Kayak Expert

Austin Beck-Doss

Kayak Expert

Austin Beck-Doss is a Salt Lake City-based writer and rock climbing instructor. In addition to writing buyers guides and gear-related content for GearJunkie, he writes reviews, features, and essays for various outdoor-minded publications.

Advanced Elements Expedition Kayak Review

If you are looking for an inflatable touring kayak, the AE1009-XE from Advanced Elements is among the best on the market. A natural evolution of inflatable kayaks like the AdvancedFrame® Expedition Elite represents the next step in kayak design. To provide paddling performance comparable to that of a hard-shelled kayak, the Expedition incorporates Aluminum Rib Frame Technology (ARF) in the bow and stern, as well as Drop-Stitch Technology (DST) on the floor. While the Drop-stitch floor gives unprecedented stiffness in an inflatable and forms a hull chine, the aluminum ribs cut through the water to create a streamlined shape. Together, these features deliver optimal paddling performance. An adventure-ready kayak, the Expedition Elite is 13′ long and has plenty of storage space.   Dimensions Weight – 42 lbs Length – 13’ Width – 32” Load capacity – 450 lbs   The Advanced Elements Expedition is 13’ long, 32” wide and weighs 42 pounds. It’s well built and can take on 450 pounds of load.   Construction Quality and Features Material: Polyester, aluminum, PVC tarpaulin, drop-stitch PVC  The kayak’s frame is made of aluminum ribs. Because of the aluminum frame, when inflated, the boat remains rigid. At the same time, it adds little to the kayak’s weight. Therefore, it won’t be a problem to move it around or to paddle it. The kayak’s rigidity is ensured by the use of drop-stitch technology in the floor. Because of the kayak’s low center of gravity design, it’s stable and easy to paddle. In addition to its unusual form, it …

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Aire Force inflatable whitewater kayak Review

Unless it was an Aire kayak, many serious paddlers and kayakers wouldn’t even consider using an inflatable kayak. The Aire Force inflatable kayak is no exception to the Aire inflatable kayaks’ high standards. This is a whitewater self-bailing inflatable kayak that is specifically designed for intermediate to experienced kayakers. It’s a little more expensive than some of the others, but when you consider the quality, performance, and the fact that it comes with a 10-year warranty, it’s easy to see why. The Aire Force is a tippy kayak, therefore it’s vital to know how to paddle it using your hips and a solid bracing. It is intended for people who have had prior whitewater experience.   Dimensions Weight – 32 lbs Length – 9’6” Width – 36” Load capacity – 275 lbs The Aire Force Inflatable whitewater kayak is 9’6” long, 36” wide and weighs 32 pounds. It’s well built and can take on 275 pounds of load. Construction Quality and Features Material: 1100 Denier polyurethane It has a rugged build and it’s made out of a 1100 Denier polyurethane. It also features an Aircell system 2-layer construction with an outer shell made out of PVC and urethane bladders on the inside. The entire design and construction quality is excellent as it is very comfortable, easy to enter and exit and almost no water can get into the cockpit.  If you have the skill, you can roll the Aire Force, which is one of the best inflatable kayaks on the market. The interior cockpit has …

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Best inflatable whitewater kayaks

Features to consider when choosing a whitewater kayak The best inflatable whitewater kayaks are built to withstand a lot more than a splash or two. A variety of factors might cause one inflatable whitewater kayak to perform considerably better than another. When comparing a tandem kayak to a solo kayak, the handling and maneuverability are vastly different. Your safety and well-being may be on the line, in addition to making an informed decision when investing your hard-earned money.   Brief info about whitewater kayaks When it comes to whitewater kayaking, having the right equipment is crucial. When you do it right, the enjoyment meter quickly reaches its maximum. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the most essential factors to consider as well as an evaluation of eleven of our top inflatable whitewater kayaks. Self Bailing – Water Accumulation management If you’re pitching through smooth whitewater, you won’t get much water in your inflatable kayak, but if you’re pitching through strong whitewaters, you’ll get a lot. A self-bailing inflatable whitewater kayak will outperform a normal inflatable kayak when a substantial volume of water is injected. A self-bailing inflatable whitewater kayak should be seriously considered if you plan on running severe rapids. Types of whitewater kayaks Playboats, river runners, creek boats, and long kayaks are the four types of whitewater kayaking. If the titles didn’t give it away, they’re very different in terms of design, features, and intended applications which is what you need to consider when buying an inflatable kayak for whitewater kayaking. Stability When it …

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Best inflatable sit on top kayaks

An inflatable sit on top kayak has a similar hull form to a traditional kayak, but instead of sitting inside, you sit higher on top in a somewhat sunken depression. Some of the benefits and downsides of paddling a sit-on-top inflatable kayak are listed below. Sit-on-top kayaks are less expensive than conventional kayaks, making them extremely accessible. They may be an excellent way to “test the waters,” so to speak, and determine if you love paddling. Another major benefit of an inflatable sit-on-top is that it is usually quite simple to operate. As a result, they are suitable for individuals of all ages, including small children. Recreational paddling on the lake or river can be a lot of fun for the whole family. Sit-on-top kayaks are often used for a variety of activities. They are quite easy to re-enter from within the water, so they are ideal for fishing, scuba diving, and surfing in addition to just traveling about. Sit-on-top kayaks provide a number of benefits over traditional sit-inside kayaks, eincluding being more comfortable. Because there are no constraints, people with a bigger body type, extra long legs, or poor flexibility may likely feel less constrained and cramped in an inflatable sit-on-top kayak, as well as perhaps more comfortable. Because of their high degree of safety, many novice paddlers prefer a sit-on top. Although it is simple to paddle a sit-on-top, the performance will undoubtedly be inferior to that of a normal inflatable kayak. Sit-on-tops don’t track well and are rarely equipped with a tracking …

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Best Intex inflatable kayaks

Intex Recreation Corp produces a wide range of inflatable items, including toys, boats, beds, pools, and more, in addition to its inflatable kayaks. Intex’s aim is to provide high-quality inflatable goods that are both safe and enjoyable to use. The firm focuses on customer service and is part of a global conglomerate with over 40 years of experience. The Intex inflatable kayak range includes three entry-level models that are ideal for recreational paddling novices. There are two tandem versions and a solo inflatable kayak available right now. Features to consider when choosing an inflatable kayak Weight / Size and Capacity Considering the weight, size and capacity of the inflatable kayak is something you have to do before buying one. Knowing the exact weight of the kayak before it’s inflated will determine if it’s going to be easy to carry around or if it will require some extra effort. The size and capacity will let you know if you can use the intex inflatable kayak alone or if it’s suitable for more people. Stability and comfort When you are paddling on the water you want to be on something as stable as possible. Considering the stability of the inflatable kayak you are buying is essential if you want to have the best possible experience when paddling. Another important thing is the comfort so you can fully enjoy your kayaking adventure. You want to get a kayak that has adjustable seats so you can figure out the position that works best for you. Storage and Transportability Having an …

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Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable kayak review

Traditional kayaks can be replaced by inflatable kayaks. They’re lightweight, portable, and typically less expensive than their plastic or fiberglass equivalents. The Intex Explorer K2 is one of several inflatable kayaks available on the market. It’s a budget-friendly two-person kayak that’s ideal for a relaxing day on the lake. It also comes with an air pump and paddles, so you’ll be ready to go out and paddle right away. This kayak is ideal for novices or those searching for a portable alternative to use on calm rivers or lakes.   Measurements Length: 10 feet and 3 inches Width: 3 feet Weight: 30.6 pounds The total weight of this inflatable kayak is 30.6 pounds. It’s 10 feet and 3 inches long and 3 feet wide. Construction Quality and Features Material: Vinyl Exterior The vinyl exterior is tough and can withstand being thrown off rocks or paddling through garbage. It stands up nicely in general. It is quite sturdy and durable so it may last even as long as a plastic kayak. Inflatable kayaks have a terrible reputation for being fragile and unreliable, but the Intex Explorer is well-designed in our opinion. There are two distinct air chambers in the kayak’s construction. While it isn’t completely waterproof, having two compartments ensures that if you do have a hole in the vinyl, the entire kayak won’t burst.This makes it simpler to return to the beach without becoming drenched. Even with two persons seated in the boat, the I-beam along the middle helps to keep it stable and stiff. …

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Advanced elements island voyage 2 inflatable kayak review

Measurements Width: 37″ Length: 134″ Weight: 31.5lb  The Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 Inflatable kayak weighs 31.5lb and has a load capacity of 181lb. This sit-on-top inflatable kayak is 134 inches long and 37 inches wide which makes it average size and quite stable on the water. Construction Quality and Features Materials: PVC tarpaulin + 600 denier polyester The Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 is built with a multilayered design and high-volume side tubes for added buoyancy and stability. A robust PVC tarpaulin hull is placed over the three air chambers, which is then coated with 600 denier polyester for extra abrasion protection. It includes a welded perimeter seam for long-lasting sturdiness, as well as a rear drain hole for quick draining and drying. A detachable fin helps tracking, while the sharp bow and rocker increase performance. It’s easy to take to the water’s edge and inflate in minutes or carry it while inflated using the various grasp grips. The Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 has two seats with high, supportive backs, plush cushioning, and flexibility to accommodate all body shapes. To keep important goods close at hand, seats include pockets and drink holders. Three sitting positions enable for fast tandem or solo setup while maintaining the kayak’s balance and performance. With bungee deck lacing and D-rings to hold or connect your stuff, the Advanced Elements Island Voyage 2 also provides good storage possibilities. A traveling duffel bag, a repair kit, and an owner’s handbook are included with this kayak. Ease of Transportation and Storage Packed …

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The 9 Best Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayaks

Features To Consider when choosing an Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayak Getting an Advanced Elements inflatable kayak is quite exciting and many people may buy the first one they see and like but in reality there are quite a few features you need to consider before you buy one impulsively. Think about what you are going to use the kayak for, how many people you want to bring with you, do you need a kayak that can be folded into a bag and easy to carry or do you have a car big enough to fit a kayak. Capacity – people/weight The first thing you need to consider when you look for an inflatable kayak is the capacity it can carry. You need to know this so you can know how many people you can take with you on your adventure. Aside from how many people you can take, you need to know the weight capacity as well so you don’t find yourself submerged underwater. Weight, Packing, and Mobility Another important thing is the ease of use. This includes the weight of the kayak when deflated, whether you can pack it or not and how easy it is to carry it around from one place to another. The Advanced Elements inflatable kayaks are all very easy to use. The procedure for inflating them is not complex at all and some of the kayaks can be folded for easy transportation. Stability and comfort The stability and comfort are also important and depending on what you are going …

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The Best Inflatable kayak pump

Inflatable kayaks are one of the century’s best innovations. They’re entertaining, portable, and much easier to prepare for use if you have the best inflatable kayak pump. It’s critical to have a dependable pump on hand, which is why we chose to create this review and provide you some insight into your alternatives when purchasing a pump for your inflatable kayak. How to find the best inflatable kayak pump? Types of Inflatable Kayak Pumps There are two choices you can go for when thinking about getting a kayak air pump. You can either pick an electric or a manual air pump. Whichever one you decide to pick would have it’s own pros and cons. Here are the main features for both of them, so you can decide which one is better for your use. Electric Pump Getting an electric pump wouldn’t put as much strain on you when you want to inflate your kayak or boat. They are convenient and quite easy to use. All you need is a power source. Although the electric air pump is extremely convenient to use and requires no effort on your side, it does have some downsides. One major downside is that it requires a power source to operate. Depending on the pump you use, it might need a power outlet but some air pumps for inflatables can be plugged into the cigarette lighter plug in cars and use the car battery.  Another issue that some cheaper electric pumps have is their lack of pressure power. This means your …

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