Inflatable, But Built for Battle

Don’t let the word “inflatable” fool you— the Sea Eagle FS1210 FishSUP is rugged. Built from 1100 Decitex reinforced drop-stitch material, this board inflates to 15 PSI for an incredibly rigid feel underfoot.

It carries up to 450lbs, it can easily handle your weight plus a full fishing load out—tackle boxes, battery, electric motor, and even a furry fishing companion.

Setup & Portability: Trunk to Water in Under 15 Minutes

One of the standout features of the Sea Eagle FS1210 FishSUP is just how easy it is to transport and rig. It rolls up into a large duffle bag that fits easily in the trunk of your car. I had mine inflated and water-ready in under 10 minutes using the included hand pump (an electric pump makes this even faster).

Optional accessories like the swivel seat and electric motor mount bolt on quickly using pre-installed D-rings.

Fishing Features That Actually Matter

• 360° swivel seat with high-back support: Sit and fish all day without back pain.
• Built-in fish ruler on the deck: Quickly measure your catch without digging through your gear.
• Integrated Accessory Bases: Mount rod holders, sonar, or action cameras without drilling or mods.
• Removable motor mount: Add an electric motor (up to 55 lbs thrust) to turn it into a stealthy, hands-free fishing machine.

The deck is covered in EVA foam, which is both non-slip and easy on the feet. Plus, the shape of the board—wider in the back and tapered toward the front—offers both stability and glide. I was able to stand and sight-fish in chop without ever feeling tippy.

Performance on the Water

Paddling performance is surprisingly good for such a stable platform. Sea Eagle FS1210 FishSUP tracks well and glides efficiently whether you're standing with a SUP paddle or sitting and paddling kayak-style. The triple fin setup helps with tracking, and I found the board easy to maneuver even in tighter coves and weedy shallows.

With the Torqeedo Travel motor mounted, I hit speeds over 5mph in open water. This is plenty fast for moving between structure or drifting along a shoreline. Even loaded down with gear, the FS1210 felt nimble and responsive.

Is the Sea Eagle FS1210 FishSUP Worth It?

The FS1210 FishSUP might seem pricey at first, but it replaces a boat, kayak, and SUP. There is no trailer, storage fees, or fuel needed. The base price for the FS1210 starts at $999, with costs varying based on the package you choose.

It packs small, sets up fast, and reaches spots even tiny jon boats can’t. For solo anglers or those short on space, it’s a true game-changer in versatility and fishability.

Is This The Right Boat for You?

Whether you're casting topwater frogs into lily pads or drifting live bait along a shoreline, the Sea Eagle FS1210 FishSUP gives you stealth, stability, and freedom. It's a premium fishing platform that folds up and fits in your trunk—but performs like a purpose-built fishing craft on the water.

For anglers who want to go farther, fish harder, and skip the boat ramp line, the FS1210 is a great choice. Check out the review of the Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski.

The post Sea Eagle FS1210 FishSUP Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

I've been using the Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski on a few trips now, and I've been really impressed with it. It's very stable, even when standing on one side. It's also relatively fast, with a top speed of around 12 mph paired with the 5hp Honda outboard. And it's maneuverable and easy to paddle.

I also like the fact that the boat is comfortable to sit in, however one thing I will be changing is the seat hight in the rear especially. In addition to the comfort, I think it would relatively easy to rig up for fishing. It comes with a couple of mounting location where rod holders can be added and you could glue bases on in other locations for addional rigging.

Overall, I think the Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski is a great value for the price. It's a versatile and affordable inflatable boat that can be used for a variety of activities. I recommend it to anyone who wants to get out on the water and have some fun.

Key Features of the Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski

Versatility

The Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski is a versatile inflatable boat. It can be used for paddling, motoring, and fishing. I was able to paddle the boat around during the review with my daughter and found the boat easy to move around by paddle. The Paddleski could be used for a day of fun on the water or set up to be a great inflatable fishing boat.

Stability

It is a really stable platform for standing. My daughter and I both felt comfortable standing up while I paddled around.

The catamaran design with two widely spaced inflatable tubes provides excellent stability, even when standing on one side.

Speed

With a 5 horsepower Honda motor, the Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski can reach speeds of around 12-13 mph. The way you rig the boat for fishing and the way you distribute the weight will impact the speed, so it is always important to properly distribute the weight on small watercraft to get the most out of whatever you decide to power it with.

Maneuverability

The boat is very maneuverable, both with the motor and when paddling. Inflatable tend to sit on the water vs in the water like other boats do. This allows them to move easily with less effort from the paddler or under power.

Comfort of the Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski

The seats are very comfortable, but they are a bit low to the deck. With the addition of some seat post extensions it will be very comfortable. This will also make getting up and down much easier if you plan to stand and fish. The padding on the deck adds to that comfort when standing as well.

Fishability

The Paddleski is fishable. It doesn't have any built-in rod holders. However, it has Scotty mounts that can be used to attach rod holders and other accessories. The boat is stable while standing for sight casting. With the versatility of being able to power or paddle the boat efficiently, you are able to get to an area quick and then powerdown

Rigging the Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski

The Paddleski is a blank slate when it comes to rigging. You can add your own rod holders, fish finders, and other accessories to customize it to your needs. The motor mount for the gas motor is easy to assemble with turn handles. You can easily use an electric motor like the Torqeedo Travel Ultralight on the PaddleSki.

Who Is the Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski Best Suited For?

The Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a versatile and affordable inflatable boat. It's perfect for recreational use, such as paddling, fishing, and camping. It's also a good choice for families with young children, as the boat is very stable and easy to maneuver.

The post Sea Eagle 437PS Paddleski Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

There are so many types of paddlecraft out there, so why has this new type of paddlecraft gained so much popularity so quickly?

Packrafts were initially designed to provide ultra-lightweight and highly portable paddle craft. The aim was to allow people to access more remote waterways in the backcountry. That is why packrafts are so small and light.

Paddling the Noire River while testing the NRS Neutron on my first overnight packrafting trip. Watch the full video.

The smallest packrafts available start at 5 pounds and are primarily for use on flat water. You can also find slightly heavier and more robust models designed for running whitewater rivers. Ultimately, the real benefits of using a packraft over other inflatable kayaks are that they are highly portable, ultralight, and let you access waterways in the backcountry.

The downside, when compared to other inflatable paddlecraft, is that they are slow and tend not to be as durable.

What are Packrafts?

Before we get further in, let's talk about what packrafts are. To simplify things, there are three main types of packraft:

• The bucket boat. Bucket boats are the most basic type of packraft. What makes them unique, is that any water that enters the boat, is going to stay there until you manually remove it. For this reason, bucket boats aren't ideally suited for rough water.
• The self-bailing packraft. Self-bailing packrafts have an inflatable floor and holes in the bottom, so that when water comes in, the inflatable floor floats to the surface, and the water then drains out of the holes in a secondary floor found below. These types of packrafts are designed for all-around use, from flatwater to class III whitewater.
• Decked packrafts. Decked packrafts are made to keep water out, and like a whitewater kayak, they're designed to be used with a skirt. This allows them to perform great in rough conditions, because they won't swamp. For that reason, decked packrafts can be used in the most challenging whitewater.

A decked packraft can be used with a skirt so that no water gets inside the cockpit area.

What are Packrafts Made From?

Packrafts are made from two primary materials: PVC and TPU-coated nylon.

PVC has been around for ages, and a lot of whitewater rafts are still made with it. PVC is one of the most economical materials because it is cheap and durable. The downside of PVC is that it is heavier, bulkier, and less compact than TPU-coated nylon. Given that the primary benefit of using a packraft is portability, bulkier PVC kayaks fall more into the realm of inflatable kayaks.

Packrafts are increasingly made from TPU-coated nylon because it is much thinner, lighter, and more compact than PVC. It is also more environmentally friendly. The downside of TPU-coated nylon is that it is a little less durable and more expensive than PVC.

But what is TPU-coated nylon? TPU stands for thermoplastic polyurethane. It is a membrane that is bonded to nylon. It provides a waterproof and highly durable protective layer on the nylon. Different boats have the TPU coating in different places. For example, some boats have a single layer of TPU on the outside where the main wear and tear will happen. Others have coatings of TPU on both the interior and exterior of the fabric, which makes for a more durable packraft, but adds some weight.

The other thing to note about TPU-coated nylon is that the nylon comes in different levels of thickness, from 210 denier up to 840 denier. The larger the number, the thicker and more durable the nylon fabric is, however, the heavier the packraft will be.

The Impact of Weight and Materials

To show the impact that the material has on weight, here are two packrafts I tested this year: the Alpacka Expedition and the NRS Neutron.

The Alpacka Expedition uses 210 denier nylon with TPU coating on one side. The floor is made from a heavier-duty 840 denier nylon with a dual coat of TPU.

In comparison, the NRS Neutron has the same floor (840 denier, dual-coated nylon), but the main body of this packraft is twice as ‘thick' as that of the Alpacka for added durability. It is made from 420 denier, dual TPU-coated nylon.

The result is that the Alpacka Expedition weighs 8.4 pounds, while the NRS Neutron is 12.2 pounds. This clearly shows that you need to make a decision about what's more important – durability, or weight savings.

Which Paddles Should I Use with a Packraft?

When it comes to paddles, the general rule is that the wider the boat and the higher you are sitting, the longer the paddles need to be. For example, you need very long paddles when using sit-on-top kayaks, which are wide and place the paddler high above the water. On the other hand, whitewater paddles and sea kayak paddles are much shorter because the kayaks are narrower and the paddler sits on the floor, below water level.

Packrafts are very wide and stable. However, you sit fairly low in the water. To give you a ballpark length, you should look at using paddles between 215 and 225 cm long. If you are using a whitewater packraft, you will want to be at the lower end of this spectrum. If you are doing flatwater paddling, then you will want slightly longer paddles.

Packrafting Safety

First and foremost, when it comes to any sort of activity on the water, be it kayaking, canoeing, or packrafting, you need to wear a PFD. PFD stands for “personal flotation device”, or, as a friend recently said to me, “pretty freaking dumb” not to be wearing one!

A safety issue to consider that is unique to packrafts, is that unlike other inflatable kayaks, packrafts typically only have one air chamber. Other inflatable kayaks usually have three air chambers. With three air chambers, if one gets punctured while you're on the water, you will still have two air chambers keeping the boat afloat. Because the packraft relies on only one air chamber, if you get a puncture, your boat will lose all its flotation. This is why you should always bring a repair kit with you.

One way that packrafts can break, usually irreparably, is by over-inflating and exploding them. Packrafts are not designed to be inflated as rigidly as other inflatable kayaks. In fact, TPU-coated nylon packrafts are supposed to be inflated to around 1 or 1.5 PSI.

How to Stop Your Packraft Overinflating

When you are out in the sun all day, the air pressure in your packraft can change. The heat from the sun will increase the air pressure, while cold water or a dropping temperature can reduce the air pressure in your packraft. This is why you need to monitor the pressure levels of your packraft throughout the day, and why you should bring the inflation bag with you.

The biggest concern, is having the air pressure increase so much that the boat ‘pops' like a balloon. This is unlikely to happen when you're on the water, because the water helps keep the packraft cool. However, if you take a break on shore, and leave your packraft under a hot sun, it could burst. To avoid this, leave the boat in the shade, or tie the boat up and leave it floating on the water. You can also shield your boat from the sun by laying your PFD and gear over it, or you can cool it down periodically by splashing the boat with water. If necessary, you may even want to let a little air out to reduce the pressure.

Storage in a Packraft

One of the coolest things about packrafts is that they offer the opportunity to use the inside of the boat as gear storage, which is amazing for multi-day trips.

Take Care of Your Tie Zip Closure

A lot of packrafts have tie zip closures. These are big zippers that can be used to fully open the boat up and let you put gear inside.

There are a couple of things that you need to know about tie zip closures if you intend to use them. Firstly, they are the most sensitive parts of the boat. You must, therefore, treat them very well. Things like sand and dirt are killers for the zipper system. The sun can also pose problems by drying the zippers out. To stop the zipper from drying out and make it much easier to use, you should put a regular treatment on it.

All in all, treat the zipper like it is your best friend because it is. It can be a major problem if the zipper fails when you are out and about. If the zipper fails, the boat is completely compromised.

Store Gear Sensibly

When using the inside of a boat to store gear, you should always assume that it will get wet, even if theoretically it shouldn't. With this in mind, you should always put stuff in dry bags.

Most packrafts designed for multi-day trips will have attachment points inside for you to clip your gear onto. This is so that when you are paddling through rough water, your gear will not be sliding all over the place.

When putting gear in the boat, it is important to consider how you want to distribute the weight. Ideally, you would like to distribute the weight evenly through the packraft.

However, if you are going to have more weight on one side, it is best to keep it at the back of the boat. If you have more weight in the back of the boat, the front will be slightly higher. This means that you will be plowing less water when moving forward. When paddling in flat or whitewater, the distribution of weight can make a big difference. It is important to note that if you have too much weight in the back, you will be dragging the back down. You want it to be as balanced a load as possible.

One last little tip that I would give when it comes to storage is that if you are putting anything hard inside the boat, think about wrapping it in something soft like clothes. This means that if you hit a rock, the material of the packraft will be a little padded.

Paddling a Packraft in Current

In general, it is a bad idea to try paddling in any whitewater beyond class one (which is just moving water) without having received some sort of instruction beforehand. When paddling in whitewater, things can go wrong and become serious very quickly.  Understanding what is going on with the water allows you to make smart decisions and avoid getting in trouble.

Packraft Outfitting

Some really useful accessories can help you out when using a packraft in whitewater. For example, it can help to have a high-performance backband. A backband that provides good support for your back and is not just an inflatable support designed for lounging.

You don't need high-performance thigh hooks. But if you have something that your knees can slip under, it will give you more control over the boat. Using thigh hooks is comparable to wearing a pair of Trail Runners. When you do not have thigh hooks, it's more like you are wearing flip-flops. You aren’t as attached to the boat, so will have less control when it bucks around. Thigh hooks help make you feel like one with the boat and give you a lot more control.

Rolling a Packraft

You can roll a packraft, however, it's not too easy. The wider a boat is, the more difficult it is to roll. Given that packrafts are very wide, you need to have good technique to roll one. If you try to roll it with more muscle and less technique, you can risk hurting yourself. That is why when I was testing the Alpacka Expedition in rough conditions. I decided right at the beginning that I would not roll the kayak if I flipped. I've been dealing with a shoulder issue. The last thing I wanted to do was risk doing more damage by rolling a big, wide boat.

If you want to learn to roll your packraft you need good technique. I would suggest learning it first with a whitewater kayak.

What Grade of Whitewater Can You Use a Packraft in?

Packrafts that have decks and are designed to be used with a skirt can handle some really challenging whitewater. They can be used in up to class 4 whitewater if you have the skills. That said, it is important to realize that packrafts are not as high-performance as a real whitewater kayak. They don't give you the same level of edge control that you have in a whitewater kayak. Packrafts do, however, provide both incredible stability and incredible maneuverability, which makes them a very forgiving boat.

The furthest you can safely take a self-bailing packraft is class three whitewater which is not overly technical. This is because if you hit a big wave and the water swamps you, it will not drain quickly enough to continue down the rapids. Until it drains, you will have extra weight in the boat making the packraft far less maneuverable. You will not be able to set up for the next move that you need to make in the rapids. Self-bailing boats are not great for technically challenging whitewater, but they are great for fun class one, two, and even some class three whitewater.

Bucket boats do not have any way to drain water. They are not protected from swamping. So they are only good for flat water and class one moving water.

While I've been paddling for 35 years, I've only been packrafting for a year. I am still learning a lot about packrafts. That said, after having an absolute blast doing my first multi-day trip in one this summer, I am looking forward to doing more pack rafting trips in the future.

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Sea Eagle 300X Review: Specifications

Price: $800 (USD) and comes with a paddle, pump, repair kit and bag. 
Length: 10’
Width: 39”
Weight: 31 LBS (14 Kg)
Capacity: 395 LBS (180 Kg)
Use: All conditions; flat water, white water, ocean surf, fishing, etc.

The 300X features:

• 16 floor drains to make it self-bailing
• A reinforced fabric floor
• A seat
• A large removable skeg
• Carry handles
• 18 D rings to secure the seat and gear
• A drop-stitch floor
• Three air chambers for safety
• A three-year warranty.

Portability

The Sea Eagle 300X is only 31 pounds. This is very lightweight for a kayak of this length. Hard shell kayaks of about the same size would usually be about 10 to 20 pounds heavier than this. The Sea Eagle 300X is, therefore, comparatively much lighter. 

The Sea Eagle 300X is relatively small and has only three air chambers. This means that it does not take very long to set up. The two side chambers only need to be pumped up to around 3 psi, so they are quick to inflate. It has a drop stitch floor, which can be pumped up further. This makes the kayak more rigid and performs better, but does take a little more time to pump up. As I regularly use inflatable kayaks, I use an electric pump. This saves a lot of time and effort. However, it still only takes 5-10 minutes to fully inflate the 300X using the provided pump.

Stability

The Sea Eagle 300X is 39 inches wide, which is very wide for a kayak. Something that comes with width is stability, so, unsurprisingly, the 300X is a very stable kayak because of its width. On flat water, it would be very difficult to flip the kayak – you are more likely to fall out of it than to actually flip it. So, the Sea Eagle 300X gets high marks for stability. 

Performance

Flat Water

No 10-foot kayak is designed for speed, so the 300X, like any other 10-foot kayak, is not designed to go fast. Its width further emphasizes that this kayak was designed first and foremost for stability – speed was more of an afterthought. 

Having said that, the Sea Eagle 300X has a drop stitch floor that pumps up to 10 psi. This means it has quite some rigidity and does not feel like you are paddling in an amoeba. It has a good, hard feel to it. 

When you have the large, removable fin attached to the boat, it is surprising how well the 300X tracks. It does a really good job, even when you stop paddling, at gliding in a straight line. Once you remove the fin, the boat turns every time you put the paddle in the water. The kayak spins out, which is to be expected with a flat-bottomed and wide kayak such as the 300X. 

White Water

Think of the 300X as the four-wheel drive of kayaks: very stable. It was very stable in white water. The 300X is designed to get through waves and rapids very easily – even for someone who does not have a lot of experience in rough water. It is confidence-inspiring and stable. 

Sea Eagle claims the 300X can be used in up to class four white water. However, I personally think that this is a bit of a stretch. I would not take the 300X into grade four white water. This is not because of the durability of the kayak, but because the 300X does not have the correct outfitting for it. Namely, the 300X does not have foot braces or thigh hooks to keep you attached to, and in good control of the boat. Without these parts, I am just sitting on top of the boat, cannot easily edge it, and am likely to fall off the kayak. It is comparable to wearing flip-flops instead of wearing a well-fitted trail shoe. You just don’t have the control in the 300X that is needed for class four white water. 

That said, I would absolutely use the Sea Eagle 300X in white water up to class three. This, of course, depends on your skill level. 

Durability

Sea Eagle has been making inflatable kayaks for 56 years. They have really figured things out and know what they are doing. This is why they have three-year warranties on all of their inflatable kayaks. 

That being said, the Explorer series is designed for doing pretty much anything, including up to class four white water. I would trust the durability of this kayak in white water. That said, like with any inflatable kayak, you cannot abuse it. You can, however, definitely use it with confidence. 

The Sea Eagle 300X has a reinforced fabric floor. This means that a sharp object would have to go through two layers of fabric – one of which is a drop stitch layer. You would really have to hit something very sharp for it to manage that. I have no questions about the durability of a Sea Eagle inflatable kayak. 

Value

Sea Eagle, in general, provides pretty exceptional value. The 300X packages start at $800 (USD) and go up to around $1000 (USD). The price difference comes from the different upgrades you can get. For example, you can upgrade both the seat and the paddles. 

Regardless, $800 (USD) for a well-made and durable kayak, such as the 300X, is a good deal. Especially when the kayak comes with a paddle, pump, bag, and repair kit. In warm weather, all you need to start using the 300X is to buy a PFD (personal flotation device). I think the Sea Eagle 300X is exceptional value for the cost, but only if it is the type of kayak you are looking for. 

Who is the Sea Eagle 300X For?

Simply put, the 300X is not a kayak that you can cover a lot of ground with on flat water. Instead, you get this kayak if you want a stable, durable, and versatile kayak. This is the sort of inflatable kayak you buy if you want to use it for a variety of purposes: flat water, fishing, kayak camping, running rapids, etc. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, you can have a lot of fun in the Sea Eagle 300X for a long time without feeling like you need to upgrade. 

Kayaks: Sea Eagle 300X
Paddles: Aqua Bound Manta Ray
PFD:  NRS Ninja Lifejacket
Clothing: NRS Long Sleeve Paddling Shirt, NRS Short Sleeve Paddling Shirt

The post Sea Eagle 300X Inflatable Kayak Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Intex Explorer K2 Specifications

Price: $150 (USD)
Length: 10’ 3”
Width: 36”
Weight: <30 LBS (<13 KG)
Capacity: 400 LBS (181 KG)
Best Use: Calm Water

Sea Eagle 330 Specifications

Price: $200 (USD)
Length: 11’ 1”
Width: 34”
Weight: 26 LBS (12 KG)
Capacity: 500 LBS (227 KG)
Best Use: All conditions

Intex Explorer K2 and Sea Eagle 330 Features

Both budget kayaks feature:

• Three chambers of floor and two side tubes
• Skegs. The Explorer has a removable skeg while the Sea Eagle has two integrated skegs
• Skirts over the bow and stern

Both inflatable kayaks include:

• Two paddles
• Two seats
• A pump 
• A repair kit
• A carry bag

These kayaks look very similar to each other and are both sold as tandem inflatable kayaks. In reality, they are more suitable for an adult and child tandem as there is not a lot of space in either of them. The weight capacity is low, even in the Sea Eagle which has a slightly larger capacity. 

Build Quality

When you compare the build quality of the Intex Explorer K2 and the Sea Eagle 330 some things stand out.

Valves

The side tubes on the Intex Explorer have Boston valves which are basic but good for blowing the kayak up. However, the floor, skirts, and seats use pool toy-style valves. This shows us that the Intex Explorer is less of a serious kayak and more like a pool toy. 

In comparison, the Sea Eagle 330 uses higher-quality Boston valves on all three chambers, the two skirts, and the seats. 

While testing the Intex Explorer K2, I discovered that there is a seam on the top of the side tube exactly where your hands hit when you paddle. This is incredibly annoying. The Sea Eagle 330, in comparison, doesn’t have any seams. 

The Bow Skirt

On the Sea Eagle 330, the entire front skirt is inflatable whereas on the Intex Explorer, only one band on the skirt is inflatable. This means that the bow of the Sea Eagle 330 looks better, is sturdier, and has more structural integrity. 

Around the bow, lines hold the skirts down and provide something for you to grab onto. The line on the Intex Explorer is a hollow, cheap line with two anchor points, whereas the Sea Eagle 330 has a real rope with many anchor points. 

The Warranty

Overall the Sea Eagle 330 feels more robust. The quality difference is illustrated very clearly by the difference in warranty. The Intex Explorer K2 has a 90-day warranty for factory defects while the Sea Eagle 330 comes with a three-year warranty for manufacture defects. That is a really big difference for the $50 price difference. 

On top of that, the Sea Eagle 330 is designed to be used in up to class 3 whitewater whereas the Explorer is designed for calm water only. That tells you straight away the confidence that each company has in their product. 

So in terms of build quality, the Sea Eagle performs significantly better. 

Performance

When it comes to performance the Intex Explorer and the Sea Eagle 300 don’t differ very much. However, there are a few small differences. 

Both kayaks blow up to only 1 psi. This is very soft and therefore affects their performance. Despite this, the Sea Eagle 330 felt firmer and therefore performed better. This is due to the bigger I-beams on the floor of the kayak that provide more rigidity to it. 

The Intex Explorer has a very soft floor. What this means is that when you sit in the kayak, your weight actually bends the kayak and pushes the center down. This will slow you down. It also makes paddling less comfortable because you will be sitting with your legs higher than your butt.  

The Sea Eagle offers a seat upgrade that provides a little more height and rigidity to avoid sinking the kayak in the middle. Even without this, the extra rigidity on the floor of the Sea Eagle keeps your feet below your butt making the whole experience more comfortable. 

The other big difference is that the Sea Eagle 330 can handle up to class 3 whitewater while the Intex Explorer can only be used in calm water. Beyond this, the speed and maneuverability of both kayaks are very similar. 

The Accessories

The Paddle

Both budget kayaks come with paddles that have very basic, aluminum shafts and plastic blades. These work when initially getting into the sport but are not as lightweight, durable, and efficient as higher-quality paddles. They are however sufficient to help introduce you to the sport. 

The Sea Eagle paddle is about 238 cm whereas the Intex paddle is 218 cm (paddles are measured in centimeters, not inches). For a wide, sit-on-top style kayak 218 cm is not ideal because you will have to reach further over the side tubes to get the blade in the water. The Sea Eagle paddle, which is slightly longer, is much easier to use in these wide kayaks. 

Another key difference between the two paddles is the blades themselves. The blade on the Intex paddle is completely flat. This means that the paddle blade bends when you put any pressure on it in the water. So instead of gaining power, the blade will cause you to lose power. 

The blade on the Sea Eagle paddle has a rib down the center. This prevents the blade from bending at all. This slight design difference gives you significantly more paddling efficiency when using the Sea Eagle paddles. 

The Pump

Intex provides you with an adequate pump. It has nozzles for both the pool toy and Boston valves. It is, however, very short and requires you to bend over to use it. This makes it very uncomfortable to use. 

The Sea Eagle 330 comes with a foot pump and all the necessary connections. These screw onto the valve so that the pump does not pop off when you are pumping. You do not have to bend over to use it which makes it much more comfortable. The Sea Eagle pump is an upgrade from the Intex pump. 

Value

The Intex Explorer sells for $150 from Amazon and the equivalent Sea Eagle 330 package sells for $200 directly from Sea Eagle. So is the extra $50 worth it, what kayak is the best cheap kayak to purchase?

There are a lot of advantages with the Sea Eagle; you get a better paddle, a more durable kayak, more upgrade options, and a much better warranty. So I would absolutely pay the extra $50 for the upgrade. 

However, that does not mean that the Intex Explorer is the wrong kayak to purchase. Both these inflatable kayaks do a great job of letting people get on the water and try out kayaking for an affordable price. 

If you enjoy kayaking, you will very quickly outgrow the Intex Explorer K2. You will likely take a little longer to outgrow the Sea Eagle 330 because it is more durable and can be used in a variety of conditions. 

The reality is that you get so much value out of both of these budget kayaks. It is amazing to be able to pay $200 or less and get an inflatable kayak, paddles, seats, a pump, and a carry bag. There is no right or wrong decision to make when choosing which kayak to buy. But there are some very good reasons to pay the very little upgrade and purchase the Sea Eagle 330. 

Kayaks: Sea Eagle 330, Intex Explorer K2
PFD:   NRS Odyssey PFD (Touring and Rec)
Clothing:  NRS Short Sleeved Guide Shirt
Sunglasses: Wiley X

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This is an inflatable touring kayak that claims to perform as well as a hardshell touring kayak. But the question is how good is the Decathlon Itiwit X500? Is it as good as a hardshell kayak? Who should consider buying the Itiwit X500? What are the drawbacks, if any, of the Decathlon Itiwit X500?

The Decathlon Itiwit X500 Inflatable Kayak Specifications

Price: $1300 (USD)
Length: 12’ 6”
Width: 25”
Weight: 35 LBS (16KG)
Capacity: 275 LBS (125 KG)
Best Use: All Conditions

Features of the Decathlon Itiwit X500 Inflatable Kayak

This kayak has a range of different features including:

• A standard large cockpit with a cockpit rim that accepts a skirt
• Ultra-durable carry handles at either end
• Bungees on the bow deck for storing gear
• A padded raised seat
• Adjustable footpegs
• A dry bag-style access port in the back deck
• The entire boat is drop stitch construction which allows you to pump it up firmly, all the way to 10 psi.

Having pumped the kayak up I was really excited to try it out. It’s the first inflatable kayak I’ve ever seen that looks like a hard-shelled kayak when pumped up. That should translate into a really nice performance. Let's find out!

Portability

This is a portable kayak. It literally fits in a backpack!

The pack that the Itiwit X500 comes in has adjustable straps, a hip belt, and a shoulder belt, just like a backpack. This makes it very comfortable to carry. The only downside to the pack is that there is not a lot of extra room, so you do have to put the deflated kayak back into the backpack in the correct way otherwise it will not fit back in.

This kayak is around 25 LBS, which for a boat this size, is not very heavy. It is easy to carry around and it is very soft. Putting it on your shoulder to carry is much more comfortable than with a hard shell kayak.

So all in, the Decathlon Itiwit X500 gets top marks for its portability.

Performance of the Itiwit X500

This is the aspect of the Itiwit X500 that I was really interested in. And after using it on an 11-mile kayak trip, I can say that it really is the very first inflatable kayak that I have tried that performs as well as a hard shell kayak. That is something special.

The fact that the entire kayak is made with drop stitch construction plays a large role in its high performance level. There is no flex in this kayak, it is rigid. And that helps it cut nicely through the water.  

There are five inflatable compartments that make up the Itiwit X500; two on the side, one on the floor, and two bridges that provide structural integrity. With these compartments they have managed to create a bow shape that really cuts well through the water, making it an enjoyable boat to paddle.

Stability of the Itiwit X500

This is a 25” wide kayak, which is typically considered a rec/touring kayak. You give up some stability when you drop to 25” because you want more speed and performance. And that is what you get with this kayak. It performs very well.

But how much stability do you actually give up? It’s primary stability, which refers to when just sitting in it and playing around, is not as stable as a big, flat, recreational kayak. However, it is still very stable. I had no problems with it at all.

Its secondary stability, which is when you hold a kayak on edge, left a little to be desired. It wasn’t terrible, but it does feel a little bit unstable when you hold it on an edge. There are two things that go with that. If it is very easy to get on edge, it means in rough conditions it can be very easy to manoeuver the kayak. The slight downside there is that it doesn't have rock-solid stability on the edge.

This says to me that a beginner paddler hopping into the Itiwit X500 might struggle if it gets on edge at all.

Comfort of the Itiwit X500

There are a few things to talk about here. Let's start with space. This kayak has quite a bit of foot room. Even as a tall, 6’ 2” guy, I had plenty of foot room in the Itiwit X500. The footpegs didn’t have much further to go, so anyone who is 6’ 4”/ 6’ 5” or taller, may be a little too tall for this kayak.

The footpegs are wonderful. They are easy to adjust and provide a lot of support. It is hands down, the best portable footpeg system I have ever come across.

One of the things that you expect in a portable kayak is that you will have to give up some comfort for the kayak’s portability. Is that the case for the X500? Yes. You do!

The seat, while not bad, is effectively a piece of foam rather than a suspension seat. It has some excellent features including the way it locks into place, it's high back support, and the fact that it is slightly elevated to keep you dry if there is any water in the boat. That said, it is less robust and comfortable than a typical seat found in a hard-shell kayak.  

There are no thigh hooks, but your knees fit comfortably in the cockpit. And the foam placed there makes it very comfortable.

Overall, using the Decathlon Itiwit X500 was a very comfortable experience.

Features of the Itiwit X500

The features of this kayak are pretty typical for a day-touring kayak. It has got some bungees upfront to store gear or a day pack. There is a little pouch to slide your paddle under if you need to stow your paddle for some reason.

Instead of perimeter lines, which a lot of touring kayaks have, it has perimeter straps on the bow and stern. These serve the same purpose, they are something to grab hold of and can help with rescues.

There is a dry bag-style opening to the back compartment. There is no bulkhead separating the bow and stern compartments which means any water that gets into one will flow down to the other, so anything you store in the stern compartment will not stay dry. You will need to put it in dry bags. But this is a great feature to help make the stern compartment more accessible and opens up a world of possibilities for multi-day trips.

It is not a rich-featured kayak but has almost everything you need. One thing it doesn’t have is a rudder or a skeg. But with this kayak, you don’t really need one. It already tracks well, so unless you paddle a long distance in a cross-distance, it doesn’t need one.

The Cockpit

The cockpit is a notable feature of this inflatable kayak because it has a cockpit rim that allows you to use a skirt. There is an option to use the Itiwit skirt that is sold specifically for this kayak and it fits the kayak very well. It does hold its place. But if you got a loaded wave in your lap it might pop out of place. It isn’t really designed to withstand heavy white water or big ocean waves. It does, however, provide a nice seal.

One thing to note is that the bungee rand on the sprayskirt is quite narrow. So other bungee skirts may not work on the Itiwit X500 unless they have a narrow rim.

Who is the Decathlon Itiwit X500 Infltable Kayak for?

This is a kayak that you can take in a lot of different conditions. They say it is an all-condition touring kayak, and I would agree with that. If you are wearing a skirt you can definitely be very comfortable taking this kayak into class 2 white water. I might even push it a bit and put it into some class 3. The biggest weak point would be the skirt at that point. But realistically class 2 and below.

This kayak can be used in all ocean and lake conditions except if there is a big swell that might implode your skirt.

So it very much is an all-conditions boat. But it is not a boat that is designed for beginners. It is more for a mid-level paddler, who has a bit of experience paddling and wants a kayak that is fun to paddle. They don’t want to just get out on the water, but they want to be able to use a boat that is fun to paddle, can slice through the water, and allows them to cover real distances. It is stable enough for an adventurous beginner, but definitely not for all beginners.

Value of the Decathlon Itiwit X500 Inflatable Kayak

This inflatable kayak retails for about $1300 (USD). In my mind that is exceptional value. A hard shell kayak of this nature costs around $1200 to $1300 (USD), so you are paying a very small premium, if at all, for the portability of the Itiwit X500.

What are you giving up for that? Well, a little bit of comfort, and that is to be expected. If you are spending eight-hour days regularly in this kayak it will make a difference, if you are only going out in it an hour or two, it probably isn’t going to make that much difference.

What it really comes down to is, is portability something you need? You can fit this kayak in a backpack, in the trunk of your car. You can store it in your closet at home. And for many people, there isn’t really an option between having a hard shell or having an inflatable kayak. So if you want an inflatable kayak of this nature, with high performance, it is exceptional value.

Overall I give the Itiwit X500 inflatable kayak two thumbs up. I really like it and it is a boat that will stay in my quiver. I look forward to using this kayak for many more years to come.

I took this kayak into the swamp on an adventure! Check out my article on Kayaking the Okefenokee Swamp.

Kayak: Decathlon Itiwit X500
Paddles:  Aqua Bound Manta Ray Hybrid
PFD:   NRS Odyssey PFD (Touring and Rec)
Clothing:  NRS Short Sleeved Guide Shirt
Sunglasses: Wiley X

The post Decathlon Itiwit X500 Inflatable Kayak Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

The bigger challenge nowadays is choosing the right inflatable kayak. That's why we are going to take a look at Aquaglide’s top three performance ‘touring' inflatable kayaks to help you choose the right one for you. The top three Aquaglide ‘touring’ kayaks include the Chelan 120, the Deschutes 110, and the Cirrus 110. But how do you know which one is right for you?

The Cirrus 110

This kayak is Aquaglide’s latest kayak, new in 2023. It is available as the Aquaglide Ultralight Cirrus 110, a K1, but also as a tandem kayak, known as the Cirrus 150. This is the ultra-lightweight inflatable kayak that is a rec-touring machine!

Aquaglide Cirrus 110 Specifications

Price: $1300 (USD)
Length: 11’
Width: 35”
Weight: 14.75 LBS (6.7 KG)
Capacity: 300 LBS (136 KG)

Key Features of the Aquaglide Cirrus 110 Kayak

This boat has side tubes and a floor made of TPU, a super strong and lightweight material. The floor is also drop stitch which gives it a lot of stiffness.

The Cirrus 110 has an inflatable seat, a footrest, and a fin, and comes with a compression storage bag and a repair kit. It also has D-rings, Molle plates, and bungees on the bow and stern for stowing gear and tying things down. This kayak comes with a two-year guarantee against manufacturing defects.

What Makes the Cirrus 110 Kayak Unique?

Hands down the biggest thing that makes this kayak stand out is that it weighs less than 15 LBS. That is the lightest inflatable kayak I have ever picked up – but it doesn’t feel like a pool toy. It feels strong and like it will withstand real use as a kayak. And this all comes from the TPU material used. This is a lightweight, durable, and sturdy material.

The Cirrus 110 is an all-purpose inflatable kayak. It has a drain plug, meaning that if you do get water inside you can drain it out while you are in the water. It also has a fair amount of rocker, meaning it can handle some small waves. It isn’t just a totally calm-weather kayak. It’s kind of a Jack of all trades boat – obviously not for white water, but definitely, it can deal with a lot of variable conditions.

Who is the Cirrus 110 Kayak For?

This kayak is for someone who wants a boat that can handle a variety of conditions and not just flat water. But more than anything it is for someone who wants an ultra-lightweight kayak and is willing to pay a premium for it.

This kayak opens up a whole new world because you can not only carry it easily to the water, but you can also go on little adventures and missions with it. For instance, you can hike with it to lakes that are otherwise hard to reach, or you can go on backpacking trips with it. This kayak really is for people who value weight over anything else, but still want a kayak that they can actually cover some ground it, and do so enjoyably.

The Chelan 120 Kayak

This is the smallest of the Chelans, which also available as 120, 140, and 155. The Aquaglide Chelan 120 is like the SUV of the Aquaglide inflatable touring kayak. It is the kayak that is designed to handle a wide variety of conditions.

Aquaglide Chelan 120 Specifications

Price: $1150 (USD)
Length: 11’ 3”
Width: 32.5”
Weight: 28 LBS (13 KG)
Capacity: 300 LBS (136 KG)

Features of the Chelan 120 Kayak

The tubes in the floor are made from Duratex PVC which is both light and super durable. The floor also is also made of drop stitch for added stiffness.

The kayak comes with a seat, a footrest, a fin, a storage bag, and a repair kit. It also comes with a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

There are lots of similarities between the Chelan 120 and the Cirrus 110. They both have rocker, and a decent curvature to the bottom of the kayak so that they can handle waves. They also have a similar width.

But the key difference here is that the Chelan 120 has some added features that the Cirrus 110, in trying to keep its weight down, does not have. For example, the Chelan has five different drain plugs, the seat is a higher performance seat, there is an accessory mount in the middle, and there are splash guards on both the bow and stern.

Who is the Chelan 120 Kayak For?

This ‘touring’ inflatable kayak is clearly for someone who wants a performance, rec-touring inflatable kayak that you can paddle on mini-missions. This boat is for people who want to be able to take it onto moving water, kayak in conditions that are windier, and just use it in a variety of conditions. This is for someone who doesn’t need to spend a premium for the extra lightweight TPU Cirrus 110 because this kayak is already incredibly light.

Something to note is that I was about as big as you would want to be for the Chelan 120 inflatable kayak. So the 140 might be a better size for someone my size, and the Chelan 120 is more appropriate for people who are less than about 6’ 2” and 200 LBS.

The Deschutes 110 Kayak

The Aquaglide Deschutes 110 model comes in bigger models including the 130 and the 145. The 110 is Aquaglide’s most budget-friendly performance touring inflatable kayak. It is also designed for calmer conditions.

Aquaglide Deschutes 110 Specifications

Price: $680 (USD)
Length: 11’
Width: 36”
Weight: 18 LBS (8 KG)
Capacity: 300 LBS (136 KG)

Features of the Deschutes 110 Kayak

Like the Chalan, the Deschutes 110 is made from Duratex PVC which is lightweight and durable. But unlike the Chalan and the Cirrus, the Deschutes has an EVA floor, not a drop stitch floor. The kayak comes with a seat, a footrest, a fin, a storage bag, and a repair kit.

The Deschutes is the most budget-friendly performance inflatable kayak that Aquaglide has. They have cut the cost in a couple of ways, including getting rid of the drop stitch floors and having a thinner seat. While this does cause it to lose some performance (because the kayak will not be as stiff), having a duratex and EVA floor, as opposed to a drop stitch floor, as well as having a thinner seat, means that your sitting position is a lot lower in this kayak. Accordingly, your centre of gravity is much lower in the Deschutes and your stability will be much better than in the other boats.

The other big difference between this and the other kayaks is the rocker profile. The Deschutes is a lot flatter meaning it will pierce through waves as opposed to going over waves. That’s why it is really designed for calm water paddling in protected waters.

Who is the Deschutes 110 For?

This is a kayak for people who want a really lightweight kayak and want to stick to kayaking in protected calm waters. And, it is much more budget-friendly than the other options!

Which Aqauglide Kayak Should You Choose?

To sum it up, the Chelan and the Cirrus are two very similar boats. The big difference between these two is that the Chelan has more features and consquently weighs more than the Cirrus is ultra-lightweight which sits at only 15 LBS.

And then you have the Deschutes 110, which is the most economical and user-friendly of the three kayaks. It will feel more stable, it has a much flatter profile, and is designed for calm water.

All three of these Aquaglide inflatable kayaks are very much performance recreational kayaks. That means you can comfortably cover a good distance in each of these kayaks and really enjoy your paddle.

I did a bunch of inflatable kayak reviews before this one, including some of these kayaks. Have a look at the full inflatable kayak category of reviews.

Kayaks: Aquaglide Ultralight Cirrus 110, Aquaglide Deschutes 110, Aquaglide Chelan 120.

The post Aquaglide Inflatable Kayaks – Which Aquaglide Kayak? appeared first on Hazeadventure.

About the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak

Price: $1,030 (USD)

Length: 13’

Width: 32”

Weight: 42 LBS (19 KG)

Capacity: 450 LBs (204 KG)

Best Use: All Waters

This kayak features a drop-stitch floor, a rudder mount (if you want to attach one), inflatable combing (if you want to use a spray skirt), carry handles at either end, a neoprene knuckle guard on the deck, an integrated fin, D-ring tie downs on both the front and back deck, bungees on the front deck, an adjustable foot brace, and a seat with inflatable lumbar support. The Expedition Elite kayak also has built-in aluminum rib frames on both the bow and stern to make the ends firm, a hatch to access the stern, and a zipper to access the bow. The package comes with a backpack and repair kit, but no pump or paddle. 

Is the Expedition Elite kayak easy to set up? 

This kayak takes a little bit longer to inflate than your average inflatable model. This is because there are 9 chambers to pump-up, ranging from the 2 smaller ones around the cock-pit, to the drop-stitch floor, and of course, the seat. Given that this kayak is attempting to accomplish more, it makes sense that setting it up would take a bit long (but just a bit). As always, I recommend an electric pump to make this process easier. It also helps to have a pump with a pressure gauge on it so that the kayak can be optimally inflated.

Advanced Elements attached a couple of permanent tags to this boat, which have written instructions for getting started, as well as a QR code that will send you to a video guide (as long as you have internet access where you’re about to paddle). 

In terms of packing up at the end of the day, I was happy to see that the backpack included a generous amount of extra volume. Once an inflatable kayak is unpacked for the first time, it never quite packs down as tight again. 

Does the Expedition Elite kayak have good portability?

At 42 pounds, the Expedition Elite is on the slightly heavy end of normal for an inflatable kayak, but still totally manageable. One of the reasons the weight is a bit higher is because of the durable shell that protects the inner air chambers. I’m certainly happy to shoulder a few extra pounds to increase my kayak’s lifespan.

Just note that the tougher material takes a little longer to dry out. Some patience for the fresh air to do its thing, and maybe a towel to assist in the matter, is required at the end of the day before packing up. If you stuff the kayak back in the backpack when it’s still damp, then you might be greeted with mildew when you go to use it the next time. Speaking of the backpack, the padded shoulder straps and duffle-bag-style carry handle make getting from the parking lot to the water’s edge a much smoother mission. 

Is the Expedition Elite a stable kayak? 

Absolutely. The AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite has a wide and flat hull, which gives it excellent initial stability. I felt 100% confident while simply sitting flat in this kayak. Because of the sculpted edges of the hull, this model also has great secondary stability. Being able to lock in while on edge is important for more aggressive paddling, or paddling in rougher conditions. You do need to lean pretty far over to get the kayak onto its edge, but that is to be expected with the large air chambers and the overall width of the boat. 

Is the Expedition Elite a fast kayak?

The AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite is marketed as an inflatable touring kayak – something that can cover distance and even hold its own on a multi-day paddle trip. And after taking about 10 strokes away from the shore, a big smile came over my face. This kayak can actually move! The aluminum ribs on the bow and stern cut through the water, and it can maneuver quite easily. Now, if you’re a hardcore, hardshell touring kayaker, then of course the Expedition Elite won’t be able to match that standard. But if you’re someone who needs an inflatable kayak, perhaps due to lack of storage or transportation options, but still wants to do some extensive paddling, then this model will certainly fit the bill. 

Is the Expedition Elite a comfortable kayak? 

I had a chance to paddle the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite for about an hour and half, which gave me a good sense of this kayak’s comfort level. Let’s start with the seat. The padding underneath is a little on the thin side, which made me start to shift around and look forward to a stretch break shortly after the hour mark. The advantage of less padding under the butt is that you sit low in the cockpit, thereby increasing the stability of the kayak. The seat’s inflatable lumbar support worked beautifully. Over time, after so many outdoor adventures, my lower back has become an issue, so I welcomed this feature. Just be sure to wear a high-back life jacket to pair with this high-back seat. 

A subtle advantage I noticed with the Expedition Elite is that the shallow but soft bow, as well as the side air tubes, provided support and purchase for my legs and knees. I was actually able to dig into these areas to help put the kayak on edge. Likewise, the knuckle-guard was a nice touch that I could tell was really reducing the wear and tear with each stroke. 

Foot Brace System in the Expedition Elite

One standout weakness of this boat is the foot brace system. Unfortunately the bar up front tends to fall to the floor. This meant that only my heels were able to push up against it, which put both feet into a slightly stressed, plantar flexion position. You really need support in the midfoot area in order to be comfortable for the long haul. I would love to see a full support system there in future iterations of the Expedition Elite.

The other thing that plays a factor, though there’s not much that Advanced Elements can do about this one, is the tapering that occurs in the bow as a result of the air chambers. I’m 6-foot-2, with about a 34-inch inseam, and I felt that I was at the upper limit for this kayak. If you are looking for something that can handle long journeys, then I think someone of my height or less would fare best. 

Does the Expedition Elite kayak have good features? 

Definitely. Most of them I’ve covered while referencing some other topics, but here’s a quick recap. The aluminum ribs slice through the water and give the inflatable boat some welcomed structure. The knuckle guards protect your hands from the rougher material of the durable shell, which itself is a nice feature, and one that will protect the inner chambers while only adding marginal weight to the boat. The foot brace isn’t the best, and the seat cushion leaves something to be desired, but the seat’s lumbar support is great, so overall, the comfort-related features get the job done. 

Can I use the Expedition Elite for multi-day kayaking trips?

One thing I haven’t talked about yet is the back hatch – a crucial feature for overnight trips and one that isn’t often found in inflatable kayaks. The top of this storage area has a built-in dry-bag for some degree of waterproofing. However, the bulkhead is just a simple, inflatable one, which won’t keep water out if you happen to swamp the kayak. With that said, no matter the type of kayak, it is best to assume that water will work its way throughout the boat, and therefore, it’s best to use separate dry-bags for all your gear. 

There is also the zipper-access up front, which extends the interior storage options. Because of the air chambers, there isn’t a lot of volume to work with in the bow or stern, but between the two, and then full utilization of the deck bungees, you can totally make it work for a multi-day trip. Just don’t try to bring your whole glamping set up. And if it’s a shoulder-season expedition where you’ll need those warmer clothes, well…you’ll have to be a bit of a packing ninja. 

Who is the Expedition Elite inflatable kayak for?

First and foremost, the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite is for anyone who wants/needs a portable kayak that also performs exceptionally well compared to other inflatable models. However, if high-performance is your top priority, then a classic hardshell touring kayak would be the better way to go. In terms of the different conditions this kayak can handle, because of its relative performance capabilities, it can handle rougher waters, but I would advise against big-wave territory (such as angry oceans or intense rapids). A skirt will sit pretty loose on the inflatable combing. Yes, it will repel splashes (and help keep you warm), but a good wave will probably plunge right through. Quick tip to prevent this in more moderate conditions: put a fully stuffed dry-bag on your lap so that the skirt can’t sag as deep when swamped. 

Is the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite worth it?

Yes! At just over a thousand bucks (USD), I think the Expedition Elite delivers excellent value. You will undoubtedly find plenty of cheaper inflatable kayaks, but those likely won’t compare across-the-board. This model is stable, surprisingly speedy, decently comfortable, appropriate for long trips, and an all-around well-made boat. That’s tough to beat at this kind of price point. 

I got a kick out of testing this kayak and I hope this review helps you make an informed decision as to whether the Expedition Elite should be your next vessel. As always, head on over to PaddleTV for more video reviews, paddling tips, cool trips, and everything else paddling-related. Catch you next time! 

Other paddling gear I use and recommend

NOTE:  These are affiliate links where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it’s a great way to show your support. Thanks!     

FOOTWEAR  

PADDLING SHIRTS / TOPS  

PFD’S – LIFE JACKETS

OTHER PADDLING GEAR  

SUNGLASSES

WileyX

VIDEO PRODUCED BY  

Heliconia  

Contact: info@hazeadventure.com

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ABOUT THE AQUAGLIDE CHELAN 120 

PRICE: $1,100 USD

LENGTH: 11′ 3″

WIDTH: 32.5″

WEIGHT: 28 LBS (13 KG)

CAPACITY: 300 LBS (136 KG)

BEST USE: Touring 

The Chelan 120 has 3 air compartments, 2 side compartments, and a floor. The side compartments are made of Duratex. The side compartments inflate to 3-psi. The floor has drop-stitch construction. The floor inflates to 6-psi. There are 4 carry handles, 1 on each end, and 1 on each side. The seat is also inflatable and has a high backrest. In addition, there's an adjustable footrest, lots of loops throughout the kayak to tie things down, deck bungees on both the stern and bow, splash deflectors for both the stern and bow, a Scotty Mount for accessories, a removable skeg/fin, and 4 sealable scuppers to drain water that gets in the cockpit. 

How portable is the AquaGlide Chelan 120 kayak? 

Top marks for portability! Being that the Chelan 120 is an inflatable kayak, it comes as no surprise that it's a breeze to move around. But it's not just the fact that it packs down into a generous equipment bag, it's that the Chelan 120 is light. Most inflatables are in the 35 to 45 pound range, whereas the Chelan 120 weighs in at only 28 pounds. By my assessment, most of the weight savings comes from AquaGlide using those Duratex side compartments, and drop-stitch flooring, which eliminates the need for an internal bladder. 

Is the Chelan 120 kayak easy to pack?

I was happy to see that the carry bag AquaGlide gives you has extra volume built in. One of the common challenges with inflatable kayaks or SUPs is that they're so dang hard to pack back in at the end of the day. You just can't match the original factory-pressed condition with your bare hands. So it was a relief to see this bag had a nice buffer. 

Is the AquaGlide Chelan 120 kayak stable? 

At 32.5 inches wide, with good-size side tubes (say that 5 times fast!), the Chelan 120 is a very stable kayak. Sitting flat, I felt no wobbliness whatsoever. However, one thing to note is that the inflatable seat cushion does elevate you and the overall center of gravity. I could see a situation where if some waves or a strong gust came along, the paddler might topple out even though the kayak itself may not flip. Since the Chelan 120 is specifically designed for flatwater, I'm still going to give it top marks, once again, in this category. 

Is the Chelan 120 kayak comfortable? 

Very much so. One of the best indicators when I'm doing these paddle tests is noticing how the time passes. Sometimes, after less than an hour, I'm aching to wrap things up. Other times, I easily paddle for 2+ hours and have to stop myself so that we can film my breakdown while the light is still good.

The Chelan 120 took me into the second category. I covered lots of ground for this review and my butt was still feeling gooooood. Comfort is typically one of those things that gets sacrificed. In order to make inflatable kayaks more portable, you lose comfort. So it was a real treat to experience the soft, yet supportive seat in this boat. Just note, you'll want a high-back life-jacket to line up with the high-back seat. 

What is the capacity of the Chelan 120 kayak? 

In terms of height, I would say that the upper limit is about 6-foot-4. I'm 6-foot-2, with something like a 34-inch inseam, and was nearing the length limit. My feet were pressed up against the front splash guard. I could have also moved the seat back a bit to free up some length.

You just wouldn't want to push it too far, or that will make the kayak a little stern-heavy. This would take away from the paddling performance. Weight wise, AquaGlide lists a capacity of 300 pounds. I don't think someone who's close to the upper limit would feel particularly confident and comfortable because you sit relatively high in this boat. I'd suggest that anyone north of about 230 pounds scout out some higher-capacity options. 

How does the Chelan 120 kayak perform?

Is the Chelan 120 kayak a touring kayak? This is slightly misleading question since its lack of stowage capacity doesn't make it suited for long-haul trips. I see why some might consider it a “touring kayak” without the storage capacity.

This boat is 11-feet, 3-inches long, tracks quite well with the help of that removable skeg. For an inflatable kayak with such a flat hull, it moves along nicely. It's not the most efficient boat in the world, but that comes with the territory. For the type of kayak this is, it performs relatively well. I accept AquaGlide's touring kayak designation!

Is the Chelan 120 kayak maneuverable?

Oh yes! I was able to spin a full 360 with just two strokes. This kayak is highly maneuverable. 

What are the features of the Chelan 120 kayak?

I like that both the bow and stern have deck bungees. These are the only spots to store gear. You'd be hard pressed to pull off an overnighter, but these areas do allow for a couple of dry bags. I also appreciated all the loops and tie-down-points within the kayak. This makes it easy to secure your gear and maybe do some accessorizing. 

I was a little mixed on the pockets. The pockets on the seat were really cool, but I don't think I will get much use out of the side ones. I was also a little iffy on the scuppers. Because of where the floor sits relative to the waterline, these valves actually pull water into the boat if left open. If the kayak took on a big rush of water, opening the scuppers would drain most of it out, but you'd still be left with a little bit on the floor. So they're good in the event that the boat swamps, but you'd want to leave them closed while paddling.

And lastly, in the so-so department, I wasn't sure how effective the cockpit splash guard was. I went for a spin in some Class 1 water, but nothing really hit the front of the kayak that needed deflecting. And in my case, the back guard was missing from the package. I am certain that this is something AquaGlide would quickly correct if notified, but for now, I can't speak to its effectiveness either. 

Is the Chelan 120 kayak worth it?

Though there are many inflatable kayaks out there that ring it far below the $1,100 (USD) price tag of the AquaGlide Chelan 120, you tend to get what you pay for. The Chelan 120 is a kayak that you can grow in as a paddler. A lot of cheap models really only act as a litmus test for newbies.

If they decide that they like it, then usually that first purchase has to be tossed aside and a “real” kayak is needed to get into more serious paddling. But with the Chelan 120 you can log long, quality days on the water. And for that, it is certainly worth the investment. 

If you've been following along with some of my other high-end inflatable kayak reviews (like this inflatable kayak review, and this one), you'll notice that the AquaGlide Chelan 120 is priced similarly, but slightly higher. It's worth noting that this is the lightest of the three, and that's part of where the premium price comes from. What isn't included in this package is a paddle or a pump, and so that will have to be factored into the equation too. 

Who is the AquaGlide Chelan 120 kayak for?

This is a flatwater kayak. As I tested for myself, it can handle a bit of chop/some Class 1 water, but generally, you'll want to stick to calm, sheltered areas. But if conditions are good, the Chelan 120 is great for covering long distances. Other than that, extra-large paddlers will probably be more comfortable in something else, but the Chelan 120 does have good range, and was certainly comfortable for my 6-foot-2, 200 pound frame. 

So those are my thoughts on the AquaGlide Chelan 120 inflatable kayak! I'm glad I finally got to test it out. I'm a fan of this boat and I hope you all took some valuable feedback from this review. Make sure to share your thoughts with the PaddleTV/Hazeadventure communities as it helps to spread real-world word (another tongue-twister) about these boats. And of course, for more gear reviews, paddling how-tos, and exciting new adventures, follow along with PaddleTV.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links in which Ken Whiting earns a small commission at no additional cost to you, but it is a great way to show your support. Thanks!

Other paddling gear I use and recommend

NOTE:  These are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it's a great way to show your support. Thanks!     

FOOTWEAR  

NRS Kicker Remix Shoe  

NRS Boundary Boot  

PADDLING SHIRTS / TOPS  

NRS Guide Long Sleeve Shirt

NRS H2Core Silkweight Shirt  

NRS H2Core Silkweight Long Sleeve Shirt    

NRS Hydroskin Short Sleeve Shirt  

NRS Riptide Splash Jacket    

NRS Flux Dry Top      

PFD’S – LIFE JACKETS

NRS Odyssey PFD   

NRS Zen PFD    

NRS Chinook PFD      

OTHER PADDLING GEAR  

Zoleo Communicator  

NRS Drylander Sprayskirt    

WRSI Current Helmet      

PADDLING SHORTS/BOTTOMS  

NRS Benny Board Short   

NRS Hydroskin Shorts      

SUNGLASSES

WileyX

The post AquaGlide Chelan 120 Inflatable Kayak Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Inflatable kayaks have been exploding in popularity because they remove the two biggest barriers for getting into kayaking: transporting your kayak and storing your kayak. However, these perks can sometimes come at the cost of performance. So I put the Advanced Elements AirVolution to the test to figure out if it paddles as well as it packs. 

ABOUT THE AIRVOLUTION KAYAK

Retail Price: $1350 USD

Length: 13′

Width: 33″           

Weight: 39 LBS (18 KG)

Max Capacity: 300 LBS (136 KG)

Best Use: Protected Water & Slow Rivers

The AirVolution is a drop-stitch design kayak that's made from a heavy duty, PVC outer skin. It has a high back seat, deck bungees for stowing gear on the bow and stern, robust but soft grab handles, a removable tracking fin, and the hull is designed with a V-entry that transitions to flat. It also comes with a rolling duffel bag for transportation and a hand pump for inflation. 

Is the AirVolution kayak portable and easy to set up?

When it comes to portability, the AirVolution that I tried came with a fair-sized shoulder bag, which was slightly awkward to lug around. For 2022, they’ve upgraded the pack to a rolling duffel, which makes it much easier to handle. 

As for assembly, the AirVolution is made with drop-stitch construction which gets inflated to a rigid 10 psi. While this provides a distinct performance advantage over inflatables not made with this technology, it takes a significant amount of effort to pump the kayak by hand. For that reason, I would definitely recommend getting an electric pump if you plan on using the kayak regularly. Something else to note is that the removable skeg that came with my kayak was very brittle. I forgot that I had it installed, and when I put the inflated kayak on the ground, snap!, that was it for the skeg. The good news is that they sent me a replacement without hesitation. The folks at Advanced Elements insisted it must have been a defective piece. Unfortunately, I haven’t had a chance to put this claim to the test. That being said, Advanced Elements is a reputable manufacturer, and so I do expect the new skeg to be much stronger. Either way, I would recommend waiting until you're ready to launch before attaching it. 

Is the AirVolution Kayak stable?

The AirVolution is a stable enough kayak for anyone to enjoy. I'd be comfortable sending my mom for a paddle in this boat! While it is a kayak that would be difficult to flip, the hull does have a slight V-shape. This helps the kayak travel through the water more smoothly than a completely flat hull, but it does result in the kayak having a little ‘wobble’ to it.  This wobble does not mean it will flip, because anytime it wobbles to one side, it quickly stabilizes on a slight edge. 

What is the performance of the AirVolution kayak?

Advanced Elements claims that the AirVolution paddles like a hard-shell kayak. While the rigid, drop-stitch design goes a very long way to disguise the fact that it’s an inflatable kayak, to say that it paddles as well as a hard-shell kayak is a bit of a stretch. Don’t get me wrong though, for an inflatable kayak, the AirVolution is surprisingly smooth and fast through the water. Not surprisingly, without the benefit of the skeg, the kayak didn’t track very well, but it did turn on a dime. I look forward to testing it again with the new skeg, because I know it will make a big difference. 

Is the Advanced Elements AirVolution comfortable?

Where the hard-shell comparison drops off is in the comfort category. Next to other kayaks in that $1300 (USD) class, the AirVolution just doesn't have the same kinds of comfort features. The high back seat is supportive, but it doesn't offer the high and low positions that hard-shell models often do. Also, at 6'2″, I'm simply too tall for this kayak. My feet were right at the end of the cockpit, pressed into the combing. This is another noteworthy comparison to a hard-shell of the same class, in which you would typically have adjustable foot pegs. I did also find my legs pressed up against the anchor clips for the seat. Not the end of the world, but this presented a couple of pressure points that might become more noticeable over time. So in terms of comfort, the AirVolution gets the classic, “It is what it is,” stamp. These are the types of trade offs that come into play when prioritizing portability and stowability. 

Who is the Advanced Elements AirVolution for?

The AirVolution is a stable, packable, and paddle-able kayak. It will perform best in calm waters (protected from harsh wind or rough waves), or slow-moving rivers. 

Is the AirVolution inflatable kayak worth it? 

After a solid, hour-long paddle test of the Advanced Elements AirVolution, I can tell you that I like this kayak. It performs as a 13-foot, recreational touring kayak should – even as you'd expect a hard-shell to. For an inflatable kayak to compete with a hard-shell in terms of performance, that's a victory. Some people picture a sloppy feel when they think of inflatables, but not the AirVolution. This model is rigid and surprised me with its paddling efficiency. I wasn't blown away by the comfort of this boat, but I didn't expect that part to compete with a hard-shell of the same class. So if you've been craving the portability of an inflatable kayak but have apprehensions about performance, then the Advanced Elements AirVolution might be the Goldilocks model for you. 

I hope you enjoyed this article. For more information, check out my gear reviews, tips, and adventures on PaddlingTV. 

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links in which Ken Whiting earns a small commission at no additional cost to you, but it is a great way to show your support. Thanks!

The post Advanced Elements AirVolution Kayak Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.