Tag Archives: airkayak

New 2015 Red Air Inflatable SUP Lineup from Red Paddle Co.

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

We recently received details on Red Paddle Company’s exciting new Red Air inflatable SUPs being introduced for 2015.
Well-known throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, the Red Air 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.

The 2015 line has been redesigned, culminating in a striking, easily identifiable look. Color options have been decreased, with emphasis on categorizing boards by usage. For 2015, Red Paddle Co has 12 models for surfing, touring and racing, ranging in size from 9’2 to 14’0. This includes the introduction of 3 new models, revamped graphics on the current nine models, and four retiring models.
For 2015, Red Paddle Co has expanded the best-selling Ride to three versions perfect for all-around use – the Ride 9-8, the Ride 10-6 and the Ride 10-8. Each of the three models features d-rings, bungee deck lacing and three fixed fins.

The Ride 9-8 combines the best characteristics of the 9-6 AllWater and the Surfer/Venus 10-0 to create a great all-around and surfing board for riders up to 80 and 95kg, respectively. With a 31 inch beam, the Ride 9-8 is built from 100mm material, creating a responsive board that is 3.93 inches thick, but fitted with the Rocker Stiffening System (RSS) for increased rigidity. Capacity up to 180/lbs all-around or 210 lbs surfing. MSRP $1299.

The popular Ride 10-6 features the same best-selling features with an updated look. A classic model, great for cruising, small wave surfing, fishing,exploring. Specifications: 10’6 x 32 inches wide, 120mm/4.72 inches thick, capacity 225 lbs.  MSRP $1299.

The 10-8 Ride is a revamped 10-8 Mega, appealing to families or the larger paddler. With a (now) narrower beam of 34 inches, and a board construction of 120mm material, the 10-8 Ride is a rigid, super-stable 4.72 inches thick, providing lots of buoyancy for beefier or multiple paddlers, while still maintaining responsiveness. Good for cruising, small wave surfing, fishing, exploring, boat tender Capacity up to 265 lbs. MSRP $1379

The new Sport 11-0 RSS joins the lineup, perfectly positioned between the Rides and the 12-6 boards. With a narrower beam of 30 inches, a removable US Box deep water fin, rigid 4.72 inch/120mm construction and the RSS system, the Sport 11-0 is faster than the Ride series, yet easier to inflate and carry than the 12-6 models. This is a zippy board with great glide, yet is nimble enough for small waves. Capacity 225 lbs. MSRP $1449.

With whitewater SUP one of the hottest new paddling sports, Red Paddle has introduced the 9-6 Flow.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

How to Straighten a Bent Fin on an Inflatable

Feeds, , , , , , , , , ,

It’s a common occurrence – you just purchased an inflatable kayak or paddle board and excitedly open the box to discover – bent fins!

While this might appear devastating at first, straightening an integrated bent fin on an inflatable is a fairly easy task – basically, the application of heat allows it to return to normal. (Please note, this is just for the integrated flexi-fins found on many inflatables, not the removable rigid fins.)
Here are three options:
1) If it is a minor bend, flip your inflatable upside down and let it sit in the sun for a while. This often will return it to a straight position. (Please note: do NOT put your inflatable in the sun at full pressure – release some of the air so that it feels soft.)

2) For tougher bends, use a hair dryer. Hold the fin and after about 5 or 10 minutes the fin should soften enough to slowly straighten.

3) Very tough bends may require a little more effort. We thank Red Paddle Co for the photos and information on the “hot water” fix per below:

Pour hot water from the kettle on to the fin to make the fin flexible.

Straighten the fin with your hands and then using sticky tape secure the fin in its upright position.

Allow to cool either naturally or by pouring cold water over the fin. You should find your fin is now straight.

How to ensure this doesn’t happen again?
Make sure to store the inflatable in such a way that the fins are not bent. Some of this can be accomplished by folding. For instance the Airis paddle boards are folded one third up, then one-third again, then the fin is folded over (sticking up into the air). The board is then folded in half the long way, which nestles the fin between the layers.

 
Some inflatables come with fin protectors – bladder rings that slip over the fins.

If you don’t have fin protectors, you can easily fashion some by cutting a slit in a large block of styrofoam – any pressure will rest on the block, and not the fin itself.
Also make sure to not sit in the kayak when on dry ground for any length of time. If you must, then provide some type of support underneath.

Taking any of these simple steps will ensure that you are paddling on a straight course, and not “around in circles.”

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Guide: Choosing a Pump for your High-Pressure Inflatable SUP Paddle Board.

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

As high-pressure inflatable paddle boards have increased in popularity – and the development of even higher-pressure materials on the rise – the issue of pumps has become a hot topic.
Specifically, what is the simplest, easiest way to get your inflatable SUP to the higher pressures of 18 to 20 PSI without developing a hernia or popping a blood vessel?

While we have used many of the pumps that have come through the door, we had not actually compared one to another. So, we pulled out all the SUP pumps in the warehouse, lined them up and tried them out, one by one.
Before going further, here are a few things you need to keep in mind when reading our review:

All pumping times and amounts are dependent on the size of board (length, width and thickness) which equates to the volume of air you will be pumping. Many of the popular boards run from 190 to 220 liters, but we do have smaller boards down to 160 liters and some big, beefy boards at 370 liters.
Despite what the manufacturer may tell you, try out the board and figure out what PSI you actually need – no sense in spending the time and energy pumping something up with little gain. While some boards can be inflated to 25 PSI, for most of us that is overkill. Smaller people may get away with 12 PSI and we had one 6’4, 300lb customer fine at 19 PSI. But in no case should you go higher than the manufacturer recommended pressure.
I have ranked them by “difficulty” level, but I am a smaller adult at 5’4″. Larger people may have an easier time reaching higher pressures.
The pumps we used all have the Halkey-Roberts (HR) valves and attachments. If you purchase an aftermarket pump, please make sure that a) the adaptors that come with it will work with your board or b) that you can get your hands on an adaptor and glue it onto the hose end. The HR valves are on the following inflatable boards that we know of: Red Paddle Co, C4 Waterman, Advanced Elements, AquaGlide, Airis Inflatables, Conquest, BIC.
To give a rough factoring, we’ve listed the air volume for the pumps – check on the volume for your pump. For example, 2000 cm3 is equal to 2.0 liters. If a pump puts out 2 liters and the board is 200 liters, theoretically it would take 100 full strokes to fill the board – we didn’t always see that, though. So, a 2000 cm3 pump will put out less air – and be easier to pump to higher pressures – than a 2500 cm3 pump. The 2500 cm3 pump will fill out a board faster, but

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 11 &12.5 ft Airis HollowDeck Inflatable SUP Paddle Boards

Feeds, , , , , , , , , ,

Airis Inflatables of North America – a division of Walker Bay Boats – has announced two new inflatable paddle board products – the 11 ft and 12.5 ft Airis Hollowdeck SUPs.

The new Airis Hollowdeck SUPS feature a unique, integrated, dry bag system, allowing paddlers to store gear inside the nose of the board, as well as on top. The compartment remains waterproof by utilizing the roll-top and clip feature, and the paddler is not hampered by gear strapped to the top – though that option remains.

By creating an air pocket in the snout of the board, set up time is decreased by about 1/3, as there is less air to pump into the SUP.
The new Airis  HollowDecks also feature two separate air chambers for added safety, unlike most paddle boards which utilize one.

Available in two sizes, the 11 foot version sports a slightly narrower tail and width than the 12.5 foot model. Both models feature the proprietary RigiDeck fiberglass plates, providing increased rigidity under foot. Each is 6 inches thick and can be pumped up to 11 PSI.
All Airis inflatable kayaks and paddle boards are manufactured in North America.
The new HollowDecks will be available in December – MSRP $999 and $1099.  The HollowDecks join the popular series of Airis HardTop inflatable boards – the HT 12-6, the HT SUV 11 and the HT Stubby 9.
Watch the Airis Product Pages at AirKayaks.com for upcoming details, or send us an email and request to get on the Airis HollowDeck notification list.
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sale! 20% OFF 2014 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP Boards

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

AirKayaks is pleased to announce a special purchase of remaining 2014 Red Air inflatable paddle boards, now up 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 Air EZee or Ezee HP pump, allowing one to inflate a paddle board to 20 PSI and higher in less than 10 minutes.

In anticipation of the new product line for 2015 – 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 $949 to $1299. The incredibly popular Ride 10-6 is now $999, while the Race 12-6 is at an all-time low of $1279.
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.
20% off, free paddle, free shipping in the continental US and no tax – what are you waiting for!

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New Chelan Inflatable Kayaks from AquaGlide for 1-3 Paddlers

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

We continue with details on some of the new AquaGlide 2015 inflatable kayaks announced earlier this year.
The upcoming 2015 Aquaglide product line has expanded to 19 models – including 7 new kayaks and 3 redesigns – with MSRP pricing from $199.95 to $1099.95.

The new Chelan HB high-pressure touring series consists of three sizes ranging from 11’4″ to 15 feet, and is a hybrid of the original Columbia and Klickitat models. Designed for recreational touring and all-around use, the Chelans feature the Columbia’s long sleek waterline but are constructed in the smooth skin, quick-drying Duratex material used on the Klickitats.
The “Hard Bottom (HB)” 6-12 PSI high-pressure floor provides rigidity and stability which – when coupled with a streamlined silhouette and removable tracking fin – enhances the paddling performance.  Three military valves are located on the side chambers and floor; the side chambers can be inflated to 3 PSI. Front and rear spray guards are positioned to keep paddlers dry, each with ample bungee deck lacing for attaching gear.

Paddling comfort is enhanced with the adjustable Pro-Formance seats, featuring an inflatable base and high backrest with plenty of storage features – mesh pockets, integrated fishing rod holders and removable beverage holder.
Other features include quick-release tracking fin system, molded handles, drain plugs and adjustable foot rests. A running strip of velcro on the floor – coupled with numerous d-rings – provides infinite seating and foot brace positions. Each kayak comes with an oversized carrying bag with backstrap.

Single spray decks will be available for each of the models, and double spray decks for the two tandems; each of these can also be used on the Columbia series.

The decks create a more enclosed cockpit, keeping paddlers warmer and dryer during inclement weather. The decks will also be able to use standard spray skirts for even more weatherproofing.
Details on the three models:

Chelan One HB Inflatable Kayak from Aquaglide
Paddlers: 1
Size: 11’4″ long with a 36″ width
Weight capacity: 300 lbs
Kayak weight: 32 lbs
Comes with: Backpack, tracking fin, foot brace, ProFormance seat, repair kit, instructions.
Optional single deck available, $89.95
Chelan One HB: MSRP $799

Chelan Two HB Inflatable Kayak from Aquaglide
Paddlers: 1 or 2
Size: 13 ft 5 inches long with a 36″ width
Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Kayak weight: 40 lbs
Comes with: Backpack, tracking fin, 2 foot braces, 2 ProFormance seats, repair kit, instructions.
Optional single deck or double deck available, $119.95 each
Chelan Two HB: MSRP $999

Chelan HB Tandem XL Inflatable Kayak from Aquaglide
Paddlers: 1 or 2 with extra space for gear, child or pet. Includes a removable third “jumper seat.”
Size: 15 feet long with a 36″ width
Weight capacity: 600 lbs
Kayak weight: 48 lbs
Comes with: Backpack, tracking fin, 2 foot braces, 2 ProFormance seats, jumper seat, repair kit, instructions.
Optional single or double deck  $129.95 each
Chelan

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New Aquaglide Inflatable Kayak Lineup for 2015

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

Earlier this year, the launch of AquaGlide’s inflatable kayak line dramatically expanded the options available to paddlers looking for portability.
A division of North Sports Inc, the Aquaglide brand has grown steadily over the past 13 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 2015 Aquaglide inflatable kayak product line has expanded to 19 models – including 7 new kayaks and 3 redesigns – with MSRP pricing from $199.95 to $1099.95.
The new high-pressure Aquaglide models include the Chelan HB – a touring model in three sizes – and the BlackFoot HB – a high pressure fishing kayak for one to two paddlers. The current two Klickitat self-bailing whitewater kayaks, and the three Deschutes series recreational kayaks – both with high-pressure floor construction – remain the same.

The new Chelan HB high-pressure touring series consists of three sizes, and is a hybrid of the original Columbia HB and Klickitat HB models. The Chelans feature the Columbia’s long sleek waterline but are constructed in the smooth skin Duratex material used on the Klickitats,  which reduces drying time. The sizes include the 11’4 Chelan One HB for solo paddling, the 13’5 Chelan Two HB for one to two paddlers, and the 15 ft Chelan HB Tandem XL for 1 to 3 paddlers. Street prices $799, $999 and $1099 respectively.

The new 12′ 8 BlackFoot HB is a high pressure inflatable for one to two paddlers with the focus on fishing. The kayak body includes integrated Scotty mounts and a utility dry bag/cooler, rigid floor for standup fly fishing, and an ergonomic inflatable jumper seat for enhanced seating. See our recent Blackfoot Sneak Preview for more details. Street price $999.

The Columbia HB series has undergone a significant manufacturing change to a low pressure floor, and is now called the Columbia XP, bridging the gap between the Chinook and Chelan product lines. This includes the Columbia XP One single at 11’4, the 13’5 Columbia XP Two for one to two paddlers, and the 15 ft Columbia XP Tandem XL for 1-3 paddlers. The prices have been reduced to $599, $699 and $799 respectively.
Both the Columbia XP and Chelan HB series can be enclosed with optional single and double spray decks, allowing paddlers to use spray skirts in chillier weather.
While the Chinook and Rogue tandem models remain the same, three new low-pressure single models have been introduced – the Rogue XP1, Panther XP and Chinook XP One.

Weighing in at 20 lbs, the 8 ft Rogue XP One “diveyak” joins the current two person model as an economical fishing option, with

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

AdvancedFrame vs. Expedition: Choosing Your Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayak

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

Introduced nearly a decade ago, the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak series (originally called the AirFrame) has expanded over the years to include four models – the two 10.5 foot AdvancedFrame and Sport models, the 13 foot Expedition, and the 15 ft tandem Convertible.
One of the most popular questions is between the AdvancedFrame and Expedition – which one should I choose? While the lower pricepoint on the AdvancedFrame is appealing to many, the smaller size may not be as comfortable to some, or carry enough gear.

The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame (photo above) is a 10.5 ft recreational and touring model while the Expedition (photo below) is an elongated 13 ft version with upgrades. Though they have many similarities, there are just as many differences. Ultimately your choice comes down to a personal preference, but here are some things to think about.

Both kayaks are made from the same materials, use the same valves and have the same 1 PSI PVC floor i-beam construction with 2 PSI side chambers. Both come with bungee deck lacing, molded rubber handles, multiple d-rings, neoprene knuckle guards, integrated tracking fin and carrying case. Both have the integrated aluminum rib/plastic inserts in the bow and stern to sculpt the shape. Both have the same size cockpit seating area with coaming tubes to attach optional spray skirts. Both models can use optional backbones and high-pressure floors for added rigidity and tracking, as well as a myriad of Advanced Elements accessories to enhance the paddling experience.

At 10.5 feet in length with a weight of 34 lbs in the pack, the AE1012 AdvancedFrame is lighterweight and shorter – easier to carry around solo in windy weather. It paddles well. This is a great choice with small or average-sized people concerned about kayak size and weight, who don’t plan on long or multiple days of touring and don’t need room for lots of gear. And it costs slightly less.
The Expedition AE1009 is 2.5 feet longer and weighs 10 lbs more (13 feet and 44 lbs). The longer waterline makes it a great choice for extended (and short) range touring. It paddles well and has great glide. Upgraded accessories – such as a foot brace and high-backed lumbar seat – come standard.

We put the AdvancedFrame and Expedition next to each other to get a better feel – in this photo shoot we had the AdvancedFrame DS (blue model with high pressure floor) available – the AFDS is identical in size to the standard red version. We set them up, mid-handle to mid-handle, and positioned each of the seats towards the back of the cockpit area.
We took measurements and then did the ultimate test – my “6’2″, 180 lb, 10.5 shoe-size” husband was asked

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Advanced Elements Expedition LTD & AdvancedFrame LTD Inflatable Kayaks

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

Earlier this month, Salt Lake City in Utah hosted the Outdoor Retailer Summer Show, one of the largest sporting goods events of the year. Nearly 1700 manufacturers – representing camping, cycling, water sports and outdoor activities – took this opportunity to showcase their 2015 line, unveiling new products and features to retailers around the world.

One of the major inflatable kayak manufacturers, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California, unveiled two limited edition models being introduced in 2015. The two popular models – Expedition and AdvancedFrame – feature two facelifts in limited production runs.
 

The Expedition LTD Limited Edition features a major color redesign, as well as some innovative design changes. Now in an Ocean 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. MSRP $749.

The number-one selling AdvancedFrame has undergone a similar facelift, now in a hi-vis Lime Green with yellow graphics. The standard seat has been replaced with a stiffer, higher-backed version, providing more support. Velcro paddleholders are now standard. MSRP $549.
Both models feature new d-rings, making it easier to attach gear.
The Expedition LTD and AdvancedFrame LTD should be available in early 2015, in limited quantities.
Two new accessories for the 4-lb Packlite are also currently available. The Packlite Bellows Pump is a small-profile foot pump weighing just under 1 lb and capable of inflating to 2 PSI.

The Ultralite Paddle is a lightweight, 23.2 oz. 4 pc breakdown paddle with a longest shaft length of 23.5 inches. When bundled with the Packlite kayak and pump, the BakYaking package weighs in at 7 lbs. and sells for $350.
For more details and upcoming availability, watch the Advanced Elements product pages at http://www.AirKayaks.com. Or you can send us an email to get on the Advanced Elements LE Notification List.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Tales to Tell: A Hiking and Kayaking Journey Across Iceland

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

Earlier this year, we were approached by Charlie Turnbull, a young Australian adventurer with a passion for the outdoors. He had recently launched his “career” with a 25-day, one-thousand kilometer canoe journey from Mongolia to Russia, through one of the least densely populated areas on earth; from the southern end of Lake Khovsgol to the tiny river Eg, south across the Mongolian plains to the Selenga river, then crossing the border into Russia, and straight into Lake Baikal.

The travels were documented on Patagonia’s Australian website at http://www.patagonia.com.au/journal/2013/mongolia-to-russia/
Our emails criss-crossed while Charlie outlined his new plans – in a nutshell, to hike and kayak the length of Iceland. The proposed route traversed the volcanic highland region of Iceland and onto the Hofsjökull ice cap, crossing the ice to the headwaters of the Pjorsa River, then 230km of kayaking whitewater and flat sections to the Northern Sea. The trip would be in June/July, when the temperature averages 15 degrees C. The bulk of the paddling would be calm, with some rapids.
We discussed what products would be best suited for their needs – a tough decision as there are several. They needed a two person that could carry some gear, but weight was a concern. The need for material that would not become waterlogged in a chilly setting; and the need to traverse some rapids. We discussed Advanced Elements, Innova and others, and finally focused on the AquaGlide Klickitat Two, a 42-lb whitewater, self-bailing kayak that AquaGlide agreed to provide for the trip. And as the expedition expanded with a videographer to document the journey, we sent along an AquaGlide Chinook Two for Sam Brumby and his camera gear, Advanced Elements fiberglass Orbit breakdown paddles, and Astral Designs super-lightweight Ronny PFDs.

With good-humored ribbing from friends and family, Charlie and company headed off.
In July, we heard back from the trio. According to Charlie, “What an epic 20 days. The boats were amazing, so tough. Grade III glacial water, volcanic rocks, long portages – held up perfectly. The footage and pictures we have are awesome as well, will send through in the next weeks or so.”
Charlies’ crew is currently working on a multi-part video series on the Icelandic trip, which will be part of a larger project called  ‘Tales to Tell’. Tales To Tell is a collaboration between friends with a passion for adventure, journeys and storytelling; through image, film and text, the friends hope to share experiences and inspire others to explore and create at home and abroad, and in doing so foster a healthy respect for the environment.
The final video documentaries will be uploaded to the Tales to Tell website at http://www.talestotell.com.au/
But until that moment, Charlie has given us a “sneak peak” at

Original Source: AirKayaks >>