Tag Archives: airkayaks

Sneak Preview – New 12 PSI AirVolution Dropstitch Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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During one of our many trips to Advanced Elements earlier this year, we were invited to take a look at an upcoming new product.

Wow! Our first view of the AirVolution prototypes, Advanced Elements’ new 12-14 PSI high-pressure, dropstitch inflatable kayaks. The series consist of the 13′ AirVolution solo and the 14’6″ AirVolution2 tandem.

Advanced Elements subsequently send us a preproduction sample of the AirVolution single to test out.

Our first take on the AirVolution? This is a wonderful addition to the recreational flatwater paddling niche. It’s a rugged, stable, simple-to-setup kayak that paddles well – and it looks great!

The entire kayak is innovatively constructed using PVC Tarpaulin laminated to high-pressure drop-stitch material – this gives a smoother finish, increased rigidity and a sculpted outline for greater paddling performance. The v-shaped hull design in the bow and removable deep-water fin increase tracking performance, allowing the AirVolution to slice through the water.
Drop-stitch (DS) material is the same used in the inflatable paddle board market, where thousands of threads string the top and bottom panels together, allowing it to be pumped up to higher pressures, thus making it more rigid.

With only two chambers to inflate, the new AirVolution high-pressure inflatable kayak features a streamlined set up procedure, allowing one to get out on the water quickly. Two pressure relief valves ensure the kayak is not overinflated, releasing at roughly 18 PSI.

The open-deck design provides ease-of-entry, while a drain well with plug ensures that you stay drier.

The sculpted EVA foam seat can be ratcheted four-ways, providing maximum support, adjustability and comfort.

Front and rear bungee deck lacing provide plenty of options to attach gear, yet there are still options for storing small items under the decks
We took the AirVolution out for a maiden voyage. Both of us felt the kayak paddled and tracked well, was rugged and incredibly stable. The sculpted hull allows water to drain off, and the smooth skin is very easy to dry. Everything in the package looks great, from the graphics and sculpted silhouette to the EVA-foam molded seat and included accessories.

At 5’4″, I found that moving the seat up 12 inches from the rear well allowed me to be balanced and use the front deck as a foot brace. I also was able to easily stand up.

At 6’2″, my husband had the seat all the way to the back. While his knees were slightly bent, he actually prefers that position when paddling. Since I know we will get asked this, for reference we measured the seat back to the front deck as 45 to 46″. With “water socks” on, he was able to lay his legs down flat. So, I would feel comfortable saying the AirVolution can be paddled by customers up

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Save 15-40% off Inflatable Kayaks, SUPs & Gear – AirKayaks Summer Kickoff Sale

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AirKayaks’ Summer Kickoff Sale is already in swing, with great deals on select, in-stock inflatable kayaks, packrafts and paddle boards from 15% to 40% off.

Limited Time Sales:

NRS/Star Inflatables  kayaks, SUPs and gear are 20% off through May 25th
Aire Inflatable Kayaks are 15% off through May 26th.
Select Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayaks and SUPs are 15% off through May 26th
All Kokopelli packraft and kayaks are 15% to 25% off through May 31st.
All Aquaglide Inflatable Kayaks and SUPs are 15% to 20% off through May 26th
All Red Paddle Co boards are now 15% to 30% off.

Closeouts and Past Season:

All past season Innova inflatable kayaks are 20% off – Twist 2LN and Halibut.
All Hala Gear 2019 inflatable paddle boards are 15% off – Carbon and Rival Series.
All past season MTI Adventurewear, Astral and Stohlquist life vests are 15 to 40% off.

We also have special purchases of Accent/Cannon carbon and fiberglass breakdown paddles at savings of 20% to 40%, now $79 to $109, originally $119 to $189.
Shop early for the best selection, with life vests starting at $29.95 and kayaks as low as $239. Free US shipping via UPS ground on orders over $398.

Low on cash? Take advantage of PayPal Credit – no payments and no interest if paid in full in 6 months on purchases of $99+. Just checkout with PayPal and choose Paypal Credit. See details on the PayPal Credit program.
Visit the Specials and Promos page at www.AirKayaks.com for complete details and dates, or to purchase. See our other sale items on our Closeouts & Hot Deals page.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Rugged New 13lb Kokopelli XPD Inflatable Packraft

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We recently posted our Sneak Preview on the new XPD inflatable packraft from Kokopelli Packraft – one of the exciting new models we’ve seen for 2020. What’s so special? While the XPD packraft is based on the Kokopelli Rogue-Lite profile, the XPD features a more beefed-up PVC construction for rigorous use on flat water and lakes through Class II.

Last week, the 2020 models started rolling in, so we begin our 2020 Kokopelli reviews with the 13.6 lbs XPD, which can be inflated to higher pressures of 2.75 PSI.
Getting Started with the Kokopelli XPD
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable packraft body (13.7 lbs), inflatable seat base (8 ozs), repair kit (4.1 ozs), Nano dual action hand pump with gauge (2 lbs), instructions and two 2 cinch belts( 1.6 oz each).

Boxed up, the dimensions are 29 x 20 x 8 inches with a shipping weight of just under 20 lbs. The packraft folded is roughly 24 x 20 x 8 inches, rolled it is roughly 25 x 8.5 inches.
The generic instructions for Kokopellli’s PVC series include inflation and deflation techniques, seat and backband installation (not found on the XPD but used in the Recon) but lack details on actual set up; we will outline the steps we took, below. In general, set up is straight-forward – unpack, unfold, inflate.

The first step is to unfold the packraft – it is remarkably flat – and orient yourself; the rear/stern is wider and has the inflation valve.

The Kokopelli XPD utilizes one main GRI push-push 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.

Next, set up the pump – this is not mentioned in the instructions. Unlike most of the packrafts – which use inflator bags – the XPD comes with a very nifty, collapsible, dual-action Nano pump and built-in pressure gauge. Fold down the feet and attach the hose to the side that says Inflate. There are two pieces of plastic tubes in the plastic packaging – these are screw on handles. Unfortunately, there is no place to attach/store the handles when removed so you may want to purchase a mesh laundry bag to keep them together. Or, don’t even bother attaching the handles as the pump is pretty easy to use without them.

The Nano pump

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2020 Comparison Table Guide to Selecting an Inflatable Kayak at AirKayaks

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

To help you narrow down the field, AirKayaks has put together a table comparing our 2020 inflatable kayak options – the table is located at the bottom of this article. The kayaks have been divided into four sections sorted by price – Under $500; $500 to $749; $750 to $999; and $1000 and up.  Within each of those four sections, we have sorted by manufacturer, model name and stock number, price range, number of paddlers, kayak lengths, widths, weights, payloads, # of chambers, inflation pressures, design style and kayak type.
AirKayaks originally posted this article in 2019. We have updated it to reflect the kayak choices and changes for 2020. To help you get going, we describe the attributes of each style first. For further information on inflatable kayak choices, benefits and definitions, please also see our popular guide to Choosing an Inflatable Kayak – What You Should Consider.
Enclosed Design Inflatable Kayaks

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

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

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

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

This includes the largest number of kayaks. The open design consists of a kayak with higher

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2020 Guide to Choosing Your Kokopelli Inflatable Packraft

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Founded in 2014, Kokopelli Outdoors, Inc is one of several of companies exclusively focused on inflatable packrafts, and increasingly known for performance, quality and durability.

For those unfamiliar with the term, “packrafts” are loosely defined as an inflatable raft weighing under 10 lbs, that can easily be packed/rolled up, making them a great choice for accessing remote locations. While the sport originated in Alaska, the popularity is rapidly expanding globally. For 2020, Kokopelli’s lineup consists of seven packraft models for whitewater, lakes and rivers, ranging in size from 7’1″ to 10’2″ with a weight range of 4.6 lbs to 18 lbs. This includes the introduction of one new model – the beefy XPD whitewater packraft – as well as product upgrades and some new accessories. Kokopelli is also expanding into the inflatable kayak market, with the introduction of two new touring models – the Moki and Moki-lite – for lakes, slow rivers and ocean.

With all the styles, activity types, sizes and features, how does one choose the packraft best suited for them?
In the following sections, we outline the different Kokopelli packraft styles. We’ve also put together a comparison chart on each of the packrafts and kayaks, detailing the features and specifications for each model, followed by weights and types of included accessories as well as compatibility with optional Kokopelli accessories. This is located at the bottom of this article, but you can also see a downloadable PDF copy of the complete table. If you still have questions, you can view details on the various Kokopelli Packrafts at http://www.AirKayaks.com. Or feel free to contact us at info@AirKayaks.com, or call 707-998-0135.
Guide to Choosing Your 2020 Kokopelli Packraft and Inflatable Kayak
Kokopelli packrafts are designed with two cockpit styles – open or decked.

The two packrafts with spray decks – Nirvana SD and Rogue – feature a more enclosed seating option which reduces exposure to water, cold, sun or wind. Each includes a spray skirt which fastens to a coaming lip around the seating well, and then to your body for even less exposure.

All other Kokopelli packrafts feature open seating, with either self-bailing ports or no ports. The self-bailing ports are useful if you will be running whitewater, allowing any water spilling into the raft to pass through open holes in the floor. Conversely, if you are in calmer situations, water may accumulate inside. The two self-bailing models – Nirvana SB and Recon – have integrated floors and seat bases so that the paddler sits a bit higher, out of any pooled water. The other Kokopelli packrafts (including the decked versions) are designed without any ports.

The 2020 packrafts and kayaks have been regrouped into three categories – Whitewater, Lake and Adventure.

The Whitewater Series consists of three models –

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Save 15-40% off Inflatable Kayaks, SUPs & Gear Spring Sale

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AirKayaks’ Super Spring Sale is already in swing, with great deals on select, in-stock inflatable kayaks, packrafts and paddle boards from 15% to 40% off.
Limited Time Sales:

NRS/Star Inflatables  kayaks, SUPs and gear are 20% off through May 25th
Select Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayaks and SUPs are 15% off through April 7th
All past season 2019 Kokopelli packrafts are 20% off through April 1st while remaining 2018 Castaway XLs are 25% off.

Closeouts and Past Season:

All 2018/2019 Red Paddle Co boards are now 30% off with free $199 carbon paddle.
All past season Innova inflatable kayaks are 20% off – Twist 2LN, Halibut and SwingEX.
All Hala Gear 2019 inflatable paddle boards are 15% off – Carbon and Rival Series.
All past season AquaGlide inflatable kayaks and paddle boards are 15% off – Klickitat 2, Rogue, Blackfoot and Cascade Windsup, Columbia 130 and Columbia 145.
All past season MTI Adventurewear, Astral and Stohlquist life vests are 15 to 40% off.

We also have special purchases of Accent/Cannon carbon and fiberglass breakdown paddles at savings of 20% to 40%, now $79 to $109, originally $119 to $189.
Shop early for the best selection, with life vests starting at $29.95 and kayaks as low as $239. Free US shipping via UPS ground on orders over $398.

Low on cash? Take advantage of PayPal Credit – no payments and no interest if paid in full in 6 months on purchases of $99+. Just checkout with PayPal and choose Paypal Credit. See details on the PayPal Credit program.
Visit the Specials and Promos page at www.AirKayaks.com for complete details and dates, or to purchase. See our other sale items on our Closeouts & Hot Deals page.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: Deschutes 130 Inflatable Kayak from Aquaglide

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Our latest video on Aquaglide’s new Deschutes 130 inflatable kayak for one paddler.

The new Deschutes 130 is a lightweight minimalist that is simple to inflate, easy to launch, fun, nimble and paddles well. A new Feather Frame features a non-inflatable laminated EVA foam floor with a crossbar, making the kayak rigid without all the bulk. The rear cargo well is perfect for hauling camping gear, or bringing along a small child or furry friend. The open cockpit design is best suited for lakes, bays, calm rivers and inland waters. At 13 feet in length, 28 lbs in the included backpack and a payload of 300 lbs, the Deschutes 130 is perfect for all ages and experience levels.

For more info on set up, features, specification and performance, see our detailed product review/write-up with photos on the Aquaglide Deschutes 130 inflatable kayak. To purchase, visit the Aquaglide Deschutes 130 product page at AirKayaks.com. You can also contact us at info@airkayaks.com or give us a call at 707-998-0135.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: Deschutes 110 Inflatable Kayak from Aquaglide

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Our latest video on Aquaglide’s new Deschutes 110 inflatable kayak for one paddler.

The new Deschutes 110 is a lightweight minimalist that is simple to inflate, easy to launch, fun, nimble and paddles well. A new Feather Frame features a non-inflatable laminated EVA foam floor with a crossbar, making the kayak rigid without all the bulk. The open cockpit design is best suited for lakes, bays, calm rivers and inland waters. At 11 feet in length, 24 lbs in the included backpack and a payload of 250 lbs, the Deschutes 110 is perfect for all ages and experience levels.

For more info on set up, features, specification and performance, see our detailed product review/write-up with photos on the Aquaglide Deschutes 110 inflatable kayak. To purchase, visit the Aquaglide Deschutes 110 product page at AirKayaks.com. You can also contact us at info@airkayaks.com or give us a call at 707-998-0135.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Navarro 110 Inflatable Kayak from AquaGlide

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We continue with our series on the new Aquaglide line of inflatable kayaks. For 2020, Aquaglide introduced four new models – Navarro, Deschutes, McKenzie and Noyo – consisting of 9 different styles.
Our three previous reviews focused on the Deschutes recreational series. We now switch over to the Navarro line of decked kayaks, a new design for Aquaglide.

We begin with the Navarro 110 – an 11-foot high-pressure touring model for one paddler, retailing for $599.99. The Navarro line also consists of the Navarro 130 (for one paddler with removable deck) and the Navarro 145 Tandem (for one or two paddlers with optional single and double decks.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Navarro 110
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, stuff sack with handles, instructions, repair kit, foot brace, tracking fin and seat.

Initial measurements show the kayak body weighs 29 lbs, with a folded size of roughly 22 x 21 x 11 inches. The kayak with seat, fin and brace – all in the stuff sack – weighs 31.5 lbs. Boxed up, the dimensions are 25 x 23 x 12 inches with a shipping weight of 38 lbs.
(AirKayaks Side Note: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded.)
The Navarro 110 comes with an instruction manual, but as previously mentioned in our Deschutes series, the instructions aren’t detailed enough for new users. This is compounded by the manual layout in which each section is first written in English, then up-to 17 different languages (including Bulgarian and Estonian), before you get to the next English section. The inflation instructions start on page 16.

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.
There are two side chambers utilizing Boston valves, while the high-pressure floor features a military valve. The instructions say to pump up the two side chambers to 2 PSI, and then the floor to 6 PSI. (We did follow those instructions, but we are going to suggest a different method, and will explain why. Some of this is mentioned in the manual.)

First, attach the Boston valves by screwing them onto the kayak. 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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Deschutes 145 Inflatable Tandem Kayak from Aquaglide

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As posted earlier this year, Aquaglide’s inflatable kayak and paddle board product line for 2020 underwent a major makeover, with the introduction of seven new models, a facelift for three models and the retirement of 6 models.

As some of the new products have arrived, we’ve begun a series on the new Deschutes models. Our first two reviews included the Deschutes 110 and Deschutes 130, so we finish up our series with the Deschutes 145, an open-style, 14.5 foot inflatable kayak designed for tandem paddling. (Please note: some of the information will be repeated from other writeups.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Deschutes 145
The kayak is nicely packaged with bubble wrap protecting valves, handles, etc. We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak body, backpack, instructions, repair kit, tracking fin, two seats, valve adaptor and a plastic splash guard. The repair kit features generous-sized repair patches, a valve wrench and glue.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs approximately 26 lbs with the seats adding another 4 lbs (2 lbs each). The kayak with seats and fin – all in the backpack – weighs 34 lbs. Folded size of the kayak body is 26 x 22 x 9 inches. Backpack size is roughly 27 x 23 x 18 inches, which can be cinched down. All boxed up, the dimensions are 30 x 28 x 16 inches with a shipping weight of 45 lbs. It’s a squeeze, but if you fully deflate the kayak you can get optional paddles and pump into the pack.
(AirKayaks Side note #1: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded.)
The Deschutes 145 comes with an instruction manual, but as previously mentioned, the instructions aren’t detailed enough for new users. This is compounded by the manual layout in which each section is first written in English, then up-to 17 different languages (including Bulgarian and Estonian), before you get to the next English section. The inflation instructions start on page 16.

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.
The instructions say to put the valve in the closed position and to pump up the sides to 3 PSI, but there are no details explaining this in the instructions.

For those unfamiliar, the military-style plunger valve is simple to use – with your finger, twist the plunger slightly up to the “closed” position to inflate (air goes in but doesn’t come back out) and “down” to deflate or open (air comes out).

The Deschutes 145 military valves require a special adaptor, which is found in the repair kit. It must be friction-fit to a Boston valve adaptor; this is a common fitting, slightly conical and about 1/2 inch

Original Source: AirKayaks >>