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Product Review: Aire Tributary Sawtooth Inflatable Tandem Kayak

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Well-known in the paddling world for top-notch quality, Aire has been manufacturing high-end inflatable rafts and kayaks out of their plant in Idaho for over 25 years ago. With the increased interest in inflatables, Aire introduced their Tributary line, an economical version made overseas, nearly 14 years ago. The Tributary models offer great value for those on a budget or unwilling to make a large investment; these include the Strikes, Sawtooth and Tomcat kayaks as well as several rafts.

This week we had the first opportunity to take out the Aire Tributary Sawtooth, a 13 foot 3-inch two-person inflatable weighing 35 lbs with a price of $749.
Aire Tributary Sawtooth Inflatable Tandem Kayak: Getting Started
The box as received measures 25 x 22 x 12 inches, weighing in at 40 lbs.

Inside is the Sawtooth body, two inflatable seats, removable tracking fin, instructions and repair kit with adaptor, adaptor tube, wrench and patch material (including some TearAid) but does not come with a carrying case.The Sawtooth body alone weighs 31 lbs; each seat weighs 1.7 lbs for a total of 35 lbs with fin. The folded body measures roughly 26 x 18 x 10 inches.
Aire Tributary Sawtooth 2 Setup/Inflatation

We read through the included instruction manual. First step, unfold the kayak body. Then pump up the main chambers until softly filled.

The Aire Tributary Sawtooth features three main inflation chambers utilizing Summit II military valves – one for the floor and one for each side. The military-style plunger valve is simple to use – with your finger, twist the plunger slightly to the “up” position to inflate (air goes in but doesn’t come back out) and “down” to deflate (air comes out). Please note – the military valve push pins can sometimes deceptively look as if they are UP when actually in the deflate mode. When this happens, as soon as you remove the pump adaptor all the air will swoosh out. So, make sure they are truly popped up. On the positive side, this is so easy to pump up, it’s not a big issue.

Locate the military valve adaptor in the repair kit. The Sawtooth does not come with a pump, but the adaptor allows one to use the Boston valve conical adaptor found on most pumps. To couple the Sawtooth adaptor with the Boston valve adaptor, Aire has included a two-inch clear plastic tube. Insert the end of the Sawtooth adaptor into one side of the clear tube, and then insert the Boston valve adaptor onto the other side, via friction fit. Lock the Aire adaptor onto the military valve with a slight twist. Since the Sawtooth main chambers are inflated to 2.5 PSI, it is helpful to use a pump with pressure gauge

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Innova’s New 2017 Inflatable Kayak and Canoe Lineup

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The year 2016 brought some major changes to the US-based Innova kayak product line, when the company and assets were acquired by Gumotex, Innova’s parent company.

For decades, Gumotex has been known in Europe as a manufacturer of high-quality inflatable kayaks and canoes that can be inflated to 3-PSI, making them more rigid for better performance. With the transfer of assets, Gumotex committed to bringing more models into the US in conjunction with a fresh look to the Innova product line.

The first step in 2016 included updates to the Innova Twist and Swing inflatable kayaks. The Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Light Nitrilon (LN), a lighter-weight version of the rugged material used in the traditional Innova Sunny, Helios and Safari models. Light Nitrilon is known for making the kayaks more rigid as well as water and abrasion resistant, without substantially increasing weight. It’s also PVC-free, thus environmentally friendly. Additionally, the Twist line was redesigned with removable, adjustable seating.

For 2017, more design changes, color choices, lower prices and new models are in transit, including new options for 1-2+ paddlers. The popular Swing I/II and Twist I/II will be available in green and grey as well as the traditional black and red. The Swing EX has been redesigned with Light Nitrilon construction, but remains in the one green color. The Swings now also come with a soft, carrying sack similar to the Twists.
Two “new” models – Seawave and Alfonso – have been available in Europe, but will now enter the US/Canada market.
The Innova Seawave is a 14’9″ touring kayak  for 1-2+ paddlers with the option to attach single and double decks for protection from the elements, as well as adding a third seat. At a mere 29 lbs, the Seawave is super-lightweight with a 31″ beam and constructed from Nitrilon. MSRP $999.

The Innova Alfonso is an inflatable fishing boat for up to three persons, also constructed from Nitrilon. At 14’1″ and a wide beam of 49″, the Alfonso weighs 75 lbs with plenty of room for gear. A built-in transom allows one to use a small motor. MSRP $1599.
Three other models sport a redesign – the Solar, Safari and Vagabond.

Similar in styling to the original Sunny, the new Innova Solar 410C is a 13’5″ recreational kayak for 1-2+ paddlers – with the ability to add an optional third seat. Constructed from Nitrylon, the 37 lb kayak has a weight capacity of 595 lbs. It’s a great choice for calm waters, rivers and bays. The Solar 410C comes in a choice of red or green colors. MSRP $749.

The updated Safari 330C is now 8 inches longer (10’8″) with a wider 31 inch beam. The Safari features self-bailing ports and comes with

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: AquaGlide Blackfoot Angler HB SL Inflatable Fishing Kayak

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Our third video in the AquaGlide Blackfoot series features the Blackfoot Angler HB SL – an 11 foot inflatable fishing kayak capable of carrying up to 400 lbs of paddler and gear.
At 32 lbs, the Blackfoot sports a streamlined silhouette and piercing bow, providing good tracking and glide. Integrated Scotty mounts, bungee deck lacing and multiple tie-downs allow one to attach favorite angling gear.
A high-pressure floor and wide beam provide stability and rigidity, while the seat can easily be moved to accommodate kayakers of many sizes. Includes a backpack, allowing one to easily store it in the trunk of a car, a closet or RV, and bring it along on vacations.
It’s perfect for slow moving rivers, lakes, choppy waters, ocean coastlines and mild rapids.
 

For more information, read our Detailed Product Review on the Blackfoot Angler SL, or visit the Blackfoot product pages on AirKayaks.com.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: AquaGlide Blackfoot HB Angler XL Inflatable Fishing Kayak

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The next video in our AquaGlide inflatable kayak series on the 13-foot Blackfoot HB Angler XL. With a payload of 600 lbs, the Blackfoot XL is a versatile fishing machine, perfect for one angler needing plenty of room for gear, but spacious enough for two paddlers out for a day of fun.
Integrated Scotty mounts, bungee deck lacing, removable fishing cooler and numerous tie-downs allow one to attach your favorite angling or camping gear. A high-pressure floor and wider beam provides the stability and rigidity to easily stand up.
Paddling comfort is enhanced with the adjustable Core fishing seat mounted on a removable, raised platform for a higher seating position. The seat can easily be moved to accommodate kayakers of varying sizes. Add an optional second seat to take along a second person.
With a streamlined silhouette and longer waterline, the Blackfoot provides great tracking and glide, allowing one to cover long distances.
Best of all, it rolls up into the included backpack, making it a great choice for camping, RVs, closet storage and travel!

Also read our in-depth review on the AquaGlide Blackfoot Angler HB XL inflatable kayak with details on setup, performance and features.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: Innova Twist 1 LN Inflatable Kayak for Solo Paddling

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Watch our latest video on the Innova Twist 1 LN inflatable kayak, updated for 2017!
The Innova Twist 1 LN is a PVC-free, environmentally-friendly option for solo paddling. And at a mere 18 lbs, it folds into a small package making it a perfectly portable kayaking option – great for RV’s, camping, backpacking and vacation travel. The 8.5 foot length is great for small and medium-sized paddlers, still leaving plenty of room for gear.
And now featuring a lower price-point of $399!

Need more info? Read our Detailed Product Review on the Innova Twist 1 LN, outlining product setup, features, specifications and performance.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: AquaGlide’s Blackfoot Angler 11’0″ Inflatable Paddle Board

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Check out the features, setup, specifications and performance on the Blackfoot Angler 11’0″ Inflatable SUP from AquaGlide in our latest YouTube video.
The Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler is a winner – a versatile paddle board designed for the sportsperson.  Numerous attachment points – such as integrated Scotty mounts, multiple d-rings and two sets of bungee deck lacing – add up to a rugged workhorse that can carry an arsenal up to 450 lbs. Yet, strip it down and it’s a great workout machine. Roll it up into the included backpack, and you can easily toss it in the trunk of a car, an RV or a closet – great for vacations and travel!

Need more info? Read our Detailed Product Review on the Blackfoot Angler SUP or visit the product page at AirKayaks.com.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: Innova Twist 2 LN Inflatable Kayak for 1-2 Paddlers

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Watch our latest video on the Innova Twist 2 LN inflatable kayak, updated for 2017!
The Innova Twist 2 LN is a PVC-free, environmentally-friendly tandem option. And at 26 lbs, it’s one of the lightest tandems on the market – great for travel, RV’s, camping, backpacking and vacation travel – while the near 12 foot length is great for two paddlers, adult with child/dog, or one paddler with plenty of room for gear.
And now featuring a lower price-point of $519!

 
Need more info? Read our Detailed Product Review on the Innova Twist 2 LN, outlining product setup, features, specifications and performance.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Salvaging a Late Christmas Gift – What to do if it won’t arrive by the holiday.

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Despite all the good intentions, often-times your perfect Christmas present won’t arrive in time to put under the tree! There are a myriad of reasons – out-of-stock, longer-then-expected shipping times, procrastination or a combination of errors – but it happens.
As an online retailer, this time of year we – at AirKayaks – field the “will-it-be-here-before-Christmas” question often! Here a a few ideas that can turn a potential disaster into a positive experience, ranging from basic to creative – each with an increasing amount of effort.

The No-Frills Approach
As stated! Print off a photo/spec sheet of the item you’ve purchased (color copy is best), put it in an envelope or box with approximate delivery time, and wrap it up just like any other present. If you want to take this a little farther, pick up a little item at a local store that is associated with the item purchase, for something “tangible.” Also works well for gift certificates.
The Tiered Approach
1) Pick up a number of boxes in varying sizes – large to small. Sometimes, the bigger range size you have, the better. Stock up on wrapping paper, ribbon and tape.
2) Print off a photo/spec sheet of the item you’ve purchased, put it in an envelope or smallest box with approximated delivery time, and wrap it up just like any other present.
3) Put THAT box inside the next larger box, and wrap that up. You can also include some type of weight to make it more interesting, as well as a note – “Oops! Forgot there was another box.”
4) Continue wrapping each box inside a larger box until you’re all done. Put that under the tree. Dialog throughout the unwrapping process also works, if you’re there.
The “Let’s Make A Deal” Approach
This entails a little more thought and effort, but can be quite fun and REALLY take the ultimate pressure off.
1) Pick up several (6 or more) boxes and wrapping paper.
2) Print off a photo/spec sheet of the item you’ve purchased, put it in an envelope or small box with approximate delivery time and place a note on it saying, YOU WON. Wrap it up just like any other present in one of the standard boxes.  Mark it 6.
3) Inside three of the boxes, put in a note and say “Sorry, wrong box!” Wrap them up and mark them 1, 2 and 3. You can put a stone or something inside for interest.
4) Take two more boxes and do the same thing, with a note like “Wrong again. Mark them 4 and 5.
For the approach, place out boxes 1, 2 and 3 and ask them which box they want. Having someone sing the jingle to Jeopardy works well for background. No matter which one

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

20% Off Kokopelli Packrafts thru 11/28

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Avid backpacker and kayaker? Now is the time to pick up a Kokopelli Packraft at discounts up to $200.

Now through Monday 11/28, AirKayaks has all in-stock Kokopelli packrafts on holiday sale up to 20% off.
Weighing only 7 to 14 lbs, the Kokopelli series features rugged self-bailing and spray deck models, as well as a two-person touring version. Start shopping!
See our other big holiday sales on inflatable kayaks and paddle boards on our AirKayaks Specials and Promos page.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2016 Guide to 12 Cool Paddling Gifts Under $25

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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 2016 Guide to 12 Cool Gift Ideas under $25 – guaranteed to please a variety of water enthusiasts without breaking your budget. (Please note: This blog was updated on Nov. 7, 2016)

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)  TearAid Type B Repair Tape for PVC Inflatables – $9.95
Quickly repair your PVC inflatable kayak bladder or other PVC products with this flexible, airtight, waterproof patch – just peel and stick!

3) Chinook 20-Liter Rolltop Dry Bag – $13.95
Economical dry storage in a 20 liter size, perfect for small items. Measures 9.5 by 18 inches with top rolled up.
 
 
 

4) Seattle Sports Emerse Waterproof Padded Cell Phone Case – $15.95
Protect and use your larger cell phone and valuables while on the water – text, call and access APPS right through the case! The E-Merse Padded Cell Phone Waterproof Case from Seattle Sports offers maximum, submersible, waterproof protection for your electronics – up to 10 feet when properly closed – while the padded back side provides shock protection and flotation.

5) 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

6) 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.
7) Dry Doc PVC-Free GPS Chart Case from Seattle Sports – $19.95
Keep your charts, trail maps, phone, or GPS dry and conveniently accessible. This tri-fold case features 2 separate dry pockets: one for maps and charts, and one for your home phone or GPS. Ziploc style closures offer quick and easy access to both. Use your GPS or phone right through the case. And it’s environmentally-friendly!
8) Jobe Paddle Board Ankle

Original Source: AirKayaks >>