Tag Archives: airkayak

New 2016 Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board SUP Lineup

We recently received details on Red Paddle Company’s exciting new inflatable SUP lineup being introduced for 2016.
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 Red Air boards utilize high pressure drop-stitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 15-25 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, thick traction pads and fins.
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. Prices are generally remaining the same as in 2015.

The major change for 2016 is the introduction of a technologically innovative new process named Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. Standard dropstitch construction consists of time-consuming hand-gluing of layers, potentially resulting in uneven glue application causing air leakages and bubbling. This innovative new technology involves fusing a second layer of polymer to the drop-stitch material in the raw material stage, reducing human errors. The end result is a higher-quality, high-pressure material utilizing less glue; this 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.
Many of the deck pads have undergone a redesign, now comprised of machine-pressed, thermosealed, low-relief finishes, utilizing less glue thus decreasing air bubbles. While most feature the “crocodile” finish deck pads, all boards needing extra grip also include a diamond pattern.
Additional tweaks include stainless steel d-rings for deck tie-downs and updated 6.75″ US fin boxes on models utilizing removable fins. Carrying handles are now softer, with several models featuring an additional rear carry handle with integrated d-ring loop.

One of the new models is the introduction of the 13′ 2″ Explorer Plus, a streamlined expedition board with a longer waterline. While sharing many similarities to the popular Explorer 12-6, the 13′-2 Plus boasts a slimmer, 30-inch beam with squared-off tail for stability. Extended bungee deck-lacing, multiple d-rings, 5 carrying handles and grip spots make this a great choice for longer excursions or situations where carrying capacity and performance are required. Carrying capacity 330 lbs, weight 24 lbs. MSRP $1649. The current Explorer 12-6 remains virtually the same with an added rear handle and updated graphics but now with a lower weight of 25 lbs. MSRP $1599.

At the opposite side of the spectrum, the new Whip 8-10 replaces the Surfstar 9-2. With a wide nose, narrow tail, a slimmer beam, the RSS batten system and removable

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New Halibut Inflatable Fishing Kayak from Innova

Innova Kayaks, Inc of Burlington, Washington recently announced the latest addition to the Innova inflatable kayak line – the Halibut, a 3 PSI fishing model.

At 12-feet 4-inches in length, with a 38-inch width and capacity of 440 lbs, the Halibut is a rugged, stable, angling model with a myriad of gear attachment options.
Feature-rich details include rod holder and fish finder mounts, tracking fin and stripping deck. High pressure floor boards and an inflatable, high seat chair allow the option of standing or sitting. Other amenities include integrated splash decks, drink holders, anchor line and paddle rests (paddle not included).

Like its siblings, the Helios, Safari and Sunny, the Halibut is made from an environmentally-friendly, 1200 denier rubber-coated laminate material called Nitrylon – this consists of a synthetic rubber coating over polyester on the inside and outside of the tube.
Nitrylon 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. Each of the kayaks are handmade in the Czech Republic.

Weighing in at 46 lbs, the Halibut still packs down to a smaller size of 28 x 18 x 12 inches. MSRP: $1499.
Stay tuned. The Innova Halibut should be available in spring, 2016. For upcoming details, watch the Innova Product Pages section at www.AirKayaks.com or contact us to get on the notification list.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New AE1044 AdvancedFrame DS-XL Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

We continue with our reviews on the new Advanced Elements AE1044DS™ series of kayaks.
As previously mentioned, two years ago, AirKayaks introduced the specially-packaged, high-pressure AdvancedFrame DS series™ of kayaks from Advanced Elements. Featuring the same high quality construction and materials as the standard AE1012 AdvancedFrame and AE1007 Convertible, the DS Series™ was bundled with upgraded accessories to enhance performance and comfort.

This past year, AirKayaks worked with the designers at Advanced Elements, to introduce the next generation in the DS Series – the AdvancedFrame AE1044 DS-XL™* and DS-XLC™*.
The new DS-XL series is an elongated version of the classic AE1012 AdvancedFrame. With an additional 5 inches in length and an adjustable foot peg, the kayaks are comfortable enough for both taller and smaller paddlers. The longer, streamlined body – in conjunction with the high pressure floor – provides better tracking, higher payload capacity and increased glide with minimal increase in weight.
We grabbed two from the limited supply that initially arrived. Our first review focused on the AE1044 AdvancedFrame DS-XLC (Cover). The XLC kayak features a zip-on deck with storage options, allowing paddlers the flexibility of paddling an open style design for easy entry, or a closed deck design which can take an optional spray skirt.

We now turn to the AdvancedFrame AE1044DS-XL, a 10′ 10″ inflatable with fixed deck, weighing in at 35 lbs. in the carrying case. Please note, some of this information will be repeated from previous writeups.
AdvancedFrame DS-XL Setup/Inflatation
We unpacked the boxes and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, carrying case, instructions, repair kit, foot brace, double action pump with gauge, and high-back lumbar seat.

The kayak with seat, floor and brace weighs 35 lbs, or 39 lbs in the bag with the pump. Bag measurements are approximately 32 x 19 x 10 inches. The kayak box as arrived weighs 40 lbs, measuring 33 x 21 x 10 inches. The dropstitch (DS) floor weighs 5 lbs and comes in a second box with adaptor – the DS floor utilizes the same repair kit as included with the kayak.
(AirKayaks Side note #1: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded. This is probably the most overlooked step and it is VERY helpful when trying to get the kayak back into the bag.)
Set up is straight-forward and simple  – unpack, unfold, inflate. The DS XL Series will have two sets of instructions – one can be found in the inner side pocket of the carrying case. This details the basic kayak instructions for inflation, deflation and folding. A second set of instructions is included in the dropstitch floor repair kit package, and details the floor inflation. TIP: Attach the floor instructions

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

AirKayaks Steals and Deals on Closeout Inflatable Paddle Boards

It’s the end of the summer season at AirKayaks, and we’re making way for new 2016 inflatable paddle board models. This is the perfect time to grab a hot deal, plan for an upcoming winter escape, or pick up some great holiday gifts – with prices as low as $499!
AirKayaks currently has some special purchases and deals on inflatable paddle boards and gear – but act soon, they’re going fast!
Inflatable Paddle Board Deals

10 to 20% off 2015 Red Paddle Co inflatable SUPS. This is a great time to get one of the world’s best selling paddle boards – but the inventory is quickly dwindling! Now starting at $1039 with free paddle! Those looking for even bigger discounts should check out the remaining 2014 Allwater 9-6 and Surfer 10-0 boards, now $899 with free paddle!

End-of-season closeout out on C4 Waterman inflatable paddle boards. Special pricing on remaining C4 Waterman 2015 models – all boards now $899 and $999 with a free paddle! While supplies last.

Sale on AquaGlide 2015 Cascades! Great discounts on remaining 2015 model Cascade 10-0 inflatable paddle boards, originally $699, now only $499. Think gifts!

Jobe 2014 Inflatable SUP Packages. The Aero 11-6 and Aero 12-6 complete SUP packages are now only $699 and $799, with paddle, pump, backpack and ankle leash – everything you need to get on the water.

Mistral Inflatable SUPs. The world’s lightest inflatable SUPs are now $300 off! Starting at only 15 lbs, the Mistral Crossover and Equipes feature a revolutionary new drop stitch material, making them up to 20% to 40% lighter than comparable-sized boards. Free paddle with purchase.

Inventory closeout on Mistral Kailua and Adventure 10-5 and Adventure 11-5 inflatable SUPs. These are great all-round boards, now $999 with free paddle!

20% off JP-Australia Inflatable SUPs. Big savings on all 2015 JP-Australia inflatable paddle boards – AllAround Airs, CruisAirs, and Sportstair boards and WindSUPs. Now starting at $1039. We have a few remaining 2014 CruisAir 11-4 and SportstAir 12-6 boards, now only $899 with free paddle.
Special purchases on inflatable SUP gear

Cosmetic blemish Accent Moxie Carbon breakdown paddle. Originally $189, now $139. Available in 72-80 inch length.

Accent MAX Fiberglass Kryptonite breakdown paddles. Originally $159, now $119. Available in 74-82 inch length, or 78-86 inch lengths.

Red Paddle Aluminum 3 pc breakdown SUP paddles, originally $139 now $111. Breakdown length 67-83 inches.

Seattle Sports SUPSTOW ankle leash/fanny pack combo, orginally $49 now $29.
Also check out our list of demo inflatable SUP models and paddling accessories on the AirKayaks.com website!

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sale! Up to 20% OFF 2015 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP Boards

AirKayaks is pleased to announce a special purchase of remaining 2015 Red Paddle Co Red Air inflatable paddle boards, now 10% to 20% off.

Well-known for their ruggedness throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, each of the Red Air 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 HP EZee or Titan pump, allowing one to inflate a paddle board to 20 PSI in less than 10 minutes.

In anticipation of the new product line for 2016 – expected to hit the market in early December – AirKayaks is clearing out the inventory. Now is your chance to get one of the best inflatable SUPs on the market, with prices ranging from $879 to $1439. The incredibly popular Ride 10-6 is now $1169, the 10-8 Ride WindSup is now $1159, while the Race 12-6 is at an all-time low of $1299. Those interested in further savings can pick up the few remaining 2014 Allwater 9-6 or Surfer 10-0 inflatable paddle boards for $899!
If that isn’t enough, AirKayaks is throwing in a free adjustable, breakdown SUP paddle. Check out the remaining available inventory on the Red Paddle Co product pages on AirKayaks.com – but don’t hesitate. When they’re gone …. they’re gone.
Can’t decide? Check out our “Guide to Choosing Your 2015 Red Air Inflatable Paddle Board.”
Up to 20% off, free paddle, free shipping in the continental US and no tax – what are you waiting for!

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

AquaGlide 2016 Inflatable Kayak & Paddle Board Product Line

Now entering the third season as a manufacturer of inflatable kayaks, AquaGlide’s paddling line has dramatically expanded the options available to water enthusiasts looking for portability.
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.

Unveiled at last month’s Outdoor Retailer show, the new 2016 Aquaglide inflatable kayak and paddle board product line has expanded to 22 models – including 2 new kayaks, one new angler SUP and 3 paddle board redesigns – with MSRP pricing from $199.95 to $1099.95.

Biggest news is AquaGlide’s expanded Blackfoot line which targets the popular sport of kayak fishing. Two new models – the 10′ 6″ Blackfoot HB Angler SL inflatable kayak and 11′ 6″ Blackfoot ISUP – are joining the current 12′ 8″ Blackfoot HB Angler XL inflatable kayak for one or two paddlers. (Image above features the 10-6 Blackfoot, while the image below shows the current 12-8 Blackfoot.)

Designed with the angler in mind, the two Blackfoot HB inflatable kayaks now include both a single model, and one for 1-2 paddlers. Each features a 6 PSI high-pressure floor. The current 12′ 8 BlackFoot HB can easily be switched from solo to tandem paddling, with a street price $999. The new 10′ 6″ Blackfoot HB Angler SL is a scaled-down version for one paddler, with a lower pricepoint of $799. Both are fishing feature-rich, with integrated Scotty mounts and rod holders.

The new BlackFoot Angler inflatable paddle board is a rugged 11′ 6″ model focused on fishing. With a wider 34 inch beam, beefy 6-inch thickness, integrated Scotty mounts, d-rings and bungee decklacing, the BlackFoot iSUP is guaranteed to comfortably carry an arsenal of fishing gear while providing the stability needed for stand-up fly fishing. Street price is $999.
See our recent Blackfoot Series Sneak Preview for more details on all three models.

On the SUP side, the Cascade inflatable standup paddle board series has undergone a major facelift and overhaul. The Cascades for 2016 feature redesigned graphics now in 10-0, 11-0 and 12-0 sizes with a 32-inch width, 6-inch thickness, higher-density dropstitch material and a longer fin box.

A new Bravo slim-barrel high-pressure pump with aluminum shaft and pressure gauge is now standard with each of the SUPs.

The current backpack has been replaced with an upgraded Crossover DLX Pack – constructed from a 600 denier polyester/PVC laminate, the pack has been redesigned for long distance travel. This comes as standard equipment with each of the inflatable SUPs.

The DLX Pack is joined by the Crossover Roller Pack, a beefed-up backpack with hidden straps and roller

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New 2016 Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayak & Paddle Board Lineup

At the recent Outdoor Retailer Show held in August, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California unveiled their 2016 product line of inflatable kayaks, SUPs and paddling gear.

The Advanced Elements 2016 lineup features one new model, redesigns on four others, and the inclusion of three 2015 prototype models. Beginning in January 2016, pricing on several kayak models will increase 2% to 9% due to higher material, manufacturing and shipping costs.

The current 11-0 Fishbone inflatable paddle board will be joined by the new Fishbone EX – a 12-6 version with a 30 inch beam and 6 inch thickness. Max payload is 300 lbs, giving it the ability to fit one or two paddlers. Retail price will be $1199. All current inflatable paddle board models – Hula 11, Hula 8, Fishbone, Lotus YSup and Stiffy – will remain the same construction and same pricing as in 2015.

The Island Voyage II – which was available in limited quantities during 2015 – will now be added to the lineup. At 11’2″ in length and a 37″ width, the Island Voyage II features an open design with three seating positions, allowing one to paddle solo or tandem. See our Island Voyage detailed writeup and review. Retail price is $429.
In the AdvancedFrame series, most of the models remain status-quo in features, but with new color and graphic choices.

The popular AE1012 AdvancedFrame and AE1007 Convertible will now be available in the standard orange-red as well as hi-vis lime-green, with matching Convertible deck colors. Prices will increase $40 and $50 respectively, with MSRPs of $539 and $799. The AdvancedFrame Sport will also have a graphics redesign, with the price increasing $10 to $449.

The current yellow 13-ft Expedition AE1009 will be replaced by the popular 2015 Limited Edition Expedition. Now in a navy blue with orange graphics, the Expedition LTD sports a sleeker silhouette with integrated storage. A new “deck lift” – consisting of an aluminum bar – works in conjunction with the current integrated inflatable deck lifts, to create a sculpted look with more knee/legroom as well as shedding accumulated water.  A rear integrated storage hatch with rolltop closure provides easy access to paddling gear. See our detailed Expedition LTD writeup with photos. MSRP $749.
The Lagoon single and tandem kayaks will remain the same, with retail prices increasing $20 and $30. While the current Attack, StraitEdge Angler and StraitEdge 2 models are also unchanged in construction, prices will be increased $25, $20 and $50 respectively.
The Firefly, AirFusion Elite, Packlite and Friday Harbor Adventure inflatable kayaks will remain the same with no change in pricing. The Commander 9 and Commander 12 inflatable dinghies have been retired.
By 2016, most of the kayak models with low-pressure floors will include the integrated 1-PSI pressure

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New WaterTech Gear Cargo & Deck Bags from Advanced Elements

Last month, Salt Lake City, Utah hosted the Outdoor Retailer Summer Show, one of the  major sporting goods events of the year. Nearly 1700 manufacturers – representing camping, cycling, watersports and outdoor activities – took this opportunity to showcase their 2016 line, unveiling new products and features to retailers around the world.

During the show, Advanced Elements of Benicia, CA – one of the largest manufacturers of inflatable kayaks and gear – introduced their new WaterTech™ Gear line of deck and cargo bags designed to fully complement Advanced Elements inflatables.
As explained by Clay Haller, President of Advanced Elements, Inc., “Although we have always had a quality-built line of gear bags, they never really felt like a unified family of bags. So, we decided to start over from scratch to not only build a well thought-out family of gear bags that integrate with any kayak or watercraft, but a set of gear bags that really integrate well with Advanced Elements kayaks and paddle boards.”
The new WaterTech accessory line consists of seven models ranging in size from 3 to 60 liters.

QuickDraw™ Deck Bag: AE3501
Easily access your essentials while paddling. Designed with adjustable attachment straps and d-rings, the QuickDraw deck bag is equipped with a water resistant zipper, an interior roll-top removable liner, and bungee lacing. A semi-rigid, contoured shape provides visibility when accessing items, making it a handy companion when out on the water. MSRP $59.99.

Deep Six™ Deck Pack: AE3503
The Deep Six™ Deck Pack is a heavy-duty, water-resistant deck bag with a series of unique features. The Deep Six™ provides a series of attachment points and straps to secure your gear anywhere and, with a roll-top opening, it’s easy to load and unload. Other features include cinch flat shoulder straps for snag free travel, a front zip pocket for essentials, and reflective paneling for low-light visibility. Capacity: 30 Liters. MSRP $79.99.

PackLite™ Roll Top Dry Bag Set: AE3506
A nifty, ultra-lightweight set of three rolltop drybags in three sizes – 3, 5 and 10 liters – for dry storage options. Bag measurements are 7 x 8.5 inches, 6.5 x 10 inches and 9 x 16 inches. Available as a set only. MSRP $25.99.

StashPak™ Rolltop Dry Bags: AE3507 and AE3508
Rugged, water-resistant rolltops with detachable straps, four d-rings and a detachable pouch for small essentials. Available in two sizes – 20 and 40 liters – each StashPak can be stored in the compact detachable pouch when not in use. 20L measures 10 x 21.5 inches and the 40L measures 13 x 26 inches. MSRP $49.99 and $59.99.

CargoPak™: AE3502
A rugged, 32-liter, water-resistant roll top pack with comfortable shoulder straps, side mesh pockets and back panel bungee deck lacing. MSRP $69.99.

Abyss™ All-Weather Duffel Bag: AE3505
A large, 60 liter duffel

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Expanded BlackFoot Angler Fishing Series from AquaGlide Kayak

Earlier this month, Aquaglide of White Salmon, Washington unveiled their expanded Blackfoot Angler lineup for 2016, including two inflatable fishing kayaks and one inflatable fishing paddle board. 
Two new models – the 10′ 6″ Blackfoot HB Angler SL inflatable kayak and 11′ 6″ Blackfoot ISUP – are joining the current 12′ 8″ Blackfoot HB Angler XL.
AquaGlide’s expanded Blackfoot line targets the popular sport of kayak fishing. A recent survey conducted by OutdoorIndustry.org, showed that angler fishing increased 28% in 2014 alone.
Designed with the angler in mind, the two Blackfoot HB inflatable kayaks include both a single model, and one for 1-2 paddlers. Each features a 6 PSI high-pressure floor.

The current 12′ 8 BlackFoot HB XL can easily be switched from solo to tandem paddling, with a street price $999.

The new 10′ 6″ Blackfoot HB Angler SL is a scaled-down version for one paddler, with a lower pricepoint of $799.

Both kayaks feature integrated Scotty mounts which can be used to add anything from rod holders to GPS.

Forward-mounted accessory straps and plentiful tie-downs provide easy stowage for dry bags or other gear.

A single “Core” seat  includes mesh storage pocket and integrated fishing-rod holders. Four adjustable straps and the velcro strip system allow one to place the seat virtually anywhere in the cockpit.

The kayaks are constructed from a smooth-skin Duratex, cutting down on drying time. Designed with extra width for added stability, the 6-12 PSI high pressure floor is extremely rigid and durable enough to stand-up and fly fish.
The longer waterlines and tapered bow are designed for quickly covering distance. In whitewater settings, the front splash guard help keep paddlers dry, while cockpit drains allow pooled water to pass through quickly.

The Blackfoot HB Angler XL features two additional accessories not included with the smaller version. An integrated Fishing Cooler utility bag works as a cooler or dry storage. The bag includes 4 rod holders, two side pockets, a clear map and license window, 4 side d-rings and a mesh pocket inside the lid. Velcro strips on the kayak floor allow one to reposition the utility bag nearly any place in the kayak. The fishing cooler is also available as an optional accessory, street price $69.95.

The Core seat is also mounted on a removable, “booster seat” raised platform for a higher seating perspective, providing more ergonomic comfort. In 2016, the raised platform will also be available separately at a street price of $69.95

While the Blackfoot HB Angler XL kayak comes with one seat and the booster base, by removing the utility bag and adding a second Core seat (not included but available as an optional accessory at $74.95), the kayak can be used by two paddlers on slow and fast moving water through Class

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New AE1044 AdvancedFrame DS-XLC Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

Two years ago, AirKayaks introduced the specially-packaged, high-pressure AdvancedFrame DS series of kayaks from Advanced Elements. Featuring the same high quality construction and materials as the standard AE1012 AdvancedFrame and AE1007 Convertible, the DS Series™ was bundled with upgraded accessories to enhance performance and comfort.
The upgrades included:

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(s) for the ultimate in a comfortable, adjustable back rest.

The kayaks were wildly popular, and this past week, AirKayaks introduced the next generation in the DS Series – the AdvancedFrame AE1044 DS-XL™* and DS-XLC™*.
The new DS-XL series is an elongated version of the classic AE1012 AdvancedFrame. With an additional 5 inches in length and an adjustable foot peg, the kayaks are comfortable enough for both taller and smaller paddlers. The longer, streamlined body – in conjunction with the high pressure floor – provides better tracking and increased glide with minimal increase in weight.

We grabbed two from the limited supply that recently arrived – more are available in mid-September. Our first review focuses on the AE1044 AdvancedFrame DS-XLC (Cover). This kayak features a zip-on deck with storage options, allowing paddlers the flexibility of paddling an open style design for easy entry, or a closed deck design which can take an optional spray skirt.
So here are details on the AdvancedFrame AE1044 DS-XLC, a 10′ 10″ inflatable with zip-in cover, weighing in at 35 lbs. in the carrying case.
Setup/Inflatation

We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, carrying case, instructions, repair kit, foot brace, double action pump with gauge, zip-on deck (installed on the kayak) and high-back lumbar seat. The kayak with seat, floor and brace weighs 35 lbs, or 39 lbs in the bag with the pump. Bag measurements are approximately 32 x 19 x 10 inches. The kayak box as arrived weighs 40 lbs, measuring 33 x 21 x 10 inches. The dropstitch (DS) floor weighs 5 lbs and comes in a second box with adaptor and repair kit.
(AirKayaks Side note #1: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded. This is probably the most overlooked step and it is VERY helpful when trying to get the kayak back into the bag.)
Set up is straight-forward and simple  – unpack, unfold, inflate. As this is similar to the standard AdvancedFrame in many respects, we will re-copy much of the instructions found in the writeup on the standard AE1012. The DS XL Series will have two sets of instructions – one can be found in the inner side pocket of the carrying case. This details the basic kayak instructions for inflation, deflation and

Original Source: AirKayaks >>