Tag Archives: News

Advanced Elements AirVolution Dropstitch Kayaks for 2021 – What’s New

Last summer, Advanced Elements of Benicia, California introduced two exciting new kayaks as precursors to the 2021 season – the AirVolutions. What makes them so special? The AirVolution solo and AirVolution2 tandem are constructed entirely from dropstitch material. With just two inflation chambers, and inflation pressures of 10 to 12 PSI, the kayaks are extremely rigid.

The sleek new models feature heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin which offers a smooth, hydrodynamic outer skin, making them easy to dry. The wide cockpit provides easy entry and exit, while the hull has a unique V-shape that transitions to a chined hull for greater on-the-water performance.

The kayaks were an immediate hit, and the demand outpaced the inventory – the AirVolution2 sold out by the end of summer.

Based on feedback from the intro models, Advanced Elements has tweaked the designs for 2021. The newly updated AE3029 AirVolution and AE3030 AirVolution2 tandem kayaks are enroute, with estimated availability of late March.

You can read our detailed writeups on the 2020 AirVolution solo kayak and the Airvolution2 for one or two paddlers.
Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements
Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution2 Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

So what’s new on the AirVolutions for 2021?

Both models now come with an inflatable foot brace. For the AE3030, this will only be used in tandem mode for the front paddler.
Seat Improvements: The backrest is now stiffer and more supportive. Additionally, the adjustment straps have been shortened up and cleaned up. The webbing ends have been better melted to prevent fraying, and folded and bar-tacked for a cleaner finish.

Seat d-ring locations: The d-rings on the floor have been moved forward a few inches and also relocated to the sidewall of the cockpit. A new d-ring has been added to the front of the cockpit for clipping an additional item such as a water bottle, etc.
The Pressure Relief Valve rating has been lowered from 19 to 14 PSI, and the ring around the PRV reflects this.
Valve Location and Drain Well: The valve locations were flipped so that they are now on the same side, with the inflation valves on the left and Pressure Relief Valves on the right. This makes it easier to push out air when folding.

The deck bungee now sports heat-shrink material for a cleaner look
The pump was transitioned to a rugged Bravo dual-stage pump.
As a nifty little bonus, each of the kayak packages now includes a 12-volt, low-pressure battery operated inflator. The pump runs on 4 D-Cells (not included). While the pump does not have enough power to pressurize the kayak, it will rapidly fill out the body, saving physical pumping time and effort. The Bravo dual-action pump can then be used to get it

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Tahe Outdoors – New Inflatable SUPs and Kayaks for 2021

We recently received news on the upcoming TAHE Outdoors inflatable SUP and kayak line for 2021.

Better known in the US under the BIC Sport name, the TAHE brand is a union of BIC Sport and Tahe Outdoors, two companies committed to water sports for decades.
Established in 1979, BIC Sport pioneered the windsurf industry, expanding into surfing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding, while the European-based Tahe Outdoors is one of the largest and fastest growing European manufacturers of paddle sport and kite surfing equipment.
Two years ago, the BIC Sport water line was acquired by Tahe Outdoors. BIC Sport’s board culture, manufacturing expertise and focus on family fun is now combined with Tahe Outdoors’ dedication to exploration and craftsmanship. The result is a brand focused on water fun, featuring environmentally friendly production processes, quality products at an affordable price, and investment in innovation and development.
For 2021, the Tahe Outdoor watersports range includes an inflatable kayak and paddle board line which transitions from the 2020 BIC Sport series. While all products feature the new TAHE brand identity and look, two major categories and themes – Beach and Breeze – are used across both the inflatable kayak and paddle board lines.
The Beach series features entry-level and economically-priced SUPs and kayaks geared towards first time users, those on a budget, or those looking for casual recreational fun. The Breeze series consists of intermediate products at a slightly higher price-point, for those interested in extended touring or more features.
Both Beach and Breeze series consist of complete “get on the water” packages.
Tahe Outdoors Inflatable Beach Series

The Beach Series Packages – “where adventure begins” – consists of three inflatable SUP models, three inflatable kayak models and two “crossover’packages which can do double-duty as kayak or SUP. Each package includes almost everything needed to get on the water, short of life vests.
The inflatable SUP-Air packages include the Beach 10-6, Beach 11-6 and Beach Wing 11’0.

The 10’6″ Beach SUP AIR and 11-6 Beach SUP-AIR are stable, lightweight and easy to use recreational paddle boards. Each features a 6-inch thick dropstitch construction, a standard US-Fin box with 9-inch fin and an innovative Daisy Chain Attachment System encircling the deck pad, allowing you to attach accessories – such as storage gear or optional seat for sit-on-top kayaking – wherever you want.

The Beach 10-6 SUP-AIR is 34 inches wide, weighs 22 lbs and has a 300 lb payload. The longer Beach 11-6 SUP-AIR is 36 inches wide, 25 lbs in weight and has a 450 lb payload – this can easily convert to a tandem SUP by adding an optional second SUP paddle. Both boards come with a backpack, adjustable breakdown SUP paddle, ankle leash, repair kit, fin, high-pressure pump with gauge

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Aquaglide’s New Blackfoot Angler Inflatable Kayaks for 2021

In late 2020 we posted information on Aquaglide’s upcoming new inflatable kayak line for 2021, consisting of 20 models for recreational, touring, fishing, whitewater/crossover and back-country. While twelve models remain the same, the Chelan and Blackfoot series were redesigned. We expanded the details in our Sneak Preview on the Aquaglide Chelan series, and we now turn to the updated Blackfoot fishing kayaks.

The Blackfoot Angler series for 2021 is comprised of the Blackfoot 130 – a single angler that can become a double with purchase of an optional seat – and the new Blackfoot 160 XL – a true tandem.
Just like the new Chelan series, the key words for the 2021 Blackfoots are comfort, performance and appointments, now featuring beefed-up graphics and even more storage options and gear attachments for a better fishing and paddling experience.

The previous Blackfoot 125 has been redesigned as a slightly longer 13 foot by 40 inch width Blackfoot Angler 130 for one paddler, but with space enough to outfit it as a double by adding an extra seat. A new BlackFoot Angler 160 – at a whopping 16 feet with 40 inch width – is a true tandem with all the bells and whistles and an 800 lb payload. The Blackfoot 110 solo has been retired.
Each of the new Blackfoots is constructed from Aquaglide’s commercial-grade Duratex material consisting of a lightweight, stiff and durable skin that dries easily. The high-pressure floor is covered with a diamond-cut EVA traction pad for secure footing and comfort while casting or standing.
Four threaded drain plugs can be opened or closed, dependent on the type of water action – open for self-draining in rough water or closed when in calm settings.

Front and rear splash decks with bungee lacing keep water out and gear intact.
The Blackfoots come standard with Aquaglide’s new High-Low Frame Seat with two seating options; the high setting offers better visibility and makes it easier to stand up when casting, while the low setting provides more stability in rougher waters. An adjustable, high backrest gives solid support, while the breathable fabric keeps one cooler. A storage shelf under the seat is perfect for tackle boxes while further storage options can be found on the seat back. As an added bonus – the seat can be removed, providing comfortable seating on the beach or around a campsite.

New Molle plates – as found on military backpacks and gear – are integrated onto the side tubes. Each can be used for attaching a multitude of aftermarket gadgets, such as first aid kits, multi-tool cases, waterproof gear pouches or Aquaglide’s optional, new, vertically-mounted cup holder. The Blackfoot series comes equipped with mesh storage pouches which attach to the molle plates.

A series of universal mounts on

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: New 2021 Aquaglide Chelan Series of Inflatable Touring Kayaks

We recently posted information on Aquaglide’s upcoming new inflatable kayak line for 2021, consisting of 20 models for recreational, touring, fishing, whitewater/crossover and backcountry. While twelve models remain the same, the Chelan and Blackfoot series were redesigned.

The Chelan touring series, comprised of the Chelan 120 single, Chelan 140 Tandem and Chelan 155 tandem XL, have undergone major upgrades. While each of the kayaks still feature 100mm, high pressure floors and Duratex tubeless construction, the color and graphics have undergone a total facelift as well as a structural redesign.

The key words for the new 2021 Chelans are comfort, performance and appointments, now offering a multitude of storage options and gear attachments for a better paddling experience. The Chelan silhouette was also refined with a lowered nose rocker, providing better tracking and paddling performance.

The 2021 Chelans are now equipped with a set of 1-inch side-tube molle plates for attaching gear. Molle webbing is often found on military backpacks and gear. Each can be used for attaching a multitude of aftermarket gadgets, such as first aid kits, multi-tool cases, waterproof gear pouches or Aquaglide’s optional, new, vertically-mounted cup holder. The Chelan series comes equipped with mesh storage pouches which attach to the molle plates.

A universal mount has been integrated into the floor in front of each seat. The base plate makes it easy to attach optional rod holders, camera mounts and more.

And if that wasn’t enough, the Chelans have been outfitted with a series of webbing loops positioned 6 inches apart along the floor on each side, providing even more options for attaching accessories.

The Chelans come with the new River Crossing backpack constructed from a rugged, 600 denier polyester. The bag has been redesigned with a larger capacity and full zipper for better fit as well as multiple handles for easier carrying. Mesh pockets and side panels provide drainage and breathability, while an exterior pocket and straps allow one to store a breakdown paddle. An external bungee lacing system provides more places to attach gear. The River Crossing backpack easily converts to a carrying case by stashing the adjustable, padded shoulder straps into a stowaway pocket when not in use or for plane flights, preventing snags. Dimensions are 39 x 17 x 13 inches.
Other features remaining on the Chelans include movable foot braces, splash decks with bungee deck lacing, multiple carrying handles, three military valves and high-pressure floor.

Threaded floor drains can be open or closed, allowing water to drain when in rougher waters or surf.

A Posi Track weedless fin utilizes a US Fin box. The fin attaches with a tool-less thumb screw, and can be easily replaced with aftermarket shorter fins for shallow water or longer fins for increased tracking.

The Proformance seat(s) remain

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Aquaglide 2021 Inflatable Kayak Line – What’s New

We recently received information on Aquaglide’s upcoming new inflatable kayak line for 2021.

Originally a division of North Sports Inc, the Aquaglide brand has grown steadily to encompass 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. North Sports was subsequently acquired by Connelly Skis, well known for their water skis and water sports equipment.
Now entering the eighth season, AquaGlide’s paddling line of inflatable kayaks and SUPs has dramatically expanded the options available to water enthusiasts looking for portability.

For 2021, Aquaglide continues with 20 models for recreational, touring, fishing, whitewater/crossover and backcountry. This includes the revamping of one model, overhaul of three models, the introduction of four models and the retirement of one model. Twelve models remain the same structurally and graphically, with some price increases.
Big changes include a redesigned Blackfoot Angler series and an overhaul of the Chelan touring line; neither of these were updated in 2020. But the biggest news is the introduction of a totally new category of Backwoods UltraLight kayaks, featuring 3 models weighing in at 7.5 lbs to 13 lbs.

The popular Blackfoot Angler series has undergone a major overhaul and now features the Blackfoot 130 and Blackfoot 160 true tandem.

The Blackfoot 125 has been redesigned as a slightly longer 13 foot by 40 inch width Blackfoot Angler 130 for one paddler, but with space enough to outfit it as a double by adding an extra seat. A new BlackFoot Angler 160 – at a whopping 16 feet with 40 inch width – is a true tandem with all the bells and whistles and an 800 lb payload. The Blackfoot 110 solo has been retired.

Besides beefed up graphics, new features include a series of low tie-down loops on the floor and side molle plates to provide numerous options for attaching gear. EVA foam traction pads on the floor offer better grip and comfort when standing.

The Blackfoots come standard with Aquaglide’s new high-low Frame Seat which features a shelf under the seat for stashing gear.  Street prices on the Blackfoot 130 increased to $1199.99 while the Blackfoot 160 retails for $1499.99.

The Chelan touring series, comprised of the Chelan 120 single and Chelan 140 and Chelan 155 XL tandems, have undergone major upgrades. While each of the kayaks still feature high pressure floors and Duratex tubeless construction, the color and graphics have undergone a total facelift as well as a structural redesign. The Chelan silhouette is now more refined with a lowered nose rocker, providing better tracking and paddling performance.

Each of the Chelans now feature an integrated universal mount on the floor in front of each seat as well as side

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2021 Red Paddle Company Inflatable SUP Boards – What’s New

We recently received details on Red Paddle Co’s inflatable SUP lineup being introduced for 2021. Red Paddle Company inflatable boards are well-known throughout the world for their ruggedness, innovation and performance – each Red board is the result of rigorous quality assurance during the 72 hours of build time. Red Paddle Co’s private board facility is touted to be completely waste free with all materials being reused or recycled.

Throughout the past 13 years, Red Paddle Co has been the industry leader, racking up numerous awards throughout the product line, including Gear of the Year from Outside, Men’s Journal and Backpacker magazines. Innovative features include the game-changing Titan dual action pump, Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion material technology, Rocker Side Stiffening (RSS) system, the Forward Flex Control (FFC) nose rod on the racing boards and the Compact low-profile boards.

In 2020, Red Paddle Company raised the bar by offering an unheard-of 5 year warranty on all Red Paddle boards (with product registration), the result of the Red Paddle TEC quality assurance program. They also introduced the Compact Sport 11. Like it’s smaller sibling the Compact 9’6″, the Sport Compact rolls up to half the size of a standard inflatable paddle board, perfect for larger paddlers.

Red Paddle’s philosophy? If you plan on taking to the water on an inflatable board then you need a super durable board that is up for the challenge. And if you haven’t seen them, the Red Paddle endurance videos – pitting Red Paddle boards against teens, dogs, tractors, big rigs, martial arts and more – are definitely a testament to durability.

The 2021 Red Paddle Co product line continues with 20 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10″ to to 22’0.″ This includes revamped graphics unifying the product line appearance while keeping subtle differentiations between paddling categories, as well as added features on many models. Three models have been retired and one reinvented. Prices are remaining the same.
Across the line, several new features have popped up.

The standard bungee deck lacing has been replaced with a cleaner-looking, self-closing, flat bungee system with 6-point attachment. The straps are now larger, creating more tension which helps your gear stay in place.

The deck pads have been extended and now wrap slightly around the board edge. This increases the grip and gives a cleaner look.

While the Red Paddle tech-valve system remains the same, the valves are now color-coordinated to blend in with the board deck pads.

Carrying handles are now tubular, making them more ergonomic, easier to grip and more comfortable.
On boards featuring the RSS Rocker Stiffening System – Ride 9-8, Sports, single Voyagers, Elites, Dragon and Whip – the fiberglass battens have been remodeled. Now in a day-glo

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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

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 >>

Sneak Preview: Moki and Moki-Lite 6PSI Inflatable Kayaks from Kokopelli Packraft

We recently received a pre-production version of Kokopelli’s newest model, the Moki-Lite high-pressure inflatable kayak. The 10’3″ Moki-Lite is one of two crossover kayaks introduced by Kokopelli, joining the longer 13′ Moki for the 2020 paddling season.

Kokopelli Outdoor Inc. of Denver, Colorado entered the packraft market in 2014, beginning with a handful of models. This year’s lineup consists of five packraft models – Nirvana Self-Bailing, Nirvana Spray Deck, Twain tandem, Rogue and Rogue-Lite – weighing from 5.4 to 14 lbs – as well as their beefier PVC series – the Recon and new XPD (see our Sneak Preview on the XPD which currently is featured in a Kickstarter campaign). Both PVC models are geared towards more rugged use and weigh-in at 13 to 18 lbs.

The new Moki Series fill in a gap in the Kokopelli product line. We were able to test out a sample of both kayaks – the Moki-Lite a few weeks ago and the Moki last fall.

Our first take on the Moki-Lite? It fills a niche for recreational flatwater paddling that is portable, feature-rich and fun to paddle. It’s rugged, simple to set up, easy to get into, lightweight and zippy.

Features include a dropstitch floor, push-push valves, removable tracking fin, adjustable foot brace, extremely comfortable EVA seat with storage, bungee deck-lacing, paddle holders and d-rings for attaching gear.  The Moki-Lite features a 6 PSI high-pressure floor with 3 PSI side tubes. At less than 10 minutes to set up, the launch time can be cut in half by utilizing Kokopelli’s optional new Feather pump for initial inflation.
Graphics look good and the complete package is well-thought out, from an easily installed fin to the very nifty included pump. The Nano pump is a slim-barrel, dual-action pump with gauge, but was so easy to use in double-action mode that I didn’t try it in single action. The pump body is small, and features fold-up feet and screw-off handles, making it very easy to store.

At 26 lbs for the kayak and seat, it’s easily carried with the included wheeled backpack. We measured the kayak at 10’3″ in length, 32″ in width with a 15-inch interior. MSRP for the Moki-Lite Package is $699 with pump, gauge and backpack.

Large paddlers, or those needing more enclosed options, may be interested in Kokopelli’s other new model, the Moki, (shown above) a slightly larger version with the ability to use an optional zip-on deck with coaming for more enclosure or an optional spray skirt.

Just like the Moki-Lite, the Moki is easy to set up, tracks well, and is fun to paddle.  Features also include a dropstitch floor, open cockpit design, HR military valves, tracking fin, integrated bungee deck-lacing and storage areas. The Moki also comes

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Red Paddle Co’s Ultra-Packable 11’0″ Compact Sport Inflatable SUP Package

Red Paddle Co has introduced their new 11’0″ Compact Sport Inflatable SUP Package, the second in a series of super-portable, lightweight, packable inflatable SUP packages. The 11’0″ Compact Sport joins the 9’6″ Compact in the Red Paddle line up, offering a longer length and increased carrying capacity of 242 lbs.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Rugged New Kokopelli XPD Inflatable Packraft

One of the exciting new models we’ve seen for 2020 is Kokopelli Packraft’s rugged XPD Packraft, featuring a beefed up hull which can be inflated to higher pressures of 2 to 3 PSI.

This week, Kokopelli launched a Kickstarter Campaign to boost awareness of the XPD, which is expected to arrive later this spring.

What’s so special? While the XPD packraft is based on the Kokopelli Rogue-Lite profile, the XPD features a more beefed-up construction for rigorous use on flat water and lakes through Class II. The hull is constructed from a reinforced 0.9mm (1000 denier) PVC, yet still packs down to the size of a large sleeping bag, roughly 22 x 12 x 8 inches in size. The XPD sports GRI push-push military valves, rather than the Leafield D4 valves found on the previous packrafts. Dimensions are the same as the popular Rogue Lite at 85 by 37 inches, but weighs in at 13 lbs with a payload of 300 lbs.
We were able to see an initial model last fall, when Kokopelli’s Sales Manager – Andrew Duran – flew a prototype out to California for us to test out.

Our first take on the XPD? It fills a niche for recreational flatwater paddling that is portable and fun. It’s rugged, very simple to set up, easy to get into, lightweight and zippy. As someone once said, “It turns on a dime and gives you back change.”
The open design is perfect for those who have physical disabilities or dislike being enclosed. It is easily paddled by large and small (my 6’2″ husband in the XPD above) older and younger, and it’s rugged enought to hand over to the kids or to take a furry companion.

And it’s just heavy enough to seat itself in the water, yet – at 13 lbs – light enough to toss around. Check out the following video:
 

The XPD will be available in two colors – red and green – both with and without tizip. MSRP is $749 and $899 respectively.
See the Kokopelli Packraft XPD Kickstarter Campaign, and also check out our wordpress blog on the Kokopelli Packraft 2020 Product Line.

We also have a limited amount of past season 2019 Kokopelli Packraft models at 15% off, with prices as low as $699 with a free paddle.
The XPDs are expected to be available at AirKayaks.com in late spring. Need more info? Feel free to Contact Us or give us a call at 707-998-0135.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>