Airvolution Setup and Review

This is a complete setup, fold, store, and review of the new Advanced Elements Airvolution high pressure drop stitch technology kayak. Will explain preproduction to production changes, size, weight and price point. Finally my assessment of the Airvolution as a whole.

[@dmschultzie]

An update for those interested. My AirVolution Solo arrived on Friday and I took it out twice over the weekend on a large reservoir in Colorado. I was worried that being 6"1" and 250lbs it might be a little small for me and was concerned that maybe I should have gone with the tandem. I'm happy to report no issues there and I really REALLY like this Kayak. It tracks well, has good speed, turns on a dime, and is unbelievably stable. I haven't stood up in it yet but I'm pretty sure I could. It won't replace my Perception hard shell for those days when I want to cover a lot of ground, or want to really push it and fly on the water, or have to battle major wind, but the AirVolution is a great edition to my rapidly growing watercraft arsenal. It will see a lot of use for sure. Highly Recommended.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Congrats David, I knew you would love it. Enjoy.

[@darniusterix5774]

Great video! I'll check this kayak out next time I'm in the market for one.

[@barrygiddey9139]

That was a Great video Mr D-very interesting insight explained very well-Thank you very much 🚣‍♀️

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Thanks Berry, it’s always a pleasure to read your comments.

[@rgsparber1]

If you open up the case and put the rigid face down, you can lower the folded kayak into it. Then lift the back over the top and lay the case on its back. Much easier on my back. I also found that first folding from the bow is easier than from the stern.

[@jcw74801]

Thanks for your well-made and informative video!

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

You're very welcome. Thanks for watching.

[@zhihaowu]

Great review Mr.D! It's nice to see Advanced Elements come up with a full drop stitch kayak. I just bought a Sea Eagle Razorlite kayak and maybe I should return it and get one of this instead! The new Airvolution is more like a sit-inside kayak than the Razorlite, and it looks like it's so much easier to pack away. I'm definitely gonna think hard during my 120 days free return period.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

I haven’t paddled the Razorlite, but I heard its a bit tippy. I personally cannot verify that as I got that from comments but in my opinion the Airvolution will be hard to beat. Thanks for watching

[@leejohnson769]

Some who have bought the Sea Eagle Razorlite have remarked on its tippiness, which is not surprising, given its narrow beam. The Airvolution is almost half a foot wider and simply has to be much, much more stable. The Razorlite is sit-on-top, but the Airvolution is more of a sit-inside kayak. A spray skirt is in the works for the Airvolution, making it suitable for shorelines and a lively sea.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Lee Johnson Hi Lee, I did a severe tip test on the AirVolution and I was amazed with its stability. It’s 32” beam make for a very stable craft. Thanks for watching

[@JohnSchairer]

Enjoy your videos. Just ordered a AE3030, can't wait.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

John Schairer you will love it! Thank you and thanks for watching.

[@JohnSchairer]

@@DaleMrDSimmons I do like my kayak, but am disappointed it already has a hole! expected it to be tougher.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

John Schairer contact AE right away

[@sac_fijian6314]

Well done, Mr Simmons! One of the early videos here on KZbin. Any possibility if you could do a "stability" video? I cancelled my Sea Eagle order recently and now looking at the AV2. Cheers.

[@TheFbiFilesRepeat]

im 6'7, will i be able to use the tandem kayak?

[@Carlb328]

How does it compare to the Evo and the Expedition?

[@citizenwolf8720]

Thanks for the video :)

[@Jack24396]

Good review Mr. D. I love the simplicity of both the setup and takedown of this boat. I’m seriously considering selling my three AE yaks and purchasing this one. I’m gonna wait and see what colors they come out with. Any paddle holders coming ? I love that feature on my current boats. Thanks Mr. D.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Jack24396 hi Jack you heard back from AE which is awesome. Now there are no paddle holders. I tried the standard Velcro with hook to attach to the fwd and aft d-rings but there was way too long for the paddle. So I’m trying something else stay tuned once I figure it out.

[@TheKayakCrew]

Great video, very informative. How would you say that the airvolution 2 compares to a hard shell? It seems to pump up almost rock hard, is that right? Thanks

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Gareth Griffiths I can only compare the AirVolution solo AE3029 as that is the one I tested. I inflated mine to 12 psi, calling for 12-14psi and it was like being in a hard yak. I was amazed. Yes it does inflate almost rock hard. You will be surprised if you procure one. Thanks for watching.

[@MoreWishes]

Hi Mr. D. I just received my Airvolution and I am excited to get it out on the water! Thanks for your set -up and review video (especially on how to fold it up and get it back into the bag!) Now, my question to you is---what kind of deck bag is that you have in the video?? I LOVE it!

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Bre McGloughlin Hi Bre, Congrats on the Airvolution you will love it. The deck bag is the Sea To Summit. You can get it from REI here is the link bit.ly/34hhDUU. Enjoy you Airvolution.

[@DaSmokeDaddy]

Dale, can the Advanced Elements AirVolution2 AE3030 be used as a solo without issues or performance (tacking etc.)?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Yes, it has provisions for a center seat mount.

[@andrewelek2936]

Would be nice if both air valves were on the same end of the kayak to make deflation easier. Would be nice to have a comparison with the razorlite. I might think the 2 chambers is less favorable for Gator country. How difficult is this to dry? Difficult to tip vs the razorlite?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

I can’t comment on the decision on the location of the air valves. I have no worries paddling in Florida waters. Over the past five years a gator has never approached my yak. Have had them swim along side me but never a problem. There is no drying time with this kayak. Just wipe it down fold and bag it. I performed a tip test and was amazed with its stability. I have not paddled a Razorlite but I have been told it is some what tippy. I personally can’t confirm that. All I know is the AirVolution is extremely stable. Personal experience. Thanks for watching.

[@erniedg]

Do you know if the tandem has a seat position for riding solo? I can't find much about that on their website. Thanks!

[@brucewayne2091]

If you're referring to the AE1007, seat goes in the middle. You'll see connections there for it.

[@dmschultzie]

Yes it can be used solo. I was wondering the same thing. The info is kind of hidden on their FAQ page. www.advancedelements.com/support/airvolution-kayak-faqs/

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Yes it can be either tandem or solo. Convertible tops can be purchased for both tandem and solo. There are seat clips for both.

[@tompolk7588]

how about a discount code?

[@lar8200]

Do you have to set it up to dry out after use? And how long does it take to dry?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

The Airvolution requires no dry time. Just wipe it down when you finish and bag it.

[@johndoe-fs7ib]

looks great, what is drying it like, how long? the design looks like it might lend itself to humidity accumulation....

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

There is really no drying time. Just wipe it down and bag it.

[@johnberger3338]

Great job. Excellent review. Do you think there is enough leg room for someone who is 6 feet tall?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

John Berger Absolutely no problem

[@lynburke5715]

Is there plenty of leg room and room for gear in the hull and behind the seat?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Lyn Burke There is plenty of leg room but there is no inside storage. Upper fwd and aft rigging is provided for some gear. I attached both a forward and aft deck bag which worked well. Thanks for watching.

[@lynburke5715]

Dale Mr. D Simmons thank you for the feedback.

[@JavierMendoza-hs7bz]

Great video Mr. D. Very well edited, informative and helpful. Where can one get a storage bag like the one attached to you kayak in the video?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Thanks you, it’s a SeatoSummit deck bag. You can get it seatosummitusa.com/products/solution-access-deck-bag?variant=7896108138524&currency=USD&gclid=Cj0KCQjwuL_8BRCXARIsAGiC51DQ4OZuhMEFHTC4_TRUKr_nlsJ9OTbUmGwkIHNdFIgOLZYEKU6zB60aAm9hEALw_wcB

[@plymouthchat]

Great videos Dale was thinking of buying eather the expedition Elite or the Airvolution but was thinking of overall comfort the expedition looks better on the back .and easier to use on the water as opposed to the airvolution help any advice apreciated

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

With the new revised seat on the Airvolution the seat comfort has improved greatly. The first run of the Airvolution(which I have) I had to replace the seat with a stiffer backed seat. They have addressed that. The Elite is a great craft, but I must admit I use my Airvolution more. A lot Lighter, more nimble and way easier to paddle. But, comparing these two is like apple and oranges as they differ so greatly. It’s how you’re going to use them and on what kind of waters.

[@plymouthchat]

@@DaleMrDSimmons To be honest i have been using the stearns spree 1 and newer. Same shape since 1999 however its been more difficult to get them this brings me here the water i kayak in varies from chop currents waves but not heavy waves and the stearns copes well with this and the seating is great i have only ever tipped once since 1999 and this was my fault not the kayak never needed to learn the Eskimo roll but i do kayak quite well and for long distances .so i have come a point where i need something new so was looking at these i think the expedition is wider so probably less tippy but you mentioned trying to tip the airvolution and not doing so i liked also the blow up back rest that goes in the back of the expedition difficult to make a choice,you seem to prefer the airvolution..

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

@@plymouthchat I have the lumbar seat in my AirVolution with a 3” bottom cushion and it’s perfect for recreational paddling. If I’m going to be in heavy chop and wind I use the Elite

[@fc81zoom17]

Thanks, great video. You sold me on it. How wide is it? Hope the two passenger one is out soon.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

34” beam. The tandem is available now AE3030 @airkayaks.com

[@SamsonBrock42]

Curious if you've used the Oru folding kayaks? You obviously like the Airvolution a lot. I'm trying to compare the Airvolution2 to the Oru Haven.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

I’ve not paddled them but have been with paddlers that had one. It kind of freaks me out here on Florida waters. Also don’t know the longevity of it being I paddle so much.

[@igorheifets6522]

Mr D. Do you think 230 paddle will be long enough or you feel 240 will fit AirVolution better?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Definitely the 240, as I once in a while hit the side of the yak with the 240.

[@igorheifets6522]

@@DaleMrDSimmons Thanks for your advise

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

You’re very welcome. Thanks for watching

[@sumeetragsania5923]

Sir I want to purchase a bridge camera plz suggest me which one is better Nikon p900 or Sony hx400v from photo and vedios point of view in both day light and low light condition.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Sumeet Ragsania The P900 hands down.

[@sumeetragsania5923]

@@DaleMrDSimmons thanks sir 👍👍👍👍

[@thepaulmacfarlane]

My next one.

[@boldyo]

Have you tried the AirFusion EVO yet I wonder how that compares with Airvolution.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

No I have not mainly because of it’s narrow beam. It is too narrow for my liking. Hope that makes sense.

[@boldyo]

@@DaleMrDSimmons I just bought the DX-SL about a month or so ago and like it a lot. Do you think it is worth my upgrading to the AirVolution? Is it faster than the DX-SL? I do get tired of sitting and often get up on my knees to paddle which I am able to do on the DX-SL but assume the AirVolution would be more stable in doing this. Thanks!

[@dmschultzie]

It says max load capacity is 300 lbs max load person and gear. I weight 250 and my gear would be what I wear plus a small bag with sunscreen, phone etc so under 300 total. Would I be better off with the tandem and rigging the seat for a solo? My current hard shell is 14.5' and only 22" wide. Going to 36" wide just seems a huge increase and more like a sit inside paddle board. I would love the stability as I paddle a lake with mostly powerboats with water skiers so I deal with huge wakes all day and although I've never tipped over in 15 years its just a matter of time. I guess I'm just worried about being blown around the lake as I've seen inflatables with that problem as the lake is huge and wind is very common. Wondering if the Expedition Elite Hi-Pressure would be a better option. Thanks for any input you might have. Really enjoy your videos BTW.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

David Schultz Hi and thank you. Based on your information I think the Expedition Elite would be more in your wheel house. Yes I love the AirVolution solo and the AirVolution 2 is a great tandem but I think it would be a bit much for a solo. Thanks for watching.

[@dmschultzie]

@@DaleMrDSimmons Thank you for the quick response. If I opted for the 13' AirVolution would my weight be an issue. I REALLY like the idea of a 100% drop stitch kayak. I wish their was a place to demo the different models. Thanks again.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

David Schultz I think you will be just fine as there is not much storage space inside it only on the topside fwd and aft rigging. The AirVolution handles like a dream. I’ve had it in some wind but not heavy winds as I normally don’t paddle in winds in excess of 12mph. You have to let me know how you like it.

[@eddymendez270]

Hey Mr. D I love your videos, very good explanation, you inject enthusiasm, I would like to ask you if you can sell me, one of your kayaks, I would like to do everything you do in the water, but I don't have a budget for buy a brand new kayak, keep doing a nice videos thank you.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Thank you Eddy. Currently the only kayak I have for sale is my custom Hobie Compass with the 180 drive. All the others I use for different situations and conditions. I would check craigslist. Thanks for watching

[@brucewayne2091]

I could see myself cursing those valves. Still having "fun" with the 1 I have in the AE1007 even using your 'trick'. Hmmmm, think I'll see if this beauty comes up on a Black Friday sale.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Bruce Wayne dude, you won’t go wrong. I love it!

[@johnberger3338]

Bruce, I’m curious. What was the trick?

[@brucewayne2091]

@@johnberger3338 Dale has a video about it. Basically, you have to grab the connector as close to the floor as possible using the little triangle piece as added leverage. Hope this makes sense :)

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Bruce, you don’t have to do that with the AirVolution.

[@brucewayne2091]

@@DaleMrDSimmons Not the same valves as the DS floor?

[@---sf5cf]

Which of these two kayaks will combine high stability and speed, safety and comfort of paddling: Aqua Tec - Ottawa pro Double or Advanced Elements - AirVolution 2. ???

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

What makes the AirVolution so great is there are no separate air bladders. It’s constructed of 100% hi-temperate structure. 2 valve system, floor and main body. 12lbs max and when inflated it feels like a hard kayak. Stability is great, speed average with outstanding maneuverability. Now my experience is only with the solo unit.

[@---sf5cf]

the double according to the specifications is 98 cm wide, I'm afraid it may be uncomfortable to row with it

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

@@---sf5cf I use 240cm paddles with no problem.

[@JavierMendoza-hs7bz]

Mr. D. Getting ready to buy one. Is there a spray skirt available for these? Thank you again!

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Not at this time. They were not ruling it out but if it happened it won’t be until 2021. Thanks for watching

[@Room-180]

On the one hand this kayak looks promising, but... I hope it will be available in green too and not only in this ugly blue color. I like the ladie's green kayak :-P I own a smaller kayak in a simular green color and bought the AE Expedition after watching your videos. Unfortunatly I could only get the blue version and my experience is - I can paddle very close to animals ( 2 meters) when I use the green boat, but not when I use the blue boat. It is prolly because blue is the color most animals can see best. It is like the color red for humans. And because blue is an alarm color for them, they make an early escape. So I really hope the Airvolution will be availabe in a darker green too - darker than the usual light green AE uses. Any color would be better than blue - even orange! What I have missed on the prototype - the velco straps for the paddles and cords from front to end on both sides. Those things are always handy. And somehow it does not look like as they plan a rudder kit which would be nice for my kayak sail. Let*s wait with what they will come up - especially in the 2 person version (still looking for a longer 2p kayak for me as 1p for longer touring). Regards.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Room 360 there will be no change in color of the AirVolution for quite some time if ever. The blue color design may be on purpose for the reasons you stated. Me personally if the color blue does cause wildlife to scamper earlier than normal, I appreciate that as I paddle in gator infested waters. I have no knowledge why AE produces the colors they do. Thank you for your comments.

[@KuttersVideos]

Did they give a release date?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Kutters videos I don’t know but I will find out for you

[@KuttersVideos]

@@DaleMrDSimmons I looked on Airkayaks and it looks like the end of the month.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Kutters videos they start shipping production models 6/30/2020. Thanks for watching.

[@dbsartworks418]

Can you show the foot brace please? I’m 5’2”

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

DB's artworks The foot brace the the forward part of the kayak. Check out their FAQ page that question is answered with pictures. www.advancedelements.com/support/airvolution-kayak-faqs/ Thanks for watching

[@dbsartworks418]

Dale Mr. D Simmons thank you!

[@jackTR11]

I think they are out of stock ? I really want to buy one

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Hi Jack, yes they are. The best thing to do is contact AirKayaks.com and get on their waiting list. Once they are in stock they go down the list by date received to fill the orders. Yes, these are really popular.

[@jacobcastle2741]

Mr. D! For somebody who is looking for a durable, well tracking kayak... Would you recommend the Advanced Elements Sport with Dropstitch floor? Or would you recommend the Airvolution? Durability is most important to me. I do not want to deal with any patching at all. The last inflatable I had was cheap and it got a hole and only lasted me one summer. The kayak lasting me many years is also important to me. I plan to mainly use in lakes but will sometimes take into the river. Thanks!

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Well the Sport with DS floor is a good choice depending on your height and weight. Now the AirVolution is an outstanding yak as I love mine. My sport is 4 years old and I have never had a leak. I expect the same with the AirVolution but it has just been released this past July, so at this time I cannot talk about its durability as yet. But I have had it on the water about a dozen times with no issues. This season I have plans to really put it through its paces. Also, I would look at the AE1044DSXL. I have had this yak out probably 80 times so far in some pretty hairy situations and had no problems. I paddle Florida waters and they’re really tough on yaks. In the 4 years in Advanced Elements kayaks I’ve yet to have a problem. Hope that helps.

[@jacobcastle2741]

@@DaleMrDSimmons Thanks! This helps a lot. I really enjoy your videos BTW! Thanks for recommending the AE1044DSXL... However, my heart is set on the sport with DS floor or airvolution because I am 5 ft 11 and I want a more open cockpit. I'll be sure to continue watching your videos and see how the airvolution does durability wise... I plan to buy in Jan or Feb of next year. Im in Ohio so I have a bit before warm weather but dont want to miss out on the sales over at airkayaks... If you don't mind I have a follow up question. How does the sport (with DS Flooring) compare to the Airvolution tracking / maneuverability wise? Are they close or does one model outdo the other? Thanks Dale!

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

The AirVolution is far superior over any kayak I’ve paddled including my Hobie. The AE1044DSXL is a modified Sport with an additional 5” in length. A big difference at your height. In the AirVolution your height would not be an issue.

[@jacobcastle2741]

@@DaleMrDSimmons Thank you sir! You're the best!

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

You are welcome. Anytime

[@BillSprague]

I wonder how these would work as a travel/expedition kayak?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Bill Sprague The Airvolutions do not have a ton of storage space below deck but this was not the intent of this design. The Airvolutions (single and tandem) are designed to be Recreational/Day Touring kayaks meant for shorter trips in a day. So, while there are smaller compartments under the deck, both fore and aft, these spaces are really meant for a dry bag of small items that someone might take out with them for a day of paddling. So, the bulk of your gear storage would be on the deck of the kayak, fore and aft. Thanks for watching

[@hoodwinkiez]

Better sell me hard on this video, because I'm about to buy an Sea Eagle Razorlite drop stitch kayak.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

I would really think hard on that.

[@hoodwinkiez]

@@DaleMrDSimmons If you have the chance, could you measure the bag dimensions when fully packed? My primary vehicle is a roadster, so it's ability to fit in the trunk is key. I can find deflated sizes, but that doesn't exactly mean in the bag. Love your videos Dale.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

PLEB I measured and it’s 40”x20”x12”. Much Appreciated.

[@dmschultzie]

I'm in the exact same situation. What did you decide?

[@rgsparber1]

My AirVolution came in! Here is a video of how fast I can inflate and deflate it with my Ryobi high volume/low pressure inflator: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kICcl2iEp9qrgbs

[@paddlaistockholm]

No foot brace? It would be nice to have. I guess you could glue on a set of D-rings to the walls?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Mikael Hellqvist Foot brace is the end of the cockpit

[@silviadiaz9237]

@@DaleMrDSimmons Great video. How would using the end of the cockpit as foot brace adapt to different people’s heights? Can the seat be adjusted forward?

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Silvia D yes the seat is adjustable. Thanks

[@rgsparber1]

Ok Mr. D, I just put down my money.

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

Rick Sparber Well congrats Rick, you won’t be disappointed.

[@ronactive]

Mal.schauen wie es Live ausschaut. Grüße ronactive

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

I would love to respond if I can understand your language

[@ronactive]

@@DaleMrDSimmons the kayak is very Interesred. Greating ronactive

[@DaleMrDSimmons]

@@ronactive I agree, best inflatable on the market in my opinion. Thanks for watching.