What's the Best Beginner Inflatable Kayak? $170 vs $500 Inflatable Kayak
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 เม.ย. 2022
- Choosing the right 'first' kayak can be a real challenge. If storage space or transportation is an issue, you're probably interested in some type of portable kayak. In this video, we compare the $170 Intex Challenger K1 kayak to the $500 Advanced Elements Advanced Frame inflatable kayak. Both are great beginner kayaks, but why should you spend over $300 more for the Advanced Frame kayak?
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OTHER PORTABLE KAYAKS I recommend
Sea Eagle 380x: bit.ly/37jRbxP
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Decathlon Itiwit:
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Star Rival Inflatable Kayak: bit.ly/3lipNno
Isle Switch Hybrid SUP/Kayak: islesurfsup.sjv.io/5bJMJn
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Aqua Bound Manta Ray Carbon Paddle:
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NRS Kicker Remix Shoe: bit.ly/36F1B6Y
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NRS Odyssey PFD: bit.ly/3ibIk2n
NRS Zen PFD: bit.ly/2VCfrF3
NRS Chinook PFD: bit.ly/2TaEAG9
OTHER PADDLING GEAR
Zoleo Communicator: bit.ly/3zw7gw1
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PADDLING SHORTS/BOTTOMS
NRS Benny Board Short: bit.ly/2VIbK0L
NRS Hydroskin Shorts: bit.ly/3hCXPl2
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WileyX: bit.ly/3NtJQKR
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#kayak #inflatableboat - กีฬา
If you think you're limited with the Intex Challenger, that's on you. I fish in mine regularly with no issues. Too many of these reviews talk nonsense about what these things can and can't do...
1:28 I fish from mine regularly. My wife just paddles around and follows me around. I bought a better paddle which really helped. We have 2 and they live in our motorhome. It is great for calm waters and staying close to shore.
nothing he said is wrong, and based on everything you just said, i know for FACT you havent been in a higher tier kayak, no question.
I've had both, they do both paddle similarly without dropstitch, you can on occasion get the intex for under $100 and it comes with everything; the AE is harder to get on sale but you can at the right times get it under $400. The AE is also a bit longer which makes it track slightly better, though the Intex challenger is pretty awsome for it's price; easily the best budget one imo.
One thing I'd emphasize with any inflatable, but especially with an inflatable like the Advanced Elements with an outerskin is to ALWAYS make sure you dry it out in the sun and wipe away any moisture that ended up down the cracks and the seems. It can be tempting to just deflate the thing, fold it up, and toss it into your closet but that is a recipe for ruining the boat will mold.
If you have space to dry your inflatable kayak, you probably have space to have a hardshell. I had to keep my inflatable in my trunk most for of the year, luckily seawater doesn't cause mold
@@asfdestroyer Thats not necessarily true. leaving it rolled out in your living room or on a balcony while it dries for a few hours is totally viable even if you wouldn't want a hard body stored there indefinitely. Also you can dry it in the sun pretty fast in a park after paddling, just use a towel to wick up most of the wetness. Its a pain but worthwhile.
@@ryancooper3629 Good advice, thank you
Thanks for that tip!
Thanks for that tip!
LOL! We've had our K1 6 years now (we have 2 of the K1 and one of the K2 tandem). It was a wonderful introduction for the kids to get out on the water and challenge themselves a bit (they were 9, 8, and almost 2 when we got them). It was a wonderful way to explore the idea of getting "real" kayaks later. It was a "new" thing for the whole family :) We purchased for less than $100 on sale! We keep them around to introduce friends to kayaking.
I have an Intex Challenger K1. I would clearly never take it into a fast river or try to take it anywhere that has even small rapids. I use it on lakes only. And if you get in from a dock, and just pay attention as you paddle around it will last you quite a while. There are several lakes near me in Georgia, and it has handled them all beautifully. Its GREAT for beginners and if you decide you like kayaking, then I'd suggest using this until you save for a more expensive version.
EDIT: The Intex will dry in the time it takes to walk it back to your car on a sunny day. If need me a small hand towel will dry it off in seconds. And did I mention its light weight? Fully inflated its about 10 pounds.
I've paddled a lots of kayaks and canoes. I borrowed the Advanced Elements kayaks yesterday and absolutely loved it. Hands down the most comfortable kayak I've ever paddled. The most stable kayak I've ever been in. Surprising fast. Scraped on a rock and it did even leave a mark. I want one!
I love my K1! It's great for apartment dwellers since it packs up nice and small.
That and the ability to tow it on my bike trailer was the reason I got the K1. I'm going to get a hard shell eventually and I can store it at my local marina, the storage fees aren't bad for canoes & kayak and you can use the marina facilities.
I love my Advanced Elements Advanced Frame kayak. It has good deck space in the front and back as well as storage space behind the seat for longer day paddles. I use it with the backbone for even better tracking and the spray skirt if the water is choppy. I also prefer having the peace of mind knowing that the material is much more durable against abrasions on rocks or tree limbs in rivers and lakes.
Thank you so much for doing this review. I would like to mention that you did forget to mention that the Challenger also comes with a portable foot-pump.
I really need to do my own review on the Challenger. I actually paid $69.00 for mine at Menards, it was such a great deal that I purchased 4 of them😁 I love Kayaking and although my adventures in Kayaking are limited to our somewhat small and more leisurely flowing river, (the Sugar River in Northern Illinois). I have teenage grandchildren that love using them with me. I’ve had mine for 3 summers, this year will be year 4. So far, I have had one leak, probably from dragging the boat over rocks😟 I actually did not notice the leak until we were actually floating. Luckily I always bring the foot pump in my boat, just in case, and was thrilled to discover that I was actually able to keep my boat inflated while in use on the river. Very impressive👏🏼 I Love Love Love my Challenger Kayaks🤗 But I can see that they will more than likely be done by the end of this season. Teenagers are pretty rough on stuff🙄 I’m thinking that the other one you reviewed is going to be my next purchase for MY personal kayak.
I really need to do a review on the Challenger. I’ve had so many positive trips with mine. Not to mention that I keep one deflated in the back of my Jeep, “just in case”😁 I can’t tell you how many times I’ve just, on a whim, pulled into the boat launch and just decided to take a quick river run. It only takes maybe 15 minutes to inflate the boat, seat, and foot pillow with the foot-pump, and I’m ready to go. Fortunately I live less that 5 miles from where we put our boats in, and can always call someone I know to catch me at the other end, so it always works out. My grandchildren think of Kayaking now as common as those floating tube devices. I’m hoping they take it to the next level🤞.
This is exactly the use case I would recommend something like the K1 for. I'm really tempted to stash one in my car, for those spur of the moment, "that's a nice looking pond" opportunities to get on the water. Even at $170, it's not a lot to pay, to not be stuck on the shore, wishing you had a boat.
Have the K1 and K2 and love them both well worth the money am out in the K2 tomorrow after work 👍
Thanks for the very good video!
I have both kayaks since a few years. I bought the K1 (for under $100) to see if kayaking was something for me. Have had to repair it many times in the meantime. Gradually the material is simply at the end.
After that I got the Advanced Frame. These two kayaks are hard to compare. Especially if you use the Back Bone for the Advanced Frame. With the Advanced Frame, I haven't had to repair the main chambers yet. But the other (shape-giving) chambers are unfortunately not much more stable than the main chambers of the K1.
Noobie here shopping for Kayak's and this was a perfect video!
The advanced elements is an amazing buy. It's sturdy, thick skinned, lots of compartments, and it's quite rigid because of the front and back aluminum frames. I've had it in a resevoir with ocean high waves and it passed the test. I've had cheap paddles break/crack on rocks easily before so I rather get a propper one (lighter/stronger). It's more $$$ but it's worth it, imo.
Would this be good to kayak with orcas in the puget sound in seattle?
Excellent production, enjoyed very much.
There is a value prospect for both these boats. If I was looking to have one, as my main/only boat, the Advanced Elements looks like a great choice. As someone who owns a couple hardshell boats, having a cheap inflatable for a buddy, or to take on a trip where I may or may not have the opportunity to get on the water, the K1 makes a lot of sense.
The problem with the fabric lined kayaks is the drying time after kayaking. It may not seem like a big deal, but after a long trip the last thing you want to do is worry about drying your kayak. I would recommend the K1 Challenger for absolute beginners due to its extremely low price point (and surprisingly OK performance), and then if they like the hobby, I’d recommend jumping straight into the highest levels of inflatable like the Razorlite or Airvolution
Have both and the K1 is a disposable cheapie that in no way compares with the AE Advanced Frame. The Intex is made cheap, especially the seats. I have 5 inflatable kayaks and been paddling 30+ years and dry time is no big deal. After paddling, I partially inflate the kayak (that's assuming I even got it wet) at home and it drys in 3-4 hours. It's the same process I use with my smooth side kayaks. It goes with owning a kayak and taking care of it. The HUGE advantage of the fabric over bladder/tube is that if a tube is damaged beyond repair, it can be replaced vs the whole kayak is toast since tubes are not replaceable. Our AE Advanced Frame is going on 16 years old and has never had a leak. The build quality and performance differences between the two are huge. Btw, Aire and NRS have fabric over the tubes for some of their white water models and that's for durability where conditions on a Class II/III/IV river require a durable kayak.
have you got a back yard to dry your kayak out? I live in an apartment and don't have that option. Every AE owner I've met has a back yard. @@gloppy101
Thank you this is very helpful, I just moved to a smaller space and near the water and wanted to see if kayaking is for me. I'm considering inflatable because of the price and storage.
I bought the one person Intex for $100 last year, then bought the 2 person soon thereafter. Is fantastic for local lakes, rivers, bays, harbors... anything flat and lowish current. Great, low cost way to see if you like paddling. Cheap, portable, easy to dry. Definitely recommend. When it goes will probably splurge for an Oru. Paid for itself in three rentals.
Comparing the price with the cost of rentals is a good way of looking at it.
I got one too I have come to the conclusion if you want a inflatable just go cheap. If I wanted to spend 999 for a inflatable boat I might aswell get a roof rack installed and get a hardshell but to have a decent float in the back of my pocket is nice.
I bought a K1 when it was $69 in 2015, and the 2 man version as well. They both held up for about 5 years with multiple uses a year. Bought a new 1 man and 2 man in early COVID era when prices were higher, they have held up well also. Hard to argue with the prices.
I have the advance frame from 2016 and use it with a handmade spray skirt and gaffer tape for shield the zippers in ocean trips and fishing. I have and the backbone too. The kayak tracks well even in really extreme conditions!!! Up to 6 bofors is the limit for my skills... If the zippers were waterproof and the backbone included in the price it would be one of the best inflatables....
I have both. the Challenger feels like a toy. Bought it for friends who come camping. I bought my first Advanced frame in 2007. Many years of lakes and rivers in Colorado. I’ve taken it back east. Used it in Narragansett bay RI. Took it on a five day kayak trip in Maine with 40lbs of gear… Great kayak. Just bought another one on sale for my sailboat in Florida. Plan on using it in the Bahamas when I retire and spend 6 months of the year on the boat.
Bought the intex summer of 2021. Halfway through the summer a hole was in the bottom from what I suspect, my trunk. Nothing to do with the water. I patched the hole with super glue, duct tape, and water proof sealant. It has lasted 2 more summers with no issue. A really good buy
I have the Advanced Elements Sport kayak and I like it. It’s durable, lightweight, and it tracks well with the optional backbone. I considered buying the drop stitch floor, but then I would lose the tracking advantage I get from using the backbone since the backbone and the drop stitch floor cannot be used together. The only downside to my kayak is the a la carte pricing of AE kayaks. No pump included with kayak and the backbone or drop stitch floor are add ons. The drop stitch floor sells for around $180. The backbone is around $80. I think the backbone should be included in the price of the kayak, it elevates the performance of the kayak significantly. A lot of reviews complain about having to re inflate the kayak after getting it home to dry it completely in the sun before storing it. I never do that. This is a flat water beginner boat. The only water I take on is paddle drip and a bit from my feet. Before deflating & folding my boat I wipe down the inside with a microfiber bath towel and then wipe the pvc bottom as I fold it. Then in my trunk it goes with all my gear. I don’t even put it back in the bag. It stays in my trunk 24/7 all summer even on 90+ degree days. So far, so good - I have had no mildew. I would actually advise against leaving the inflated kayak sitting in the sun - it will get hot fast and could lead to over expansion and cause seam leaks. Use it, enjoy it, don’t make things more complicated than they have to be. Before packing it away for winter I wipe it down and make sure the fabric is completely dry before putting it in the bag for storage. This kayak holds its own next to any beginner hardshell kayak and it’s more stable and more comfortable to boot. It’s a great beginner kayak if you live in an apartment or can’t transport a hard shell. The Intex is a super cheap inflatable that will get you out on the water for fun, but it’s not in the same league as the AE kayaks. You get what you pay for.
Very informative
Thank you for sharing
My pleasure!
Not sure if the Challenger is the same Guage material, but I have had a great experience with my Intex Seahawk 4. I've had it for a number of years but I've taken care of it and it is still in great shape. Also even if you get a hole you can repair it easily with gorilla tape in my experience.
I own a Intex K1 and a Drop Stitch Airglide 385 (similar to a Kxone or sea eagle).
I made the mistake of using my triple action hand pump on the Intex instead of the original pump. And I mistakenly over inflated and it seperated at the seam. My mistake, but very frustrating considering .069 PSI hardly registers on the pumps gauge.
Love the videos! Keep up the good work. I would be interested in your opinion of the GoPlus all dropstitch inflatable kayak. Price point is right around $300 and in my opinion it is an excellent starter kayak (or even as an extra for kids or friends), and is a great value.
Thanks Jason! I've never tried or seen the GoPlus (until I just searched it now). It looks like it would be an okay starter kayak. The price is definitely right! It looks more like a SUP board than a kayak. The downside of the flat hull design is that it won't cut through the water very well. It likely won't paddle as well as the Advanced Frame, and it won't deal with waves very well (it will bounce and slap the water). Truthfully though, I haven't come across a kayak in the sub $500 category that doesn't have some performance drawbacks. The most important thing is that it looks like it would be a stable and fun kayak to get out there and start kayaking... and a great 'extra' for kids or friends to use!
I love my advanced elements inflatable kayak! I just started posting videos of me using it. Its incredible
I have both. The AE Sport kayak is definitely a great kayak. The Intex is not something I trust anymore unless you intend to be on a lake and close to shore. I bought my Intex kayaks back when they were only $79 and they served their purpose by getting me out onto the water for a cheap price when I didn't know if I would even enjoy kayaking. At $170, I don't think they are worth it anymore. I now prefer hardshell kayaks most of the time but the inflatables are still useful when taking out a bunch of people. I can pack 4 inflatable kayaks, 4 people, and all of the required goodies into the back of a mid sized SUV. You really can't beat that.
Something to keep in mind... as someone else stated, you have to make sure you get inflatable kayaks completely dry when you are done. So although you can get on the water quickly, I typically loathe the process I have to go through when I get home to tear them all apart and get them completely dry. You get used to it but after a long day on the water, the last thing you want to do is be out in the hot sun cleaning, drying, and packing away inflatable kayaks.
They have their place for those who don't have room and need the ultimate in portability. But my preference is definitely my hardshell kayaks. I use my hardshell kayaks about 25 times a year. I use my inflatable kayaks about 5 times a year.
Thanks for sharing all your experience with these boats!
I bought the challenger because of the reviews most fun I had in months im going every weekend im thinking of upgrading to lagoon at somepiont
I bought a K1 and at $90 bucks I knew I wasn’t getting much. Still, here on these Minneapolis lakes anything that puts you above the water is relaxing. When I get my money right I will set my sights on a Eddyline, but for now this little kayak will do.
I would say you're wrong about the low end kayak with having to swim to the shore because me and my brother tried out our kayaks and we didn't know that you had to inflate both bottom and top so we wrote them out on the lake all day halfway inflated
The intex looks like a pool toy.. I guess the upside is that maybe it gets someone out and on the water who otherwise wouldn't but that's the only plus I see. Currently debating my first kayak (as opposed to renting), AdvancedElements seems like a nice option although I think I'm leaning towards an OldTown Loon.. by the time I get the better floor and the pump the AE seems harder to justify. Time to start exploring roof racks. Thanks for the videos!
I almost purchased that Advanced Elements kayak and was scared off my some of the reviews. It's close to what I was looking for.
GM. XU. Very informative. Choosing SMART! Will purchase the AVANCED E over the INTEX ($360 .. $90 .. respectively on AMAZON).. Will get my money's worth (... live in MIAMI.. 25 mins from the beach... probably use it twice/week- it hasn't snowed here in years- so multiplied by 52 weeks will get 104 experiences, each at $3.46 ... pretty good deal). Thank You for your experience.
Glad to help! Stay tuned for another comparison of 2 folding kayaks in a similar price range!
Ty
I’m just researching kayaking and want to buy one to get in the water! My partner lives next to Loch Lomond in Scotland and I was looking at the K1 kayak. I’m just wondering if it’s worth saving a bit and getting something similar to the AE instead?
I have the K1. No experience with the AE, but one thing to consider as well is drying the kayak when you are done paddling. The AE has a fabric skin, so if you are getting an inflatable because you live in an apartment - where are you going to dry your kayak after your paddle? The Challenger is super easy to clean off and dry. But, I'm not super comfortable paddling far from shore in the K1. I actually used it last year back country camping, and it worked out great, but I was nervous.
How many PSI should you inflate the Intex kayak to? (range psi /max?)
Excellent review, the challenger k1, not so much. On maiden voyage it suddenly developed a leak in the upper boston valve, and by the time I returned to shore it sprouted another on the top deck itself. The only positive I can cite is that I bought it on clearance at Walmart last year for $67. I'm sure individual results will vary, but I'm not inclined to buy another intext product, period. BTW, I weigh 200 lbsx, well below the 220 limit. And the lake was dead calm.
Yikes! Thanks for sharing!
I own both the Advanced Frame and the Intex Explorer (similar but not the same as the Challenger K1 in the video). I purchased both before COVID, paying $500 for the Advanced Frame and $80 for the Explorer. I consider the Advanced Frame the better value despite costing more because I've put many more miles on it. The reason I use it more is because it is a better paddling experience. I average about 3.6 MPH on flat water in the Advanced Frame. In the Explorer, I only average about 2.7 MPH on flat water because it has no defined hull and is a chore to paddle. Even for recreational use, the difference in speed, stability, safety, and creature comforts makes the Advanced Frame an easy pick over what's offered from Intex. Since 2018, I've probably put less than 20 miles on my Intex Explorer but over 200+ miles on my Advanced Frame. At 10x the usage, the Advanced Frame was the better buy for me even though it was 6x more expensive.
Thanks for sharing your experience Brian!
Of my dozen inflatables, a tear is never an issue. I carry them in the air to knee deep water and jump in or out and avoid rocks. I think statistically most depressure events come from slow leaking air valves (like from a grain of sand preventing seal) or pinhole leaks in seams. I prefer 3 chambers, but not more which make filling tiresome. I like even higher end inflatables, but I wish I got started earlier in life with a cheap one.
Sounds like you're the perfect candidate for an inflatable kayak!
I think an inflatable with only two chambers can be good enough if one chamber is the floor and the other is the top. Loss of either one keeps you balanced. If the chambers are side by side it is going to be hard to paddle.
Actually you can get the K1 for as low as 70-80$ on Amazon which I did.
Ive taken it on class 2 rapids and it has last me over 5 years. Had a couple of holes but they have been patched up.
Id like to make a custom drainage hole because this is the worst kayak for getting water out of 💦 😆
I fully agree with what you said about outgrowing it. As mentioned in Challenger's review comments, I moved on to the Itiwit x500 Strenfit. It was just after 1 season and around 10 outings, having covered approx. 150km in total. The Challenger now sits in my wardrobe and I'm already considering selling it. I don't see myself using it too often anymore if at all. Strenfit has already covered 25km and that was on a single trip - 2 more to come very soon. 😉
Oh, and as of writing this comment, the Intex Challenger K1 is 92$ in the US, 75£ in the UK. 💰
Have a good day everyone. 😀
how do you like the itiwit x500? any major drawbacks in your opinion?
Upgraded from Challenger to X500 as well, although haven't got the X500 wet yet (STILL waiting for the lake to melt). I loved my Challenger for years and did some multi-day trips with it. Really looking forward to seeing what I can do in the X500!
@@howva It's a fantastic boat. Feels like a rigid, glides on the water really well. I haven't noticed any major drawbacks yet, it might be too early for me to point any out. It favors correct paddling technique (this might in fact be a drawback for some - it's not just hop in and race, you need to get used to it and paddle it the right way). Sprint paddling technique would suit it best so I suggest pairing it with a wing paddle - 210cm works for me.
@@TomKledecki thanks for your reply
Nice! Can't wait to test the X500!
Das Challenger K1 ist ein super Boot für den Preis. Bin sehr zufrieden. Grüße aus Berlin.
I have bought a K2 Challenger from a ad on Facebook so the first challenge is, is it even going to come? But if it does, I think it was the right choice as I will only be in calm water. Tips I have learned from other videos: don't store on your balcony as it cannot take winter temperatures, and when using check the pressure. If you blow it up in the morning the air can expand in the hot sun. A hole can be repaired with a bit of Gorilla glue, but you are pooched if you split a seam with too much pressure.
Very true! If you do end up with a hole, try 'Tear Aid'. I've tried it, and it works!
Do a video Intex Challenger 2 inflatable boat vs intex Challenger k1 kayak
The K1 IS GREAT FOR PEOPLE WHO USE IT LIKE ME LIKE 2 X A YEAR MAX. BE SURE TO INFLATE IT TO THE MAX AND ATTACH THE SKIDD. STAY CLOSE TO THE SHORE LINE JUST IN CASE. I WILL HAVE MINE FOR 20 YEARS HOPEFULLY. HAPPY FISHING 😊
Thanks for sharing
I have used the Challenger for a few years now - I would not be able to afford an excellent kayak. I only paid about 100 $, but strangely, prices vary significantly with this kayak. I thought about buying the Advanced Elements, which I haven't seen yet under 700$. I'm from Europe, so here the price difference is way higher. But trying to build the Advanced Elements in the shop, I failed miserably to push the frame into the right place. You need a lot of strength which I, as an elderly don't have any more. Also, the Intex Challenger is way lighter, only 11 kg, while the other is almost 17 kg. As I don't have a car and need to carry it on my back, this counts greatly. The Challenger also comes with a fin, so it paddles pretty well straight on. I get at least 60 full day trips out of the Challenger before I have to replace it. So to buy a new one every two or three years is way cheaper than renting a kayak. Of course, I would prefer a kayak which doesn't land in a landfill. I just can't afford it. The only luxury I could afford was to replace the paddle with a better one. That made it even more fun.
Good idea to upgrade the paddle! Prices are still everywhere, I purchased a K2 from a facebook ad that said regularly $499 on for $89. I don't think anybody ever paid $499 but I still got a heck of a value (if it comes).
Sounds like the Challenger is the right kayak for you! 60 days on the water is REALLY good! Happy paddling!
Why did you have to get a new kayak after 60 days? It got damaged?
@@1212aoa Well, it is a cheap inflatable, and its skin is not too durable. I recommend using a tarp when folding it on the ground after paddling. Otherwise, a sharp stone can easily penetrate the skin. But, for the price, at least 60 day trips are really good; it means two to three paddling seasons if you go paddling about once a week. If I had to rent a kayak each time, with the prices where I live, I would have paid about 3000 $ for 60 day trips. So 100$ is nothing compared to that. Recently I got a better-paid job, so I saved up for a hardshell kayak which I am happily paddling now. But the Intex Challenger was an excellent and very loved gateway kayak for me.
I love my Intex K1 it's strong, rugged and can take a serious beating.
but It looks way to much like a inflatable dinghy. which is a Shame because it's really nice. but me having strange luck I was actually kayaking recently and found a half sunken pyranha freestyle which I'm in the process of fixing and modding to turn it into a touring kayak so the Intex will see less use.
Can't wait to see how the modified Pyranha turns out!
Could you compair them to the Nautiraid Narak 550? I had the pleasure of using it and it's my favorite so far.
I've actually never heard of that kayak. I'll have to check it out.
I got a two seater challenger I’m just getting into kayaking my kayak is here to stay for a few years I take very good care of mine stuff
Welcome to the world of paddling! Enjoy!
By the way. Where are you getting your price for the Advanced Element kayak because on their website, it is more - I think. There are a lot of models.
It's hard to keep track of prices right now, they're going up all the time... except for the Intex K1. Somehow it's stayed the same!
I was actually looking at both of these. Can you please explain something. For the Advanced Elements one, are you saying you can upgrade the floor after buying it or that you can order it with a drop stitched floor. How many psi does it take and would that be just for the floor?
Actually, it depends on the affiliated companies that sell the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Kayak. Some just have the stock model and then you can add things on to upgrade your kayak. Oz Inflatables in Australia offers the upgraded packages as well as stock. I'm from Canada and my outfitter had the upgraded accessories that I added on as I progressed on my kayaking trips. So, yes. You can upgrade anytime after you buy the base model. I chose the backbone over the drop stitched floor and the tracking on my kayak is phenomenal, just like a hard kayak. It's softer on the bum if that is an issue. The drop stitch base does get pumped up from 7 to 10 psi and gives the kayak added buoyancy and resiliency, which is ideal for fishing or taking a small to medium size dog on a trip. A final note. The Advanced Frame Kayak has a double bladder system as well as the aluminum nose and aft to aid in tracking through the water. So, if the bladder leaks for any rare reason the secondary bladder will keep the kayak afloat. It can handle choppy waters at sea! There's a lot of thought that was invested in the Advanced Elements lines of kayaks. You are paying for quality. I say all these things because I did my homework and am very happy with my purchase. Hope this helps.
@@boblem5994 - Thanks. So you can buy it with the drop stitch but would that mean what is usually comes with for a floor is not included or is that somehow in addition? I have seen the drop stitch floors sold separately for about $200. I am Canadian, too. Where did you get yours?
@@TimBee100 I bought my kayak in Calgary at the time but the business closed due to the pandemic. I bought all the upgrades from Western Canoe Kayak in B.C.. However, you can go on the Advanced Elements website and locate a dealer hopefully in your area. I think when you buy a package with the drop stitch floor included you do not get the original floor. I could be wrong. Check out their website for more info.
I've never used one, or seen one, but I understand that they are placed within the standard kayak - an upgrade you can add to the standard model.
I need to correct the psi rating on the drop stitch floor. You should pump up the floor from 4 to 6 psi. The basic floor that came with my kayak is only 1 psi. Sorry for misinformation of pumping up the floor from 7 to 10 psi., which is incorrect.
Wouldn't America's most popular inflatable kayak, the Sea Eagle SE330 be a better comparison? It's closer to the $300 price range. It's a 2 person kayak (paddles fine solo), has a 3 year warranty, includes 2 quality paddles (not one that will flex), repair kit, pump, etc. Or you can get it for the same price with a more comfortable seat (best inflatable seat I have encountered), but in that package you only get one paddle. The SE330 can also handle Class III white water, so there isn't too much worry about bumping the rocks with it. Just avoid gravel and you'll be fine.
This was my first kayak I owned and I loved it. Sea Eagle makes great products and offers great support. So much so that I really invested in their stuff. I currently own three SE330's, two of their now older Paddleski 435ps hybrid kayaks (kayak/motorboat with up to 3 HP motor/sailboat), their brand new Paddleski 437ps that takes up to a 6 HP motor (less of a kayak, but still paddles as a kayak), and a Razorlite 393rl.
My original Paddleski over 10 years old has been used almost 500 times, at over 125 locations, and has never been patched. I panicked when the government forced changes in materials and it was discontinued, so I bought a spare used one. I wasn't expected it, but I ended up getting their latest model too. I bought Razorlite last season for effortless paddling, and to cover more distance when paddling.
The SE330 was great to get me on the water, and find out exactly how much I would like or not like kayaking. I can never get enough of it. There are a ton of fans of this kayak and they hold up. Not a cheap pool toy, and from a trusted company that will provides great support too.
I'm a big Sea Eagle fan too. In fact... stay tuned for a bunch of Sea Eagle videos!
@@PaddleTV Awesome, I'm looking forward to seeing them.
I started with an SE330, and presently have two Paddleski 435's, a Torqeedo 1003s lithium motor, a full sail rig for the 435ps, the brand new Paddleski 437ps which I also use my Torqeedo with, a Razorlite 393rl and a total of three SE330's. I love their stuff.
Ken I have another question. I'm interested in also getting another kayak (probably inflatable I assume) that can be setup, dried off, and packed in a water proof bag in "no time flat" for those days I don't want to commit the setup/tear down time where I only have time to go paddling for a half hour or so. It's simply too time consuming to do all that with my existing ones to not spend more time on the water. I realize such a portable kayak would not have the performance of my existing kayaks. That's ok, I'd stay near the launch.
I'm also interested in a super light weight inflatable (or other) that could be back packed a couple times through the woods to remote locations. While the awesome Razorlite comes with a back pack, at 35 lbs it's way too heavy for me to want to carry that on my back too much past the distance of from my car to the typical distance of a launch from my car. I was looking into the Packraft's which typically weight 7 lbs, but it's my understanding most of them are almost restricted to white water, with beyond terrible performance for flat water which would be my use 99% of the time. Poor performance is ok, but maybe not abysmal performance. Even "slightly" below the SE330 would be ok. Ideally a single kayak I could setup/dry/tear down quick, and use remote trips.
I've been looking at the Klymit Lite, which while "incredibly" light weight & affordable, the performance is probably beyond awful, plus it looks like people are getting wet climbing in it. I'd still like to know what you think of it? Surely you must have taken notice of it, it's like 2 lbs.
I was also looking at the Advanced Elements Packlite. Generally not a big fan of their stuff, but was wondering what you think of it? And also what else might be available that is similar. Thanks.
For me the best bed in the world is shaped like a kayak and is laying on a river sandbar. You are at the lowest point in the topography and so you need a tarp to keep you dry when the dew falls at 4 to 5am. You lay in the sack until the sun comes up, get up and blow it up a little and float down the river.
Iguana
Nice video. Paddling performance (and build quality) with the Intex is very poor, especially compared to this AE Advanced Frame kayak. If you just want to get on calm water and don't know if you will like the sport, get the Intex. If you want to experience paddling close to hard shell kayaks, get the AE.
My friend- how’d you get shafted on that K1? Got mine yesterday off Amazon. $95.
Ha! It seems like everyone gets a different price... but it's always remarkably cheap for what you get.
@@PaddleTV you’re not wrong there- love the channel king! Please keep up the content
I remember when those were only $50, basically a toy and priced right. You could get the excursion 2 for $80. Would never play what they want for them now.
Wow. Didn't that Intex Challenger K1 used to cost like $49? I'm sure I saw them in my local Walmart and other sports stores for that price.
Winter clearance price, you can get them for close that around November. I paid $64 for mine.
After owning some Intex air mattresses I can confidently rule out the K1. I haven't bought an Intex product yet that actually held air out of the box.
I actually have the K1 and it does the job perfectly but now moving on to this advanced element kayak
the intex is basically a tube shaped like a kayak
The K1 costs 80$ brand new!!!! He s done 2 videos with the wrong price. It should arrive to wherever you want Grand total under 100$
You are very diplomatic. The cheaper one is crap
Ha! I want to agree with you completely, and although it is a pretty crappy kayak, there is definitely a place for it. It allows people to affordably 'test' kayaking, to see if it's something they want to do. Inevitably, people will upgrade if they stick to it. I did a full review video about the Intex K1 and talked more about it. It's not a 'good' kayak... but I think it's an important 'gateway' kayak.
The difference is one’s a kids toy, and the other one is more stable for adults.
Maybe you should consider of making some reviews of some packrafts - since sometimes its better choice as iflatable boat. Its lighter and yet it can go some ww.
Yup. I would love to review a packraft. I am trying to get my hands on one.
K1 Challenger is $65 on Amazon right now.
For the price of the Advanced Elements one, I can buy the Intex, destroy it, buy another Intex, destroy it, and still have almost enough to buy another one. Not to mention lots of paddles!
I'm not a fan of the AE's tube-in-fabric design. I have an inflatable not least because I live in a small apartment, and having to leave the thing out to dry for days just isn't an option.
Given the choice all over again, I'd still do what I've done, namely, try the Intex, like it, and jump straight over the AE into a slightly more expensive drop-stitch kayak.
What drop-stitch kayak did you end up settling on?
@@PaddleTV Itiwit X500. Eagerly awaiting your review on that one! Might have to fly out to Canada and lend you mine!
I have to disagree. I used the Intex Challenger K1 for one year, took good care of it. I found it extremely difficult to deflate and roll into the tiny bag it comes in. You have to roll it very tight to fit into the very small bag it comes in, which even with care, causes a lot of wear and tear. It fell apart very easily. I would not recommend it, unless it is only used once in a while.
Thanks for sharing your experience with it!
$170 Lake
$500 River
When you buy an inflatable kayak you are buying a rubber duckie. No matter how much you spend on it you will not get anywhere near the performance that you would get out of a well designed hardshell. There is nothing wrong with buying an inflatable as long as you know what you are getting. Of course a beginner hardshell can be no better than a beginner inflatable.
More like 70 dollars for the Intex Challenger. The price you are referencing to is...inflated
So it's like a cheap car. Don't abuse it, and it'll get you from A to B.
If you paid 170 for the K1 you got ripped off. I got mine for 70.
I'm glad to hear you got such a great deal. That said... I wouldn't consider $170 a rip off for anyone, as long as your expectations are realistic from this kayak.
@@PaddleTV I don't consider 70 dollars to be a great deal. I consider it what it's worth.
Thanks, Ken. 👍🛶🙂
Thanks Wayne! It was a blast!