Canoe & Kayak Magazine has posted short thoughts and reviews on the top inflatable kayaks for 2007. They take a peek at new designs from the likes of Innova, Sevylor, and Advanced Elements, each of which have their strengths and weaknesses, but offer a lot to love.
Inflatable kayaks have come a very long way in recent years. Technology has made them a lot stronger and lighter. Of course, they’ll never track as straight or as fast as a hardshell, but then again, I can’t store a hardshell under my bed. I’ve personally had some experience with the Advanced Elements inflatable kayaks, and I can tell you they are a lot of fun. They are quick, nimble, and can hold up to some reasonably rough conditions. I wouldn’t recommend running Class IV or V white water with them, but they are great for just about anything else.
In fact, I’m thinking of buying a newer model sometime in the next few months, and this article gives me a nice little comparison between the newer boats available. Obviously there are a lot more options in this category than in years past, and kayaks have some major improvements, most notably in on board storage and room. With the cooler weather finally hitting here in Texas, it might just be time to go shopping soon.
Thanks GoBlog!
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umm..might want to change that “would reccomend for class IV or V rapids” to wouldn’t..lol (would be an adrenaline rush though..if you lived..haha)
Thanks for the tip-off though. I have actually been contemplating one myself. Helpful article.
LOL! Thanks for the tip, I’ll make the change. My next headline could have been: “Blogger sued after inflatable kayaking tragedy”
Yes very good read would you recommend a kayak over a Sevylor?
Do you mean a hardshell kayak over those Sevylor boats that you linked to? Sevylor makes inflatable kayaks as well. I think it probably comes down to personal preference. It’s easier to move around in those rafts than it would be in a lot of kayaks and if you’re only going to use it for fishing that may be the way to go, but if you want to do some paddling, then a kayak is a great boat for being able to do both.
Also, kayaking is a great workout. I’m always starved after I come home. 🙂