
2) Lightly clean the board, removing any printed graphics that might interfere with adhesion.
3) Apply adhesive to board and d-rings, twice.
4) Press down and let dry.

What’s included in the AquaGlide bungee lacing kit: 61 inches of bungee cording, instructions, 4 cloth d-rings on pads, HH-66 vinyl cement with cap brush. (Please note, while this kit is included with the AquaGlide prototype paddle board, it is not available as a separate purchase. You would need to source the d-rings, bungee and vinyl cement if you are planning on applying this to another board.)
What tools you will also need: Large piece of cardboard, pencil, ruler, small 1/2 inch stiff brush, small rag, solvent (see below), credit card or piece of stiff plastic to use as a “roller.”
The instructions direct you to place the center of the d-ring/pads 15″ apart front-to-back and 17″ apart side-to-side. While AquaGlide says the d-rings can be attached to the board inflated or deflated, we pumped the board up somewhat firm, to ensure that everything would be centered, using the following method.

Take one d-ring pad and find the center. To do this, measure the pad side-to-side and top-to-bottom marking the center each time. Then run a pencil mark each direction. The center of the included d-rings was just under 1.25 inches each dimension.
Cut a piece of cardboard to measure 15 inches by 17 inches.

Lay the cardboard across the empty bow of the board, with the 17″ inch side-to-side.  Move it around until it is in the position you want, making sure that it won’t be in the way of paddling. We positioned the end of cardboard 5.5 inches from the end of the deck pad. Then we measured the edge of the cardboard to the blue side rail until it was centered, in this case 2.75″ from the blue side rail on the nose side, and 5 1/8 inches from blue side rail on the deck pad side;

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: AquaGlide 2016 Cascade 11’0″ Inflatable Standup Paddle Board

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Last week, we received our new 2016 shipment of Aquaglide Cascade inflatable paddle boards consisting of three models ranging in size from 10 to 12 feet.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New Video: Red Paddle Co Sport 12’6″ Inflatable Paddle Board

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Watch our latest video on the Red Paddle Co Sport 12’6″ inflatable standup paddle board – a new model for 2016!
Featuring a 30-inch beam, 6-inch thickness and longer waterline, the Sport 12-6 is a great flat water cruiser. It’s fast, stable and sleek. Add in multiple d-rings, deck lacing and the RSS side batten system,and you have a board capable of carrying up to 300 lbs – perfect for longer touring and larger paddlers.
And with Red Paddle’s new MSL Fusion Technology, the Sport 12-6 is stiffer than ever, yet at a mere 24 lbs, light enough for smaller paddlers!
Comes with the dual-barrel Titan hand pump, and the Red Paddle Co roller-wheel back pack.

You can also read our Detailed Sport 12-6 Inflatable SUP Product Review  on set-up details, features and performance  For more info or to purchase, visit the Red Paddle Co Sport 12-6 Product Page at AirKayaks.com

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New Video: Red Paddle Co Explorer Plus 13’2″ Inflatable Paddle Board

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Watch our latest video on the Red Paddle Co Explorer 13’2″ inflatable standup paddle board – a new model for 2016!
Featuring a 30-inch beam, 6-inch thickness and long waterline, the Explorer Plus is a cruising workhorse. Multiple d-rings, plenty of deck lacing and the RSS side batten system make this a perfect “destination” board, capable of carrying up to 330 lbs. And with Red Paddle’s new MSL Fusion Technology, the Explorer Plus is stiffer than ever and weighs a mere 24 lbs!
Comes with the dual-barrel Titan hand pump, and the Red Paddle Co roller-wheel back pack.

You can also read our Detailed Explorer Plus 13-2 Inflatable SUP Product Review  on set-up details, features and performance  For more info or to purchase, visit the Red Paddle Co Explorer Plus 13-2 Product Page at AirKayaks.com

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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 >>