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Product Review: Newly Updated AE1017 Sport Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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In late spring 2016, we received our first shipments of the newly updated AE1017 Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport inflatable kayak – a stripped-down classic blending performance, price and simplicity. The kayaks now feature an integrated 1-PSI pressure relief valve in the floor bladder, enhanced high-backed seating, beefed-up graphics and redesigned hardware.

At that point we realized our previous write-up was several years ago and featured the Gen 1 version. So, we took the opportunity to also update our readers with details on the newly updated AdvancedFrame Sport AE1017, a 10’5″ inflatable weighing in at roughly 26 lbs with an MSRP of $449. (Please note: some of this will be repeated from prior reviews.)
Getting Started with the AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak
The box as received weighs 34.4 lbs, measuring 32 x 18 x 11 inches.

Inside, the rugged carrying case measures 30 x 18 x 10 inches, and houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit and instructions. The kayak folded size is approximately 30 x17 x 10 inches. The kayak body and seat in the case weighs 28 lbs, while the kayak and seat alone are 26 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 instructions are located in a small plastic pocket inside the carrying case.
AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak Setup/Inflation
We re-acquainted ourselves with the kayak by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc.

First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame Sport – 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 4 inflation chambers – one military valve 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 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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Coupling a Boston Valve Adaptor to a TwistLock Valve

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Have you ever stumbled across one of those pesky twistlock valves found on some inflatable kayaks, that can’t be used with an adaptor? If so, you were probably forced to do one of three things – have a buddy hold the valve over the twist lock; carefully negotiate holding the adaptor and twistlock together with one hand while pumping with the other; or give up and blow it up with your mouth.

One customer, Debbie Morris, send us the following nifty fix. According to Debbie, “My brother helped me solve the inflation problem with the small deck valves. We attached a cut piece of hose which fit perfectly over the valve. The Boston valve adapter from our pump fit inside the other end. No more trying to hold the attachment with one hand now. I have enclosed pictures.”

Utilizing a couple inches of flexible tubing with 3/4 inch (20mm) outer dimension and 5/8 inch (17mm) inner dimension, Debbie was able to fit each side over the Boston valve adaptor and twist lock valve, creating a good seal that allowed her to easily inflate her Innova Helios. The tubing can be found at many large home improvement and hardware stores.

Many thanks for the tip, Debbie!

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Updated AE1012 AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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We recently received our first shipments of the newly updated AE1012 Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak – a classic model blending performance, price and portability. Having paddled the AdvancedFrame through all iterations since 2002, we were interested to see some of the fine-tuned enhancements.

In 2015, Advanced Elements began a factory expansion, moving the production line to Indonesia. While plant construction was completed in the fall of 2015, the reopening took longer than anticipated, causing delays in spring 2016 production for several models. Despite stockpiling, huge customer demand caused the AdvancedFrame to be out of stock for nearly a year.
In late spring 2016, the first shipment of AdvancedFrame inflatable kayaks sailed into port, now featuring an integrated 1-PSI pressure relief valve in the floor bladder, enhanced high-backed seating, redesigned hardware and the addition of velcro paddle holders.
As our previous write-up was several years ago, we took the opportunity to also update our readers with details on the newly updated AdvancedFrame AE1012, a 10’5″ inflatable weighing in at roughly 34 to 35 lbs with an MSRP of $539. (Please note: some of this will be repeated from prior reviews.)
Getting Started with the AdvancedFrame Kayak

The box as received weighs 41 lbs, measuring 32 x 19 x 11 inches. Inside, the rugged carrying case measures 32 x 18 x 10 inches, and houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit and instructions. The kayak folded size is approximately 30 x17 x 10 inches. 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 Kayak Setup/Inflation
We re-acquainted ourselves with the kayak by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc.

First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame 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 7 inflation chambers – two military valves and 5 twist-loks. The military-style plunger valves are simple to use – twist one way to inflate and the other to deflate.

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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 2017 Red Paddle Co Elite Inflatable Racing Boards with FFC

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Red Paddle Co recently unveiled their exciting 2017 product line of inflatable paddle boards at Salt Lake City’s Outdoor Retailer Show.

New for 2017 is the revolutionary Forward Flex Control (FFC) stiffening rod, a patented system designed to give Red Paddle’s Elite race boards even more rigidity, ensuring a competitive edge.

The current Elite boards feature the innovative, patented Rocker Stiffening System (RSS) utilizing removable fiberglass battens which stiffen the side rails of the boards.

The additional FFC rod works in conjuntion with the RSS system. Before fully inflating the board and inserting the RSS battens, the FFC rod is clipped to a mounting lever near the top of the deckpad and put under compression, stiffening the board from midpoint to nose.

The new FFC system is part of Red Paddle’s racing development program. With the RSS and FFC systems, nose flex is removed, ensuring an incredibly rigid ride while retaining the portability and storage advantages of an inflatable. By removing nose flex on the board, the Elites become some of the fastest inflatables on the water.

The new 2017 Elite FFC racing boards – available in 12’6″ and 14’0″ sizes with an updated 25 inch width – should be arriving in late 2016. MSRP is $1629 and $1799 respectively. For details, watch the Red Paddle Co product pages on AirKayaks.com, or ask to get on the Notification List.

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 >>

Sneak Preview: StraitEdge Angler Pro Inflatable Fishing Kayak from Advanced Elements

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This week’s Outdoor Retailer Summer Market features a whopping arena of more than 1600 sporting goods manufacturers unveiling their 2017 product lines.

At Open Air Demo day, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California showcased the new 10′ 6″ StraitEdge Angler Pro, a high-pressure inflatable kayak focused on fishing and comfort.
Designed around the needs of kayak anglers, the wide beam and high-pressure drop stitch floor technology provide maximum stability when casting or bringing in big catches.

The 4-6 PSI drop stitch floor – in conjunction with the wider 38.5 inch beam – provides enough rigidity to stand. The floor is covered with a traction pad for protection and grip, allowing one to fully and easily move around.
Tired of standing? The adjustable AirFrame Pro seat features a folding, anodized aluminum frame with removable fabric cover and mesh back. The seat allows one to sit up a few inches higher; the seat back can be adjusted to find that perfect recline position, or can be folded back to allow more interior room.
Two accessory rail systems allow one to add optional 1-inch rail mounts – these can be customized with fish finders, fishing rod holders, GPS mounts and more.

Other features include an integrated ruler printed on the floor, stainless steel d-rings, bungee deck lacing, paddle holders. Replete with a removable, deep water, tracking fin, the integrated US style fin box can also be used in conjunction with the Current Drives Electrafin, providing battery-powered mobility.
Specifications:

Model AE1055
Color: Sage/Gray
Dimensions: 10’6″ long, 38.5 inches wide
Weight: 45 lbs with seats.
Max payload: One person with gear 400 lbs
Inflation Chambers: 5
Folded size: 32 x 18 x 11

The StraitEdge Angler Pro comes with carrying case with shoulder straps, AirFrame Pro seat, drop stitch floor, 2 accessory frames, removable fin, repair kit, instructions. MSRP $999. Available spring of 2017.

The StraitEdge Angler Pro joins the current AE1006-ANG StraitEdge Angler, a stripped down version for those fishing folk who don’t need all the “bells and whistles.” MSRP $729.
For further details, watch the Advanced Elements product pages at AirKayaks.com. Or contact us to get on the Notification List.
You can also watch a video posted by Kayak Angler Magazine from Outdoor Retailer Demo Day, below. This also shows the StraitEdge Angler Pro with the motorized Current Drives ElectraFin.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sale! Save up to $800 on 2015 Red Paddle Co Elite 14-0 Inflatable SUP Boards

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AirKayaks is pleased to announce a special purchase of remaining 2015 Red Paddle Co inflatable racing paddle boards – all Elite 14-0 models are now just $999.

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 to 25 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, thick traction pads and fins. Each board comes with the Red Paddle Titan pump, allowing one to inflate a paddle board to 20 PSI in less than 10 minutes.
 
Now is your chance to get one of the best inflatable racing SUPs on the market. Original price on the Elite 14-0 was $1799, a savings of $800. Check out the remaining available 2015 inventory on the Red Paddle Co product pages on AirKayaks.com – but don’t hesitate. When they’re gone …. they’re gone. Airkayaks also has a limited amount of Red Paddle Co Race 12-6 models at the same price.
Savings of $800 with free shipping in the continental US and no tax – what are you waiting for!

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Compact Innova Helios 2 Inflatable Kayak

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This past week we had the opportunity to take our first look at the Innova Helios 2 inflatable kayak – a two person kayak with integrated decks providing expanded storage options.

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. In Europe, a similar line is marketed under the name Gumotex.
We previously published our review on the single version Innova Helios 1. So here is our write-up on the the Innova Helios 2 inflatable tandem kayak, which weighs 36 lbs in the pack, is 12’6″ inches in length and has a payload of 396 lbs for two persons and gear. (Please note: some of the information will be duplicated from other Innova reviews).
Getting Started with the Innova Helios 2
The box as received is surprisingly small – only 25 x 16 x 11 inches – and weighing in at 38 lbs.

Inside is a very nifty and compact backpack with adjustable shoulder straps, front pouch pocket and roll top closure. This contains the kayak body, foot rests, repair kit, instructions, valve adaptor and sponge. At only 36 lbs for the pack and contents, the Helios 2 is small enough to be considered carry-on luggage, and will fit in an airplane overhead bin. Packed dimensions are 22 x 15 x 9 inches as received in the bag.
Helios 2 Setup/Inflatation
We read through the included instruction manuals. Just like all the other Innova  products, the Innova Helios manual is surprisingly detailed in some aspects, while lacking in others. As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations and can sound more complicated than it actually is.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body. What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated – of course, this makes it quite compact for travel.

The Helios 2 has a “shoe” for those using an optional tracking fin. (Please note: both Helios kayaks do not come with the tracking fin, though we tested the following Helios 2 with one.) Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. Slip the end with the larger slot in first, making sure that the fin is pointing towards the “back” of the kayak. This enables it to slide in enough to fit in the second side. The first time we tried this, we struggled for a few minutes to get the second slot into position; this gets easier with use. (AirKayaks note: The second time we installed the fin, the kayak was wet and it was much simpler. According to Innova, utilizing McNett UV Tech also helps initially, but after

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Innova Twist LN Inflatable Kayak – only 18 lbs.

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As mentioned in prior posts, we received our first shipment of the newly-updated Innova Twist and Swing inflatable kayaks for 2016.
Made in the Czech Republic, the Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Light Nitrilon (LN), a lighterweight 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.

New features also include improved seating and beefed up foot brace. The new seating arrangement is removable and inflatable, making it easier to reposition the paddling location, optimizing paddling performance and comfort.
This week we had the first opportunity to take out the  revamped Innova Twist LN, an 8 foot 6-inch inflatable weighing a mere 18 lbs (including seat and foot brace) with a selling price of $449.
Please note: Some of this information will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Innova Twist: Getting Started
The box as received measures 22 x 16 x 10 inches, weighing in at 20 lbs.

Inside is the Twist LN body, cinch strap, multiple instruction sheets, tracking fin, foot rest, repair kit, seat, bilge sponge and valve adaptor. The Twist LN body with seat and brace weighs 18 lbs with a folded size of 20 x 15 x 78. AirKayaks note: While the instructions say the Twist LN comes with a drawstring carrying sack, these were not included in the first shipments. The bags are currently being shipped over and will be added to the boxes.
Innova Twist Setup/Inflatation
We read through the included instruction manuals. As with all the Innova manuals to date, the instructions are quite detailed – there is one instruction sheet for fin installation, one for utilizing the valves, and another on the kayak in general. Most include IKEA-style graphics which are occasionally just short of a brain twister, and while some steps are dauntingly detailed, some are not mentioned.  As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body. What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated.

Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. The Twist LN utilizes a single fin with double slots. Slip the end with the larger slot in first, making sure that the fin is pointing towards the “back” of the kayak. This enables it to slide in enough to fit in the second slot.

While the first time can be a struggle to get the back side into position, after a couple of rounds it becomes quite easy. Pull up on the fin to ensure you have a good fit.
Attach the foot brace (this

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Innova Swing 1 LN High-Pressure PVC-Free Inflatable Kayak

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In May we received our first shipment of the newly-updated Innova Twist LN and Swing LN inflatable kayaks for 2016. Made in the Czech Republic, the new Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Light Nitrilon (LN), a lighterweight 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.

Other new features on the Swing LN include an improved coaming area which can take optional redesigned spray skirts.
This week we had the first opportunity to take out the revamped Innova Swing I LN, a 10 foot 4-inch one-person inflatable weighing a mere 22 lbs (including seat and foot brace) with a selling price of $599.
Please note: Some of this information will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Getting Started with the Innova Swing I LN Inflatable Kayak
The box as received weighs 26 lbs with dimensions of 29 x 16 x 12 inches.

Inside is the Swing I LN body – neatly folded with a cinch strap – multiple instruction sheets, 2 metal insertion bars, tracking fin, seat, foot rest, repair kit, sponge, and valve adaptor. At 23 lbs for the combined package with accessories, and a folded size of 25 x 16 x 11 inches, the Swing I LN is small enough to fit inside plane overhead cargo bins.
Innova Swing LN Setup/Inflation
The main instruction manual covers set-up for both the Swing I LN and Swing II LN kayaks, thus there will be overlap in both of our write-ups. As with all the Innova manuals to-date, the instructions are quite detailed – there is one instruction sheet for fin installation, one for utilizing the valves, and another on the kayak in general; the Swing has added instructions detailing the “insertion bars.” Most include IKEA-style graphics which are occasionally mind-boggling and while some steps are dauntingly detailed, some are not mentioned.  As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body. What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated. Ascertain which is the bow and which is the stern; while the instruction manual says the stern has the Innova logo, the logo and the floor valves are located at the front of the kayak.

Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. The Swing I LN utilizes a single fin with double slots.

Slip the end with the larger slot in first, making sure that the fin is pointing towards the “back” of the kayak. This enables it to slide in enough to fit in the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>