Tag Archives: airkayak

Sneak Preview: AdvancedTrak Kayak Rudder Kit from Advanced Elements

Feeds, , , , , , , , , ,

At the recent summer Outdoor Retailer show in Utah, Advanced Elements introduced their inflatable kayak, paddling gear and SUP product line for 2016.

Top on the list is the innovative new AdvancedTrak Kayak Rudder Kit, which can be added to your Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame series kayak.
The AdvancedTrak system adds turning and tracking performance to Advanced Elements Convertible, AdvancedFrame, Expedition and Sport kayaks.
How does this work? An injection molded end cap is glued to the stern of the kayak, acting as a rudder mount. Cables run up to adjustable foot pegs with added rudder control pedals. The rudder is quick to set up and remove, and locks into place.
The AdvancedTrak Rudder Kit AE4005 includes the end cap rudder mount, glue, rudder, rigging kit, instructions, a set of AE4003 adjustable foot pegs and pedals. MSRP $299 for the system, with availability in spring of 2016.
Watch a YouTube Video prepared by Adventure Kayak Magazine during the Outdoor Retailer show.

For further details stay-tuned, watch the Advanced Elements products page on AirKayaks.com, or ask to get on our notification list.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New AdvancedFrame DS-XL and XLC High-Pressure Inflatable Kayaks from Advanced Elements

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

AirKayaks.com, an internet-based retailer of inflatable kayaks, paddle boards and paddling gear, today announced the arrival of two new inflatable kayaks in the Advanced Elements DS series™* of high pressure kayaks – the AdvancedFrame DS-XL™ and DS-XLC™.

Manufactured by Advanced Elements for AirKayaks.com, the new DS-XL series™ is 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.
The concept behind the new DS-XL series was explained by Chuck Lamb, co-owner AirKayaks, “The AdvancedFrame kayak 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. With a host of accessories designed to accommodate the diverse needs of paddlers, it has proven to be an excellent choice for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.”

Lamb further states, “But, what if you take a great design like the AdvancedFrame, tweak it a bit so that it will have even more universal appeal? That is exactly what we did with the DS-XL and DS-XLC models. Our company worked out details with the designers at Advanced Elements and have produced two kayaks that we feel will further advance the popularity of this classic model. The DS-XL and the DS-XLC are both 5 inches longer, which means that taller paddlers like me (6’2″) will have plenty of leg room for long, comfortable trips. Fitted with an adjustable foot brace, both models will allow comfortable paddling for shorter paddlers as well.”

The AdvancedFrame DS-XLC kayak also features an included 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. Extra d-rings are also provided.

According to Lamb, “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. Personally I prefer open kayak designs for that reason.”

Both kayaks are supplied with a high-backed lumbar seat for paddling comfort, a double action pump with gauge, and the very popular 4-6 PSI, high-pressure, dropstitched floor. Both can use optional Advanced Elements spray skirts, as well as most other Advanced Elements products such as the Rapidup sail.

The two kayaks join the popular Convertible DS – a 15 foot inflatable

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 2016 Inflatable Paddle Boards from AquaGlide

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

At last week’s Outdoor Retailer Summer Show, Aquaglide of White Salmon, Washington unveiled their redesigned inflatable SUP line for 2016.

The new AquaGlide inflatable SUP lineup includes three updated Cascade models, and one new fishing model.

Biggest news is the introduction of the BlackFoot Angler inflatable paddle board, a rugged 11 foot model focused on fishing. With a wider 34 inch beam, and beefy 6-inch thickness, the BlackFoot iSUP is guaranteed to comfortably carry an arsenal of fishing gear while providing the stability needed for stand-up fly fishing.
The BlackFoot iSUP sports two sets of bungee decklacing – bow and stern – three carry handles and six Scotty mounts, which can be used to attach optional Scotty fishing rod holders and other gear. Four side d-rings are strategically positioned to allow one to attach an optional cooler, crate or gear boxes. Street price is $999.

The three Cascade inflatable SUPs have been re-designed with updated graphics and construction. All three models now sport a higher-density drop stitch material with a proprietary Powerstrip on the hull underside, providing an extra layer of rigidity without making the boards overly heavy. A longer fin box allows a wide variety of fins to be used.
The Cascade 10-0 is now constructed in a beefier 6-inch depth with a 32 inch beam, providing more buoyancy and carrying capacity than the previous model. The two other Cascades are now 11-0 and 12-0 in length, also in a 6-inch thickness with 32 inch width.

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.
Street prices on the three Cascades with high-pressure pump, gauge and backpack are $699, $799 and $899.

The DLX Pack is joined by the Crossover Roller Pack, a beefed-up backpack with hidden straps and roller wheels, allowing the pack to easily transcend from remote back country hiking to airport travel. Street price on the Crossover is $119; the DLX Pack will also be available separately at $89.

AquaGlide is also introducing the HP 25 PSI ISUP pump, a more ergonomically-engineered high-pressure pump with aluminum shaft, that fits both military and Boston valves for use with high pressure iSUPs and kayaks. Street price is $49.95.
The new boards should be available in late 2015. Stay tuned for details or watch the AquaGlide pages on the AirKayaks.com website. You can also ask to get on our Notification List.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Inflatable SUP Paddle Board Steals and Deals at AirKayaks.com

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , ,

We’re now well into the summer season here in the Northern Hemisphere, and outdoor water activities are in full swing.  AirKayaks currently has some special purchases and deals on inflatable paddle boards and gear – but act soon, they’re going fast! Save 15% to 40%.
Inflatable Paddle Board Deals

Remaining 2014 Red Paddle Co inflatable SUPS now $899. This is a great time to get one of the world’s best selling paddle boards – but the inventory is quickly dwindling! We’ve sold out of most 2014 models, but still have a few left – this includes the Allwater 9-6, Surfer 10-0 and Venus 10-0. Originally $1199, now $899 with free paddle – prices will never be lower!

C4 Waterman 2015 Summer Sale! Save 15% and get a free paddle on all in-stock C4 Waterman inflatable SUPS, now through August 11th. Originally $1099 to $1479, prices now starting from $934 – use Coupon Code 15C4 at checkout.

Past season JP-Australia inflatable SUPS. Special purchase on new, past season inventory. We have the CruisAir 11-4 and SportstAir 12-6 at $899 and $999 respectively – with a free paddle! Originally $1390, save 27%.

Past season Advanced Elements Hula 8 iSUP. Originally $699, now $399 on the Advanced Elements past season Hula 8, save 28%. This is a great choice for smaller people and kids in a 4-inch thickness.

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, originally $1699 to $1799, now starting at $1359.

Special purchase on past season Mistral AllRound 11’5″ X 31.5″ X 6″ inflatable SUPs. Comes with free Mistral breakdown fiberglass paddle, originally $1199, now $999.
Past season Jobe Inflatable SUP packages. Special purchase on past season Jobe Inflatable SUPS. We have the 2014 Jobe 11-6 and Jobe 12-6 inflatable SUP packages, originally $1099 and $1199, now at $749 and $849 respectively – and each comes with paddle, pump, gauge, backpack and ankle leash! This is a great price for “getting on the water!”

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

Accent MOXIE carbon adjustable breakdown paddles. Cosmetic blemishes, originally $189 now $139.

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! Act now before the summer is over!

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Summer SUP Sale – 15% off current C4 Waterman Inflatable Paddle Boards thru 8/11

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

With the summer season halfway over, now’s your chance to grab a great inflatable SUP at an even greater price! Now through August 11, all in-stock C4 Waterman inflatable SUPs are 15% off with a free paddle!

The 2015 C4 Waterman ISUP line features 12 different models normally priced from $1099 to $1379, now $934 to $1172 – with a free paddle!
Last year, C4 Waterman became part of Wenonah Canoe, one of the largest makers of paddle sport watercraft in the world. C4 Waterman is a Hawaii-based lifestyle and adventure sports equipment company focused on providing high quality water boards, paddling gear and outdoor wear to the paddling industry.

The twelve 2015 models span a wide range of paddle-boarding choices, from the new Opae 8-6 and 9-6 downriver whitewater boards, to the Crossover 11-0 and 12-6 iTrekker touring models. The Opaes now start at $934, while the Crossover and iTrekkers are on sale for $1105 and $1147 respectively.

C4 Waterman’s classic biggest selling recreational models – the CMAC 10-6 and the 10-9 XXL – are now $1062 and $1088.
Other models include the 9-11 and 10-11 BK Pro, 10-0 Rapid Rider and the two Outfitter models. Sales prices on these range from $977 to $1147.

All models include a Bravo single-action high pressure pump, gauge, repair kit and rugged clamshell backpack, making the C4 Waterman ISUP an ideal traveling companion.
As a bonus, AirKayaks is offering a free breakdown paddle with every purchase. Pick up a board during the C4 Waterman Inflatable SUP Summer Sale and get on the water in no time – before the summer ends!
For more details or to purchase a C4 Waterman inflatable SUP at 15% savings, visit the product pages at AirKayaks.com. Use coupon code 15C4 at checkout.
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: The Titan High-Pressure Inflatable SUP Pump from Red Paddle Co.

Feeds, , , , , , , , ,

Earlier this year, we received our first shipment of Red Paddle Co’s long-awaited Titan high pressure SUP pump. The Titan pump was touted as a game-changer, with the ability to cut inflation time in half.

For years, the standard inflatable SUP pump was the Bravo HP single-action, high volume/low pressure pump, a squatter, thick-barrel single-action pump designed to put in more air volume, which in turn took more effort to reach higher pressures.
Higher pressures in an inflatable board vastly improves the board performance, by increasing rigidity (reducing flex).

In 2013, Red Paddle Co introduced the HP EZee  single-action, low volume/high pressure pump, a taller, thin-barrel single action pump designed to put in less air per stroke, thus allowing one to more easily pump to higher pressures.
As the pros and cons of each are obvious – one fills a board up more rapidly, while the other takes longer but is less of a struggle to reach 18-20 PSI – numerous paddlers opted to purchase both pumps.
In response, other manufacturers expanded the slim-barrel design to a double-action pump, putting air in on the up and down stroke. While theoretically this will put air in twice as fast, in actuality it becomes a struggle on the “up” stroke.

In 2015, the Titan made its debut. What makes the Titan different? The Red Paddle Co Titan pump is an amalgamation of the two pumps. The new Titan pump has two chambers, basically one side is a high volume/low pressure, and the other a low volume/high pressure. A unique double gear system actually combines the two chambers, so that when initially pumping, paddlers are using BOTH chambers to fill the board, allowing them to put in a whopping 4.71 liters, compared with just over 2 liters for the standard HP pump. When the pumping starts to get tough, one can switch the internal gear over to the high pressure chamber, allowing one to easily attain higher PSIs with less effort. An integrated pressure gauge allows one to monitor the process.
While we were keen to test out the new pump, the Titans sold out before we had a chance. Our intent was to review the Titan, as well as update our Guide to Choosing A High Pressure Inflatable SUP Pump – which we published last summer. As we no longer had the Red Paddle Venus 10-0 used in the original comparison, we pulled out the Red Paddle Ride 9-8 – which is fairly similar in specs.
Three shipments later, we snagged the last Titan off the shelf.
So, here is our review of the new Titan dual-barrel high pressure inflatable SUP pump from Red Paddle Co.
The pump as arrived couldn’t be simpler – pump body with integrated pressure gauge and a

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Island Voyage 2 Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

This week we received our first shipment of the Island Voyage 2 inflatable kayak from Advanced Elements. New in 2015, the Island Voyage 2 is a recreational model with an open-design – allowing one to easily switch from single to tandem paddling – yet economically-priced at $399.

Following is our writeup on the Island Voyage 2, an 11 ft 2 inch kayak. Please note, some of this will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Getting Started with the Island Voyage 2
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, drawstring duffel bag, instructions, repair kit, tracking fin and two seats.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs 25 lbs while the kayak with seats in the duffle is 30 lbs. The drawstring case is roughly 37 x 28 inches. Boxed up, the dimensions are 25 x 19 x 14 inches inches with a shipping weight of 35 lbs.
(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.)
Island Voyage 2 Inflatation and Setup
The included instructions appear adequate and include diagrams with inflation details.

Set up is straight-forward and simple  – unpack, unfold, inflate.

The first step is to attach the removable tracking fin, which enhances paddling/tracking in deeper water. Make sure the fin is pointing towards the rear of the kayak, then insert the front of the fin, pushing down and back, to lock the front end. Then move the fin back until the holes line up, and replace the retaining pin. At this point, pull up on the fin to make sure you have it locked in position. AirKayaks side note #2: You may want to bring along a towel, as the fin and bottom hull of the kayak are black, and become quite burning in the sun.

There are three inflation chambers utilizing Boston valves – the floor and two side chambers. Boston valves are two-part, screw-on valves. The bottom portion is threaded onto the kayak, the top valve is screwed open for inflation and then tightened shut after inflation. Air is easily released by unscrewing the base connector. How does it work? A flap inside the valve opens when air is pumped into the kayak, and falls shut when not pumped so that air will not rush back out.
(AirKayaks Side note #3: The Boston valves have a tether that keeps the valve attached to the kayak, ensuring that the valves don’t get lost after deflating. Make sure this does not get in the way when screwing on the valve base, and the valve is not cross-threaded, or

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Mistral Equipe 12-5 Inflatable Paddle Board – only 18 lbs!

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

This year we had our first hands-on experience with Mistral’s inflatable SUP line. Well-known for decades as a leader in windsurfing, the Mistral line originated in northwest US, but is now based out of Europe. Most recently, Mistral has forayed back into the US market, bringing their expanding inflatable SUP line.

This winter, Mistral introduced the Crossover and Equipe inflatable SUP line to the US, remarkable for its weight – or should we should say – lack of. Manufactured in Romania, the new SUPs from Mistral utilize a futuristic German material that is REACH-certified and environmentally-friendly, combining light weight with extreme stiffness. In fact, the Crossover line (shown above) starts at 16 lbs, reaching a high of 18 lbs with the 12-5 Equipe.
We first wrote up the Mistral Kailua inflatable paddle board , part of their standard line and an 11-5 foot SUP touted as a fitness board, but also a great all-round paddle board and sit-on-top. This was followed by the Mistral Adventure 11-5 inflatable SUP.

Now we check out the Mistral Equipe 12-5 inflatable paddle board, weighing in at a minimalist 18 lbs. (Please note: some of the info will be repeated from prior writeups.)
Mistral Equipe 12-5 Inflatable WindSUP – Getting Started
The board as-arrived is 33 x 17 x 13 inches in the box, which weighs 27.8 lbs.

Inside is the Equipe 12-5 body, backpack, repair kit with Gorilla glue, single action Bravo pump with pressure gauge, a removable fin, valve wrench and instructions. Once rolled up, the SUP board fits into the backpack, as well as breakdown paddles under 36 in length; the pump fits in the large front pocket or the bag. The board itself weighs 17.2 lbs, or 24.2 lbs inside the backpack with pump and other accessories – these all easily fit in the back of a small car.

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

The Equipe 12-5 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). Not to worry, the instructions are printed on the valve. But before you make the effort to inflate the board, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.
The Equipe paddle board system includes a Bravo high-pressure, single-action pump with a gauge – what we term the “wide barrel” as it pushes out

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

20% off AquaGlide Cascade Inflatable SUPs through July 13th

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , ,

AquaGlide is kicking off the season with a Summer SUP Sale – all AquaGlide Cascade inflatable paddle boards are now 20% off through July 13th.
The AquaGlide SUP range consists of three models – the Cascade 10-0, 10-6 and 12-6, normally priced from $699 to $899, now $559 to $719.

The Cascade 10-0 is a lightweight and maneuverable 4-inch thick board that is great for people up to 160 lbs. Now $559.

The Cascade 10-6 is a perfect choice for recreational paddling. Built from 150mm material, the 6-inch thick board is all-around board for varying members of the family and larger riders up to 230 lbs. Now $639.

The Cascade 12-6 is a stiff, efficient inflatable SUP designed specifically for touring. With a long waterline that provides optimal tracking, the Cascade is a great choice for day-long touring, adventure travel, or a paddling workout. Carrying capacity is up to 260 lbs. Now $719.
All AquaGlide Cascades have an integrated Powerstrip plate on the underside which increases the stiffness for an optimum paddling experience. It’s durable enough to paddle whitewater, bounce off rocks or hand over to the kids.

Couple that with a board which quickly deflates and rolls up into a small 20 x 33 x 10 inch backpack, and you have the ideal traveling companion.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Chelan HB Two Inflatable Kayak from Aquaglide – for 1-2 paddlers

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , ,

Last summer, AquaGlide unveiled their new inflatable kayak lineup for 2015, which included a series of new models and revamps. Based on the number of inquiries, we were anxious to try out the new Chelan HB high-pressure series.
The new models arrived earlier this year, and we started inflating and testing, beginning with the Chelan HB Tandem XL and Chelan HB One. This was followed by the Columbia XP Tandem XL, Chinook One and Panther.

Our sixth 2015 review focuses on the Chelan HB Two, a 13.5 foot long inflatable kayak designed for one or two paddlers. At this time, we will point out that the AquaGlide kayak models are named after rivers in Washington State, and the river is pronounced “shuh-LAN.”
(Please note: some of the information will be repeated from other writeups.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Chelan HB Two:
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, backpack, instructions, repair kit, foot braces, tracking fin, two seats,  valve adaptor and two pieces of plastic.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs approximately 27 lbs, with a backpack size of roughly 27 x 22 x 18 inches, while the kayak with seats, fin and braces – all in the backpack – weighs 38.5 lbs. Boxed up, the dimensions are 26 x 25 x 12 inches with a shipping weight of 46 lbs.
(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.)
The included instructions appeared adequate and include diagrams with inflation details.

Set up is straight-forward and simple  – unpack, unfold, inflate.
There are three military valves (both sides and the floor) with two more small chambers utilizing twistlock valves for the seat bases – the floor is pumped up first, to 6 PSI.
The floor is held in place with two adjustable straps. From our prior experience, we found it best to loosen up the straps, otherwise the floor could be inflated “lopsided.”

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).
The Chelan HB Two military valves require a special adaptor, which does not come with most standard pumps. In Aquaglide’s first year, the military adaptors were not included with the high-pressure kayaks, which caused problems. All the 2015 high pressure models now include the adaptor, which is found in the repair kit.

The Aquaglide military adaptor couples to the valve with a Boston valve adaptor; this is a common fitting, slightly

Original Source: AirKayaks >>