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Product Review: Kokopelli Moki-Lite Inflatable High Pressure Kayak

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Last year we posted our Sneak Preview on the new series of Moki inflatable kayaks from Kokopelli Packraft – two exciting new models introduced in 2020. What’s so special? The new Moki  Series expanded the Kokopelli product line from just packrafts to inflatable kayaks, providing a traditional paddling experience.

In 2020, the Moki-Lites sold out before we could snag one, so one of our 2021 goals was to grab a Moki Lite for review. Misson accomplished, thus our current write-up on the Kokopelli Moki Lite, a lightweight 10’2″ model with open deck.
Getting Started with the Kokopelli Moki-Lite Inflatable Kayak

We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak body with high pressure floor, EVA seat, foot brace, pump with gauge, repair kit, mesh carrying case, fin, repair kit and instructions. AirKayaks note: This was a 2021 model that we received earlier this year.  All current Moki Lites now include the Alpine 4pc fiberglass breakdown paddle with ivory blades. The photos below show the Advanced Elements Axis fiberglass paddle with orange blades.
Boxed up, the dimensions are 36 x 25 x 12 inches with a shipping weight of 44 lbs. The kayak weighs 25 lbs with the seat, floor, brace and fin. All packed up in the bag with pump and paddle, everything weighs 32 lbs. The folded kayak size is 30 x 19 x 6 inches.
The generic instructions for Kokopelli’s inflatable kayak series include inflation and deflation techniques, deck, seat and skirt installation, but lack details on actual set up; we will outline the steps we took, below. In general, set up is straight-forward – unpack, unfold, inflate.

The first step is to unfold the kayak.

The Kokopelli Moki-Lite utilizes three main GRI push-push valves 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.

Next, set up the pump – this is not mentioned in the instructions. The Moki-Lite comes with a very nifty, collapsible, dual-action Nano pump and built-in pressure gauge. Fold down the feet and attach the hose to the side that says Inflate (there is also a Deflate side). There are two pieces of plastic tubes in the plastic packaging – these are screw on handles. Unfortunately, there is no place to attach/store the handles when removed so you may want to buy a mesh laundry bag

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Tahe Sport 10’6 Beach SUP-YAK Inflatable Paddle Board

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We recently received news on the upcoming TAHE Sport inflatable SUP and kayak line for 2021.
Better known in the US under the BIC Sport name, the TAHE brand is a union of BIC Sport and Tahe Outdoors.

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Sneak Preview: Pau Hana 10’10” SOLO Backcountry Inflatable Backpacking SUP

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Earlier this year we received news of an innovative new inflatable paddle board from Pau Hana Surf Co. – the 10’10” Solo Backcountry. The Solo SUP is a “hikeable” air SUP that fits inside a small backpack weighing in at 23 lbs for the complete package.

Based out of California, since 2006 Pau Hana Surf Supply has been a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative stand up paddle boards. The Hawaiian phrase “Pau Hana” means “the time after work” and for Pau Hana’s founder and designer, Todd Caranto, it’s all about the spirit of play on the water.
While Pau Hana manufactures both hard shells and air sups, the eight inflatable models range in size from 9’6″ to 15’0″, spanning water activities of yoga, surfing, party paddling, racing and fishing – and now backpacking and bike packing.

Pau Hana’s dream was to break down the access barriers to paddling in remote locations by designing an entire paddle board kit – board, paddle, pump, leash, fins and backpack/drybag – which could easily be hiked/biked into the back country.

The result of the redesign created a package that is truly an example of the “whole is the sum of the parts.” Enter the Pau Hana 10’10’ Solo Backcountry – a portable, full-length air SUP replete with gear, that fits into a dry bag/backpack measuring 22 x 12 x 13 inches and weighing in at 23 lbs. The Pau Hana 10’10” SOLO Backcountry now joins the ranks of the popular inflatable packrafts with a paddling alternative – the pack sup.

What’s so special? Beginning with the board, the Solo 10-10 is constructed from an ultra-light dropstitch material. What is dropstitch? An inner core consists of two pieces of fabric held together with thousands of threads, creating an inflatable with the structure and rigidity to be pumped up to 15 PSI.

While one can easily save weight by removing features, the SOLO doesn’t skimp on whiz-bangs, with enough features to enhance the paddling experience.

Two 6″ quick snap-in fins easily connect to the board to provide tracking. The fin boxes are placed on both sides of the board, allowing one to fold the board in half for smaller storage.

There is one military valve for inflation.

Bungee deck lacing on the nose and tail provide numerous places to attach gear

A soft neoprene handle provides a comfortable grip while carrying the board.

The SOLO mini pump features feet and handles that can be unscrewed to create a smaller package.

The new, patented SOLO “soft” paddle may be a game changer. Driven by the challenge to reduce bulk, the paddle is a lightweight fiberglass shaft with a “rollable” soft PVC blade and consists of an adjustable handle, 3 shaft pieces and 2 connectors.  The paddle has been

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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

We initially posted a Sneak Preview on a pre-production sample of the solo AirVolution as well as a complete review on the AirVolution2 tandem.

Hot weather, fires, power outages and inventory shortages prevented us from reviewing the single Airvolution. This week we took the opportunity to check out the Advanced Elements AirVolution AE3029 (Patent Pending), a 13 foot high-pressure inflatable kayak weighing in at roughly 39 lbs.

Getting Started with the AirVolution

The box as received weighs 56 lbs, measuring 39 x 21 x 13 inches.

Inside, is a super-sized, backpack-style carrying case with wheels (6 lbs) , kayak body (37 lbs), an EVA seat (2.2 lbs), pump with gauge (3.25 lbs), tracking fin (0.45 lbs), cinch belts, repair kit (0.8 lbs) and instructions. The kayak with backpack and parts weighs in at 49 lbs, while the kayak body with seat is 39 lbs. The folded kayak size is roughly 35 x 18 x 13 inches.

We began by reading the manual. This includes pump set-up, inflation, deflation, folding, repairs and troubleshooting. And here we come to AirKayak’s Tip #1: No matter how excited you are, take a good look at how the kayak is folded before you set the kayak up, so that you can get it back into the carrying case.

First step, unfold the kayak.

The Advanced Elements AirVolution utilizes two main military valves for inflation, similar to the ones found on many standup paddle boards. 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 kayak, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.

Next, set up the pump. The AirVolution comes with a very nifty, collapsible, dual-action pump with built-in pressure gauge. First step, attach the feet.

The bottom of the pump barrel features tabs that match up to slots on the feet; if you look carefully, you will see that two of the slots are longer than the third – meaning the foot will only go on one way. Line up the tabs, push the barrel into the foot and then twist to lock into position. Attach the

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: StraitEdge2 Pro High Pressure Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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Advanced Elements of Benicia, California recently introduced one of two new kayaks for the 2020 product year. The AE3027 StraitEdge2 Pro is a redesign and upgrade to the long-standing, AE1014 Advanced Elements Straitedge2 inflatable kayak for one or two paddlers.

The new AE3027 Straitedge2 Pro features the identical kayak materials and construction as the earlier AE1014, but with upgraded accessories and features. The Straitedge2 Pro now comes with a 4-6 PSI drop stitch floor, rather than the standard 1 PSI PVC floor. The increased floor rigidity enhances the paddling experience with better tracking and glide.
The Straitedge2 Pro arrived this past month so we took the opportunity – during a brief break in the heat spell – to put it through its paces. Here are details on the Advanced Elements Straitedge2 Pro AE3027, a 13 foot inflatable kayak for one or two paddlers weighing in at roughly 42 lbs.
Getting Started with the Straitedge2 Pro
The box as received weighs 59 lbs, measuring 39 x 21 x 13 inches.

A rugged, oversized, backpack-style carrying case (4.5 lbs) houses the kayak body with integrated floor (34 lbs), high-backed lumbar seats (2.5 lbs each), 2 sets of foot pegs, 2 rod holders, repair kit, fin and instructions. The kayak in the backpack with seats and parts weighs in at 45 lbs total.
Straitedge2 Pro Setup/Inflatation
We began by reading the manual, which gives excellent explanations on inflation, seating, peg installation. And here we come to AirKayak’s Tip #1: No matter how excited you are, take a good look at how the kayak is folded before you set the kayak up, so that you can get it back into the carrying case.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak. (Please note: We will repeat some of the details previously mentioned in other writeups.)

Inside the bag are four identical plastic pegs, each with a foot pad, a lever and a number of holes – these are the foot pegs. By pressing on the lever, the foot pad can be moved forward and backward, locking into one of the openings.

Open the kayak body fully and you will see a series of 6 cloth pockets and tubes on each inner side – these are for the three seating positions. The first and third set are for tandem paddling while the second (middle) set is for solo paddling.

Point the peg with foot pad facing the paddler, and lever facing the bow. Insert the paddler-side end into the first loop, pushing back enough to then push the bow-end of the peg into the pocket. As these are tight, it is easiest to position it in the opening and then push on the foot pad to get it to slide all the way in.
Continue with the opposite

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New 10-12 PSI Hi-Pressure AirVolution2 Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

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

We initially posted a Sneak Preview on a pre-production sample of the solo AirVolution.
The Airvolution production models arrived this past week so we took the opportunity to check them out. Here are details on the Advanced Elements AirVolution2 AE3030 (Patent Pending), a 14.5 foot high-pressure inflatable kayak weighing in at roughly 52 lbs.
Getting Started with the AirVolution2
The box as received weighs 68 lbs, measuring 45 x 23 x 15 inches.

Inside, is a super-sized, backpack-style carrying case with wheels (7 lbs) , kayak body (47 lbs), 2 EVA seats (2.2 lbs each), pump with gauge (3.25 lbs), tracking fin (0.45 lbs), cinch belts, repair kit (0.8 lbs) and instructions. The kayak with backpack and parts weighs in at 62 lbs, while the kayak body with seats is 52 lbs. The folded kayak size is roughly 44 x 18 x 10 inches.
We began by reading the manual. This includes pump set-up, inflation, deflation, folding, repairs and troubleshooting. And here we come to AirKayak’s Tip #1: No matter how excited you are, take a good look at how the kayak is folded before you set the kayak up, so that you can get it back into the carrying case.

First step, unfold the kayak.

The Advanced Elements AirVolution2 utilizes two main military valves for inflation, similar to the ones found on many standup paddle boards. 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 kayak, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.

Next, set up the pump. The AirVolution2 comes with a very nifty, collapsible, dual-action pump with built-in pressure gauge. First step, attach the feet.

The bottom of the pump barrel features tabs that match up to slots on the feet; if you look carefully, you will see that two of the slots are longer than the third – meaning the foot will only go on one way. Line up the tabs, push the barrel into the foot and then twist to lock into position. Attach the hose to the side that says Inflate (there is also a Deflate

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Kokopelli Moki Inflatable High Pressure Kayak with Deck

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We recently posted our Sneak Preview on the new series of Moki inflatable kayaks from Kokopelli Packraft – two exciting new models we’ve seen for 2020. What’s so special? The new Moki Series expands the Kokopelli product line, providing a traditional paddling experience.

Last month, the 2020 models started rolling in. We began the series with the new 13.6 lbs XPD, so we now turn to the high-pressure Moki inflatable kayak, a 12 ft 2-inch model with zip-off deck and spray skirt.
Getting Started with the Kokopelli Moki Inflatable Kayak

We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak body with high pressure floor, EVA seat, removable deck, spray skirt, foot brace, coaming tube, pump with gauge, repair kit, roller backpack, fin, deck rod, repair kit and instructions. The fin and the repair kit are found in a pocket inside the backpack.
Boxed up, the dimensions are 36 x 25 x 15 inches with a shipping weight of 58 lbs. The kayak weighs 33 lbs with the seat, floor, brace and fin – add another 1.75 lbs for the deck and 1 lb for the coaming and spray skirt. All packed up in the bag, everything weighs 46 lbs. The folded kayak size is 29 x 21 x 9 inches.
The generic instructions for Kokopelli’s inflatable kayak series include inflation and deflation techniques, deck, seat and skirt installation, but lack details on actual set up; we will outline the steps we took, below. In general, set up is straight-forward – unpack, unfold, inflate.

The first step is to unfold the kayak.

The Kokopelli Moki utilizes three main GRI push-push valves 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.

Next, set up the pump – this is not mentioned in the instructions. The Moki comes with a very nifty, collapsible, dual-action Nano pump and built-in pressure gauge. Fold down the feet and attach the hose to the side that says Inflate (there is also a Deflate side). There are two pieces of plastic tubes in the plastic packaging – these are screw on handles. Unfortunately, there is no place to attach/store the handles when removed so you may want to buy a mesh laundry bag to keep everything together. Or, don’t even bother attaching the handles as the pump is pretty easy

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Rugged New 13lb Kokopelli XPD Inflatable Packraft

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We recently posted our Sneak Preview on the new XPD inflatable packraft from Kokopelli Packraft – one of the exciting new models we’ve seen for 2020. What’s so special? While the XPD packraft is based on the Kokopelli Rogue-Lite profile, the XPD features a more beefed-up PVC construction for rigorous use on flat water and lakes through Class II.

Last week, the 2020 models started rolling in, so we begin our 2020 Kokopelli reviews with the 13.6 lbs XPD, which can be inflated to higher pressures of 2.75 PSI.
Getting Started with the Kokopelli XPD
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable packraft body (13.7 lbs), inflatable seat base (8 ozs), repair kit (4.1 ozs), Nano dual action hand pump with gauge (2 lbs), instructions and two 2 cinch belts( 1.6 oz each).

Boxed up, the dimensions are 29 x 20 x 8 inches with a shipping weight of just under 20 lbs. The packraft folded is roughly 24 x 20 x 8 inches, rolled it is roughly 25 x 8.5 inches.
The generic instructions for Kokopellli’s PVC series include inflation and deflation techniques, seat and backband installation (not found on the XPD but used in the Recon) but lack details on actual set up; we will outline the steps we took, below. In general, set up is straight-forward – unpack, unfold, inflate.

The first step is to unfold the packraft – it is remarkably flat – and orient yourself; the rear/stern is wider and has the inflation valve.

The Kokopelli XPD utilizes one main GRI push-push 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.

Next, set up the pump – this is not mentioned in the instructions. Unlike most of the packrafts – which use inflator bags – the XPD comes with a very nifty, collapsible, dual-action Nano pump and built-in pressure gauge. Fold down the feet and attach the hose to the side that says Inflate. There are two pieces of plastic tubes in the plastic packaging – these are screw on handles. Unfortunately, there is no place to attach/store the handles when removed so you may want to purchase a mesh laundry bag to keep them together. Or, don’t even bother attaching the handles as the pump is pretty easy to use without them.

The Nano pump

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Navarro 110 Inflatable Kayak from AquaGlide

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We continue with our series on the new Aquaglide line of inflatable kayaks. For 2020, Aquaglide introduced four new models – Navarro, Deschutes, McKenzie and Noyo – consisting of 9 different styles.
Our three previous reviews focused on the Deschutes recreational series. We now switch over to the Navarro line of decked kayaks, a new design for Aquaglide.

We begin with the Navarro 110 – an 11-foot high-pressure touring model for one paddler, retailing for $599.99. The Navarro line also consists of the Navarro 130 (for one paddler with removable deck) and the Navarro 145 Tandem (for one or two paddlers with optional single and double decks.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Navarro 110
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, stuff sack with handles, instructions, repair kit, foot brace, tracking fin and seat.

Initial measurements show the kayak body weighs 29 lbs, with a folded size of roughly 22 x 21 x 11 inches. The kayak with seat, fin and brace – all in the stuff sack – weighs 31.5 lbs. Boxed up, the dimensions are 25 x 23 x 12 inches with a shipping weight of 38 lbs.
(AirKayaks Side Note: When initially removing the kayak from the carrying case, take a good look at how the kayak is folded.)
The Navarro 110 comes with an instruction manual, but as previously mentioned in our Deschutes series, the instructions aren’t detailed enough for new users. This is compounded by the manual layout in which each section is first written in English, then up-to 17 different languages (including Bulgarian and Estonian), before you get to the next English section. The inflation instructions start on page 16.

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.
There are two side chambers utilizing Boston valves, while the high-pressure floor features a military valve. The instructions say to pump up the two side chambers to 2 PSI, and then the floor to 6 PSI. (We did follow those instructions, but we are going to suggest a different method, and will explain why. Some of this is mentioned in the manual.)

First, attach the Boston valves by screwing them onto the kayak. 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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Deschutes 145 Inflatable Tandem Kayak from Aquaglide

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As posted earlier this year, Aquaglide’s inflatable kayak and paddle board product line for 2020 underwent a major makeover, with the introduction of seven new models, a facelift for three models and the retirement of 6 models.

As some of the new products have arrived, we’ve begun a series on the new Deschutes models. Our first two reviews included the Deschutes 110 and Deschutes 130, so we finish up our series with the Deschutes 145, an open-style, 14.5 foot inflatable kayak designed for tandem paddling. (Please note: some of the information will be repeated from other writeups.)
Getting Started with the Aquaglide Deschutes 145
The kayak is nicely packaged with bubble wrap protecting valves, handles, etc. We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak body, backpack, instructions, repair kit, tracking fin, two seats, valve adaptor and a plastic splash guard. The repair kit features generous-sized repair patches, a valve wrench and glue.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs approximately 26 lbs with the seats adding another 4 lbs (2 lbs each). The kayak with seats and fin – all in the backpack – weighs 34 lbs. Folded size of the kayak body is 26 x 22 x 9 inches. Backpack size is roughly 27 x 23 x 18 inches, which can be cinched down. All boxed up, the dimensions are 30 x 28 x 16 inches with a shipping weight of 45 lbs. It’s a squeeze, but if you fully deflate the kayak you can get optional paddles and pump 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.)
The Deschutes 145 comes with an instruction manual, but as previously mentioned, the instructions aren’t detailed enough for new users. This is compounded by the manual layout in which each section is first written in English, then up-to 17 different languages (including Bulgarian and Estonian), before you get to the next English section. The inflation instructions start on page 16.

Set up is straight-forward and simple – unpack, unfold, inflate.
The instructions say to put the valve in the closed position and to pump up the sides to 3 PSI, but there are no details explaining this in the instructions.

For those unfamiliar, the military-style plunger valve is simple to use – with your finger, twist the plunger slightly up to the “closed” position to inflate (air goes in but doesn’t come back out) and “down” to deflate or open (air comes out).

The Deschutes 145 military valves require a special adaptor, which is found in the repair kit. It must be friction-fit to a Boston valve adaptor; this is a common fitting, slightly conical and about 1/2 inch

Original Source: AirKayaks >>