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2017 Red Paddle Co: Guide to Choosing Your Inflatable Paddle Board

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The 2017 Red Paddle Co inflatable paddle boards have hit the market! With all the models, activity types, sizes and features, how does one choose the best board? Each year we update our previous posts to reflect the new Red Paddle Co models and product upgrades – use this guide to take away some of the guesswork when looking at the myriad of options with Red Paddle Co iSUPs.

For 2017, Red Paddle Co has 22 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10” to 22’0. This includes the introduction of 5 new models – Sport 11’3, Race 14’0, Dragon 22’0, Windsurf 10’7″ and Ride L – revamped graphics, added features on several of the current models and updated accessories.

The more noticeable new features include:

Further advances in Red Paddle’s innovative new Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. For 2017, Red Paddle again tweaked the material across the entire product line, making the injected, reinforced second layer thicker with increased bond strength – producing a lighterweight yet more rigid board than most competitor’s.
Boards with removable fins now sport standard US Fin boxes which fit 90% of the fins on the market.
Introduction of the FCS II Connect Tool-less Fin System on several models –  these quickly snap into position without need for hardware or tools.
Integrated RAM mount threads on several models, allowing one to add an optional universal RAM mount socket. With this socket, paddlers can purchase a myriad of RAM accessories allowing one to attach a cell phone holder, camera mount, fishing gear, Go-Pro fixture or cup holders.
Forward Flex Control (FFC) stiffening rod on the two Elite racing models. Working in conjunction with the RSS Rocker Stiffening System fiberglass battens, nose flex is removed, ensuring an incredibly rigid ride while retaining the portability and storage advantages of an inflatable.
Beefed-up features on the Titan dual cylinder hand pump as well as an internal upgrade.
Foil lining on the wheeled backpack and integrated paddle holder.

Prices are generally remaining the same with some slight increases over 2016. (See a complete list of the new 2017 Red Paddle Co Line and new features on this blog article.)
Well-known for their ruggedness throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, each of the Red Paddle Co boards utilize high pressure drop-stitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 16-22 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, traction pads and fins.

All 2017 Red Paddle Co iSUPs come with the roller backpack featuring integrated wheels, making it easier to thread through airport lobbies, while still comfortable enough to pack into the remote country. Most of the boards come with the Titan dual action pump; the two smaller Whip 8-10 and Snapper 9-4 boards – as

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New 2017 Red Paddle Co Inflatable Paddle Board SUP Lineup

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We recently received details on Red Paddle Company’s exciting new inflatable SUP lineup being introduced for 2017.

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 boards utilize high pressure drop-stitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 16-22 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, thick traction pads and fins.

For 2017, Red Paddle Co has 22 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10” to 22’0. This includes the introduction of 5 new models – Sport 11’3, Race 14’0, Dragon 22’0, Windsurf 10’7″ and Ride L – updated accessories, revamped graphics and added features on several of the current models. Prices are generally remaining the same with some slight increases over 2016.
2017 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP Construction

In 2016, Red Paddle introduced a technologically innovative new process named Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. In the past, the “board within a board” was glued together, creating extra weight and the potential for hand-gluing errors. The new process consisted of industrially fusing the second layer of polymer to the dropstitch core at the raw material stage. The end result was a material structurally more sound, even more rigid, as well as lighter – in fact, many of the MSL boards are now 5-10 lbs lighter than previous models. For 2017, Red Paddle again tweaked the material across the entire product line, making the injected, reinforced second layer thicker with increased bond strength.

Except for the boards featuring fixed fins (Rides, Snapper) the Reds with removable fins have been revamped with a fairly standard US Fin box which fits 90% of the fins on the market. Theses are divided into two types – the Sports, Explorers and Whip now feature FCS Connect Tool-less Fin Systems which quickly snap into position without need for hardware or tools. The racing boards (Elites, Races) come with a glass race fin.

New for 2017 is an integrated thread which allows one to add a universal RAM mount socket, available in two sizes. With this socket, paddlers can purchase a myriad of RAM mounts, allowing one to attach a cell phone holder, camera mount, fishing gear, Go-Pro fixture, cup holders – you name it! The RAM mount threads can be found on the recreational boards such as the Rides, Explorers, Snapper, Whip and Sports.

The big news is development of the Forward Flex Control (FFC) stiffening rod on the two Elite racing models. The patented FFC system works in conjunction with the current RSS Rocker Stiffening System fiberglass battens. Before fully inflating the board, the FFC rod is clipped to a mounting lever

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Save $250 on Innova Sunny Inflatable Kayak for 1-2 Paddlers

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Special purchase on the Innova Sunny inflatable kayak, regularly $999, now $749 – a 25% savings!

The Innova Sunny is a high-quality, PVC-free, inflatable kayak for 1 or 2 paddlers. At only 33 lbs, the Innova packs small enough to qualify as carry-on luggage!

Featuring a PVC-free construction, the Sunny  is built from a 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 no out-gassing.

The Innova Sunny comes with a very nifty and compact backpack with adjustable shoulder straps containing the kayak body, two seats, a foot rest, repair kit, instructions, tracking fin, valve adaptor and sponge. It’s perfect for lakes, slow-moving rivers, coastal waters and inlets.

Now is a great time to purchase a long-time Innova favorite at a whopping 25% savings.
To purchase or for more info, visit the Innova Sunny product page at AirKayaks.com. You can also read our Detailed Product Review on the Innova Sunny. While supplies last.

 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Guide to Choosing Your AdvancedFrame or Sport Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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We recently reviewed two of the popular Advanced Elements inflatable kayaks – the AE1012 AdvancedFrame and AE1017 Sport – which had undergone a series of upgrades.
The AdvancedFrame (rear) next to the Sport (bottom).
First introduced in 2002 as the AirFrame, the AdvancedFrame has evolved over the past 15 years into one of Advanced Elements most popular models, well-known as an excellent value for performance, quality and price. This was followed by the Sport in 2009, loosely modeled after its big brother but without all the “bells and whistles.”
One of the most commonly asked questions is – which one is right for me? Below we have compiled a list of similarities and differences to help guide you in making that personal decision.
What’s the same in both kayaks?

Both kayaks are constructed from the same same diamond ripstop, hull material and PVC i-beam floor construction with 1 PSI pressure relief valve. Each has the same molded rubber handles, high-backed seat, inflation valves, rear d-rings, tracking fin and landing plate. Both have the same aluminum rib inserts, plastic sleeve inserts, deck lifts, similar neoprene knuckle guards and velcro paddle holders. The basic footprint – length and width – are roughly the same at 10′ 4 inches by roughly 32-33 inches wide with interior dimensions roughly the same at 63-65 x 17.
So what’s different?
While there are many items that are similar, the AE1017 Sport is a stripped-down, simpler version of the AE1012 AdvancedFrame.
The Sport (bottom) has a wider cockpit opening and can not use a spray skirt.
The Sport features one main inflation chamber and three twistloks (floor valve, and two deck lifts). The Sport has a thin, non-inflatable coaming lip around the cockpit which will not accept a spray skirt. The top decks do not zipper open. The cockpit opening is a generous 44 x 19 inches. The bungee deck lacing area is about half the size in the Sport, with less d-rings. By removing some of the features and enlarging the deck opening, the weight is a lighter 26 lbs for kayak and seat, or 28 lbs in the carrying case. The carrying capacity is slightly lower at 250 lbs person and gear (235 lbs person). MSRP is slightly less at $449 ($399 street price). Most of the standard accessories – inflatable foot brace, backbone, high-pressure floor, advancedtrak rudder, accessory frame, lumbar seat, durafloor – will work with the Sport.
The AdvancedFrame (top) has more gear attachment points.
The AE1012 AdvancedFrame features two main inflation chambers and five twistloks (floor, decklifts and coaming tubes). The AdvancedFrame has a more enclosed cockpit measuring 32 x 17 inches with zippers on both front and rear decks. The front deck can be zipped open 24 inches for easier entry, or

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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

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

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

Inside, the rugged carrying case measures 30 x 18 x 10 inches, and houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit and instructions. The kayak folded size is approximately 30 x17 x 10 inches. The kayak body and seat in the case weighs 28 lbs, while the kayak and seat alone are 26 lbs. The case has just enough room to include a small pump and breakdown paddle (not included).  AirKayaks note: Take a good look at how the kayak is folded BEFORE setting up, this will help during breakdown. The instructions are located in a small plastic pocket inside the carrying case.
AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak Setup/Inflation
We re-acquainted ourselves with the kayak by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc.

First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame Sport – along with all AdvancedFrame models – features an “inner rib” in the bow and stern, which is basically a u-shaped aluminum rib, about a foot long and one-half inch wide.

This comes “pre-assembled” meaning it arrives already inserted into two sleeves inside the kayak cover. Unless you remove the inner bladder, they remain in position. When the kayak is pumped up, the inner bladder with rib presses against the kayak cover – that, in conjunction with two bow and stern plastic sheets, give the kayak a sharp silhouette which aids in slicing through the water.

The kayak features 4 inflation chambers – one military valve and 3 twist-loks. The military-style plunger valves are simple to use – twist up to inflate (this is the closed position where air goes in and doesn’t come out) and down to deflate (air goes in and comes back out).

The kayak comes with a screw-on adaptor (found in the repair kit in the mesh pocket behind the seat) which will fit some pumps based on the hose fittings. Otherwise, a standard Boston valve adaptor will friction fit into

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Updated AE1012 AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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

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

The box as received weighs 41 lbs, measuring 32 x 19 x 11 inches. Inside, the rugged carrying case measures 32 x 18 x 10 inches, and houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit and instructions. The kayak folded size is approximately 30 x17 x 10 inches. The case has just enough room to include a small pump and breakdown paddle (not included). AirKayaks note: Take a good look at how the kayak is folded BEFORE setting up, this will help during breakdown.
AdvancedFrame Kayak Setup/Inflation
We re-acquainted ourselves with the kayak by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc.

First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame features an “inner rib” in the bow and stern, which is basically a u-shaped aluminum rib, about a foot long and one-half inch wide.

This comes “pre-assembled” meaning it arrives already inserted into two sleeves inside the kayak cover. Unless you remove the inner bladder, they remain in position. When the kayak is pumped up, the inner bladder with rib presses against the kayak cover – that, in conjunction with two bow and stern plastic sheets, give the kayak a sharp silhouette which aids in slicing through the water.

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

The kayak comes with a screw-on adaptor (found in the repair kit in the mesh pocket behind the seat) which will fit some pumps

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Save $200-$250 on a 2016 Red Paddle Co Sport Inflatable SUP

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Coastal Sports, the US and Canadian distributor for the global Red Paddle Co inflatable SUP line, has announced a Super Summer Sports Sale. Now through August 31st, a limited amount of the popular Red Paddle Co Sport 11 and Sport 12-6 models will be available with a whopping $200-$250 off coupon code.

Red Paddle Co is a UK-based company, rapidly becoming the leader in inflatable paddle boards. The Red Paddle Co line now features 17 models ranging in size from 8’11 to 14’0, covering surfing, racing and everything else in-between.
The Sports are the perfect bridge in Red Paddle Co’s 2016 line – great for gliding across bays, lakes, up rivers. The secret lies in their shape. The narrower, bullet shape and longer water line make the Sports zippier and better performing than the Rides. They cut through the water cleanly with better glide, while the squared off tail provides more stability. And they’re easier to inflate and carry around than the Explorers.
Both models feature the patented RSS Rocker Stiffening System. For 2016, the introduction of MSL (Monocoque Structural Laminate) fusion technology resulted in a higher-quality, high-pressure material utilizing less glue. That – coupled with screen-printed graphics and the low-profile, heat-pressed deck pads – culminated in a  lighter board that is slightly more rigid, yet is also easier to roll up.
Which Sport to choose? The Sport 11’0” – with its smaller air volume – offers fast inflation, more weight-savings and great flat-water performance for riders up to 200 lbs, while the Sport 12’6” is also suited to longer touring trips and can be used by larger riders up to 300 lbs.

Each of the Red Paddle Co Sport models come complete with the Red Paddle roller-wheel backpack, repair kit, instructions, deep water fin, RSS battens, cell phone case and special Red Paddle Co Titan hand pump with pressure gauge, which makes large volume inflation to 16-22 psi easier, leaving you more time to paddle.
As a bonus, AirKayaks is offering a free Accent Max adjustable breakdown SUP paddle, free UPS ground shipping in the lower 48 states, and no US sales tax!
To save $200, visit the 2016 Red Paddle Co Sport 11-0 product page at AirKayaks.com and use coupon code 11sportsale or 126sportsale for $250 savings on the Red Paddle Co Sport 12-6.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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

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As mentioned in prior posts, we received our first shipment of the newly-updated Innova Twist and Swing inflatable kayaks for 2016.
Made in the Czech Republic, the Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Light Nitrilon (LN), a lighterweight version of the rugged material used in the traditional Innova Sunny, Helios and Safari models. Light Nitrilon is known for making the kayaks more rigid as well as water and abrasion resistant, without substantially increasing weight. It’s also PVC-free, thus environmentally friendly.

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

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

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

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

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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: AquaGlide Blackfoot HB Angler XL Inflatable Kayak for 1 or 2 Paddlers

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We continue with our series on the new AquaGlide line of inflatable kayaks, specifically the fishing models. We previously reviewed the new high pressure Blackfoot HB Angler SL single-person inflatable kayak followed by the 11-0 Blackfoot Angler Inflatable Paddle Board. We now turn to the Blackfoot HB Angler XL – an elongated 13-foot version which can be set up as the ultimate one-person fishing machine, but can easily switch to a two-person model by adding an optional seat.

Please note, some of this will be repeated from other reviews.
Getting Started with the AquaGlide Blackfoot HB Angler XL:
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, backpack, instructions, repair kit, foot brace, tracking fin, visor lift, booster seat, adaptor, fishing cooler with rod holders and Core seat.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body with bolster weighs 31.75 lbs while the kayak with seat, fin and brace in the backpack (everything but the cooler) weighs 37.4 lbs. Backpack size (filled) is roughly 27 x 20 x 14 inches. The fishing cooler weighs an additional 3.25 lbs and flattens to 20 x 13 x 3 inches; we did manage to fit it into the backpack. Boxed up, the entire package dimensions are 24 x 20 x 14 inches with a shipping weight of 48 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 are adequate and include diagrams with inflation details.

Set up is straight-forward and simple  – unpack, unfold, inflate.
There are three inflation chambers utilizing high-pressure military valves – the two side chambers and the floor. The floor is pumped up first.

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 Blackfoot HB XL valves require a military valve adaptor, which does not come with most standard pumps. The adaptor was located inside the repair kit.  Friction fit the military valve adaptor onto the Boston valve adaptor (slightly conical-shaped nozzle), then lock onto the military valve with a slight twist. Since the chambers are inflated from 3 to 12 PSI, it is helpful to use a pump with pressure gauge to ensure the kayak is inflated appropriately.
Here we had our first issue – we could not get the adaptor to couple to the valve. From past experience, we found this could be two things. One, the o-ring can be very stiff initially or two, there is such

Original Source: AirKayaks >>