Tag Archives: reviews

Inflatable Kayak Seat Reviews – Which is the most comfortable?

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We know it can be hard to select the right kayak, but one often overlooked feature is – How comfortable is the seat?

There is not a lot of data out there besides how large the seat is and the type of foam, so we gave a quick review on several common inflatable kayaking seats with our likes, dislikes and ways to make them more comfortable.

As always, contact us at 833-743-0199 with questions.
The post Inflatable Kayak Seat Reviews – Which is the most comfortable? appeared first on GO AIRKAYAKS.COM.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

2022 Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP Boards – What’s New

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2022 Red Paddle Co Range Highlights:2 New Boards – 12′ Compact, and 12′ Voyager – Redesigned Compact Line – Upgraded Carry Bag on most models – New Paddle Designs – Upgraded Bungee system on most boardsKyle McKinney – Airkayaks.com

We recently received details on the 2022 Red Paddle Co’s inflatable SUP lineup. 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.

2022 Red Paddle Co Range Highlights

2 New Boards – 12′ Compact, and 12′ VoyagerRedesigned Compact LineUpgraded Carry Bag on all models*New Paddle DesignsUpgraded Bungee system on all applicable boards

About Red Paddle Co

Throughout the past 14 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.

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.

Predictions for 2022 Hit Features

In each year, Red always seems to surprise with a homerun new feature or board in every year, 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. For 2021, they redesigned the Titan pump into the best in class Titan 2 pump (easily the best included pump offered with any SUP on market). This model year – 2022, we expect the hit to be the redesigned ATB (All Terrain Bag) Transformer Bag.

2022 Red Paddle Co ATB Transformer Board Bag

Brand-new for 2022 and exclusively available with 2022 boards is the ATB Transformer Bag. Its not just a highly engineered adjustable and ergonomic paddle board bag but also a revolutionary bag-less carry system that has been designed with all paddle boarders in mind.

For adventurers, you can now go further and access more remote waterways without the need of a heavy bulky bag. Inflating your board at more remote waterways (previously inaccessible with an inflated or rigid board) is now a real possibility.Equally as perfect for families, it’s now easier, quicker and more convenient to pack up your kit

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Aquaglide Chelan 155 HB XL Inflatable Kayak for 2+ Paddlers

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Last year, AquaGlide unveiled their updated inflatable kayak lineup for 2020, which included a series of new models – Deschutes, McKenzies and Navarros – with revamps to the Chinook model. For 2021, Aquaglide completed the line by redesigned two remaining models – the Chelans and the Blackfoots.

With inventory rapidly becoming as scarce as the 2020 paddling season, we decided to snag a few of the new models for inflation and review, initially focusing on the AquaGlide Chelans.
Our first review on AquaGlide’s revised products for 2021 was on the Chelan 120, an 11′ 4″ long, high-pressure, inflatable kayak designed for solo paddling. We will now turn to the Chelan 155, a 15’6″ foot tandem that is roomy enough for 2+ paddlers, yet can still be paddled solo. (Please note: some of the information will be repeated from other writeups.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Chelan 155:
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, backpack, instructions, 2 foot braces, tracking fin, 2 Pro-formance seats, one jumper seat, valve adaptor, four mesh pouches, two plastic splash guards and a repair kit. The repair kit contains glue, patch material, valve wrench, instructions, adaptor, screws for the universal mount and some repair brushes. First thing to note – the kayak is nicely packaged with bubble wrap protecting valves, handles, etc. Also to note – the repair kit features generous-sized repair patches.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs approximately 38 lbs. The kayak with seats, fin and braces – all in the backpack – weighs 54 lbs with a backpack size of roughly 39 x 17 x 18 inches. All boxed up, the dimensions are 30 x 22 x 16 inches with a shipping weight of 61 lbs.
(AirKayaks Side note #1: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded. This is probably the most overlooked step and it is VERY helpful when trying to get the kayak back into the bag.)
We started off by reading the instructions. While Aquaglide’s manuals were somewhat sketchy in the past, the included instructions were detailed and easy to use (all languages are now in their own section). Additionally, a QR Code tag is now attached to the kayak; a quick scan with your cell phone allows you to access the instructions online.

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.

There are three military valves (both sides and the floor) with three more small chambers utilizing a twistlock valve for the seat bases. The military-style plunger valve is simple to use – with your finger, twist the plunger slightly to the “up” position to inflate (air goes in but doesn’t come back out) and “down” to

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Island Voyage 2 Tandem Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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Earlier this year we received first of several shipments which included the Island Voyage 2 inflatable kayak from Advanced Elements.

Introduced in 2015, the Island Voyage 2 is a recreational model with an open-design – allowing one to easily switch from single to tandem paddling – yet economically-priced at $399. In the ensuing six years, the Island Voyage has undergone minor redesigns and tweaks, prompting us to update our previous reviews.
As the kayak kept selling out before we could snag one, we immediately set one aside from the last shipment. Following is our write-up on the AE3023Y Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2, an 11 ft 2 inch kayak that can be paddled by one or two people. Please note, some of this will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Getting Started with the Island Voyage 2
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, drawstring duffel bag, instructions, repair kit, tracking fin and two seats.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs 25 lbs while the kayak with seats in the duffel is 31 lbs. Boxed up, the dimensions are 25 x 22 x 16 inches inches with a shipping weight of 41 lbs.
(AirKayaks Side note #1: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded This is probably the most overlooked step and it is VERY helpful when trying to get the kayak back into the bag.)
The included instructions are adequate on most steps and include diagrams with inflation details.

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.

According to the instructions, the first step is to attach the removable tracking fin, which enhances paddling/tracking in deeper water.

Make sure the fin is pointing towards the rear of the kayak, then insert the front of the fin, pushing down and back, to lock the front end.

Move the fin back until the holes line up and replace the retaining pin. At this point, pull up on the fin to make sure you have it locked in position.

There are three inflation chambers utilizing Boston valves – the floor and two side chambers. Boston valves are two-part, screw-on valves. The bottom portion is threaded onto the kayak, the top valve is screwed open for inflation and then tightened shut after inflation.

Air is easily released by unscrewing the base connector. How does it work? A flap inside the valve opens when air is pumped into the kayak, and falls shut when not pumped so that air will not rush back out.
Please note: The Boston valves have a tether that keeps the valve attached to the kayak, ensuring that the valves don’t get lost after deflating. Make sure this does not get in the way when

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Aquaglide Backwoods Expedition 85 Inflatable Packable Kayak

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Earlier this year, AquaGlide unveiled their updated inflatable kayak lineup for 2021, which included a new category of packable kayaks – the Backwoods Series. The Backwoods consists of three models weighing from 7 to 12 lbs, making them prime choices for remote travel.

Our first review on AquaGlide’s new Backwoods Series for 2021 focuses on the Expedition 85, an 8′ 6″ long, ultralite inflatable kayak designed for backpacking and solo paddling. (Please note: some of the information will be repeated from other writeups.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Backwoods Expedition 85 Packable Inflatable Kayak
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak/packraft body, carrying case (which doubles as an inflation bag), instructions, repair kit (no glue), tracking fin, seat, foot pump and two mesh bags.
Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs approximately 12 lbs, with a folded size of 22 x 13 x 11 inches. The kayak with seat, fin and pump – all in the backpack – weighs roughly 15 lbs. All boxed up, the dimensions are 23 x 15 x 14 inches with a shipping weight of 20 lbs.
(AirKayaks Side note #1: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded. This is probably the most overlooked step and it is VERY helpful when trying to get the kayak back into the bag.)
We started off by reading the instructions. While Aquaglide’s manuals were somewhat sketchy in the past, the included instructions were detailed and easy to use (all languages are now in their own section).

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.

There are two Boston valves (side and the floor) with two more small chambers utilizing a twistlock valve for the seat. Boston valves are two-part, screw-on valves. The bottom portion is threaded onto the kayak, the top valve is screwed open for inflation and then tightened shut after inflation. Air is easily released by unscrewing the base connector. How does it work? A flap inside the valve opens when air is pumped into the kayak, and falls shut when not pumped so that air will not rush back out.
(AirKayaks Side note #2: The Boston valves have a tether that keeps the valve attached to the kayak, ensuring that the valves don’t get lost after deflating. Make sure that the tether does not get in the way when screwing on the valve base,and the valve is not cross-threaded, or you may have some air leakage.)

The Expedition 85 comes with two methods of inflation – a small, lightweight foot pump and an inflator bag (which also doubles as the carrying case). How does the inflator bag work? The premise is to shake the inflator bag to

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Blackfoot Angler 11 iSUP by Aquaglide – Product Review

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We have recently focused on the new AquaGlide models for 2021 as they’ve arrived over the past few months. A division of Connelly Skis, the Aquaglide brand has grown steadily over the past 15 years, now encompassing inflatable kayaks and standup paddle boards. Priced at $999, the Blackfoot Angler 11 iSUP is at the top end of Aquaglide’s range, yet still packs features and value to punch above its weight in the category.

2021 Aquaglide SUPs carried at Airkayaks

To-date, product reviews have included the new Chelan 120 and the Cascade 11’0″ inflatable paddle board.

We were so excited to try out the new Blackfoot Angler 11 inflatable SUP that we used it 4+ times before getting around to the review. It remains the only fishing-specific model in the AquaGlide  standup paddle board line.

Getting Started

The double-boxed board as-arrived is 43l x 18w x 16h (in) weighing in at 54 lbs.

Inside is the Blackfoot Angler 11 body, backpack, repair kit, high pressure pump with gauge and removable fins. The instructions are included and the board is wrapped nicely!

Airkayaks Pro Tip #1

TAKE A PICTURE of your board as you take it out of the box so that you know how to pack it back up again. Here is a nice one of the Blackfoot Angler 11. Note – this is the way we have found it easiest to repack after 4+ uses. Detailed instructions at the end of the review.

The board itself weighs 29 lbs, or 40 lbs inside the backpack with pump – these all easily fit in the back of a small car. Folded up in the bag, the dimensions are 42 x 15 x 12 inches with a bunch of room at the top. We are storing our sup belt and a few extras in the pack.

For your first set up unroll the SUP body. Lay it out face up so that you can access the Halkey-Roberts (HR) valve.

The Blackfoot Angler 11′ iSUP utilizes one spring-loaded HR 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). Use your finger to gently push on the plunger, it moves 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 Blackfoot paddle board we received included the standard AquaGlide double-action pump with gauge.

First, attach the gauge to the hose, then the hose to the pump handle.

Then screw it onto the board valve and firmly lock it into position. You’re ready to pump!

AirKayaks Pro Tip #2

The first time may be difficult to attach the adaptor due to the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

TAHE Sport Beach LP1 – an Airkayaks Preview

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For 2021 Airkayaks added the TAHE Sport line of inflatable kayaks (including the Tahe Sport Beach LP1) and SUPs to our catalog to provide more choices for our customers in the $500-$700 range.

TAHE Sport Beach LP1, LP2, and LP3 Inflatable Kayaks

We tested out the TAHE Sport SUPs on GoAirkayaks, and we are huge fans of the value they deliver. The SUPs immediately became best sellers on Airkayaks.com. We jumped at the opportunity to preview a pre-production TAHE Sport Beach LP1 inflatable kayak.

Better known in the US under the BIC Sport name, the TAHE brand is a union of BIC Sport and Tahe Outdoors.

Established in 1979, BIC Sport pioneered the windsurf industry, expanding into surfing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding, while the European-based Tahe 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 resulting in a brand focused on water fun, featuring environmentally-friendly production processes and quality products at an affordable price. Check our guide to the TAHE Sport inflatable SUP and kayak line for 2021.

Our keywords for the TAHE Sport Beach LP1 are easy, light, and fun.

The Beach LP1 is TAHE Sport’s entry point inflatable kayak, priced at $539 “ready for the water”.

A pump, paddle, and comfortable carrying backpack are included, you just need to get to the nearest lake and you’re kayaking!

Box dimensions are – TBD – since this was a preproduction unit – we did not receive the actual box. From experience, Tahe SUP-YAK boxes are 45x19x23 and usually weigh 45 lbs. We expect this one to be a little lighter.

Getting started

Inside the box is the kayak, backpack, high-pressure dual action pump with gauge, cinch belt, quick-start instructions, repair kit, three shallow water fins, and four piece 230 cm breakdown paddle. Once rolled up, the kayak, pump, paddle and leash fit in the bag and on the bag easily, although there will not be much room for extra gear. The backpack’s compact size was impressive, being half the size of the TAHE SUP bags. Weight is 22 lbs for the kayak, 2 lbs for the bag, 2.375 lbs for the pump/gauge, 0.6 lbs each for the fin, 1.7 lbs for the seat and 2.7 lbs for the paddle. Everything in the bag weighs 33 lbs. and all easily fit in the back of a small car.

Unpacking the Tahe Beach LP1 Inflatable Kayak

First step, unpack and unroll the kayak, laying it top up so you access the three valves. Tahe has used Boston Valves which are easy to use with the included pump friction fitting.

AirKayak’s Pro –

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Cascade 11 SUP from Aquaglide – Product Review

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We received our new 2021 of Aquaglide inflatable paddle boards consisting of four models ranging in size from 10 to 12’6 feet. Our first review will focus on Aquaglide’s new Cascade 11 SUP – a 14-18 PSI inflatable SUP with a capacity load of 230 lbs.

2021 Aquaglide SUPs carried at Airkayaks

TEAser: Airkayaks was so impressed with this board when used as a Kayak/SUP Combo, we created a category of similar boards, and are including a bonus kayak seat and paddle with purchase. Check out our blog post – Intro to Kayak / SUP Combos.

Back to the review –

For 2021, Aquaglide has redesigned the Cascade board range with a new printed graphic color scheme, updated pump and included paddles.  These boards provide excellent value by maintaining low price points and bundling premium accessories. New for this year, the Cascade 11 SUP now includes a Wayfinder Carbon Paddle, which retails at $149 when sold separately. The Cascade 10’0″, 11’0″ and Roam 12’6″ are $699, and $899 respectively, making them great options for those getting into the sport, yet not ready to make a major commitment. All three Cascades are now 6 inches thick.

Aquaglide Cascade 11 SUP – Getting Started

The double-boxed board as-arrived is 39 x 17 x 15 inches weighing in at 44 lbs.

Unpacking the Cascade

Getting Started – Aquaglide 11 SUP Unboxed

Inside is the Cascade 11 SUP body, Wayfinder Paddle, River Crossing backpack, manual, repair kit, high pressure pump with gauge, removable fin.

AG Cascade 11 first open

Once rolled up, the SUP board, breakdown paddle and pump fit into the backpack, though the backpack is set up to also attach paddles to the outside. The board itself weighs 21 lbs, or 32 lbs inside the backpack with pump – these all easily fit in the back of a small car.

Unrolling the SUP body

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

AG Cascade 11 Valve

Opening and closing the military valve

The Cascade 11 SUP utilizes one spring-loaded Harkey Roberts 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.

AG Cascade 11 Pump

New Double Action High Pressure Pump

The 2021 Cascade paddle board systems includes a high-pressure, dual-action pump with a gauge. Simply screw on the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Aquaglide Chelan 120 Inflatable Hi-Pressure Kayak

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Last year, AquaGlide unveiled their updated inflatable kayak lineup for 2020, which included a series of new models – Deschutes, McKenzies and Navarros – with revamps to the Chinook model. For 2021, Aquaglide completed the line by redesigned two remaining models – the Chelans and the Blackfoots.
With inventory rapidly becoming as scarce as the 2020 paddling season, we decided to snag a few of the new models for inflation and review, initially focusing on the AquaGlide Chelans.

Our first review on AquaGlide’s revised products for 2021 focuses on the Chelan 120, an 11′ 4″ long, high-pressure, inflatable kayak designed for solo paddling. (Please note: some of the information will be repeated from other writeups.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Chelan 120:
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, backpack, instructions, repair kit with bag of miscellaneous items, foot brace, tracking fin, seat, valve adaptor and two plastic splash guards. First thing to note – the kayak is nicely packaged with bubble wrap protecting valves, handles, etc. Also to note – the repair kit features generous-sized repair patches, a valve wrench and glue.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs approximately 27 lbs, with a folded size of 27 x 8 x 21 inches. The kayak with seat, fin and brace – all in the backpack – weighs 38 lbs with a backpack size of roughly 39 x 17 x 18 inches. All boxed up, the dimensions are 30 x 22 x 14 inches with a shipping weight of 46 lbs. We were able to get everything – plus a pump and paddle – into the pack.
(AirKayaks Side note #1: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded. This is probably the most overlooked step and it is VERY helpful when trying to get the kayak back into the bag.)
We started off by reading the instructions. While Aquaglide’s manuals were somewhat sketchy in the past, the included instructions were detailed and easy to use (all languages are now in their own section). Additionally, a QR Code tag is now attached to the kayak; a quick scan with your cell phone allows you to access the instructions online.

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.

There are three military valves (both sides and the floor) with one more small chamber utilizing a twistlock valve for the seat base. The military-style plunger valve is simple to use – with your finger, twist the plunger slightly to the “up” position to inflate (air goes in but doesn’t come back out) and “down” to deflate (air comes out).
The instructions say to pump up the side chambers to 3 PSI, first.

The Chelan 120

Original Source: AirKayaks >>