Tag Archives: Guides

2019 Comparison Table Guide to Selecting an Inflatable Kayak at AirKayaks

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 >>

Choosing an Inflatable Kayak – What Should You Consider

Gone are the days when inflatable kayaks 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 – some even rival the performance of hard shell kayaks.

An array of Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayaks
Benefits of Inflatable Kayaks
So why choose an inflatable? The biggest reasons are portability and storage.
Innova 100L Backpack for Innova Kayaks
The ability to travel with an inflatable – either tossed into the back of your car or RV, taking mass transit, backpacking into remote areas or flying around the world – is appealing to many.

Inflatables also solve storage problems – the bags and backpacks can easily fit in a closet  or trunk of a car, and there is no need for cumbersome and expensive roof racks.
AquaGlide Chelan 155 HB XL Kayak for 1-3 paddlers
Many of the inflatables are lightweight – making it easier to manage – and can hold one, two, sometimes three paddlers, making it great for family fun.
AquaGlide Blackfoot 155 Angler HB XL for 1-2 paddlers
Most are rugged and incredibly stable, appealing to those nervous about the water and leary of “tippy” hardshells. Many have hulls which can take scrapes, bumps and submerged sticks and logs without a blip. And in the remote chance that you do puncture your kayak, most can be easily repaired with the included maintenance kits. Simply cut a patch, put on glue, apply pressure and let sit overnight.
Inflatable Kayak Styles and Definitions
With the number of new inflatables hitting the market, there are now many styles to choose from for a wide range of water activities – from oceans to ponds, slow moving rivers to white water or wave running.
Here is an overview of some kayak styles to consider as well as some of the terms you might not be familiar with:
AquaGlide Klickitat 125 HB XL Self-Bailing Inflatable Kayak for 1-2 paddlers
Self-bailing kayaks: These are typically used in whitewater situations. Self-bailing kayaks have numerous ports – or holes – located in the bottom of the kayak. When in a fast-moving whitewater situation, this allows water to enter the kayak and pass back out, ensuring the boat doesn’t fill up. Expect a wet ride. Conversely, if you are on calm water, water will come in through the floor ports unless the kayak has plugs that can be opened or closed. Many self-bailers don’t have tracking fins, meaning they may not perform as well in flat water.
Advanced Elements StraitEdge 2 for 1-2 paddlers
Sit-on top kayak: An open design kayak. This is great for people who have difficulty getting in and out of an enclosed shell, those who tend to feel claustrophobic, and for those in warmer climates. Conversely, water will splash

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Selecting the Best Inflatable Kayak – Questions to Ask

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 >>

Guide to Choosing Your 2019 Hala Gear Inflatable Paddle Board

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 >>

2019 Guide to Choosing Your Kokopelli Packraft

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.
Photo by Colin Arisman
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 2019, Kokopelli’s lineup 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. This includes the introduction of one new model – the beefy Recon whitewater packraft – as well as product upgrades and some new accessories.
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, 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 2019 Kokopelli Packraft
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 2019 packrafts have been regrouped into three categories – Whitewater, Lake and Adventure.

The Whitewater Series consists of three models – the Nirvana with Spraydeck, Nirvana Self-Bailing and the Recon. While each of these can handle rushing rivers through Class III, the new Recon weighs in at a whopping 18 lbs with beefed

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Choosing Your Advanced Elements Convertible, Convertible DS or Convertible Elite Inflatable Kayak

Earlier this year we received our first shipment of Advanced Elements’ new model, the AE1007E Convertible Elite in red: the Convertible is a popular tandem inflatable kayak for one to two paddlers. This joined the current models, the Convertible AE1007R or Convertible AE1007G in red or green and the AE1007 Convertible DS in blue.  Before they arrived, we were fielding inquiries on all three models which came down to one basic question – what is different?
In a nutshell, all three kayak models are identical in construction, materials and footprint – the only variations are in the colors and included accessories.
Standard AE1007G and AE1007R

The standard Convertible has been available for nearly 15 years, and now comes as AE1007G and AE1007R. These are identical except for the color – green or red – and come with a low-pressure 1-PSI inflatable floor with i-beams and pressure relief valve. Both have high-backed seats and come with the standard Advanced Elements duffel-style carry bag. Both have a street price of $699.
Convertible Elite and Convertible DS

Both the Convertible Elite AE1007E and Convertible DS AE1007DS come with the hi-pressure 4-6 PSI drop stitch floor (shown above with the standard 1 PSI low-pressure floor), which greatly enhances paddling performance and rigidity. The drop stitch floor ($239 value) also provides a firmer surface for getting into – and out of – the kayak. Both of these also come with two upgraded, high-backed seats with inflatable lumbar support ($128 value), and an additional padded seat bottom, providing a more comfortable paddling experience. Both of these also include a carrying case with backpack straps ($107.95 value), making it easier to transport. The new AE1007E Convertible Elite is available in red, with a street price of $949.

The Convertible DS AE1007DS in blue is exclusive to AirKayaks, and has been available for nearly 5 years.

In addition to the floor, seats and backpack upgrades listed previously, the current version also includes an integrated, adjustable front foot brace system ($29.99 value).

The base kayak also includes the Advanced Elements double action hand pump with gauge ($39.99 value) as well as a bonus StashPack 20 Liter dry bag ($49.99 value). Street price is $899.
Bottom Line:
If you plan on doing mostly tandem recreational paddling on calmer waters, don’t need all the whiz-bangs, or are on a budget, then the basic Convertible AE1007R/G with 1-PSI floor might be your best choice at $699.
If you plan on paddling in a variety of conditions both tandem and solo, with comfort and performance as a priority, then go with the high-pressure versions. For at-a-glance comparison, see the table below.

For more info, or to purchase, visit the Convertible product pages on AirKayaks.com.

AE1007R Convertible Inflatable Kayak in Red.
AE1007G Convertible Inflatable Kayak in Green
AE1007E Convertible

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

10 Neat Fishing Gifts for a Kayaking Angler

The holiday season is rapidly approaching. Searching for gifts for a fishing kayaker? Here are 10 nifty gift ideas, sure to make any angler enthusiast happy. We’ve updated this for the 2018 holiday season!
1) Seattle Sports Digi Wallet & Audio Case – $9.95
Two compartments with two levels of protection for phones or personal items while on or near the water. The wallet side is waterproof and totally protects phones, cameras, MP3 players, money, credit cards and personal items – you can even talk, text and manage music right through the case. Features a headphone pass-through port with audio capability for your smartphone or MP3 player.

2) Advanced Elements Folding Anchor System – $33.95
The 3 lb. Anchor System is a unique folding/locking 4-fluke design. It is great for use with kayaks and canoes, and holds well on most types of bottoms – from sand to rock. The galvanized anchor has a sliding collar which keeps the flukes drawn up tight against the shank when stowed, and then drops to lock the flukes open when deployed. It is easy to remove the anchor from the water – simply pull and stow!

3) Accessory Frame Mounting System from Advanced Elements – $59.95
Retrofit your inflatable or hardshell kayak for fishing, video and photography with an accessory bar! Once installed, add any aftermarket 1” rail-mounts, and customize most kayaks with rod holders, a fish finder, camcorder, cameras or other equipment. The Accessory Frame bar consists of three pieces of anodized aluminum with push-pin construction; once in position, the push pins keep the bar from sliding out, but allow for easy dismantling.
4) Seattle Sports Catch Cooler 20 Fishing Bag – $59.95.
The Seattle Sports 20-inch deck-side coolers offer super-convenient access for stowing and keeping your catch fresh during a day on the water. Reel one in from your kayak or SUP board with easy attachment points and low profile design. Also available in 32″ size.

5) AquaGlide Blackfoot Kayak Fishing and Beverage – $69.95
Carry your fishing supplies or picnic lunch while out on the water! The Blackfoot Fishing Cooler is perfect for carrying supplies or perishables while out kayaking. With 9 quarts (8.5 liters) of lined and insulated storage space, the Fishing Cooler can hold up to 24 chilled 120z cans with ice. Includes four extended rodholders, 2 side zipper pockets, large front pocket with flap and a clear map/license pocket organizes your gear.

6) MTI Calcutta Universal Size Fishing PFD – $89.95
For paddlers, anglers, naturalists and birdwatchers who love pockets! This 30-56″ chest “all-person-fit” jacket is all-equipped for kayak fishing! Sized to fit slim to super-sized torsos, with cool open sides and adjustable front buckle straps that can be loosened for quick ventilation. Five pockets for holding all sorts

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

15 Gift Ideas for Stand-up Paddle Board Lovers

Short on time and a long list of gifts to search for? We’ve compiled a list of 15 gift ideas for paddle board lovers in a wide range of prices, certain to make that special person happy! We’ve focused on portable options for those planning on travel or short on space, though many can be used by all paddle boarders. (Please note, this blog was updated on Nov. 17, 2018)

1) Seattle Sports E-Merse XL Original Cell Phone Waterproof Case – $19.95
The Seattle Sports E-Merse R/S Original XL Cell Phone Waterproof Case offers maximum, submersible, waterproof protection for your electronics and valuables when properly closed. Use your cell phone while on the water – text, call and access APPS right through the case!

2) Advanced Elements Coiled Ankle Leash – $34.99
A 9 ft adjustable, coiled recreational paddle board leash designed to prevent excess drag while keeping you comfortably tethered to your paddle board. Comes with storage bag. Weight: 8.8 oz.
 

3) Red Paddle Co Schrader Valve Adaptor – $34.95
Easily pump up your high-pressure inflatable paddle board! The Schrader valve adaptor attaches to a standard bike, tire pump or air compressor, allowing you to pump up to high pressures without all the back strain. Works with Halkey Roberts military valves.

4) Red Paddle Co Original Insulated Water Bottle. $39.00
A super insulated drink bottle of marine grade stainless steel. Holds up to 750 ml of hot or cold liquids. Easily attaches to most SUPs or kayaks with a carabiner.

5) Red Paddle Co Original Board Cable Lock – $59
Ensure your inflatable SUP is secure with the Red Paddle Co Original Board Lock. The 11 ft/340 cm length makes it possible to secure one or multiple boards at once – simply loop through the ankle leash d-ring(s). A programmable combination lock can be set to a code of your choice, reducing the likelihood of theft.

6) Advanced Elements Adjustable Hula 2pc SUP Breakdown Paddle – $63.95
An economical and rugged aluminum SUP paddle, perfect for traveling, varying water conditions or for family members of various heights. The wider blade is good for pushing more water. Adjusts from 67 to 83 inches.
7) MTI Adventurewear 16G Inflatable Belt Pack PFD – $69.95
MTI Adventurewear’s new 16G Inflatable Belt Pack is a low profile, compact design providing 16.5 lbs of inflation with a pillow-style bladder. Fits adult universal with 30-52″ chest size, belt length 58.5 inches. Great for stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, kayaking and general boating. Simply wear it like a belt by passing it around your waist and buckling it to close, then tighten for a snug fit.

8) AquaGlide Crossroads DLX SUP/Kayak Backpack $89.95
The Crossroads DLX Kayak Backpack from AquaGlide is designed to bring your inflatable SUP or kayak and gear on your next

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

10 Neat Gift Ideas Under $25 for Paddlers

It’s “that time” again, and the pressure is mounting to find the perfect gift for a fellow paddler. AirKayaks has put together the Guide to 10 Neat Paddling Gift Ideas Under $25 – guaranteed to please a variety of water enthusiasts without breaking your budget.

1) Seattle Sports Digi Wallet & Audio Case – $9.95
Two compartments with two levels of protection for phones or personal items while on or near the water. The wallet side is waterproof and totally protects phones, cameras, MP3 players, money, credit cards and personal items – you can even talk, text and manage music right through the case. Features a headphone pass-through port with audio capability for your smartphone or MP3 player.
 

2) Chinook 40-Liter Rolltop Dry Bag – $16.95

Economical dry storage, perfect for a day of gear on the water. Measures 12 x 24 inches unrolled. Also available in 57L size.
 

3) Paddle Leash from Seattle Sports – $17.95
Don’t be caught “up a creek without a paddle!” The streamlined, low-profile, retractable Paddle Leash cord is easy to pack and stays out of the way while providing an eight-foot expansion. A unique quick-release feature allows your paddle to be quickly and easily attached to and from the leash. Length 34.25 inches expanding to 8 ft, weight 1.8 oz
 

4) Seattle Sports Diamond RollTop Dry Bag – $19.95
An economical solution to protecting your gear. The large H2Zero Diamond RollTop Dry Bag from Seattle Sports offers a good combination of functional privacy at an economical price. Built with a rugged polyester exterior, the H2Zero Diamond RollTop Dry Bag features a clear, diamond-shaped window for easy visual access to gear. Great for clothing, food, gear.

 
5)  Seattle Sports Paddler’s Bilge Pump – $19.95
A must for any boater. The Seattle Sport 8 gallon per minute Bilge Pump features an easy-grab handle, super-strong pump shaft and heavy-duty impact resistant plastic.
 

6) Seattle Sports E-Merse XL Original Cell Phone Waterproof Case – $19.95
The Seattle Sports E-Merse R/S Original XL Cell Phone Waterproof Case offers maximum, submersible, waterproof protection for your electronics and valuables when properly closed. Use your cell phone while on the water – text, call and access APPS right through the case!

7) Aqua Marina Magic Adjustable 90L BackPack for Inflatables – $20.80
The adjustable 90-Liter Aqua Marina Magic BackPack is a simple way to transport your inflatable, paddle, and pump – at an economical price!
8) Chinook Aquatight 5-Map Chart Organizer – $23.95
A unique dual-section, trifold map case holds up to 5 standard-sized maps! Two waterproof compartments with view windows and four attachment points for lashing to kayaks, canoes, backpacks and bicycle handlebars. Available in gray or black.

9) Seattle Sports Magni-Map Pro Splashproof Chart Case. $24.95
Rugged and waterproof map case sized to fit maps up to 14.5

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Advanced Elements: AdvancedFrame 2 versus Convertible Inflatable Kayaks

This past spring, we received first-hand information on Advanced Elements’ new two-person inflatable kayak model, the 13-ft AdvancedFrame 2. Available in limited quantities, the AdvancedFrame 2 combines features from several current models. The kayak is a lightweight and compact version of the popular Convertible kayak with the silhouette of the Expedition, has a floor and seating setup similar to the Lagoon 2, with a higher 450 lbs weight capacity.

Before they arrived, we began fielding numerous questions on which to choose – the Convertible (shown in blue on the bottom) or the AdvancedFrame 2 (shown in green on top). Here are some things to think about.
What’s the same?
Both the Convertible and AdvancedFrame 2 utilize the same type of hull material and three-layer construction, consisting of a kayak outer cover, with PVC side tubes in their own covered fabric sheath. Both have an integrated tracking fin, landing plate and beefed up bow and stern. Both have the removable bow and stern aluminum ribs, and plastic bow and stern stiffening sheets. Both kayaks come with two seats, repair kit, instructions and carrying case (though the carrying case for the AdvancedFrame 2 is generously oversized). Both have 6 inflation chambers – two military valves and four twistloks. Both have two molded rubber handles – bow and stern – and front bungee deck lacking with d-rings and quick-connect clips as well as four rear d-rings. Both have velcro paddleholders.
Both can use the optional rapidup sail, backbone, high-pressure floor and foot pegs.
This is where the similarities end.

At 13 feet in length, the AdvancedFrame 2 is 2 feet shorter than the Convertible, and at 43 lbs with seats in the carrying case, weighs 9 lbs less. While the Convertible features a 1-PSI PVC inflatable floor with i-beam construction, the AdvancedFrame 2 floor does not inflate; it is constructed from a half-inch thick closed-cell foam – similar to that used under sleeping bags (see photo above). The lower “center of gravity” in the AdvancedFrame 2 is compensated for with inflatable seat bases, while the Convertible features a non-inflatable 1-inch seat base with a stiffer, higher back. As the foam floor “rolls” up, the folded dimensions are not quite as compact – hence the larger carrying case.

While both kayaks have open seating areas, the AdvancedFrame 2 has a slim, one-inch coaming area that helps to keep out water, but can not use a deck or spray skirt. The Convertible features a zippered perimeter that allows one to attach optional single and double spray decks (shown above) as well as optional spray skirts.
The Convertible has more flexibility in seating positions, featuring front, rear and center clipping positions. The AdvancedFrame 2 does not have the center clipping position, and the seat straps

Original Source: AirKayaks >>