Tag Archives: Guides

Guide to Choosing Your 2018 Hala Gear Inflatable Paddle Board

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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 2018, Hala has 20 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 6’11” to 14’0″. This includes the introduction of 3 new models – the Carbon Playita 9’0″, Rival Nass 12’0″ and Rival Playa 11’0″ – and some minor revamped graphics on several of the boards. Boards range in price from $999 to $1599.
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.”

Besides construction type, the rocker (how straight or curved is the side view from nose to tail) makes a difference in board attributes. Hala has three generic types – glide, progressive and full. The Glide Rocker feature a slight rise in the nose and tail, which increases glide and speed, yet still allows some maneuverability. The Full Rocker boards have a more precise and pronounced curvature from tip-to-tail for superior maneuverability and surfability – great for surf and whitewater. The Progressive Rocker sits in-between the two, allowing the boards to be playful yet maneuverable – more “all-round.” The photo above shows the Glide Rocker, followed by the Progressive Rocker, then Full Rocker.

All 2018 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 fitness board – called the Straight-To-The-Water package – also include an adjustable, aluminum breakdown paddle.
With all the models, activity types, sizes and features, how

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Guide to Choosing Your 2018 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP

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2018 heralds the 10 year anniversary of the Red Paddle Co inflatable SUP brand – these have now hit the market!

For 2018, Red Paddle Co has 23 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10 to 22’0. This includes the introduction of 1 new model – the Voyager Tandem 15’0″ – 6 renames, a limited-edition anniversary model, a consolidation of the racing boards, revamped graphics and added features on several of the current boards. With all the models, activity types, sizes and features, how does one choose the best board? Each year we update our previous posts to reflect the new Red Paddle Co models and product upgrades – use this guide to take away some of the guesswork when looking at the myriad of options with Red Paddle Co iSUPs.

The more noticeable new features include:

Updated graphics and color scheme for most of the boards and paddles.
Further advances in Red Paddle’s innovative new Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. For 2018, Red Paddle again tweaked the material across the entire product line, making the injected, reinforced second layer thicker with increased bond strength.
Boards with removable fins continue to use the standard US Fin box – these are divided into two types. The Sports, Explorers and Whip now feature FCS Connect Tool-less Fin Systems which quickly snap into position without need for hardware or tools, yet now come with a finger screw to ensure the fins are secure. The racing boards (Elites, Max Races) come with a glass race fin.
Each board with removable fin now includes an extra fin pin/screw in the repair kit.
A third set of d-rings with expanded bungee deck lacing on many of the models. This provides a larger surface for attaching gear.
Embroidered logos on the carrying handles, making them softer to touch.
Upgraded deck pads
Inclusion of a second, complementary deck lacing on select boards, allowing one to change the color on the board if desired.
Two versions of the popular Red Paddle backpack – the Classic version and the new All-Terrain Rugged with some upgraded features for traveling comfort.
Expanded list of attachable third-party accessories utilizing the integrated nose mount, from Railblaza.
Updated seals and handles on the Titan dual cylinder hand pump.

Prices are generally remaining the same with some slight decreases over 2017. (See a complete list of the new 2018 Red Paddle Co Line and new features on this blog article.)

All 2018 Red Paddle Co iSUPs  (except the 3 giants) come with either the Classic or Rugged All-Terrain roller backpack featuring integrated wheels, making it easier to thread through airport lobbies, while still comfortable enough to pack into the remote country. Most of the boards come with the Titan dual action pump; the two

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Comparing Innova Inflatable Kayaks: Seawave vs. Solar 410C for 1 to 3 paddlers

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We recently reviewed two of the new Innova inflatable kayaks – the Solar 410C and the Seawave – which are both billed as kayaks for one to three paddlers.

Innova kayaks are manufactured in the Czech Republic under the Gumotex label. The Innova kayaks are well-known for their portability and PVC-free construction, making them a great choice for back-country trekking, plane flights, and environmentally-conscious paddlers. In the photo above,  the Solar kayak is green (but also available in red), while the Seawave is red.
One of the most commonly asked questions is – which one is right for me? Below we have compiled a list of similarities and differences to help guide you in making that personal decision.
What’s the same in both kayaks?
Both kayaks are constructed from the same 1200 denier, rubber-coated laminate Nitrylon hull material. Both main chambers can be inflated to 3-PSI, and the smaller chambers to 1-1.5 PSI. Each has the same-style carrying bag, molded rubber handles, removable tracking fin, 3 main military valve chambers and four smaller twistlock chambers. They also have the same rear foot brace, seat attachments, seat straps and loop attachments.
Each comes with two seats, two braces, instructions, adaptor, repair kit and sponge. Each has the option to paddle double, solo, or add an optional third seat for a small child.
So what’s different?
 

While there are many items that are similar, the Innova Solar 410C (green in photo above) is a simpler, recreational kayak suitable for calmer waters. The Solar features shorter front and rear splash decks with a short length of rope line. There are four sets of tube d-rings for attaching seats and gear, five sets of floor loops/straps with four plastic d-rings, for attaching gear and braces. An integrated “numbering system” on the floor guides solo paddlers where to place the foor brace, based on their height. The front foot brace features a “double hump” system, and the seat back is two inches higher. A rear netting system with 4 clips expands the gear storage options.
At 163 inches long and 32 inches wide, the Solar 410C is shorter; the interior space of 160 in length and 14-15 inches wide is also shorter. There are no options for attaching decks or a rudder system. There is no blow hole. The weight is lighter at 38 lbs for the pack and contents. The carrying capacity is slightly higher at 591 lbs while the MSRP is lower at $749.

The Innova Seawave (red in photo above) has been set up with numerous optional enhancements, making it a better touring choice. The Seawave has longer front and rear splash decks, with rope line running the perimeter of the  kayak. Integrated numbering systems on the side hull guide the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2016 Guide to 12 Cool Paddling Gifts Under $25

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It’s “that time” again, and the pressure is mounting to find the perfect gift for a fellow paddler. AirKayaks has put together the 2016 Guide to 12 Cool Gift Ideas under $25 – guaranteed to please a variety of water enthusiasts without breaking your budget. (Please note: This blog was updated on Nov. 7, 2016)

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)  TearAid Type B Repair Tape for PVC Inflatables – $9.95
Quickly repair your PVC inflatable kayak bladder or other PVC products with this flexible, airtight, waterproof patch – just peel and stick!

3) Chinook 20-Liter Rolltop Dry Bag – $13.95
Economical dry storage in a 20 liter size, perfect for small items. Measures 9.5 by 18 inches with top rolled up.
 
 
 

4) Seattle Sports Emerse Waterproof Padded Cell Phone Case – $15.95
Protect and use your larger cell phone and valuables while on the water – text, call and access APPS right through the case! The E-Merse Padded Cell Phone Waterproof Case from Seattle Sports offers maximum, submersible, waterproof protection for your electronics – up to 10 feet when properly closed – while the padded back side provides shock protection and flotation.

5) 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

6) 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.
7) Dry Doc PVC-Free GPS Chart Case from Seattle Sports – $19.95
Keep your charts, trail maps, phone, or GPS dry and conveniently accessible. This tri-fold case features 2 separate dry pockets: one for maps and charts, and one for your home phone or GPS. Ziploc style closures offer quick and easy access to both. Use your GPS or phone right through the case. And it’s environmentally-friendly!
8) Jobe Paddle Board Ankle

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2017 Red Paddle Co: Guide to Choosing Your Inflatable Paddle Board

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The 2017 Red Paddle Co inflatable paddle boards have hit the market! With all the models, activity types, sizes and features, how does one choose the best board? Each year we update our previous posts to reflect the new Red Paddle Co models and product upgrades – use this guide to take away some of the guesswork when looking at the myriad of options with Red Paddle Co iSUPs.

For 2017, Red Paddle Co has 22 models for surfing, whitewater, recreation, touring and racing, ranging in size from 8’10” to 22’0. This includes the introduction of 5 new models – Sport 11’3, Race 14’0, Dragon 22’0, Windsurf 10’7″ and Ride L – revamped graphics, added features on several of the current models and updated accessories.

The more noticeable new features include:

Further advances in Red Paddle’s innovative new Monocoque Structural Laminate (MSL) fusion technology. For 2017, Red Paddle again tweaked the material across the entire product line, making the injected, reinforced second layer thicker with increased bond strength – producing a lighterweight yet more rigid board than most competitor’s.
Boards with removable fins now sport standard US Fin boxes which fit 90% of the fins on the market.
Introduction of the FCS II Connect Tool-less Fin System on several models –  these quickly snap into position without need for hardware or tools.
Integrated RAM mount threads on several models, allowing one to add an optional universal RAM mount socket. With this socket, paddlers can purchase a myriad of RAM accessories allowing one to attach a cell phone holder, camera mount, fishing gear, Go-Pro fixture or cup holders.
Forward Flex Control (FFC) stiffening rod on the two Elite racing models. Working in conjunction with the RSS Rocker Stiffening System fiberglass battens, nose flex is removed, ensuring an incredibly rigid ride while retaining the portability and storage advantages of an inflatable.
Beefed-up features on the Titan dual cylinder hand pump as well as an internal upgrade.
Foil lining on the wheeled backpack and integrated paddle holder.

Prices are generally remaining the same with some slight increases over 2016. (See a complete list of the new 2017 Red Paddle Co Line and new features on this blog article.)
Well-known for their ruggedness throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand, each of the Red Paddle Co boards utilize high pressure drop-stitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 16-22 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction, double layering, traction pads and fins.

All 2017 Red Paddle Co iSUPs come with the roller backpack featuring integrated wheels, making it easier to thread through airport lobbies, while still comfortable enough to pack into the remote country. Most of the boards come with the Titan dual action pump; the two smaller Whip 8-10 and Snapper 9-4 boards – as

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Guide to Choosing Your AdvancedFrame or Sport Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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We recently reviewed two of the popular Advanced Elements inflatable kayaks – the AE1012 AdvancedFrame and AE1017 Sport – which had undergone a series of upgrades.
The AdvancedFrame (rear) next to the Sport (bottom).
First introduced in 2002 as the AirFrame, the AdvancedFrame has evolved over the past 15 years into one of Advanced Elements most popular models, well-known as an excellent value for performance, quality and price. This was followed by the Sport in 2009, loosely modeled after its big brother but without all the “bells and whistles.”
One of the most commonly asked questions is – which one is right for me? Below we have compiled a list of similarities and differences to help guide you in making that personal decision.
What’s the same in both kayaks?

Both kayaks are constructed from the same same diamond ripstop, hull material and PVC i-beam floor construction with 1 PSI pressure relief valve. Each has the same molded rubber handles, high-backed seat, inflation valves, rear d-rings, tracking fin and landing plate. Both have the same aluminum rib inserts, plastic sleeve inserts, deck lifts, similar neoprene knuckle guards and velcro paddle holders. The basic footprint – length and width – are roughly the same at 10′ 4 inches by roughly 32-33 inches wide with interior dimensions roughly the same at 63-65 x 17.
So what’s different?
While there are many items that are similar, the AE1017 Sport is a stripped-down, simpler version of the AE1012 AdvancedFrame.
The Sport (bottom) has a wider cockpit opening and can not use a spray skirt.
The Sport features one main inflation chamber and three twistloks (floor valve, and two deck lifts). The Sport has a thin, non-inflatable coaming lip around the cockpit which will not accept a spray skirt. The top decks do not zipper open. The cockpit opening is a generous 44 x 19 inches. The bungee deck lacing area is about half the size in the Sport, with less d-rings. By removing some of the features and enlarging the deck opening, the weight is a lighter 26 lbs for kayak and seat, or 28 lbs in the carrying case. The carrying capacity is slightly lower at 250 lbs person and gear (235 lbs person). MSRP is slightly less at $449 ($399 street price). Most of the standard accessories – inflatable foot brace, backbone, high-pressure floor, advancedtrak rudder, accessory frame, lumbar seat, durafloor – will work with the Sport.
The AdvancedFrame (top) has more gear attachment points.
The AE1012 AdvancedFrame features two main inflation chambers and five twistloks (floor, decklifts and coaming tubes). The AdvancedFrame has a more enclosed cockpit measuring 32 x 17 inches with zippers on both front and rear decks. The front deck can be zipped open 24 inches for easier entry, or

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Coupling a Boston Valve Adaptor to a TwistLock Valve

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Have you ever stumbled across one of those pesky twistlock valves found on some inflatable kayaks, that can’t be used with an adaptor? If so, you were probably forced to do one of three things – have a buddy hold the valve over the twist lock; carefully negotiate holding the adaptor and twistlock together with one hand while pumping with the other; or give up and blow it up with your mouth.

One customer, Debbie Morris, send us the following nifty fix. According to Debbie, “My brother helped me solve the inflation problem with the small deck valves. We attached a cut piece of hose which fit perfectly over the valve. The Boston valve adapter from our pump fit inside the other end. No more trying to hold the attachment with one hand now. I have enclosed pictures.”

Utilizing a couple inches of flexible tubing with 3/4 inch (20mm) outer dimension and 5/8 inch (17mm) inner dimension, Debbie was able to fit each side over the Boston valve adaptor and twist lock valve, creating a good seal that allowed her to easily inflate her Innova Helios. The tubing can be found at many large home improvement and hardware stores.

Many thanks for the tip, Debbie!

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Adding D-Rings to an Inflatable Paddle Board

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We occasionally get questions on attaching d-rings to inflatable paddle boards. Recently, we had the opportunity to purchase preliminary, production-run 2016 AquaGlide Cascade 12-0 inflatable paddle boards.

As the first run did not include bungee deck lacing on the nose, we were able to make a special purchase on the boards, and AquaGlide supplied the deck lacing kits. While the standard AquaGlide Cascade 12-0 production boards retail for $999, the prototype version – without deck lacing but supplied with the deck lacing kit – sells for $699.
We used this opportunity as a learning tool to pass on our experience. While the following instructions are specific to the AquaGlide Cascade 12 prototypes, the method is fairly universal.
The included AquaGlide instructions make it sound pretty simple:
1) Locate where you want to put the d-rings.
2) Lightly clean the board, removing any printed graphics that might interfere with adhesion.
3) Apply adhesive to board and d-rings, twice.
4) Press down and let dry.

What’s included in the AquaGlide bungee lacing kit: 61 inches of bungee cording, instructions, 4 cloth d-rings on pads, HH-66 vinyl cement with cap brush. (Please note, while this kit is included with the AquaGlide prototype paddle board, it is not available as a separate purchase. You would need to source the d-rings, bungee and vinyl cement if you are planning on applying this to another board.)
What tools you will also need: Large piece of cardboard, pencil, ruler, small 1/2 inch stiff brush, small rag, solvent (see below), credit card or piece of stiff plastic to use as a “roller.”
The instructions direct you to place the center of the d-ring/pads 15″ apart front-to-back and 17″ apart side-to-side. While AquaGlide says the d-rings can be attached to the board inflated or deflated, we pumped the board up somewhat firm, to ensure that everything would be centered, using the following method.

Take one d-ring pad and find the center. To do this, measure the pad side-to-side and top-to-bottom marking the center each time. Then run a pencil mark each direction. The center of the included d-rings was just under 1.25 inches each dimension.
Cut a piece of cardboard to measure 15 inches by 17 inches.

Lay the cardboard across the empty bow of the board, with the 17″ inch side-to-side.  Move it around until it is in the position you want, making sure that it won’t be in the way of paddling. We positioned the end of cardboard 5.5 inches from the end of the deck pad. Then we measured the edge of the cardboard to the blue side rail until it was centered, in this case 2.75″ from the blue side rail on the nose side, and 5 1/8 inches from blue side rail on the deck pad side;

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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. 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 three sections sorted by kayak style – enclosed, open and sit-on-top – and within that, by length. 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 Elite).

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

This includes the largest number of kayaks. The open design consists of a kayak with higher walls – which keeps out some water – but a much more open design (shown above on the AquaGlide Chelan Tandem XL for 1-3 paddlers). The benefits include the ability to adjust the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Understanding Buoyancy Ratings for a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) Life Vest

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We occasionally get questions from customers confused about the buoyancy ratings for life vests.

How can a personal flotation device (PFD) rated at 15.5 lbs, hold up a person of 200 lbs?
While the rating method may seem confusing at first glance, we will explain the math behind it. But first we have a quick guide to understanding the current US Coast Guard regulations on various PFD types and their ratings.
PFD Types

Type I – Offshore Life Jacket. Designed for extended survival in rough, open or remote water. It has the highest float rating and usually will turn an unconscious person face up. Minimum buoyancy rating 22 lbs. adults, 11 lbs child, 7 lbs infant.

Type II – Near Shore Buoyant Vest. Best use for adults and children in calm inland water where there is chance of fast rescue. Slighly less bulky than Type I vests, and can turn some unconscious people face-up. Minimum buoyancy 15.5 lbs. adults, 11 lbs child, 7 lbs infant.

Type III – Flotation Aid:  For use in calm water by conscious users, where there is good chance of fast rescue. Type III is generally the “paddler’s choice” because they are designed for general boating/water activities as makred on the vest, and are more comfortable.  Minimum buoyancy 15.5 lbs. adults, 11 lbs child, 7 lbs infant.

Type IV – Throwable Device: Boat cushions, rings, and horseshoe buoys. These are for use in calm water where there is good chance of fast rescue. They are not designed to be worn and should be supplemented with a wearable PFD. Varying minimum buoyancy 16.5 to 18 lbs dependent on device.

Type V – Special Use Device. “Special Use” PFDs include commercial whitewater rafting vests, work vests, deck suits, and hybrid inflatables with restricted use for specific activities as outlined on the vest – be sure to READ the USCG instructions sewn or printed on the device. Varying minimum buoyancy 15 to 22 lbs dependent on device.

Inflatable PFDs: These rely on inflatable chambers that provide buoyancy when inflated by a C02 cylinder. Uninflated, they are less bulky than foam jackets. Please note: these must be regularly inspected and re-armed. Not for non-swimmers or for long hours in rough water. While some are automatic, most of these must be physically inflated, meaning, you need to be cognizant to orally inflate, or pull the inflation cord. Manual inflatable PFDs are not a great choice for situations when you might be hit by something. Varying minimum buoyancy 22 to 33 lbs inflated dependent on device.
How Do We Calculate Weight in Water?
Approximately 80% of the human body is water, thus will not weigh you down (has no weight) in water. Additionally, bodies on average have 15% fat, which is lighter than

Original Source: AirKayaks >>