Inflatable Kayak's - Advanced Elements

drankin's picture

Advanced Elements - Manufacture
I'm always curious about those hard to reach areas. So, I've recently been doing some research on different Kayaks. Although a hard cover may potentially be most commonly used in the ocean, its not the easiest thing to get down to the water with. I started looking at inflatable kayaks. I was told by people at the kayak shops that Advanced Elements sells one of the best and to stay away from Sevylor; although Sevylor seemed to have some good designs the Advanced Elements are suppose to be more durable. Most of us will be diving with at least two people. Advanced Elements has a number of inflatable kayaks options. Both the AF Convertible and the Straitedge2 seemed like viable solutions. The AF Convertible is more for touring yet still has an option for an open top and provides a more streamlined movement in the water. The Straitedge2 seams a bit more durable and is completely open for easy climbing into and is self-bailing for larger waves. Both can be found for around $600-$700. Amazon.com has been providing free shipping which is a deal considering how much they way. The two person inflatables can feel like carrying another dive float, so it may be better to use this as a substitute.

One of the best, most "affordable", good quality kayaks that I found was the Advanced Elements StraitEdge Inflatable Kayak. The only thing that I'm not sure is its tracking ability on the ocean, although I will note that it does have skegs. I believe it may have easier access to getting on and off of, much like the hard shell ocean kayaks. I typically found the inflatable kayak for around $495 (Single), although there are deals to look out for.

Take care and happy diving...

Inflatable Kayak Deals on the Net:
REI - Blow-out Sale Straitedge
Amazon.com - Straitedge1
Amazon.com - Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible

Kayak Reviews:
Paddling.net

Sweet Kayak

I recently bought this Straitedge and have been taking it out on the American River throughout Sacramento with my son. This thing is great, strong and durable. I can't wait to use it in the ocean for diving. If anyone else is using a inflatable kayak, let us know. I'd like to meet more divers using inflatable kayaks or sit-on-top kayaks. I'm sure there are some sweet dive spots that could be found with this. I'm a little sketchy on the fact that it is inflatable. There was recently a story of a kayaker attacked by a great white, he was fine but had a sit-on-top. Check the story out for more info. (Story Here)

A site with some good info on Top Kayaks and avoiding sharks (Click Here - TopKayaker.net)