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New 2016 Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayak & Paddle Board Lineup

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

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

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

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

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

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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Expanded BlackFoot Angler Fishing Series from AquaGlide Kayak

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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

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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

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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 >>

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

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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 >>

Product Review: Mistral 11-5 Adventure Inflatable SUP Paddle Board

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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 lines built in both Europe and Asia.

Our first two Mistral reviews focus on the Asian-produced boards, beginning with the Mistral Kailua inflatable paddle board – an 11 foot SUP touted as a fitness board, but also a great standup paddle board and sit-on-top.
Now we check out the Mistral Adventure inflatable SUP, an all-round cruiser designed for a wide range of conditions from flatwater lakes to oceans and rivers. The Adventure comes in two sizes – the Adventure 10-5 and Adventure 11-6. For this review, we chose the Adventure 11-6 inflatable SUP.
(Please note: some of the info will be repeated from prior writeups.)
Mistral Adventure 11’5 Inflatable Standup Paddle Board – Getting Started
The board as-arrived is 34 x 19.5 x 11 inches in the box, weighing in at 38 lbs.

Inside is the Adventure body, backpack, repair kit, single action pump with pressure gauge, removable fin and instructions (inside front zippered pocket). Once rolled up, the SUP board fits into the backpack, as well as a breakdown paddle under 35 inches (longest shaft length) – if an excellent packer, the pump will fit inside too, or it can be attached to the outside of the bag. The board itself weighs 27 lbs, or 33 lbs inside the backpack with pump – 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 Adventure 11-5 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) – before you make the effort to inflate the board, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.
The Adventure paddle board system includes a high-pressure, single-action pump with a gauge – what we term the “slim barrel” as it pushes out a bit less air, making it easier to attain very high pressures. Recommended board pressure is 15 PSI.

First, hook the gauge onto the pump then attach the hose to the gauge. Push and twist the military valve adaptor onto the valve, and lock into

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Closeout 2014 AquaGlide Columbia HB Tandem Inflatable Kayaks 25-30% off

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Just in time for the summer months! AirKayaks is pleased to announce a special purchase of remaining 2014 AquaGlide high-pressure Columbia HB Tandem and Columbia HB Two inflatable kayaks, now 25% to 30% off original prices!

The AquaGlide Columbia HB series features a 6+ PSI high-pressure “hard bottom (HB)” floor which – when coupled with the 3 PSI side chambers – provides rigidity and stability. Designed for recreational touring and all-around use, the Columbia HB flagship series is constructed from a commercial grade Duratex hull material blended with a rugged 600 denier polyester.

Front and rear spray guards are positioned to keep paddlers dry, each with ample bungee deck lacing for attaching gear. Both models can accept optional AquaGlide single and double decks, providing even greater protection from the elements, and the ability to utilize after-market spray skirts.

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.
A removable tracking fin and sculpted hull keeps the kayak on course.
Other features include neoprene knuckle guards, military inflation valves, quick-release tracking fin system, molded handles, front foot rests and paddle holders. Each kayak comes with an oversized carrying bag with backstrap. Each also includes a military valve adaptor needed to inflate the floor.
Closeout models include:

Columbia HB Tandem –  a 15 foot long inflatable kayak designed for one or two paddlers, with a third jumper seat and extra space for gear, child or pet. Weight capacity 600 lbs. Originally $1099, now $799.

Columbia HB Two – a 13.5 foot single or tandem version, with a weight capacity of 400 lbs. Originally $999, now $699.
A limited amount of the Columbia HB One kayaks (capacity 300 lbs) and Deschutes HB Two, are still available.

The Columbia HB One is a 10.5 foot single model with a 300 lbs carrying capacity. Original price $799, now $549.

The Deschutes HB Two is a stable, high pressure all-purpose recreational design kayak that is great for solo paddlers with plenty of room for gear, though has the option to carry two small adults or an adult with child. Original price $899, now $649.
The Columbia HB One and Deschutes HB Two are available for immediate shipment. The Columbia HB Two arrives June 4th, with the HB Tandem inventory arriving June 11th, pre-orders accepted, while supplies last.
Visit the AquaGlide Product Pages at AirKayaks.com to purchase, or click on the links above.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Jobe SUP Aero 11-6 Inflatable Paddle Board System

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This past month, we had the opportunity to get details on the Jobe inflatable SUP line. Well known in Europe for windsurf, water boards and attire, Jobe has recently moved into the inflatable paddle board line. Our first sample (2014 model) arrived, allowing us to take a look at the 15 PSI Jobe Aero 11-6  – a 33 inch-wide, 6-inch thick, all-around cruising and touring inflatable paddle board, complete with pump, backpack, paddle and leash.

(Please note: some of the info will be repeated from prior writeups.)
Jobe Aero 11-6 Inflatable SUP – Getting Started
The board as-arrived is 36 x 17.5 x 12 inches in the box.

Inside is the Aero 11-6 body, backpack, repair kit, single action pump with pressure gauge, cinch belt, 3 removable fins, adjustable breakdown paddle, ankle leash and instructions. Once rolled up, the SUP board fits into the backpack, as well as breakdown paddle  and pump – each of these attach to the outside of the backpack. The board itself weighs 30 lbs, while the paddle, pump and pack are 2.5 lbs each – a total of 37.5 lbs in the pack. The boxed weight is 47 lbs. The package easily fits in the back of a small car.

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

The Aero 11-6 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 Aero paddle board system includes a Bravo high-pressure, 2000 cm3 single-action pump with a gauge – what we term the “tall  barrel” as it pushes out less air, though takes a bit less effort to attain the higher pressures.

First, screw the gauge onto the pump. Tip #1: Make sure you screw the gauge on carefully – if it gets cross-threaded, air will leak out and you will have a difficult time pumping the board up to necessary pressure.

Next, attach the hose to the gauge. Take the military valve adaptor, and screw it onto the valve slightly to lock into position – the first time, you may need to push a bit harder to attach, but it gets easier. You’re ready to pump!
Please note: The included instructions

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Panther Compact Inflatable Kayak from Aquaglide

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As mentioned in previous posts, Aquaglide, Inc of White Salmon, Washington has recently introduced several new inflatable kayaks for 2015. The Aquaglide kayak product line consists of 15 models with MSRP pricing from $199.95 to $1199.95.

Our first shipment included the new Panther inflatable kayak. Part of Aquaglide’s “pricepoint” series, the Panther is a cross between the Columbia XP One and Chinook One inflatable kayaks, scaled down for “smaller” people – both youth and adults.
Following is our writeup on the Panther, a 24-lb, 9 foot solo model selling for $349.
Getting Started with the AquaGlide Panther Inflatable Kayak
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, backpack, instructions, repair kit, tracking fin and seat.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs 19 lbs, with a folded size of roughly 25 x 17 x 10 inches, while the kayak with seat in the drawstring sack weighs 24 lbs. Boxed up, the dimensions are 27 x 20 x 10 inches with a shipping weight of 29.5 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.)
AquaGlide Panther Inflatation and Setup:
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 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.

According to the instructions, the floor is pumped up first, then the two side chambers. First, attach the Boston valves by screwing them onto the kayak.
(AirKayaks Side note #2: 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 that the string does not get in the way when screwing on the valve base,and the valve is not cross-threaded, or you may have some air leakage.)

We pumped up the floor until firm (1.0 psi with slight give) using a standard double action hand pump – this took about 20 pumps.

We then pumped up each of the side chambers to 2 PSI – this was about 20 to 23 pumps each side – and screwed on the valve caps. (AirKayaks side note #3:

Original Source: AirKayaks >>