Tag Archives: reviews

Product Review: New 2017 Red Paddle Co Sport 11’3 MSL Inflatable SUP

As reported in our previous write-ups, the first Red Paddle Co inflatable paddle board models for 2017 started arriving in the States earlier this year.

Founded in 2007, Red Paddle Co. is a UK-based company which focuses solely on the design and manufacture of inflatable paddle boards and accessories – the Red Paddle Co boards are now well-known for performance, innovation and ruggedness. Each year, Red Paddle Co raises the industry bar with new models and new features, now sporting 22 models ranging in size from 8’10” to 22’0 for single to multi-paddlers.
Our first 2017 boards arrived in early September, and we were excited to try out one of the exciting new models in the lineup – the Sport 11’3.
So, following is our second write up on the Red Paddle Co 2017 line, with the 2017 Sport 11-3  – our first focused on the popular Ride 10-6. (Please note, some of this is repeated from previous writeups.)
Getting Started with the Red Paddle Co Sport 11’3″
The box as received weighs 39 lbs, measuring 38 x 15 x 15 inches.

Inside the box is the SUP body, roller backpack, Titan pump, pressure gauge, RSS fiberglass battens, FCS II fin, cinch belt, instructions, repair kit and 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 34 lbs for backpack, board and pump, which all easily fit in the back of a small car. The board alone is 22 lbs.
The 11-3 Sport inflatable SUP arrives rolled up around the high pressure Titan pump, inside the backpack. The instructions (Welcome Guide) are located in a mesh pocket inside the backpack. These include generic information on using the pump, using the valves, deflating the board, basic tips on using a paddle board, fin details and board care.

First step, unroll the SUP body. Lay it out face up (fins down) so that you can access the military valve.

The Red Paddle Sport 11-3 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).

The included Titan dual-barrel (or twin cylinder) pump comes with a built-in pressure gauge, so you can monitor the board’s PSI. It also now comes with multiple adaptors, which can be used on inflatable kayaks, dinghies and kite equipment. To start off, you will be using both barrels, allowing the board to be filled in less

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: 2017 Red Paddle Co Ride 10’6″ Inflatable SUP with MSL

We first stumbled across the Red Paddle Co inflatable SUPs in early 2012.

Founded in 2007, Red Paddle Co. is a UK-based business focused solely on the design and manufacture of inflatable paddle boards and accessories, now well-known for performance, innovation and ruggedness. Each year, Red Paddle Co raises the industry bar with new models and new features, now sporting 22 models ranging in size from 8’10” to 22’0 for single to multi-paddlers.
In September, some of the new 2017 models arrived in the States. Having previously reviewed the Ride 10-6 in 2015, we decided to take a look at the new features on our biggest selling board.
Following is our write-up on the 2017 Ride 10’6″ from Red Paddle Company. (Please note, some of this is repeated from previous write ups.)
Getting Started with the Red Paddle Co Ride 10-6
The box as received weighs 39 lbs, measuring 38 x 15 x 15 inches.

Inside the box is the SUP body, roller backpack, Titan pump, pressure gauge, cinch belt, instructions, repair kit and a bonus cell phone case. Once rolled up, the SUP board and pump fit into the backpack, as well as a breakdown paddle with shafts under 37 inches.
Weight is 34 lbs for backpack, board and pump, which all easily fit in the back of a small car. The board alone is 21 lbs.
The 10’6 Ride inflatable SUP arrives rolled up around the high pressure Titan pump, inside the backpack. The instructions (Welcome Guide) are located in a mesh pocket inside the backpack. These include generic information on using the pump, using the valves, deflating the board, basic paddle boarding tips, fin details and board care.

Remove the fin guards and unroll the SUP body. (AirKayaks note: the fin guards should be considered packing materials, they are not meant to be permanently used.) 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 Paddle Ride 10’6 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, make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.
The included Titan dual-barrel (or twin cylinder) pump comes with a built-in pressure gauge, so you can monitor the board’s PSI. It also now comes with multiple adaptors, which can be used on inflatable kayaks,

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

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

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 >>

Product Review: Newly Updated AE1017 Sport Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

In late spring 2016, we received our first shipments of the newly updated AE1017 Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport inflatable kayak – a stripped-down classic blending performance, price and simplicity. The kayaks now feature an integrated 1-PSI pressure relief valve in the floor bladder, enhanced high-backed seating, beefed-up graphics and redesigned hardware.

At that point we realized our previous write-up was several years ago and featured the Gen 1 version. So, we took the opportunity to also update our readers with details on the newly updated AdvancedFrame Sport AE1017, a 10’5″ inflatable weighing in at roughly 26 lbs with an MSRP of $449. (Please note: some of this will be repeated from prior reviews.)
Getting Started with the AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak
The box as received weighs 34.4 lbs, measuring 32 x 18 x 11 inches.

Inside, the rugged carrying case measures 30 x 18 x 10 inches, and houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit and instructions. The kayak folded size is approximately 30 x17 x 10 inches. The kayak body and seat in the case weighs 28 lbs, while the kayak and seat alone are 26 lbs. The case has just enough room to include a small pump and breakdown paddle (not included).  AirKayaks note: Take a good look at how the kayak is folded BEFORE setting up, this will help during breakdown. The instructions are located in a small plastic pocket inside the carrying case.
AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak Setup/Inflation
We re-acquainted ourselves with the kayak by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc.

First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame Sport – along with all AdvancedFrame models – features an “inner rib” in the bow and stern, which is basically a u-shaped aluminum rib, about a foot long and one-half inch wide.

This comes “pre-assembled” meaning it arrives already inserted into two sleeves inside the kayak cover. Unless you remove the inner bladder, they remain in position. When the kayak is pumped up, the inner bladder with rib presses against the kayak cover – that, in conjunction with two bow and stern plastic sheets, give the kayak a sharp silhouette which aids in slicing through the water.

The kayak features 4 inflation chambers – one military valve and 3 twist-loks. The military-style plunger valves are simple to use – twist up to inflate (this is the closed position where air goes in and doesn’t come out) and down to deflate (air goes in and comes back out).

The kayak comes with a screw-on adaptor (found in the repair kit in the mesh pocket behind the seat) which will fit some pumps based on the hose fittings. Otherwise, a standard Boston valve adaptor will friction fit into

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Updated AE1012 AdvancedFrame Inflatable Kayak from Advanced Elements

We recently received our first shipments of the newly updated AE1012 Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak – a classic model blending performance, price and portability. Having paddled the AdvancedFrame through all iterations since 2002, we were interested to see some of the fine-tuned enhancements.

In 2015, Advanced Elements began a factory expansion, moving the production line to Indonesia. While plant construction was completed in the fall of 2015, the reopening took longer than anticipated, causing delays in spring 2016 production for several models. Despite stockpiling, huge customer demand caused the AdvancedFrame to be out of stock for nearly a year.
In late spring 2016, the first shipment of AdvancedFrame inflatable kayaks sailed into port, now featuring an integrated 1-PSI pressure relief valve in the floor bladder, enhanced high-backed seating, redesigned hardware and the addition of velcro paddle holders.
As our previous write-up was several years ago, we took the opportunity to also update our readers with details on the newly updated AdvancedFrame AE1012, a 10’5″ inflatable weighing in at roughly 34 to 35 lbs with an MSRP of $539. (Please note: some of this will be repeated from prior reviews.)
Getting Started with the AdvancedFrame Kayak

The box as received weighs 41 lbs, measuring 32 x 19 x 11 inches. Inside, the rugged carrying case measures 32 x 18 x 10 inches, and houses the kayak body, seat, repair kit and instructions. The kayak folded size is approximately 30 x17 x 10 inches. The case has just enough room to include a small pump and breakdown paddle (not included). AirKayaks note: Take a good look at how the kayak is folded BEFORE setting up, this will help during breakdown.
AdvancedFrame Kayak Setup/Inflation
We re-acquainted ourselves with the kayak by reading the updated manual. This, too, has evolved over the years and gives excellent explanations on inflation, usage, refolding, etc.

First step, unfold the kayak. The AdvancedFrame features an “inner rib” in the bow and stern, which is basically a u-shaped aluminum rib, about a foot long and one-half inch wide.

This comes “pre-assembled” meaning it arrives already inserted into two sleeves inside the kayak cover. Unless you remove the inner bladder, they remain in position. When the kayak is pumped up, the inner bladder with rib presses against the kayak cover – that, in conjunction with two bow and stern plastic sheets, give the kayak a sharp silhouette which aids in slicing through the water.

The kayak features 7 inflation chambers – two military valves and 5 twist-loks. The military-style plunger valves are simple to use – twist one way to inflate and the other to deflate.

The kayak comes with a screw-on adaptor (found in the repair kit in the mesh pocket behind the seat) which will fit some pumps

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: Compact Innova Helios 2 Inflatable Kayak

This past week we had the opportunity to take our first look at the Innova Helios 2 inflatable kayak – a two person kayak with integrated decks providing expanded storage options.

The Innova line is unique for a number of reasons. First, all the kayaks are handmade in the Czech Republic; the factory has manufactured inflatable boats for well over 50 years. In Europe, a similar line is marketed under the name Gumotex.
We previously published our review on the single version Innova Helios 1. So here is our write-up on the the Innova Helios 2 inflatable tandem kayak, which weighs 36 lbs in the pack, is 12’6″ inches in length and has a payload of 396 lbs for two persons and gear. (Please note: some of the information will be duplicated from other Innova reviews).
Getting Started with the Innova Helios 2
The box as received is surprisingly small – only 25 x 16 x 11 inches – and weighing in at 38 lbs.

Inside is a very nifty and compact backpack with adjustable shoulder straps, front pouch pocket and roll top closure. This contains the kayak body, foot rests, repair kit, instructions, valve adaptor and sponge. At only 36 lbs for the pack and contents, the Helios 2 is small enough to be considered carry-on luggage, and will fit in an airplane overhead bin. Packed dimensions are 22 x 15 x 9 inches as received in the bag.
Helios 2 Setup/Inflatation
We read through the included instruction manuals. Just like all the other Innova  products, the Innova Helios manual is surprisingly detailed in some aspects, while lacking in others. As the kayaks are made in Europe, many of the details are based around European specs and regulations and can sound more complicated than it actually is.

First step, unpack and unfold the kayak body. What is immediately noticeable is how FLAT the kayak is when deflated – of course, this makes it quite compact for travel.

The Helios 2 has a “shoe” for those using an optional tracking fin. (Please note: both Helios kayaks do not come with the tracking fin, though we tested the following Helios 2 with one.) Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. 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 side. The first time we tried this, we struggled for a few minutes to get the second slot into position; this gets easier with use. (AirKayaks note: The second time we installed the fin, the kayak was wet and it was much simpler. According to Innova, utilizing McNett UV Tech also helps initially, but after

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Innova Twist LN Inflatable Kayak – only 18 lbs.

As mentioned in prior posts, we received our first shipment of the newly-updated Innova Twist and Swing inflatable kayaks for 2016.
Made in the Czech Republic, the Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Light Nitrilon (LN), a lighterweight version of the rugged material used in the traditional Innova Sunny, Helios and Safari models. Light Nitrilon is known for making the kayaks more rigid as well as water and abrasion resistant, without substantially increasing weight. It’s also PVC-free, thus environmentally friendly.

New features also include improved seating and beefed up foot brace. The new seating arrangement is removable and inflatable, making it easier to reposition the paddling location, optimizing paddling performance and comfort.
This week we had the first opportunity to take out the  revamped Innova Twist LN, an 8 foot 6-inch inflatable weighing a mere 18 lbs (including seat and foot brace) with a selling price of $449.
Please note: Some of this information will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Innova Twist: Getting Started
The box as received measures 22 x 16 x 10 inches, weighing in at 20 lbs.

Inside is the Twist LN body, cinch strap, multiple instruction sheets, tracking fin, foot rest, repair kit, seat, bilge sponge and valve adaptor. The Twist LN body with seat and brace weighs 18 lbs with a folded size of 20 x 15 x 78. AirKayaks note: While the instructions say the Twist LN comes with a drawstring carrying sack, these were not included in the first shipments. The bags are currently being shipped over and will be added to the boxes.
Innova Twist Setup/Inflatation
We read through the included instruction manuals. As with all the Innova manuals to date, the instructions are quite detailed – there is one instruction sheet for fin installation, one for utilizing the valves, and another on the kayak in general. Most include IKEA-style graphics which are occasionally just short of a brain twister, and while some steps are dauntingly detailed, some are not mentioned.  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 Twist LN 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. Pull up on the fin to ensure you have a good fit.
Attach the foot brace (this

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Innova Swing 1 LN High-Pressure PVC-Free Inflatable Kayak

In May we received our first shipment of the newly-updated Innova Twist LN and Swing LN inflatable kayaks for 2016. Made in the Czech Republic, the new Twist and Swing models are now constructed from Light Nitrilon (LN), a lighterweight version of the rugged material used in the traditional Innova Sunny, Helios and Safari models. Light Nitrilon is known for making the kayaks more rigid as well as water and abrasion resistant, without substantially increasing weight. It’s also PVC-free, thus environmentally friendly.

Other new features on the Swing LN include an improved coaming area which can take optional redesigned spray skirts.
This week we had the first opportunity to take out the revamped Innova Swing I LN, a 10 foot 4-inch one-person inflatable weighing a mere 22 lbs (including seat and foot brace) with a selling price of $599.
Please note: Some of this information will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Getting Started with the Innova Swing I LN Inflatable Kayak
The box as received weighs 26 lbs with dimensions of 29 x 16 x 12 inches.

Inside is the Swing I LN body – neatly folded with a cinch strap – multiple instruction sheets, 2 metal insertion bars, tracking fin, seat, foot rest, repair kit, sponge, and valve adaptor. At 23 lbs for the combined package with accessories, and a folded size of 25 x 16 x 11 inches, the Swing I LN is small enough to fit inside plane overhead cargo bins.
Innova Swing LN Setup/Inflation
The main instruction manual covers set-up for both the Swing I LN and Swing II LN kayaks, thus there will be overlap in both of our write-ups. As with all the Innova manuals to-date, the instructions are quite detailed – there is one instruction sheet for fin installation, one for utilizing the valves, and another on the kayak in general; the Swing has added instructions detailing the “insertion bars.” Most include IKEA-style graphics which are occasionally mind-boggling and while some steps are dauntingly detailed, some are not mentioned.  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. Ascertain which is the bow and which is the stern; while the instruction manual says the stern has the Innova logo, the logo and the floor valves are located at the front of the kayak.

Install the tracking fin before inflating the kayak. The Swing I LN 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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: New Kokopelli Twain 13.6 lb Inflatable Tandem Packraft

We recently posted our Sneak Preview on the new Twain inflatable tandem packraft from Kokopelli Raft Co., an inflatable kayak/packraft for one or two paddlers, weighing in at a mere 13.6 lbs.

For those unfamiliar with the term, “packrafts” are loosely defined as a an inflatable raft weighing under 10 lbs, that can easily be packed/rolled up, making them a great choice for accessing remote locations. While the sport originated in Alaska, the popularity is rapidly expanding globally.
Kokopelli won Gear Junkies “Best In Show Top Gear for 2016” at last summer’s Outdoor Retailer. The current Kokopelli line-up consists of four whitewater models – the Nirvana and Nirvana XL in self-bailing and spray deck versions – joined by three new touring series, the Castaway, Castaway XL and Twain two-person version.
Weights range from 7.3 to 13.8 lbs, with the Castaway XL and Twain sporting removable tracking fins and removable floors. All models come with an inflation “bag” weighing a mere 4 ounces, as well as an inflatable seat(s), though they also can be pumped up using a traditional hand or foot pump. Prices range from $725 to $999 dependent upon the model and options.
While many reviews focus on whitewater backpacking, we will begin with the new touring/flatwater packrafts, in particular the two-person version.
Following is our writeup on the Kokopelli Twain Inflatable Packraft, a 10 ft 2 inch tandem kayak. Please note, some of this will be repeated from prior write-ups.
Getting Started with the Kokopelli Twain:

We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable packraft body, inflatable floor, two seat backs, two seat bases, fin, inflator bag, instructions, 2 cinch belts and repair kit. Initial measurements showed the kayak body weighs 9.2 lbs (26 x 13 x 7 inches folded), or 14.5 lbs with everything minus the box. Boxed up, the dimensions are 27 x 14 x 7 inches with a shipping weight of 17.65 lbs.
For the minimalists reading this blog, we have detailed the weights of the individual pieces as follows:

Two seats (four pieces) weigh 21.7 oz. Each seat base is 5.3 oz, measuring 20 x19 inches flat. The seat backs each weigh 5.6 oz and measure 23 x 12.5 inches flat – this includes the webbing and clips.
The floor weighs 3 lbs, measuring 25 x 12 x 1 inch.
The two straps are 2.1 oz., inflator bag 4.4 oz, fin 2.1 oz and repair kit 2.6 oz.

Kokopelli Twain Inflatation and Setup:
The generic instructions include inflation and storage techniques, as well as use of a spray skirt (available for some models) 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

Original Source: AirKayaks >>

Product Review: AquaGlide Blackfoot HB Angler XL Inflatable Kayak for 1 or 2 Paddlers

We continue with our series on the new AquaGlide line of inflatable kayaks, specifically the fishing models. We previously reviewed the new high pressure Blackfoot HB Angler SL single-person inflatable kayak followed by the 11-0 Blackfoot Angler Inflatable Paddle Board. We now turn to the Blackfoot HB Angler XL – an elongated 13-foot version which can be set up as the ultimate one-person fishing machine, but can easily switch to a two-person model by adding an optional seat.

Please note, some of this will be repeated from other reviews.
Getting Started with the AquaGlide Blackfoot HB Angler XL:
We unpacked the box and laid out the pieces – inflatable kayak, backpack, instructions, repair kit, foot brace, tracking fin, visor lift, booster seat, adaptor, fishing cooler with rod holders and Core seat.

Initial measurements showed the kayak body with bolster weighs 31.75 lbs while the kayak with seat, fin and brace in the backpack (everything but the cooler) weighs 37.4 lbs. Backpack size (filled) is roughly 27 x 20 x 14 inches. The fishing cooler weighs an additional 3.25 lbs and flattens to 20 x 13 x 3 inches; we did manage to fit it into the backpack. Boxed up, the entire package dimensions are 24 x 20 x 14 inches with a shipping weight of 48 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 and include diagrams with inflation details.

Set up is straight-forward and simple  – unpack, unfold, inflate.
There are three inflation chambers utilizing high-pressure military valves – the two side chambers and the floor. The floor is pumped up first.

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 Blackfoot HB XL valves require a military valve adaptor, which does not come with most standard pumps. The adaptor was located inside the repair kit.  Friction fit the military valve adaptor onto the Boston valve adaptor (slightly conical-shaped nozzle), then lock onto the military valve with a slight twist. Since the chambers are inflated from 3 to 12 PSI, it is helpful to use a pump with pressure gauge to ensure the kayak is inflated appropriately.
Here we had our first issue – we could not get the adaptor to couple to the valve. From past experience, we found this could be two things. One, the o-ring can be very stiff initially or two, there is such

Original Source: AirKayaks >>