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Tahe Outdoors – New Inflatable SUPs and Kayaks for 2021

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We recently received news on the upcoming TAHE Sport inflatable SUP and kayak line for 2021.

Better known in the US under the BIC Sport name, the TAHE brand is a union of BIC Sport and Tahe Outdoors, two companies committed to water sports for decades.
Established in 1979, BIC Sport pioneered the windsurf industry, expanding into surfing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding, while the European-based Tahe Outdoors is one of the largest and fastest growing European manufacturers of paddle sport and kite surfing equipment.
Two years ago, the BIC Sport water line was acquired by Tahe Outdoors. BIC Sport’s board culture, manufacturing expertise and focus on family fun is now combined with Tahe Outdoors’ dedication to exploration and craftsmanship. The result is a brand focused on water fun, featuring environmentally friendly production processes, quality products at an affordable price, and investment in innovation and development.
For 2021, the Tahe watersports range includes an inflatable kayak and paddle board line which transitions from the 2020 BIC Sport series. While all products feature the new TAHE brand identity and look, two major categories and themes – Beach and Breeze – are used across both the inflatable kayak and paddle board lines.
The Beach series features entry-level and economically-priced SUPs and kayaks geared towards first time users, those on a budget, or those looking for casual recreational fun. The Breeze series consists of intermediate products at a slightly higher price-point, for those interested in extended touring or more features.
Both Beach and Breeze series consist of complete “get on the water” packages.
Tahe Inflatable Beach Series

The Beach Series Packages – “where adventure begins” – consists of three inflatable SUP models, three inflatable kayak models and two “crossover’packages which can do double-duty as kayak or SUP. Each package includes almost everything needed to get on the water, short of life vests.
The inflatable SUP-YAK – SUP Only Packages include the Beach 10-6, Beach 11-6 and Beach Wing 11’0.

The 10’6″ Beach SUP-YAK and 11-6 Beach SUP-YAK are stable, lightweight and easy to use recreational paddle boards. Each features a 6-inch thick dropstitch construction, a standard US-Fin box with 9-inch fin and an innovative Daisy Chain Attachment System encircling the deck pad, allowing you to attach accessories – such as storage gear or optional seat for sit-on-top kayaking – wherever you want.

The Beach 10-6 SUP-YAK is 34 inches wide, weighs 22 lbs and has a 300 lb payload. The longer Beach 11-6 SUP-YAK is 36 inches wide, 25 lbs in weight and has a 450 lb payload – this can easily convert to a tandem SUP by adding an optional second SUP paddle. Both boards come with a backpack, adjustable breakdown SUP paddle, ankle leash, repair kit, fin, high-pressure pump with gauge

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Advanced Elements AirVolution Dropstitch Kayaks for 2021 – What’s New

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Last summer, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California introduced two exciting new kayaks as precursors to the 2021 season – the AirVolutions. What makes them so special? The AirVolution solo and AirVolution2 tandem are constructed entirely from dropstitch material. With just two inflation chambers, and inflation pressures of 10 to 12 PSI, the kayaks are extremely rigid.

The sleek new models feature heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin which offers a smooth, hydrodynamic outer skin, making them easy to dry. The wide cockpit provides easy entry and exit, while the hull has a unique V-shape that transitions to a chined hull for greater on-the-water performance.

The kayaks were an immediate hit, and the demand outpaced the inventory – the AirVolution2 sold out by the end of summer.

Based on feedback from the intro models, Advanced Elements has tweaked the designs for 2021. The newly updated AE3029 AirVolution and AE3030 AirVolution2 tandem kayaks are enroute, with estimated availability of late March.

You can read our detailed writeups on the 2020 AirVolution solo kayak and the Airvolution2 for one or two paddlers.

So what’s new on the AirVolutions for 2021?

The AE3029 AirVolution also had the valves relocated; they are now behind the seat, closer together and out of the way. The drain well was also moved forward 4 inches.

Each of these are detailed in the new instruction manual, which can be downloaded here.

Weights and dimensions remain the same, but the prices have increased due to tariffs. The AirVolution AE3029 single is $1199 while the AE3030 Airvolution2 for one or two paddlers in $1499. The new models will be arriving mid-March and can be purchased at AirKayaks.com

The post Advanced Elements AirVolution Dropstitch Kayaks for 2021 – What’s New appeared first on GO AIRKAYAKS.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Advanced Elements AirVolution Dropstitch Kayaks for 2021 – What’s New

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Last summer, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California introduced two exciting new kayaks as precursors to the 2021 season – the AirVolutions. What makes them so special? The AirVolution solo and AirVolution2 tandem are constructed entirely from dropstitch material. With just two inflation chambers, and inflation pressures of 10 to 12 PSI, the kayaks are extremely rigid.

The sleek new models feature heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin which offers a smooth, hydrodynamic outer skin, making them easy to dry. The wide cockpit provides easy entry and exit, while the hull has a unique V-shape that transitions to a chined hull for greater on-the-water performance.

The kayaks were an immediate hit, and the demand outpaced the inventory – the AirVolution2 sold out by the end of summer.

Based on feedback from the intro models, Advanced Elements has tweaked the designs for 2021. The newly updated AE3029 AirVolution and AE3030 AirVolution2 tandem kayaks are enroute, with estimated availability of late March.

You can read our detailed writeups on the 2020 AirVolution solo kayak and the Airvolution2 for one or two paddlers.
Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements
Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution2 Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

So what’s new on the AirVolutions for 2021?

Both models now come with an inflatable foot brace. For the AE3030, this will only be used in tandem mode for the front paddler.
Seat Improvements: The backrest is now stiffer and more supportive. Additionally, the adjustment straps have been shortened up and cleaned up. The webbing ends have been better melted to prevent fraying, and folded and bar-tacked for a cleaner finish.

Seat d-ring locations: The d-rings on the floor have been moved forward a few inches and also relocated to the sidewall of the cockpit. A new d-ring has been added to the front of the cockpit for clipping an additional item such as a water bottle, etc.
The Pressure Relief Valve rating has been lowered from 19 to 14 PSI, and the ring around the PRV reflects this.
Valve Location and Drain Well: The valve locations were flipped so that they are now on the same side, with the inflation valves on the left and Pressure Relief Valves on the right. This makes it easier to push out air when folding.

The deck bungee now sports heat-shrink material for a cleaner look
The pump was transitioned to a rugged Bravo dual-stage pump.
As a nifty little bonus, each of the kayak packages now includes a 12-volt, low-pressure battery operated inflator. The pump runs on 4 D-Cells (not included). While the pump does not have enough power to pressurize the kayak, it will rapidly fill out the body, saving physical pumping time and effort. The Bravo dual-action pump can then be used to get it

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Tahe Outdoors – New Inflatable SUPs and Kayaks for 2021

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

We recently received news on the upcoming TAHE Outdoors inflatable SUP and kayak line for 2021.

Better known in the US under the BIC Sport name, the TAHE brand is a union of BIC Sport and Tahe Outdoors, two companies committed to water sports for decades.
Established in 1979, BIC Sport pioneered the windsurf industry, expanding into surfing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding, while the European-based Tahe Outdoors is one of the largest and fastest growing European manufacturers of paddle sport and kite surfing equipment.
Two years ago, the BIC Sport water line was acquired by Tahe Outdoors. BIC Sport’s board culture, manufacturing expertise and focus on family fun is now combined with Tahe Outdoors’ dedication to exploration and craftsmanship. The result is a brand focused on water fun, featuring environmentally friendly production processes, quality products at an affordable price, and investment in innovation and development.
For 2021, the Tahe Outdoor watersports range includes an inflatable kayak and paddle board line which transitions from the 2020 BIC Sport series. While all products feature the new TAHE brand identity and look, two major categories and themes – Beach and Breeze – are used across both the inflatable kayak and paddle board lines.
The Beach series features entry-level and economically-priced SUPs and kayaks geared towards first time users, those on a budget, or those looking for casual recreational fun. The Breeze series consists of intermediate products at a slightly higher price-point, for those interested in extended touring or more features.
Both Beach and Breeze series consist of complete “get on the water” packages.
Tahe Outdoors Inflatable Beach Series

The Beach Series Packages – “where adventure begins” – consists of three inflatable SUP models, three inflatable kayak models and two “crossover’packages which can do double-duty as kayak or SUP. Each package includes almost everything needed to get on the water, short of life vests.
The inflatable SUP-Air packages include the Beach 10-6, Beach 11-6 and Beach Wing 11’0.

The 10’6″ Beach SUP AIR and 11-6 Beach SUP-AIR are stable, lightweight and easy to use recreational paddle boards. Each features a 6-inch thick dropstitch construction, a standard US-Fin box with 9-inch fin and an innovative Daisy Chain Attachment System encircling the deck pad, allowing you to attach accessories – such as storage gear or optional seat for sit-on-top kayaking – wherever you want.

The Beach 10-6 SUP-AIR is 34 inches wide, weighs 22 lbs and has a 300 lb payload. The longer Beach 11-6 SUP-AIR is 36 inches wide, 25 lbs in weight and has a 450 lb payload – this can easily convert to a tandem SUP by adding an optional second SUP paddle. Both boards come with a backpack, adjustable breakdown SUP paddle, ankle leash, repair kit, fin, high-pressure pump with gauge

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2021 Comparison Guide to Selecting an Inflatable Kayak at AirKayaks

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As the weather heats up in the Northern Hemisphere, thoughts turn to outdoor activities and “fun-in-the-sun.” If you’ve arrived at this blog article, you’re already intrigued with the idea of paddling across a lake, down a lazy river or along a coastline, and are looking into inflatable kayaks. Maybe you have limited space, want to pack into the back country, need lighter weight options or travel in an RV.  Regardless of the motivation, there are a myriad of choices which can be daunting.

To help you narrow down the field, AirKayaks has put together a table comparing our inflatable kayak options – the table is located at the bottom of this article. We have listed the following details – manufacturer, model name and stock number, price range, number of paddlers, kayak lengths, widths, weights, payloads, # of chambers, inflation pressures, design style, kayak type and whether a pump is included.

We have divided our inflatable kayak list into four sections sorted by price – Under $500; $500 to $749; $750 to $999; and $1000 and up.  Within each of those four sections, we have sorted by length.
AirKayaks originally posted this article in 2019 and 2020. We have updated it to reflect the kayak choices and changes for 2021.
To help you get going, we describe the attributes of each style first. For further information on inflatable kayak choices, benefits and definitions, please also see our popular guide to Choosing an Inflatable Kayak – What You Should Consider.
Enclosed Design Inflatable Kayaks

The enclosed hull design is similar to many hard shell kayaks; this is shown above in the Advanced Elements AE1044 AdvancedFrame DS-XL kayak.  The snugger cockpit design keeps excess water and wind from entering the kayak, and also less direct sun. Many of them have coamings (the gray tube in the photo above, encircling the cockpit) that allow you to attach a spray skirt.
 

What is a spray skirt? This is an accessory that attaches to the kayak around the coaming, and then again to your body (shown above on an Innova Swing). The function is to keep out even more wind and water.

Many of the enclosed decks can be zipped open for easy entry or to cool off, but the benefits of the enclosed design include the ability to kayak in windier and colder climates/situations (shown above, the Aquaglide Navarro series.)

A closed-design tandem can also be paddled solo, but it is not as balanced as the paddler must sit in the rear fixed cockpit, rather than the optimal position “just rear of center.” Typically, adding weight to the front will help balance out the kayak (as shown with Eddie sitting in the front cockpit of an Innova Swing 2 kayak).
Open Design Inflatable Kayaks:

This includes

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Finding Leaks & Options for Repairing a PVC Inflatable Kayak

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Over the past 20 years, we’ve received many questions from customers on repairing inflatable kayaks, locating leaks or adding d-rings and mounts. Just recently, we stumbled across a great tech sheet put together by Aquaglide a manufacturer of inflatable kayaks, standup paddle boards, and a new Backwoods lightweight, packable kayak series. We are reprinting the tech sheet below – read on to find out how to locate a leak in an inflatable kayak, what materials and repair methods to use and when to use them. As long time retailers of inflatable kayaks and paddle boards, we have expanded this to include some of our own AirKayaks tips.
GENERAL PVC REPAIRS – updated 07/30/2020
NOTE: The following instructions are for patching a basic leak on a PVC inflatable, typically a puncture or cut. More complicated repairs such as those near seams and corners, may require special repair techniques which are beyond the scope of this article.
Some Helpful Items and Where to find them

Tear-Aid – Tear-Aid Type B is a self-adhesive patch material that’s widely available online and at nationwide retail outlets like Walmart, Ace Hardware, AirKayaks, REI and more. Great for relatively long-term repair of punctures on all types of PVC products. Clear, non-toxic and easy to use.

Aquaseal FD– This is a liquid sealant that can be oozed into very small cracks, edges and pinholes. Widely available online and at nationwide retail outlets. This stuff is a little messy to work with and may be best applied using a small plastic irrigation syringe from the drug or hardware store.

Shoe Goo, Clear– Yup, seriously. This is a very thick vinyl-based adhesive that can be used for quick, short-term plugging of small holes on low pressure items. Widely available online and at nationwide retail outlets like Walmart, Lowes, Walgreens, Dick’s, REI and more.
Fabric Reinforced PVC – Reinforced PVC, or tarpaulin, is commercial grade material that is the basis for most of Aquaglide’s Duratex products. The strongest and most durable repair for Duratex items is generally to patch with material of the same type. This material can be found in the repair kit included with your Aquaglide product or purchased from an Aquaglide distributor. In a pinch, similar material can be found online, or at marine stores where RIB dinghies or whitewater rafts are sold or serviced. If you go this route, DO NOT use patch material or glue intended for Hypalon, which looks almost identical, but will result in a gooey mess when combined with PVC.

Contact Adhesive– For those choosing to repair with a reinforced PVC patch (see above), using good glue is critical. We recommend HH-66 vinyl adhesive, which is available through Aquaglide, and also widely available online, through Walmart and many local auto

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

How to Use and Troubleshoot a Boston Valve for Inflatable Kayaks

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Many of today’s low pressure inflatable kayaks use Boston Valves on their bladders. Boston valves are very easy to use. Inflation valves are the “connections” on the kayak that allow air to be pumped into the kayak. The valve adaptor is the fitting that couples the pump hose to the inflation valve.

Boston valves have three components – 1) A base retaining ring (valve collar) that screws onto the kayak bladder receptacle/opening, 2) the valve body and 3) the valve cap. The base retaining ring serves the purpose of also keeping the fabric outer shell opening in position – if you did not have this, the bladder would fall inside the cover, making it difficult to access.

Most kayaks arrive with the retaining ring already screwed onto the bladder receptable – double check that it is screwed on tightly before inflating. If it is not already in position, screw on the ring (collar) making sure that the kayak cover (blue material above) is not scrunched up around the threaded area – this can cause leaks.

Next, screw on the valve  body onto the retaining ring – make sure it is not cross-threaded, and it is tightly in place.

Once the body is in place, the kayak can be inflated.

The Boston Valve adaptor is a slightly conical nozzle found on most standard pumps (on right in picture above).

The adaptor couples to the end of the pump hose, and “friction fits” into the Boston valve body. As you start pumping, air is pushed into the bladder.

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. Please note that if using a gauge, pressure gauges read off back pressure. Thus, the needle will go up as you make the stroke, and fall back to zero when you aren’t. Just keep track of how high the needle goes.
Occasionally, the valve adaptors may be too loose, and will pop out. This can be rectified in a few ways. 1) Put some masking tape or duct tape around the adaptor, to make it a little thicker. 2) Use a rock or sandpaper to slightly rough up the outer surface of the adaptor, or 3) as the Boston valve is “tapering”, slightly cut down the length – this in effect will make the adaptor a bit wider, to friction fit better.

Once finished pumping, screw the cap onto the Boston valve body. You’re done!
To deflate the chamber, unscrew the base connector and all the air will swoosh out.  Once the air is totally out, screw the cap back on so the valve doesn’t get misplaced.
Troubleshooting your Boston Valves:
If you believe you have a leak at

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Aquaglide’s New Blackfoot Angler Inflatable Kayaks for 2021

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In late 2020 we posted information on Aquaglide’s upcoming new inflatable kayak line for 2021, consisting of 20 models for recreational, touring, fishing, whitewater/crossover and back-country. While twelve models remain the same, the Chelan and Blackfoot series were redesigned. We expanded the details in our Sneak Preview on the Aquaglide Chelan series, and we now turn to the updated Blackfoot fishing kayaks.

The Blackfoot Angler series for 2021 is comprised of the Blackfoot 130 – a single angler that can become a double with purchase of an optional seat – and the new Blackfoot 160 XL – a true tandem.
Just like the new Chelan series, the key words for the 2021 Blackfoots are comfort, performance and appointments, now featuring beefed-up graphics and even more storage options and gear attachments for a better fishing and paddling experience.

The previous Blackfoot 125 has been redesigned as a slightly longer 13 foot by 40 inch width Blackfoot Angler 130 for one paddler, but with space enough to outfit it as a double by adding an extra seat. A new BlackFoot Angler 160 – at a whopping 16 feet with 40 inch width – is a true tandem with all the bells and whistles and an 800 lb payload. The Blackfoot 110 solo has been retired.
Each of the new Blackfoots is constructed from Aquaglide’s commercial-grade Duratex material consisting of a lightweight, stiff and durable skin that dries easily. The high-pressure floor is covered with a diamond-cut EVA traction pad for secure footing and comfort while casting or standing.
Four threaded drain plugs can be opened or closed, dependent on the type of water action – open for self-draining in rough water or closed when in calm settings.

Front and rear splash decks with bungee lacing keep water out and gear intact.
The Blackfoots come standard with Aquaglide’s new High-Low Frame Seat with two seating options; the high setting offers better visibility and makes it easier to stand up when casting, while the low setting provides more stability in rougher waters. An adjustable, high backrest gives solid support, while the breathable fabric keeps one cooler. A storage shelf under the seat is perfect for tackle boxes while further storage options can be found on the seat back. As an added bonus – the seat can be removed, providing comfortable seating on the beach or around a campsite.

New Molle plates – as found on military backpacks and gear – are integrated onto the side tubes. Each can be used for attaching a multitude of aftermarket gadgets, such as first aid kits, multi-tool cases, waterproof gear pouches or Aquaglide’s optional, new, vertically-mounted cup holder. The Blackfoot series comes equipped with mesh storage pouches which attach to the molle plates.

A series of universal mounts on

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 2021 Aquaglide Chelan Series of Inflatable Touring Kayaks

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We recently posted information on Aquaglide’s upcoming new inflatable kayak line for 2021, consisting of 20 models for recreational, touring, fishing, whitewater/crossover and backcountry. While twelve models remain the same, the Chelan and Blackfoot series were redesigned.

The Chelan touring series, comprised of the Chelan 120 single, Chelan 140 Tandem and Chelan 155 tandem XL, have undergone major upgrades. While each of the kayaks still feature 100mm, high pressure floors and Duratex tubeless construction, the color and graphics have undergone a total facelift as well as a structural redesign.

The key words for the new 2021 Chelans are comfort, performance and appointments, now offering a multitude of storage options and gear attachments for a better paddling experience. The Chelan silhouette was also refined with a lowered nose rocker, providing better tracking and paddling performance.

The 2021 Chelans are now equipped with a set of 1-inch side-tube molle plates for attaching gear. Molle webbing is often found on military backpacks and gear. Each can be used for attaching a multitude of aftermarket gadgets, such as first aid kits, multi-tool cases, waterproof gear pouches or Aquaglide’s optional, new, vertically-mounted cup holder. The Chelan series comes equipped with mesh storage pouches which attach to the molle plates.

A universal mount has been integrated into the floor in front of each seat. The base plate makes it easy to attach optional rod holders, camera mounts and more.

And if that wasn’t enough, the Chelans have been outfitted with a series of webbing loops positioned 6 inches apart along the floor on each side, providing even more options for attaching accessories.

The Chelans come with the new River Crossing backpack constructed from a rugged, 600 denier polyester. The bag has been redesigned with a larger capacity and full zipper for better fit as well as multiple handles for easier carrying. Mesh pockets and side panels provide drainage and breathability, while an exterior pocket and straps allow one to store a breakdown paddle. An external bungee lacing system provides more places to attach gear. The River Crossing backpack easily converts to a carrying case by stashing the adjustable, padded shoulder straps into a stowaway pocket when not in use or for plane flights, preventing snags. Dimensions are 39 x 17 x 13 inches.
Other features remaining on the Chelans include movable foot braces, splash decks with bungee deck lacing, multiple carrying handles, three military valves and high-pressure floor.

Threaded floor drains can be open or closed, allowing water to drain when in rougher waters or surf.

A Posi Track weedless fin utilizes a US Fin box. The fin attaches with a tool-less thumb screw, and can be easily replaced with aftermarket shorter fins for shallow water or longer fins for increased tracking.

The Proformance seat(s) remain

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Aquaglide 2021 Inflatable Kayak Line – What’s New

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We recently received information on Aquaglide’s upcoming new inflatable kayak line for 2021.

Originally a division of North Sports Inc, the Aquaglide brand has grown steadily to encompass 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. North Sports was subsequently acquired by Connelly Skis, well known for their water skis and water sports equipment.
Now entering the eighth season, AquaGlide’s paddling line of inflatable kayaks and SUPs has dramatically expanded the options available to water enthusiasts looking for portability.

For 2021, Aquaglide continues with 20 models for recreational, touring, fishing, whitewater/crossover and backcountry. This includes the revamping of one model, overhaul of three models, the introduction of four models and the retirement of one model. Twelve models remain the same structurally and graphically, with some price increases.
Big changes include a redesigned Blackfoot Angler series and an overhaul of the Chelan touring line; neither of these were updated in 2020. But the biggest news is the introduction of a totally new category of Backwoods UltraLight kayaks, featuring 3 models weighing in at 7.5 lbs to 13 lbs.

The popular Blackfoot Angler series has undergone a major overhaul and now features the Blackfoot 130 and Blackfoot 160 true tandem.

The Blackfoot 125 has been redesigned as a slightly longer 13 foot by 40 inch width Blackfoot Angler 130 for one paddler, but with space enough to outfit it as a double by adding an extra seat. A new BlackFoot Angler 160 – at a whopping 16 feet with 40 inch width – is a true tandem with all the bells and whistles and an 800 lb payload. The Blackfoot 110 solo has been retired.

Besides beefed up graphics, new features include a series of low tie-down loops on the floor and side molle plates to provide numerous options for attaching gear. EVA foam traction pads on the floor offer better grip and comfort when standing.

The Blackfoots come standard with Aquaglide’s new high-low Frame Seat which features a shelf under the seat for stashing gear.  Street prices on the Blackfoot 130 increased to $1199.99 while the Blackfoot 160 retails for $1499.99.

The Chelan touring series, comprised of the Chelan 120 single and Chelan 140 and Chelan 155 XL tandems, have undergone major upgrades. While each of the kayaks still feature high pressure floors and Duratex tubeless construction, the color and graphics have undergone a total facelift as well as a structural redesign. The Chelan silhouette is now more refined with a lowered nose rocker, providing better tracking and paddling performance.

Each of the Chelans now feature an integrated universal mount on the floor in front of each seat as well as side

Original Source: AirKayaks >>