Tag Archives: inflatable kayak

Product Review: New Innova Swing EX 13.5 ft Inflatable Touring Kayak

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

This past summer, Innova Recreational Products of Burlington, WA announced the latest addition to their inflatable kayak lineup – the Swing EX.
As mentioned in previous write-ups, the Innova line is unique in that the kayaks are handmade in Czechoslovakia rather than China or Korea. Additionally, the Swing series (now consisting of the Swing 1, the Swing 2 Double and the new Swing EX) – as well as the Twist series – utilize materials that are PVC-free, making them a greener option than most kayaks on the market.

This week we had the first opportunity to take out the Innova Swing EX, a 13′ 6″ solo inflatable touring kayak weighing a mere 28 lbs with a selling price of $999. Please note, some of this will be repeated from the previous Swing reviews, as there are obviously many similarities.
Getting Started with the Innova Swing EX Inflatable Kayak
The box as received weighs 31.2 lbs with dimensions of 28 x 18 x13 inches.

Inside is the Swing EX body – neatly folded with a cinch strap inside a lightweight drawsack – multiple instruction sheets, 3 metal insertion bars, tracking fin, seat, foot rest, coaming collar, repair kit, and valve adaptor. At 28 lbs for the combined package and a folded size of 23 x 17 x 11 inches, the Swing EX is small enough to fit in plane overhead cargo bins.
Swing EX Kayak Setup/Inflatation
As with all the Innova manuals to date, the Swing EX instructions are quite detailed – there is one instruction sheet for fin installation, one for utilizing the valves, another on the kayak in general and added instructions detailing the “insertion bars.” As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body. What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated.

Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. The Swing EX utilizes a single fin with double slots. Slip the end with the larger slot in first, making sure that the fin is pointing towards the “back” of the kayak. This enables it to slide in enough to fit in the second slot. While the first time can be a struggle to get the back side into position, after a couple of rounds it becomes quite easy. Do make sure it is solidly in position.

Attach the foot brace (this comes attached from the factory) by weaving the webbing through the floor connector and back. The foot brace uses a twistlok valve for inflation. There are no adaptors that couple with the valve, so you must either hold the adaptor onto the valve while pumping with one hand, have someone else hold the adaptor in

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: JP-Australia CruisAir 12’0″ Inflatable SUP Paddle Board

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

This past summer we took our first look at the JP-Australia inflatable SUPs.

Part of the Pryde Group, JP-Australia has been a well-known player in the windsurf board industry; recently, JP-Australia moved into paddle boards, bringing their line of inflatable SUPs to the US. This past summer we took our first look at the 15 PSI JP-Australia CruisAir – a 12-foot, 32-inch wide all-around cruising and touring inflatable paddle board.  (Please note: some of the info will be repeated from prior writeups.)
JP-Australia CruisAir 12-0 Inflatable SUP – Getting Started
The board as-arrived is 36 x 20 x 11 inches in the box, weighing in at 37 lbs.

Inside is the CruisAir 12’ body, backpack, repair kit, single action pump with pressure gauge, cinch belt, removable fin and instructions. Once rolled up, the SUP board fits into the backpack, as well as breakdown paddle (longer shafts can jut out of the top) and the pump; the pump can also be strapped to the side of the pack. The board itself weighs 25 lbs, or 31 lbs inside the backpack with pump – these all easily fit in the back of a small car.

For your first set up, uncinch the strap and unroll the SUP body. Lay it out face up so that you can access the military valve.

The CruisAir 12-0 utilizes one spring-loaded military valve for inflation. These are very simple to use and feature an inflate mode (spring plunger is UP) and a deflate mode (spring plunger is DOWN). By using your finger to gently push on the plunger, it can be moved to the inflate mode (air goes in and doesn’t come back out) and deflate mode (air goes in and comes back out). Not to worry, the instructions are printed on the valve. But before you make the effort to inflate the board, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.

The CruisAir paddle board system includes a Bravo high-pressure, single-action pump with a gauge – what we term the “wide barrel” as it pushes out a bit more air, though takes a little more effort to attain very high pressures.

First, screw the gauge onto the hose. Tip #1: Make sure you screw the gauge on carefully – if it gets cross-threaded, air will leak out and you will have a difficult time pumping the board up to necessary pressure. Then attach the hose to the pump barrel.

Take the military valve adaptor, and screw it onto the valve slightly to lock into position – the first time, you may need to push a bit harder to attach, but it gets easier. You’re ready to pump!

After 100 strokes with the single action pump, the board started to fill out, and at

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Revolutionary Titan High Pressure SUP Pump from Red Paddle Co.

Feeds, , , , , , ,

Red Paddle Co has recently announced the newest addition to the Red Air product line – the Titan High Pressure SUP pump, which cuts inflation time in half.

For years, the standard inflatable SUP pump was the Bravo HP single-action, high volume/low pressure pump, a squatter, thick-barrel single-action pump designed to put in more air volume, which in turn took more effort to reach higher pressures.
Higher pressures in an inflatable board vastly improves the board performance, by increasing rigidity (reducing flex).

In 2013, Red Paddle Co introduced the HP EZee  single-action, low volume/high pressure pump, a taller, thin-barrel single action pump designed to put in less air per stroke, thus allowing one to more easily pump to higher pressures.
As the pros and cons of each are obvious – one fills a board up more rapidly, while the other takes longer but is less of a struggle to reach 18-20 PSI – numerous paddlers opted to purchase both pumps.
In response, other manufacturers have recently expanded the slim-barrel design to a double-action pump, putting air in on the up and down stroke. While theoretically this will put air in twice as fast, in actuality it becomes a struggle on the “up” stroke.

The Red Paddle Co Titan pump is an amalgamation of the two pumps. The new Titan pump has two chambers, basically one side is a high volume/low pressure, and the other a low volume/high pressure. A unique double gear system actually combines the two chambers, so that when initially pumping, paddlers are using BOTH chambers to fill the board, allowing them to put in a whopping 4.71 liters, compared with just over 2 liters for the standard HP pump. When the pumping starts to get tough, one can switch the internal gear over to the high pressure chamber, allowing one to easily attain higher PSIs with less effort. An integrated pressure gauge allows one to monitor the process.
Another neat feature – the ergonomic angled feet allow one to step back from the pump, making it a more comfortable stance and solving the problem of the pump handle hitting your knees.
Initial tests comparing the Titan with the HP and HP EZee single action pumps showed the Titan pump decreased inflation time and number of pumps by up to 50%, dependent on the pump used. Using a 9-2 Surfstar, the Titan was able to get to 8 PSI with 35 strokes using the dual chambers, then with another 78 strokes the board was up to 18 PSI with the high pressure chamber – for a total of 2 minutes. In fact, tests measured the Titan pump air flow output at 61 mph versus 38 mph for the standard pump.
Watch a video comparison on using the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: Red Air Explorer 12-6 Inflatable SUP Board from Red Paddle Co

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

See our video on the 2015 version of Red Paddle Co’s popular workhorse – the Red Air Explorer 12-6 inflatable paddle board.  With a payload of nearly 350 lbs, multiple cargo attachment points, and constructed from a beefy 150mm dropstitch material, the Explorer is a great choice for larger or multiple paddlers, fishing excursions and camping trips.

 
All see our Detailed Product Review on the Red Air Explorer 12-6 Inflatable SUP. Or visit the Explorer product page on our website at http://www.AirKayaks.com

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Choosing a Portable Breakdown Paddle for Inflatable Kayaks

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , ,

So you’ve made the decision on an inflatable kayak. You’ve researched yourself to death, and have finally narrowed it down to the one that’s perfect for you. A sigh of relief – the hard part is over – until you find there are just as many choices, styles and incomprehensible terminologies for breakdown paddles.

Paddle lengths, materials, paddling styles, techniques – where to start?
Assuming that portability is the highest priority, AirKayaks has partnered with Accent and Cannon Paddles to help demystify the process of choosing a breakdown (or take-down) kayak paddle.
First of all, what is a breakdown kayak paddle?
Unlike a canoe paddle, which has one blade, shaft and handle grip, a kayak paddle features two blade heads (left hand and right hand) and a shaft.

The paddler grips the shaft with both hands, and dips one blade into the water and pulls, then dips the other side into the water and pulls. This is a more efficient method of paddling when sitting lower in the water.

While there are 2-pc breakdown paddles on the market, the most portable paddles are the 4-pc breakdown paddles consisting of two shaft lengths that connect into one, and two blades – a left hand and right hand – that attach onto the shaft. 4-pc breakdown paddles for inflatables typically have a longest shaft length of 25 to 30 inches in length, making them easily storable, often in the kayak carrying case.
What length should I look for?
Since inflatable kayaks are typically wider than hardshell kayaks, a 230 or 240cm paddle is considered a good length. For those confused with the measurement system, a 230cm paddle is 90.55 inches in length while a 240cm paddle is 94.5 inches in length (2.54 cm per inch).
The choice of either is a personal preference, but you should consider your height, paddling style and typical paddling conditions. In general, 230cm is good for persons under 6 feet, high-angle paddlers, and those in fast moving paddling conditions. Paddlers over 6 feet, low-angle paddlers and those in calmer touring conditions may be more comfortable with a 240cm, though our largest-selling paddle for inflatable kayaks is the 230cm size.
What is low and high angle paddling?
Low angle paddling keeps the blade more horizontal and can be less fatiguing.

It is often used for long-range touring, to save energy, in calmer waters and in wider kayaks.
With high angle paddling, the kayaker is lifting the blade up more perpendicular to the kayak.

This uses up more energy, but there is more power in each stroke, propelling one faster, making one more maneuverable and getting a solid workout. It is more aggressive but much more fatiguing.
Which material should I choose?
Our breakdown paddles are typically constructed of aluminum, fiberglass, carbon or a carbon

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: 2015 Red Air Ride 9-8 Inflatable SUP Board from Red Paddle Co

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

In October, some of the new Red Air 2015 models from Red Paddle Co arrived in the States. Having previously reviewed the 2012 and 2013 models, we were eager to take a re-look to see how the boards had evolved; we weren’t disappointed.

The bulk of the 2015 inventory sailed in a few weeks later. Our first choice was the Ride 9-8, a new 2015 model which blended the best attributes of the previous Allwater 9-6 and Surfer 10-0.
Well-known for their ruggedness, each of the Red Air boards utilize high-pressure, dropstitch technology – allowing them to be inflated from 15-25 PSI – and feature quadruple rail construction with double layering.
Following is our write-up on the 2015 Red Air Ride Nine Eight from Red Paddle Company. (Please note, some of this is repeated from previous writeups.)
Getting Started with the Red Paddle Co Ride 9-8
The box as received weighs 36 lbs, measuring 37 x 15 x 15 inches.

Inside the box is the SUP body, back pack, HP EZee pump, pressure gauge, cinch belt, fin guards, RSS side battens, instructions and repair kit – and a very nifty bonus cell phone case! Once rolled up, the SUP board and pump fit into the backpack, as well as a breakdown paddle under 37 inches.

Weight is 33 lbs for backpack, board and pump, which all easily fit in the back of a small car. The board alone is just under 25 lbs.
The 9-8 Ride inflatable SUP arrives rolled up inside the backpack. While French instructions were sitting in the box, if you locate the cell phone case (attached to the back pack), the English version is folded inside.

Remove the fin guards and unroll the SUP body. There are three integrated tracking fins at the rear of the board. Lay it out face up (fins down) so that you can access the military valve.

The Red Air Ride 9-8 utilizes one spring-loaded military valve for inflation. These are very simple to use and feature an inflate mode (spring plunger is UP) and a deflate mode (spring plunger is DOWN). By using your finger to gently push on the plunger, it can be moved to the inflate mode (air goes in and doesn’t come back out) and deflate mode (air goes in and comes back out). Before you go to all the effort of inflating the board, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.

The included single-action pump comes with a pressure gauge, so you can monitor the board’s PSI. The gauge screws onto the pump – pull the pump handle up (so the pump body doesn’t get in the way) then start with the gauge face down and it will screw on to end face up.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Video: Red Air Sport 11 Inflatable SUP Board from Red Paddle Co

Feeds, , , , , , , ,

See our video on Red Paddle Co’s newest model – the 2015 Red Air Sport 11 inflatable paddle board. The Sport is a great flatwater cruising board – perfect for touring and recreational paddling, but still capable of catching small waves!

All see our Detailed Product Review on the Red Air Sport 11 Inflatable SUP.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Nordstrom Chooses Innova Swing 1 Inflatable Kayak as a Holiday Fashion Statement

Feeds, , , , , , , , , , ,

When is a kayak a fashion accessory? Apparently now.
Noted designer Olivia Kim chose an Innova kayak for the Gift&Go Pop-In Shop, a special installation featured at  eight Nordstrom stores across the US.

Launched in October 2013, Pop-In@Nordstrom is an ongoing series of themed pop-up shops that transitions every four-to-five weeks to offer a new shopping experience and batch of exclusive merchandise. Pop-In@Nordstrom is the brainchild of Olivia Kim, the Director of Creative Projects at Nordstrom, who hand-picks merchandise spanning the high-to-low price range to match each new theme.

Nordstrom included the Innova Swing I inflatable kayak as one of the holiday special gifts for their Pop In Shop, which features gifts that range from a stylish handbag to a $26,400 Rolex; the Innova kayak is the only outdoor product highlighted.
The Innova line is unique, as the inflatable kayaks are handmade in the Czech Republic rather than China or Korea. Additionally, the Swing line – as well as the Twist series of Innova kayaks – utilize materials that are PVC-free, making them a greener option than most kayaks on the market.

The Swing I is a high-pressure 10’4″ solo inflatable weighing a mere 23 lbs, with a selling price of $599. A 2-person version is also available. The Swing II is a 13 ft 2-inch tandem inflatable kayak weighing a mere 28 lbs with a selling price of $799.

This summer, Innova Kayaks announced the addition of the Swing EX to the Innova line-up. At 13.5 feet in length, with a 29-inch width and capacity of 396 lbs, the 29 lb 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 Swing EX is now in stock.

All three kayaks pack down into a small backpack which can fit in a plane overhead compartment, making them a great choice for travel.
The Swing I can be seen at Pop-In@Nordstrom: Gift&Go – which will be found at http://www.nordstrom.com/pop – and in the following Nordstrom locations:

Seattle, WA
Bellevue Square, WA
NorthPark Center, TX
San Francisco Centre, CA
Tysons Corner Center, VA
Oakbrook, IL
Garden State Plaza, NJ

For more details, visit the Innova line at www.AirKayaks.com. AirKayaks special through Dec. 31st – free 45 liter deck bag ($49.95 value) with purchase of any Swing inflatable kayak.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

20 Neat Paddling Gift Ideas Under $20

Feeds, , , , , , , , ,

The seasonal crush is on! Here are 20 neat paddling gift ideas under $20 that are 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. Features a headphone pass-through port with audio capability for your smartphone or MP3 player. 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.

2) TearAid Repair Patches – $9.95
Repair holes and tears instantly with these revolutionary elastic patches – just peel and stick over tears and holes for an instant patch, even while inflated! TearAid protects against abrasion, moisture, saltwater, UV sunlight and extreme temperatures. Two styles – Type A is for fabrics while Type B is for all vinyl and vinyl-coated products.

3) Chinook Roll Top Dry Bags – $11.95 and up.
Economical drybags that will keep your gear safe and dry. The paddler series of waterproof drybags are a necessity for all water sports activities. They feature a reinforced web roll-top and a very durable tri-laminated PVC body with an abrasion-resistant bottom. Available in 10, 20, 40 and 57 liters sizes, multicolors.

4) Chinook Dry Pouch Trio Set – $12.95
Keep a variety of valuables safe and dry while paddling! The Chinook Drypouch Trio set is made from a durable transparent vinyl with triple-fold top and hook and loop closure. Each pouch comes with a nylon lanyard and includes a small, medium and large bag for gear of varying sizes.

5) Advanced Elements Pocket Sink – $12.99
The new Water Carrier/Pocket Sink is a versatile addition to your next camping, fishing, sailing or hiking trip! Folds up into it’s own tiny little 5-inch mesh pouch, weighs 6oz. and holds 10 liters. Great for cleanup, as a doggy waterbowl, or for transporting water.

6) Seattle Sports E-Merse AquaLock Waterproof Wallet – $13.95
Protect your small electronics and cash while on the water! The E-Merse Waterproof Padded Dry Wallet from Seattle Sports offers maximum, submersible, waterproof protection for your small electronics – up to 10 feet when properly closed.  Features front window, padded back and lanyard.

7) Seattle Sports Dry Doc Map Case – $14.95
Splashproof protection for maps, charts and other valuable documents. The Dry Doc Map Case from Seattle Sports allows you to easily view your charts while out paddling. Built-in lash points allow the case to be attached to kayaks, boats, backpacks and more. The rugged, PVC-free construction protects from dust, sand and water with an easy-access, ziploc closure.

8)  AirKayaks Foam Paddler Seat Pad – $14.95.
The AirKayaks Paddler Seat features a

Original Source: AirKayaks >>