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Sneak Preview: New 11 &12.5 ft Airis HollowDeck Inflatable SUP Paddle Boards

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Airis Inflatables of North America – a division of Walker Bay Boats – has announced two new inflatable paddle board products – the 11 ft and 12.5 ft Airis Hollowdeck SUPs.

The new Airis Hollowdeck SUPS feature a unique, integrated, dry bag system, allowing paddlers to store gear inside the nose of the board, as well as on top. The compartment remains waterproof by utilizing the roll-top and clip feature, and the paddler is not hampered by gear strapped to the top – though that option remains.

By creating an air pocket in the snout of the board, set up time is decreased by about 1/3, as there is less air to pump into the SUP.
The new Airis  HollowDecks also feature two separate air chambers for added safety, unlike most paddle boards which utilize one.

Available in two sizes, the 11 foot version sports a slightly narrower tail and width than the 12.5 foot model. Both models feature the proprietary RigiDeck fiberglass plates, providing increased rigidity under foot. Each is 6 inches thick and can be pumped up to 11 PSI.
All Airis inflatable kayaks and paddle boards are manufactured in North America.
The new HollowDecks will be available in December – MSRP $999 and $1099.  The HollowDecks join the popular series of Airis HardTop inflatable boards – the HT 12-6, the HT SUV 11 and the HT Stubby 9.
Watch the Airis Product Pages at AirKayaks.com for upcoming details, or send us an email and request to get on the Airis HollowDeck notification list.
 

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sale! 20% OFF 2014 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP Boards

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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

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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

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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 >>

Sneak Preview: Advanced Elements Expedition LTD & AdvancedFrame LTD Inflatable Kayaks

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Earlier this month, Salt Lake City in Utah hosted the Outdoor Retailer Summer Show, one of the largest sporting goods events of the year. Nearly 1700 manufacturers – representing camping, cycling, water sports and outdoor activities – took this opportunity to showcase their 2015 line, unveiling new products and features to retailers around the world.

One of the major inflatable kayak manufacturers, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California, unveiled two limited edition models being introduced in 2015. The two popular models – Expedition and AdvancedFrame – feature two facelifts in limited production runs.
 

The Expedition LTD Limited Edition features a major color redesign, as well as some innovative design changes. Now in an Ocean 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. MSRP $749.

The number-one selling AdvancedFrame has undergone a similar facelift, now in a hi-vis Lime Green with yellow graphics. The standard seat has been replaced with a stiffer, higher-backed version, providing more support. Velcro paddleholders are now standard. MSRP $549.
Both models feature new d-rings, making it easier to attach gear.
The Expedition LTD and AdvancedFrame LTD should be available in early 2015, in limited quantities.
Two new accessories for the 4-lb Packlite are also currently available. The Packlite Bellows Pump is a small-profile foot pump weighing just under 1 lb and capable of inflating to 2 PSI.

The Ultralite Paddle is a lightweight, 23.2 oz. 4 pc breakdown paddle with a longest shaft length of 23.5 inches. When bundled with the Packlite kayak and pump, the BakYaking package weighs in at 7 lbs. and sells for $350.
For more details and upcoming availability, watch the Advanced Elements product pages at http://www.AirKayaks.com. Or you can send us an email to get on the Advanced Elements LE Notification List.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Tales to Tell: A Hiking and Kayaking Journey Across Iceland

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Earlier this year, we were approached by Charlie Turnbull, a young Australian adventurer with a passion for the outdoors. He had recently launched his “career” with a 25-day, one-thousand kilometer canoe journey from Mongolia to Russia, through one of the least densely populated areas on earth; from the southern end of Lake Khovsgol to the tiny river Eg, south across the Mongolian plains to the Selenga river, then crossing the border into Russia, and straight into Lake Baikal.

The travels were documented on Patagonia’s Australian website at http://www.patagonia.com.au/journal/2013/mongolia-to-russia/
Our emails criss-crossed while Charlie outlined his new plans – in a nutshell, to hike and kayak the length of Iceland. The proposed route traversed the volcanic highland region of Iceland and onto the Hofsjökull ice cap, crossing the ice to the headwaters of the Pjorsa River, then 230km of kayaking whitewater and flat sections to the Northern Sea. The trip would be in June/July, when the temperature averages 15 degrees C. The bulk of the paddling would be calm, with some rapids.
We discussed what products would be best suited for their needs – a tough decision as there are several. They needed a two person that could carry some gear, but weight was a concern. The need for material that would not become waterlogged in a chilly setting; and the need to traverse some rapids. We discussed Advanced Elements, Innova and others, and finally focused on the AquaGlide Klickitat Two, a 42-lb whitewater, self-bailing kayak that AquaGlide agreed to provide for the trip. And as the expedition expanded with a videographer to document the journey, we sent along an AquaGlide Chinook Two for Sam Brumby and his camera gear, Advanced Elements fiberglass Orbit breakdown paddles, and Astral Designs super-lightweight Ronny PFDs.

With good-humored ribbing from friends and family, Charlie and company headed off.
In July, we heard back from the trio. According to Charlie, “What an epic 20 days. The boats were amazing, so tough. Grade III glacial water, volcanic rocks, long portages – held up perfectly. The footage and pictures we have are awesome as well, will send through in the next weeks or so.”
Charlies’ crew is currently working on a multi-part video series on the Icelandic trip, which will be part of a larger project called  ‘Tales to Tell’. Tales To Tell is a collaboration between friends with a passion for adventure, journeys and storytelling; through image, film and text, the friends hope to share experiences and inspire others to explore and create at home and abroad, and in doing so foster a healthy respect for the environment.
The final video documentaries will be uploaded to the Tales to Tell website at http://www.talestotell.com.au/
But until that moment, Charlie has given us a “sneak peak” at

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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 >>

Sneak Preview: New Windpaddle Downwind Kayak, Canoe and SUP Sails

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Windpaddle, Inc of Hood River, Oregon has recently redesigned two of their popular downwind sails for kayaks, canoes and SUPs – the Scout and Adventure.

The flagship Adventure model has been upgraded for better sailing and more power. The new Adventure features a 25% increase in sail size, up from 42 inches to 47 inches. With 12 square feet of sail area, a shallower draft and a stiffer batten, the Adventure’s new silhouette provides tighter control in windy conditions and better across-the-wind sailing and stability. Intended for longer touring and expedition kayaks of 14 to 18 feet, the Adventure has an off-wind sailing area of +/ 180 degrees and a wind range of up to 30 knots. The sheets/lines have been softened for more hand comfort while sailing.

The entry level Scout remains 42 inches in diameter, but now sports a larger clear panel for better visibility, and stiffer battens. Built for the casual recreational paddler, the Scout is intended for 4-18 knot conditions and smaller solo kayaks from 8 to 14 feet.
With the redesign comes a drop in price, with the Scout now starting at $99.95 and the Adventure at $149.95.  A limited supply of the older 42-inch Adventure model is still available at $129.95.
The Cruiser remains similar in design, with a 56 inch diameter, but a lower price point of $169.95. The larger sailing area is focused on longer tandem models.
The three sail models weigh from 13 to 22 oz. and can be coiled to a packed size of 15 to 20 inches. For hands-off sailing, an optional sail kit is available, allowing a paddler to tie off the lines and steer with their paddle. The sails are available in blue, yellow or red.
For more details or to purchase, visit the Windpaddle product pages at http://www.AirKayaks.com

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 13.5 ft Swing EX Inflatable Kayak from Innova

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Innova Kayaks, Inc of Burlington, Washington recently announced the latest addition to the Innova inflatable kayak line – the Swing EX, a 3 PSI touring model.

At 13.5 feet in length, with a 29-inch width and capacity of 396 lbs, the Swing EX is a longer, skinnier version of the popular Swing I.  The Swing EX – short for Expedition – is designed toward the multi-day touring paddler needing extra room for gear.
The longer waterline provides better glide, while the increased hull space now offers side deck zippers, and more square footage of bungee deck lacing and netting for attaching gear. Initial tests clocked the Swing EX cruising speed at a comfortable 3 to 3.5 knots with minimal effort.

The cockpit on the Swing EX has been redesigned, allowing paddlers to use a standard spray skirt.
The Innova Swing EX uses a double “tubeless” system, making it inherently lighter, while the double tubes allow it to be inflated to 3 PSI and provide better rigidity across the added length.

A unique deck support system uses aluminum arches – two fore and one aft – of the cockpit opening. These arches are set crosswise and provide deck shape and structure. The arches contribute to the stiffness of the Swing EX for paddling in rough water. These arches can be removed easily for a compact folded package.
Like its siblings, the Swing 1 and Swing 2, the Swing EX is made from an environmentally-friendly, PVC-free ripstop material which sheds water quickly. The deck features a coated urethane, while the hull is a teflon-treated LitePack.
And weighing in at a mere 29 lbs, the Swing EX still packs down to a small size – it fits in the optional Swing backpack – making it a viable choice for global travel and back country treks.
MSRP: $999.
Stay tuned. The Innova Swing EX should be available in early 2015. For upcoming details, watch the Innova Product Pages section at http://www.AirKayaks.com.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>