Maybe you’ve heard the buzz around the Advanced Elements Tandem Inflatable Kayak. We’re here to give you a complete overview & explain the pro’s and con’s of this Yak!
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Why inflatable?
Inflatable kayaks can be extremely versatile for many reasons. Due to the compact size, they eliminate storage & transportation issues that many people have with non-inflatable kayaks.
Set up
Once you learn the technique, the Advance Elements Tandem Inflatable Kayak can be set up in under 10 minutes. You’ll need this pump so you can inflate it to the correct PSI. Here’s the gist:
-Inflate Main Chamber ~50 pumps, inflate secondary chamber to 2 PSI, inflate the floor, and deck lifts to 1 PSI.
-Insert plastic in front & rear.
-Clip on seats
Check Prices Online: REI.com
Launching the Kayak
The Advanced Elements Tandem Inflatable Kayak has handles in both the front and back for launching. It also has velcro straps to secure your paddles to while carrying. Keep in mind, this kayak is relatively heavy and large, so you’ll want to inflate it close to the water.
Is it comfortable and spacious?
When looking at inflatable tandem kayaks, this was our main concern! Both Maddie and I are tall (6’1) and fit comfortably in this kayak. Here’s some things that add to the comfort.
-The seats are soft and the straps are adjustable.
-The bungee cord allows room to store a large dry bag (heres the one we use)
-There is plenty of leg room, especially in the back. Both seats are cozy.
-The floor is soft & squishy, unlike hard kayaks.
-The length and width allow different seating positions.
How does it handle?
We use this yak for river, lake, and occasional floats in the Puget Sound here in Seattle. For us, it handles great paired with our Werner Paddles (made in Sultan, Washington). This kayak will not track as well as your standard kayak, however it is pretty darn good for an inflatable. This metal front and rear inserts add some rigidity that helps with handling. In addition, this kayak will not handle as well in the wind. This is a trade off that must be made when comparing hard/inflatable kayaks. If you’re just a recreational floater like us, the handling on this kayak is more than enough!
What about durability?
If you’re worried about this kayak popping, think again. This thing is built to last. The Advanced Elements Tandem Inflatable Kayak boasts multiple chambers and 3 layers of material for puncture resistance. We feel confident each time we float. It also comes with a repair kit.
How about packing it up?
Pack up is the same as set up, just in reverse order. Here’s a few things that make pack up a breeze. The quick deflate nozzles allow the yak to release air quickly so that you can fold it up & move on with your day. Keep in mind, its good practice to let your kayak dry fully before storing it for long periods.
Negatives
With any set up, there will be pro’s and con’s. Heres a few things to keep in mind.
-It’s heavy, especially in the bag.
-Quick set up takes some practice.
-Handling-we covered this above.
-If you don’t dry out the kayak immediately after use, it’s a pain to unfold/dry out at home.
Things we love
-It takes up less space than a standard kayak.
-It’s large and spacious
-It’s easy to inflate.
Thanks for reading this post. We hope it gave you some insight on the Advanced Elements Tandem Inflatable Kayak to help make your decision easier. Consider ordering this kayak HERE through REI! We love this kayak, we think you’ll agree! Life’s better on top!
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