Tag Archives: airkayaks

Product Review: New Innova Twist 2 N Inflatable Tandem Kayak

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In June we received our first shipment of the newly-updated Innova kayaks for 2019 – in particular the Twist N, Swing N and Solar 2019. Made in the Czech Republic, the Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Nitrilon (N), the same rugged material used in the traditional Innova Sunny, Helios and Safari models. Nitrilon is known for making the kayaks more rigid as well as water and abrasion resistant, without substantially increasing weight. It’s also PVC-free, thus environmentally friendly.

Our first selection was a review on the Twist II N. The Twist 2 interior has been redesigned slightly to include additional d-rings, providing an easy conversion from a tandem to a solo kayak, thus more versatile for larger paddlers or those needing more space for extra gear. While the kayak silhouette remains virtually unchanged, the added material thickness increased the kayak weight from 24 lbs to 29 lbs as well as a price increase.
This week we had the first opportunity to take out the revamped Innova Twist II N, an 11 foot 10-inch two-person inflatable weighing a mere 29 lbs (including seats and foot brace) with a selling price of $599.
Please note: Some of this information will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Innova Twist IIN: Getting Started
The box as received measures 23 x 16 x 10 inches, weighing in at 32 lbs.

Inside is the Twist II N body, cinch strap, multiple instruction sheets, tracking fin, foot rest, repair kit, two seats, bilge sponge, valve adaptor and a drawstring stuff-sack. The Twist II N body with seats and brace weighs 28 lbs with a folded size of 20 x 16 x 8.
Innova Twist 2 N Inflatable Kayak Setup/Inflatation
We read through the included instruction manuals. As with all the Innova manuals to date, the instructions are quite detailed – there is one instruction sheet for fin installation, one for utilizing the valves, one on refolding and another on the kayak in general. Most include IKEA-style graphics which are occasionally just short of a brain twister, and while some steps are dauntingly detailed, some are not mentioned. As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body.

What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated.

Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. The Twist II N utilizes a single fin with double slots. Slip the end with the larger slot in first, making sure that the fin is pointing towards the “back” of the kayak. This enables it to slide in enough to fit in the second slot. While the first time can be a struggle to get the back side into position, after a

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2019 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 inflatable kayak options – the table is located at the bottom of this article. We have listed the following details – 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.

We have divided our inflatable kayak list 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 number of paddlers – 1 paddler; 1-2 paddlers (seats can be repositioned), 2 paddlers; and 2+( extra room for gear, child or dog). This is followed by body style enclosed, open and sit-on-top. 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 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 Advanced Elements AirFusion EVO).

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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Selecting the Best Inflatable Kayak – Questions to Ask

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How to Choose an Inflatable Kayak
So you’ve made the decision that an inflatable kayak is your best solution – now, how do you select the one right for you?

There are a number of issues you may wish to consider when selecting an inflatable kayak. Some of these include:

Do you want the ability to paddle with another person (tandem), do you wish to paddle solo or do you want both options.
What type of water conditions will you typically encounter. Coastal, ocean, calm lakes, swells, whitewater, surf, moving rivers, etc.
What size kayak do you need; what is your size and height
Will you be carrying a lot of paddling gear
Do you plan on long excursions, short paddles or all-day use
What type weather or water temperatures will you be paddling in. Do you want the ability to use a spray skirt or do you prefer a more open design?
Do you need a self-bailing option
What weight, length of kayak do you feel comfortable carrying around.
What are your storage options
Do you prefer more of a canoe-type paddle (sitting up higher from the water) or an enclosed type kayak that is lower in the water.
Do you want a “pump-up-and-go” type kayak, or are you more detail-oriented and willing to spend more time setting a kayak up.

Once you’ve answered these questions, you can also read two articles we’ve put together to help you out.

Guide to Choosing an Inflatable Kayak – What You Should Consider with detailed information on kayak styles, terminology and features.
Comparison Table Guide to Choosing an Inflatable Kayak with detailed information on various models.

At AirKayaks.com , we understand it can be difficult weighing all the options. We’re always happy to answer any questions. Feel free to give us a call at 707-998-0135 or email info@airkayaks.com

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Why Choose an Inflatable Kayak or Paddle Board?

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Why Inflatables?
Gone are the days when inflatables were simply pool toys. With recent dramatic increases in technology, today’s inflatables have evolved into everything from family recreational fun to high-tech specialized  watercraft.

So why choose an inflatable?

Lightweight
Simple to inflate and set up
Easy to repair.
Rugged and stable
Perfect for traveling, whether by bike, mass transit, airplane, RV or car
Spur of the moment fun
Uses little storage space – keep it in your car, condo, garage or RV
Roof racks unnecessary
Many sizes and styles to choose from for a wide range of water activities. From oceans to lakes, slow moving rivers to white water or wave running.
Pack it into the back country to get to places others can’t.
Often less expensive to buy than to rent kayaks on vacation
Great for all ages!

Unlike other businesses, AirKayaks.com is focused only on inflatables. With dozens of styles to choose from, we understand it can be difficult weighing all the options. We’re always happy to answer any questions. Feel free to give us a call at 707-998-0135 or email info@airkayaks.com

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Kokopelli Packraft Summer Sale – 15% to 20% off thru May 31st

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With sizzling summer days just around the corner, now is a great time to pick up a Kokopelli Packraft during AirKayaks’ Summer Kickoff Sale. All in-stock Kokopelli Packrafts are 15% to 20% off through May 31st.
Photo by Colin Arisman
Now starting at $699, the Kokopelli product line consists of eight models for whitewater, lakes, rivers and ocean, ranging in size from 7’1″ to 10’2″ with a weight range of 4.6 lbs to 18 lbs.
Photo credit: Birch Block
The Adventure Series consists of two models – Rogue and Rogue-Lite – geared towards extremely packable “adventures.” As a “Gear of the Year” selection winner from Men’s Health magazine, both feature a thinner hull material with beefed-up Kevlar reinforcement which packs down smaller and is lighter, making it more desirable for carrying long distances.

New for this year is the bomb-proof 18-lb. Kokopelli Recon, a beefy packraft built to “take a licking and keep on ticking.” The Recon joins the classic Kokopelli Nirvana Self Bailer and Nirvana Spraydeck, perfect for rushing rivers through Class III.

Those interested in calmer paddling experiences will find the Castaway XL or Twain Tandem perfect for exploring remote lakes and fishing holes.

Need help making a decision? Read about the 2019 Kokopelli Product Line, or peruse through our Guide to Choosing Your Kokopelli Packraft. You can also give us a call at 707-998-0135.
Free shipping in the lower 48 states, and NO TAX, so shop early for best selection!
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Guide to Choosing Your 2019 Hala Gear Inflatable Paddle Board

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In the northern Hemisphere, summer is around the corner and water activities are heating up. While the standup paddle board craze has been on the rise during the past decade, more recreationalists are hopping onto inflatable boards due to ease of storage and travel-ability.
Well-known for eye-catching graphics and innovative technology, Hala Gear is one of the handful of standup paddle board companies focused on the inflatables market – most feature hard-shells with a few inflatables thrown into the mix.
Founded in 2011 by Peter Hall, Hala Gear headquarters is based out of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The company philosophy is committed to performance, durability and quality – in fact, each of the Hala inflatable boards carries a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.

For 2019, Hala has 19 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 6’11” to 14’0″. This includes the introduction/evolution of two new models – the Carbon Playita 2+2 and the Peno 2+2 – and the retirement of both the Daze workhorse and Luya. All 2019 boards feature updated graphics and color schemes. Boards range in price from $999 to $1599, with some minor pricing changes.
As shape, thickness and construction all make a difference in a board’s performance under varying conditions, we’ll first give a little insight into the thought-process behind Hala boards.
Hala boards have three general construction types – carbon, core and fusion. The Carbon boards feature a carbon/kevlar-type woven stringer, strategically placed to give an extra layer down the central length of the board – think “rigidity and performance.” The Core boards are constructed with two layers of drop-stitch material and are typically found in the boards that will see more hard “core” action – think “bombproof.” The Fusion SUPs utilize a newer laminating technology that saves material and weight, think “lighter” and “value-priced.”

For 2019, Hala has refined their previous 3-style rocker construction, now separating the full rocker into surf and river, while maintaining the progressive and glide rockers. The Surf rocker features a minimal rise in the tail with a curved nose; this places the center of balance back further to allow the nose to rise naturally. The River rocker features a precise curve from tail to nose allowing maneuverability and surfability. The Progressive and Glide rockers continue to focus on performance and speed.

All 2019 Hala iSUPs come with the Back Country Comfort Rolling Backpack or Travel Tough Backpack – both feature integrated wheels, making it easier to thread through airport lobbies, while still comfortable enough to pack into the remote country. All boards come with the Hala pump and pressure gauge, a nifty little 12-volt car pump that allows you to fill out the board quickly, repair kit and instructions. The Rival series and Asana

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Convertible Elite High Pressure Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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 Advanced Elements of Benicia, California recently introduced one of two new kayaks for the 2019 product year. The AE1007E Convertible Elite is a package upgrade to the long-standing, popular AE1007R Advanced Elements Convertible inflatable kayak for one or two paddlers.

First launched in 2003 as the AE1004 AdvancedFrame2, the original model featured an integrated deck for double paddling. The kayak was reintroduced in 2006 as the AE1007R AdvancedFrame Convertible, sporting an open cockpit design which could be enclosed with optional single and double decks for solo or tandem paddling.
The new AE1007E Convertible Elite features the identical kayak materials and construction as the current AE1007R, but with upgraded accessories and features. The Convertible Elite now comes with a 4-6 PSI drop stitch floor, rather than the standard 1 PSI PVC floor with i-beams. The increased floor rigidity enhances the paddling experience with better tracking and glide.
The Convertible Elite arrived this past month so we took the opportunity – during a brief break in the rains – to put it through its paces. Here are details on the AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite AE1007E, a 15 foot inflatable kayak with high-pressure floor weighing in at roughly 54 lbs.
Getting Started with the Convertible Elite
The box as received weighs 60 lbs, measuring 34 x 21 x 12 inches.

Inside, the rugged backpack-style carrying case houses the kayak body, floor, seats, thwart, repair kit and instructions. The kayak with backpack and parts weighs in at 52.4 lbs, while the kayak body is 44 lbs.

Please note: A quick “overview” of set up is now sewn into the inside of the carrying case – we highly recommend that you read this.
Convertible Elite Setup/Inflatation
We began by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc. And here we come to AirKayak’s Tip #1: No matter how excited you are, take a good look at how the kayak is folded before you set the kayak up, so that you can get it back into the carrying case.

First step, unfold the kayak. (Please note: We will repeat some of the details previously mentioned in other writeups.) The AdvancedFrame series of kayaks feature an “inner rib” in the bow and stern, which is basically a u-shaped aluminum rib, about a foot long and one-half inch wide.

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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2019 Kokopelli Inflatable Packraft Product Line – What’s New

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We recently received news on the new 2019 Kokopelli lineup of inflatable packrafts and gear.

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.
Photo by Colin Arisman
Kokopelli Outdoor Inc. of Denver, Colorado entered the packraft market in 2014, beginning with a handful of models. Last year’s Kokopelli line-up consisted of four whitewater models – the Nirvana and Nirvana XL in self-bailing and spray deck versions; three touring series – the Castaway, Castaway XL and the Twain Tandem; and two ultra-packable models – Rogue and Rogue Lite.
For 2019, Kokopelli continues to streamline and upgrade the product line, adding one new model and some new accessories. The packrafts have been regrouped into three categories – Whitewater, Lake and Adventure.

The 2019 Whitewater series now consists of two current models – the Nirvana Spraydeck (above) and the Nirvana Self Bailer – each with tizip options. While there has been no change to the dimensional specifications or weights, the Nirvana Self Bailer is the only packraft with an inflatable floor (elevating the paddler above any water) with integrated seat base and separate backband. Prices remain the same at $1050 for the base models, and $1200 for packrafts with the tizip option.

The third Whitewater model is new for 2019 – the Recon. Weighing in at a beefy 18 lbs, the Recon features a robust 9mm PVC construction with self-bailing design for intense whitewater or rugged conditions. The Recon sports a 90 x 37 inch exterior, a 57 x 15″ interior with 9mm nylon ripstop floor, and is available in Arctic blue without tizip options. MSRP $900 which includes a bellows foot pump with integrated pressure gauge, but not an inflator bag.

The 2019 Adventure series consists of two models – Rogue (above) and Rogue-Lite. While similar in size and dimensions to the Nirvana, the Rogue with spray-deck features a thinner 210 denier hull material with beefed-up Kevlar reinforcement. The thinner denier material packs down smaller and weighs roughly 2 lbs less, making it more desirable for longer distances, while the Kevlar construction makes it nearly as durable as the Nirvana. The Rogue-Lite features an open cockpit and slightly shorter length, weighing in at a mere 5.4 lbs. Both Rogues are available with or without tizip. MSRP is $825 for the Rogue-Lite and $1050 for the Rogue. Tizip options on both Rogues are an additional $125.
Both the Rogues and Nirvana’s now sport an improved material with thicker TPU coating for added durability and abrasion resistance which also adds a slight 0.2 lbs to

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

New Ergonomic Energy Kayak Paddles from Accent Paddles

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Accent Paddles of Minneapolis, MN recently released details of their new Accent Energy Line of kayak paddles. The Energy Line features a soft rubber grip – the Advantage Grip – which simulates the ergonomic benefits of a bent shaft paddle at a more economical price.

At first glance, bent shaft paddles may seem unintuitive.Despite the appearance, bent shaft technology is considered to be an ergonomic, user-friendly design, reducing stress and grip pressure by offsetting the paddler’s wrist angle. Bent shafts also guide the paddler’s hand placement, reducing stress on forearms and shoulders.
While bent shaft paddles can typically retail for hundreds of dollars, the Accent Energy series ranges in price from $99 to $199.

Accent Paddle spent two years creating a “bent shaft paddle” design without the high costs. They accomplished this by taking a standard, non-bent paddle, and simulating the design via a soft rubber grip. The Accent Advantage Grip technology features an ergonomic 7° wrist offset angle which lessens forearm, wrist and shoulder fatigue. The rubber grip material is vibration dampening, and has a soft feel that – when held – reduces wrist, forearm and shoulder strain as well as providing minimal fluctuation in shaft temperature. The placement of the grip forces proper hand placement, ensuring longer more enjoyable outings.
The Energy Advantage comes in three models – the Energy Aluminum, Energy Hybrid and Energy Carbon.

At $99, the Energy Aluminum paddle features an aircraft-grade aluminum shaft with a simple push-button ferrule for three blade angle settings. The fiberglass-reinforced blade is the perfect size blade for most kayaking situations and a great entry-level paddle.

The Energy Hybrid is a step up, featuring an all-carbon shaft providing a high strength to weight ratio. The fiberglass-reinforced nylon blade is durable, and the perfect sized blend for both high and low angle paddling. A Kingpin ferrule connection system provides 12 paddling angles. MSRP $159.

The top-of-the-line Energy Carbon is constructed with premium materials for the kayaking enthusiast. A carbon shaft, paired with Accent’s proprietary carbon-reinforced APX polymer blades, provides the highest strength to weight ratio. The blade design is a perfect blend for both low and high angle paddling, delivering efficiency with each stroke. A Kingpin ferrule connection system provides 12 paddling angles. MSRP $199.

All three paddles at AirKayaks feature 4pc breakdown construction for portability in a 230cm length.
For more details or to purchase, visit the Accent Paddles product pages at AirKayaks.com. You can also watch Accent’s video on the Energy paddle line, below.

 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Innova Thaya Hi-Pressure Dropstitch Inflatable Kayak for 2+ Paddlers

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Late last year we had the opportunity to take our first look at Innova’s newest product for 2019, the Thaya DS inflatable kayak. Designed for 1 to 2+ paddlers, the Thaya DS is a 13′ 5″ inch 7-PSI touring kayak – similar in design to the Innova Solar – now featuring a unique blend of Innova’s traditional Nitrilon material and dropstitch technology.

The Innova line is unique for a number of reasons. First, all the kayaks are handmade in the Czech Republic – the factory has manufactured inflatable boats for well over 50 years. Secondly, the manufacturing process produces kayaks that can become quite compact, making them a great choice for travel. And third, the kayaks are environmentally-friendly as they are mostly PVC-free.
The Innova Thaya DS is constructed from a 1200 denier rubber-coated laminate material called Nitrilon (also referred to as Nitrylon) – this consists of a synthetic rubber coating over polyester on the inside and outside of the tube.
Nitrilon is the same material used in high-end Zodiac-type yacht tenders, and is stronger, more abrasion and puncture-resistant than PVC as well as being greener – there is minimal out-gassing.
The Thaya is different from Innova’s other kayaks, as the Nitrilon material is used for the floor’s drop stitch construction.
Drop-stitch technology consists of two layers of fabric held together by thousands of threads, allowing the chambers to be inflated to much higher pressures. This creates a kayak body that is quite rigid, stable and maneuverable. The Thaya features a 34 inch beam with a max payload of 595 lbs (persons and gear) and weight of 39 lbs.

Features include molded rubber carrying handles, tie-lines, two inflatable seats, two inflatable foot braces, multiple d-rings, gear rigging, removable tracking fin, a nifty 80-liter backpack, repair kit and sponge.
The Thaya is touted for 1-2+ paddlers; the numerous d-ring attachment points allow one to reposition the seats for optimal paddling comfort, as well as for securing extra gear, or adding an optional seat to carry a child. The Nitrilon material is rugged and easy to clean, yet still packs up extremely flat and compact.

The Innova Thaya is estimated to be available in the States in late April or early May, with an MSRP of $1199. Stay tuned, we will have our detailed write-up on the Innova Thaya next month. You can also ask to get on our Notification List at AirKayaks for further updates on availability.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>