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Sneak Preview: New BlackFoot HB Inflatable Fishing Kayak from AquaGlide

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Earlier this month at the Outdoor Retailer summer sporting goods show, North Sports, Inc. of White Salmon, Washington unveiled their new AquaGlide inflatable kayak lineup for 2015.

One of the models being introduced later this year is the 12′ 8″ Blackfoot HB – a high-pressure inflatable, whitewater and fishing kayak that can be paddled by one to two people.

Designed with the angler in mind, the Blackfoot HB features 7 integrated Scotty mounts (three each side and one on the floor), which can be used to add anything from rod holders to GPS.

Included with the kayak is an integrated utility bag which 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.

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

A single “Whitewater” seat is mounted on a removable, raised platform for a higher seating perspective, providing more ergonomic comfort.

The seat back also 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 kayak is constructed from a smooth-skin Duratex, cutting down on drying time. Designed with extra width (39 inches) for added stability, the 6-12 PSI high pressure floor is extremely rigid and durable enough to stand-up and fly fish.

The BlackFoot HB also has a long waterline and tapered bow for quickly covering distance, and it turns easily. In whitewater settings, the front splash guard help keep paddlers dry, while seven cockpit drains allow pooled water to pass through quickly.

The Blackfoot HB is a highly versatile inflatable. While the kayak comes with one seat and the booster base, by removing the utility bag and adding a second seat (not included), the kayak can be used by two paddlers on slow and fast moving water through Class II.

Blackfoot HB.
12’8” x 39” length and width.
Weight 38 lbs.
600 lb carrying capacity.
What’s included: Utility bag, whitewater and booster seat, removable tracking fin, backpack, maintenance kit.
Price $999.
Available late 2014.
Watch a Video on the new Aquaglide BlackFoot HB.

For more details and availability, see the AquaGlide Blackfoot Inflatable Kayak Product Page at www. AirKayaks.com

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

C4 Waterman Inflatable SUP Lineup for 2014/2015

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Earlier this year at Utah’s Outdoor Retailer Winter Market, Wenonah Canoe, Inc. announced the merger of C4 Waterman into Wenonah’s existing world-wide distribution network.
Established formally in 1968, Wenonah Canoe is one of the largest makers of paddle sport watercraft in the world. C4 Waterman is a Hawaii-based lifestyle and adventure sports equipment company focused on providing high quality water boards, paddling gear and outdoorwear to the paddling industry.
The merger caused a delay in C4’s new 2014 inflatable SUP launch, but in early August, the new 2014/2015 C4 Waterman inflatable sups started appearing on the market.
As mentioned previously, the 2014/2015 C4 ISUP line has been streamlined, focusing more on beefing up and expanding the core models rather than color variations. All upcoming-year models will feature one color – white with yellow side rails and white hull – rather than the enormous choices available in the past.

Three new “2014” models are now available – the 11′ Crossover, the 12’6 Pro Racer, and two Outfitters – a 10’11 and a 12’6 version. Later this year, a hot new downriver model in two sizes – the 8’6 and 9’6 River Pro Opae – will arrive.
In the “monster sup” category, the new Raptor – a mega-sized iSUP – will join the reigning king, SupSquatch.
Following are details on the new models:

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Deschutes Two HB Inflatable Kayak from AquaGlide

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We continue with our series on the new Aquaglide line of inflatable kayaks. Our first several reviews focused on the Chinook price-point line, then moved to the flagship Columbia line of high pressure inflatable touring kayaks. This was followed by the  Deschutes line of high-pressure, recreational models for 1 to 2+ paddlers.

The first Deschutes review was on the Tandem HB, a 12-foot long inflatable kayak designed for one or two paddlers, with extra space for gear, child or pet. We now follow-up with the Deschutes Two HB, (shown above) a smaller 10-foot long inflatable kayak with multiple seating locations, allowing it to be paddled by one or two persons.  (Please note: some of the information will be repeated from other writeups.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Deschutes HB Two:
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, backpack, instructions, repair kit, foot braces, tracking fin and two seats.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs approximately 27 lbs, with a backpack size roughly 27 x 23 x 14 inches. The kayak with seats, fin and braces – all in the backpack – weighs 38 lbs. Boxed up, the dimensions are 36 x 24 x 14 inches with a shipping weight of 49 lbs. Folded, the kayak body is 27 x 22 x 6 inches.
We were able to get everything, including an optional pump, into the backpack. Paddles can be placed in the side mesh pocket.
(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 two inflation chambers utilizing Boston valves – the two side chambers – while the high-pressure floor features a military valve. There are two more small chambers with twistlock valves, for the seat bases. 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 Deschutes Two HB floor requires a military valve adaptor, which does not come with most standard pumps. Here is where we came to our first issue – no military valve adaptor was included. We were aware of this from our previous writeups on the Columbia series, and pulled one out of our parts box. (AirKayaks note #2: As previously mentioned, we spoke with AquaGlide. The first couple of shipments did not include the adaptor, but

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Choosing an Aquaglide Inflatable Kayak: Columbia 2 HB vs Columbia Tandem HB

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This year, Aquaglide – a division of North Sports – launched their inflatable kayak line with a series of 13 models. The Columbia line sports two high-pressure tandem models – the Columbia Two HB and the Columbia Tandem HB.
A popular question is – which one should I choose?

The Columbia Two HB (photo above) is a 13.5 foot touring model with a sleek silhouette and long waterline; the Columbia Tandem HB (photo below) is a 15 foot stretched-out version. While there are many similarities, some of the differences are quite subtle. Ultimately it comes down to a personal preference, so here are some things to think about.

Both kayaks are made from the same materials, use the same valves and have the same 6-12 PSI high-pressure floor with 2 PSI side chambers. Both come with two ProFormance seats, fishing rod holders, splash decks, deck lacing, molded rubber handles, multiple d-rings, neoprene knuckleguards, velcro paddle holders, drain plugs, removable fin, foot braces and the same backpack.
Both the Columbia Two HB and Columbia Tandem HB utilize velcro floor strips and multiple d-rings to create infinite seating positions for one or two paddlers. And while they both sport an open design – making it easy to get in and out of – Aquaglide will be introducing single and double spray decks for the two models, allowing one to be in a more enclosed cockpit and utilize spray skirts.

At 13.5 feet in length with a weight of 44 lbs in the pack, the Columbia Two HB is lighterweight and shorter – easier to carry around solo in windy weather. It paddles well and has a great glide. With both seats positioned at their outer ranges, the Columbia 2 is a good tandem option for normal-sized adults, yet still is quite handle-able by one person as a solo. This is a great choice with people concerned about kayak size and weight, who don’t plan on long days of tandem touring, who want an open design yet the (upcoming) flexibility to be enclosed. As a solo with a 400 lbs capacity, it still has room for gear or a child/dog. And it costs slightly less.
The Columbia Tandem is 1.5 feet longer and weighs 5 lbs more (15 feet and 49 lbs). The long waterline makes it a great choice for extended (and short) range touring. It paddles well and has great glide. As a tandem with a weight limit of 600 lbs, there is plenty of room for gear or – with the included third jumper seat -a third smaller being.  Yet the Columbia Tandem is also versatile enough to be paddled by one.

We put the Columbia Two HB and Columbia Tandem HB next to each other to

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Airis HardTop Stubby 9 Inflatable Standup Paddle Board (ISUP) from Walker Bay

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We continue with our write-ups on the new Airis HardTop series of inflatable paddle boards from Walker Bay – the Hardtop Tour 12.5, Hardtop SUV 11 and Hardtop Stubby 9.
The Hardtop hybrid design combines Walker Bay’s patented 6-inch thick AirWeb construction with RigiDeck non-skid fiberglass steps. While each of the three models features bungee attachment points for storing gear, the Hardtop SUV and Stubby also include seat attachments points, allowing sit-down paddling with purchase of an optional backrest.

Our first review was on the Airis SUV 11, so this time we selected the Stubby 9 – a 10-PSI minimalist – as the simplicity and light-weight were appealing. Please note, some of the information from previous Airis reviews will be repeated here.
Getting Started with the Airis Stubby 9 ISUP
The box as received weighs 29 lbs, measuring 28 x 20 x14 inches.

Inside is the updated Airis backpack, a duffel bag with adjustable shoulder straps, drawstring top and mesh side panel. Also included in the box is a repair kit, dual-action hand-pump, gauge and instructions. The HardTop Stubby 9 can be folded up to easily fit inside the backpack, along with the pump. Folded measurements are 28 x 10 x 19 inches.
The ISUP in the backpack with pump weighs 25 lbs – the body alone is 22 lbs.
Airis Stubby 9 Inflatable SUP Setup/Inflatation
Setup for the Airis Stubby 9 is remarkably simple as there is basically one piece.

First step – unpack and unfold the board.

The Airis Stubby 9 features one main inflation chamber utilizing a military valve – this is located on the side rail towards the stern. 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).

Put the pressure gauge on the included double action pump, locking it in between the pump itself and the hose. (Please note: there is an inflate and a deflate side to the pump/hose attachment.) The pump comes with a military valve adaptor which locks onto the valve with a slight twist.

All the new Airis kayaks and SUPS come with an updated pump, which we term a “dual action” pump – a single action/double action hand pump. This is defaulted to the “double action” which means the air is pushed in on the up and the down stroke. When obtaining higher pressures (towards the 3 and 4 PSI range) it becomes increasingly tougher to pump. With a simple “twist of the knob” the pump becomes a single action pump – pushing air in on the down stroke only, making it easier to reach the higher ranges.

Start pumping. After a couple of minutes

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New Video: Aquaglide’s Chinook 2 Inflatable Kayak for 1-2 Paddlers

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Check out our newest video on the Chinook 2 inflatable kayak from Aquaglide.
Perfect for one person with gear, an adult and child, or two smaller adults, the 10 ft Chinook 2 inflatable kayak is lightweight, rugged, fun and highly portable. And it’s available at a family-friendly price of only $399 including backpack.

For more details or to purchase, see the Aquaglide Chinook 2 product page at AirKayaks.com. Or read our Detailed Product Review of the Aquaglide Chinook Two Inflatable Kayak with Photos, here on our WordPress blog.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New Video: AquaGlide’s Chinook Tandem Inflatable Kayak for 1-3 paddlers.

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Our third in the AquaGlide inflatable kayak series! Check out our newest video on the Chinook Tandem inflatable kayak from Aquaglide.
The 12.5 ft Chinook Tandem inflatable kayak offers multiple seating arrangements with a capacity of 600 lbs. Perfect for one person with lots of gear, two adults, or with the included third seat – bring along a child or furry friend!  The Chinook Tandem is rugged, fun and highly portable. And it’s available at a family-friendly price of only $499 including backpack.

For more details or to purchase, see the Aquaglide Chinook Tandem product page at AirKayaks.com. Or read our Detailed Product Review of the Aquaglide Chinook Tandem Inflatable Kayak with Photos, here on our WordPress blog.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Chinook Tandem Inflatable Kayak from AquaGlide for 1-3

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As mentioned in previous posts, Aquaglide, Inc of White Salmon, Washington has recently introduced a new line of inflatable kayaks for 2014. The Aquaglide product line consists of 12 models with MSRP pricing from $199.95 to $1099.95.

Our first shipment included the Chinook inflatable kayaks – part of Aquaglide’s “pricepoint” series. The Chinook kayaks feature economically-priced recreational models in two sizes – the 10 foot Chinook 2 and 12.5 foot Chinook Tandem. Our first write-up featured the Chinook 2;  for the second review we focus on the Chinook Tandem 2+ person model.  Featuring multiple seating locations, the 12.5 foot AquaGlide Chinook Tandem sells for $499 and is roomy enough to handle three.
Please note that many of these instructions have been repeated from the first writeup on the Chinook 2.
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Chinook Tandem:
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, drawstring duffel bag, instructions, repair kit, two foot braces, tracking fin, two main seats and a jumper seat.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs 34 lbs, with a case size of roughly 29 x 16 x 16 inches, while the kayak with seats, fin and braces weighs 41 lbs. Boxed up, the dimensions are 31 x 18 x 17 inches with a shipping weight of 50 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 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.
(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.)

With the base portion screwed onto the kayak body, and the top portion screwed open, locate the Boston valve adaptor on your pump (conical nozzle about 1/2 inch in diameter) and friction fit it into the valve opening.
We

Original Source: AirKayaks >>