Tag Archives: airkayaks

Product Review: 2015 Red Air Explorer 12-6 Inflatable SUP from Red Paddle Co.

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

In late October, we received the first few 2015 Red Paddle Co. inflatable boards for review. As it had been two years since our previous writeup, we were excited when UPS backed up the truck and delivered a 2015 Red Air Explorer 12-6.

We first stumbled across the Red Air inflatable SUPs from Red Paddle Company in early 2012. Founded in 2007, Red Paddle Company is a UK-based business focused solely on the design and manufacture of inflatable paddle boards and accessories.
Well-known for their ruggedness, 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 and double layering. The larger boards come with the Red Air EZee pump, allowing one to inflate a paddle board in less than 10 minutes.
So, we opened the box and started getting ourselves reacquainted with the Explorer 12-6. (Please note, some of the information here will be repeated from other writeups.)
Red Air Twelve Six Explorer: Getting Started
The box as received weighs 47 lbs, measuring 37 x 15 x 15 inches.

Inside the box is the SUP body, EZee pump, pressure gauge, backpack, cinch belt, removable fin, instructions and repair kit – as well as a very neat bonus cell phone case.

Once rolled up, the SUP board and paddle fit into the backpack, as well as optional breakdown paddles under 37 inches. Weight is 43 lbs for backpack, board and pump, which all easily fit in the back of a small car. The board alone is approximately 35 lbs.
Red Air Twelve Six Explorer: Setup
The Red Air 12’6 Explorer inflatable SUP arrives rolled up around the EZee pump, inside the backpack. While there are French instructions in the box, you will find the English version folded up inside the cell phone case attached to the back pack.

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

The Red Air 12’6 Explorer 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 go to all the effort of inflating the board, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.

The included single-action pump comes with a pressure gauge, so you can monitor the board’s PSI. The gauge screws onto the pump – pull the pump handle up (so the pump body doesn’t

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: 2015 Red Air Ride 10-6 Inflatable SUP from Red Paddle Co.

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

We first stumbled across the Red Air inflatable SUPs from Red Paddle Company in early 2012.
Founded in 2007, Red Paddle Co. is a UK-based business focused solely on the design and manufacture of inflatable paddle boards and accessories – and rapidly becoming one of the most popular.

Well-known for their ruggedness, each of the Red Air boards utilize high-pressure, dropstitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 15-25 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction with double layering.
In October, some of the new 2015 models arrived in the States; having previously reviewed the 2012 and 2013 models, we were eager to take a re-look to see how the boards had evolved.
Our first choice was the new 2015 Ride 10-6 – one of the new “blue bellies” from Red Paddle Co – surely one of the top selling inflatable boards, and rapidly becoming an industry classic.
Following is our (re) write-up on the 2015 Red Air Ten Six Ride from Red Paddle Company. (Please note, some of this is repeated from previous writeups.)
Getting Started with the Red Paddle Co Ride 10-6
The box as received weighs 38 lbs, measuring 37 x 15 x 15 inches.

Inside the box is the SUP body, back pack, HP EZee pump, pressure gauge, cinch belt, fin guards, instructions and repair kit – and a very nifty bonus cell phone case! Once rolled up, the SUP board and pump fit into the backpack, as well as a breakdown paddle under 37 inches.

Weight is 34 lbs for backpack, board and pump, which all easily fit in the back of a small car. The board alone is 25 lbs.
Ride 10-6 Set-Up and Inflation
The 10’6 Ride inflatable SUP arrives rolled up around the high pressure EZee pump, inside the backpack. While the box included instructions in French, if you locate the cell phone case (attached to the back pack), the English version is folded inside the case.

Remove the fin guards and unroll the SUP body. There are three integrated tracking fins at the rear of the board. Lay it out face up (fins down) so that you can access the military valve.

The Red Air Ride 10’6 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). Before you go to all the effort of inflating the board, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.

The included single-action pump comes with a pressure gauge, so

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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 >>

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 >>

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 >>

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 >>

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 >>