Choosing an inflatable kayak. What promo videos don't talk about

This video is meant for people interested in purchasing an inflatable kayak.
Index:
0:37 Inflatable vs hardshell
3:06 Inflatable kayak categorization
5:40 Brands
6:48 Common story of a novice paddler
8:00 Drying your kayak
10:13 Category 1 kayaks
12:25 Category 2 kayaks
12:48 Self-bailing technology
13:46 Category 3 kayaks
14:04 Kayak camping
14:38 Dropstitch technology
15:58 Is a high end kayak worth the money?
16:57 Double vs. tandem
17:56 SUPs vs kayaks - (Stand up paddle boards)
P.S. I want to be clear about Cat2 boats - I do personally have a prejudice against them because of the drying issue, but if that does not bother you they can be a great choice!

[@DiverBob777]

With so many worthless influencer videos out there, this is a breath of fresh air. Thanks for the candid review and the value it brings due to your experience. Much appreciated!

[@stevenjbeard]

This was the single most useful review I found when I started to investigate inflatable kayaks!!!!

[@karenbartholomew3009]

I agree!

[@shakiramerette391]

me 2.. ten best video for beginners

[@truesimplicity]

The best 20 minutes I've spent on Inflatable Kayaks, EVER...🛶 Than You!

[@StonyRC]

I’ve seen good reviews, bad reviews and everything in between but this is EXCEPTIONAL! Thank you so much for putting in the effort to cover everything a beginner like me wants and needs to know. I’m going to try a Category 1 Intex for me and my beloved. If we get on well and use it often I’ll upgrade to a Category 3. Many Thanks from the UK.

[@jeremybeckett817]

Never have I trusted someone so much so quickly!

[@rvierra7235]

I have some ocean front property to sell you cheap! Its in the Mojave Desert....but it will be ocean front soon...trust me.

[@lebojay]

It’s the accent and the kayaks. You can’t not trust someone with so many kayaks. Also, heed his warning about women who may only be interested in you for your kayak. They are everywhere.

[@Liquidazot]

I just cannot belive what I watch. AT LAST some one in internet talks things usefull not ballox around his own ego, trying to prove he know much talking a lot about nothing. This video is 100% legit and 200% informative. Thank you J.

[@arbonneladyTN]

Agreed! Hubby and I are just now looking to buy a double. This was really informative. I will have to go back , watch again and review with a notepad!

[@suzettevreeland427]

Absolutely

[@annatyburski6506]

it's quite possible that this is the best video I've ever watched on KZbin. No "cliffhanger" BS, funny, informative, straight to the point. THANK YOU.

[@luludad1]

50 years of paddling hard boats [the latest an 18' carbon rocket] and now shopping for an inflatable, thanks for the concise evaluation. The best toy is the one you use the most.

[@caseya463]

Make sure if you're going to be on flat water to get a skeg. Otherwise straight tracking is a pain. Edit: they make after market skegs that can be attached the same as a patch.

[@2whls4me]

This video is so exceptionally done it encouraged me to make my first real youtube comment. Fantastic advice, saved me from making the Category II error right off the bat. The drying issue is a deal breaker. This should be the first video anyone watches that is thinking of buying an inflatable kayak. You rock Jack!

[@gloppy101]

The plus side of a fabric over bladder (air tubes) is durability/protection, especially on floors and when taking a dog along (nails). Other plus is that in the event of a blown or ripped tube, the bladder is easily replaceable (unzip and replace) vs a kayak without replaceable tube, it's game over and into the dumpster. Love Advanced Element kayaks for this design. The other one I own is the Aire Sawtooth as it has a built in pressure relief valve for protection, built like a tank, but it's a more wet ride with lots of scuppers, but certainly a well respected hybrid touring/white water kayak. Lots of good info here Jack! Well done.

[@MrDonkov]

Yes, great video.

[@whocares0316]

@@gloppy101 Does the development of the drop stitch type of construction sort of work against the Adv Element type kayak these days? From what i have been reading it sort of looks like it to me, but i really have no experience with inflatables so just wondering.

[@gloppy101]

LOL..Category II is a term he made up. Fabric over bladders offer extra protection against punctures and if one is damaged beyond repair, the chamber is replaceable vs the whole kayak being tossed in the recycling bin on non replaceable tubes/chambers. Dry time of a kayak is subjective due to temps and how well one towel dries the kayak. There's a reason why white water kayaks like Aire and NRS use fabric over the tubes..it's protection. One never hears a white water paddler whine about dry time as it's a non issue.

[@Karnakthemagnificent]

Same here. I was about to buy the same cat 2 kayak. Thank you!

[@BeastmanG]

Dude, can you please review every single aspect of life?

[@greenhouseproject4808]

I love your comment.

[@bahmak2003]

Next review would be the pump or paddle

[@celecitaxerror9553]

this is literally what's on my mind right now. hahahaha the analogies pretty hilarious, but super spot on.

[@jennnobleyoga4021]

Chris, I live with this man and lemme tell you - yes, he can review every single aspect of life. 😂

[@chrisgarty]

Oh my god.. so true

[@stanmcman1]

Thank you for taking the time to go in-depth and share the questions we SHOULD be asking, and letting us know the behind-the-scenes nittty-gritty. Very well done!

[@jangoedbloed2141]

About the category 1 tracking issue. Use two or three inflatable water jerrycans, and just fill them to the brim with the water your paddling on. Put those in the kayak foreband aft, this will help you to keep a more steady course.

[@julianh5167]

This video was like listening to a message from my future self warning me that I am about to make the wrong decision about what inflatable kayak to buy. Thanks Jack!

[@Tammeule]

Exactly what i was thinking! Thanks

[@batasablind2559]

It was impossible to steer it. Paddle broke at first stroke. Washed it after 5 minutes, packed it and sold it. www.amazon.com/Sevylor-Rio-1-Person-Fishing-Canoe/dp/B00J0S0JFE?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_5

[@BrassLock]

@@batasablind2559 Don't you just love those alluring promotions in the sales literature? By the way, its currently unavailable, so maybe others have complained too. Time for a re-design?

[@pequodexpress]

I just wish I had seen this video before getting married.

[@ldgnotebook]

Like your comment. You meant getting married to a kayak, it makes sense; to a human, irrelevant.

[@ginsengjin]

I came to learn about inflatable kayaks, didn't expect to get dating advice :)

[@inneradventures]

You are welcome :-)

[@thevoiceoflizkennedy]

Hahahahaha

[@computerbob06]

@@inneradventures You should make loads more videos dude! There's obviously a lot of people interested in your views and reviews. I'm trying to look at a 2 person kayak at the moment but am getting stuck with the weight limits of these inflatable boats.

[@TrevorKeenAnimation]

I guess with inflatable kayaks, as with dating, it's important to be long and firm and to handle yourselves well when wet.

[@KristopherNoronha]

yeah, and even partner stuff. NO WAY i'm getting in a kayak with my partner after I heard what he said :D

[@frankt808]

You need to do more reviews on everything that's out there. Straight to the point and you give the information everyone is searching for ..Every question was answered and more.... Thanks ...

[@KC-ro6gm]

Jack, we cannot thank you enough for this informative video! When researching inflatable kayaks a couple of years ago it was easy to get mired down in marketing-speak. You cut through all that, and provide experiential advice from someone who has familiarity with all types. We chose the Sea Eagle Explorer 380X and it has brought us great joy and fantastic wildlife viewing as we paddle rivers and lakes in the Midwest. We get a real kick out of folding it up and driving home or back to the campsite. For a couple of seniors who have occasional limitations biking and hiking this portable watercraft has opened up new opportunities to engage with the outdoors.

[@ianuv]

We had a SeaEagle explorer for 14 years until my boys grew up and moved onto other things. We took it down grade 3 white water, bounced over many barnacle encrusted rocks, landed on rocky shorelines and took it 4 miles out to meet a friend in a small fishing boat off west Cornwall. I have hard shell sea and river kayaks but don't keep them on the roof all the time, the SeaEagle stayed in the back of a series of 4x4s for many years and over 100k miles and we found so many unexpected places to paddle. No damage, no dangerous moments just loads of reliable fun. Do check weather and sea forecasts, do assume they are underestimating what might happen, always take safety comms and take a pump and repair kit on board just in case.

[@seehongkongsea]

Ur inflatable lasted for 14 years? Wow. I keep getting info about how they last from 5-10 years under proper maintenance and care from the local stores. Your thoughts?

[@connis2299]

Mine (cheap 30ish € Aldi buy) is just getting up to 18 now, still going strong. Some valves are slowly becoming a bit dodgy but still work reliably enough for my purposes (quick paddle after work, or messing around on holidays). If worst comes to worst its five chambers so even one loosing all air would be inconvenient rather than dangerous

[@jaredhancock2862]

Thank You! I've been suffering from a bad case of "analysis paralysis" and you have just cured me. This is the most useful video on KZbin on the topic of inflatable kayaks.

[@inneradventures]

So glad I could help!

[@RenoLaringo]

Same here!

[@krisg3984]

I went to a meet up of kayakers yesterday, to ask questions . Today I’m here. These points you are making helps me so much

[@Bravevanguard]

I hope one day KZbin will only allow videos like yours uploaded. So much insightful. Thank you for 20 mins and years of dedication for kayaking.

[@davidunruh9898]

The most useful kayak advice I’ve seen. I wish I had seen 3 months ago. Thank you!

[@robdob]

David Unruh what kayak did you end up getting?

[@adilos3411]

@@robdob maybe cheap walmart kayak $50 ?

[@davidunruh9898]

@@robdoba Intex Excursion Pro. So far so good. The AE Convertible I had was great on the water but was too unwieldy for my 72 year old bones to deal with on land.

[@davidmaloney5901]

I have been using inflatable kayaks for 2 decades on class 1-3 river rapids. I have used all 3 category types, and many of the brands he mentioned. This review is 100% correct. Listen to him and consider his points before buying...i currently have a category 2 (advanced elements). However, if i had the money--i would go category 3 drop stich for sure. And the drying aspect of category 2 is a pain....

[@seeratlasdtyria4584]

I also have an advanced elements, and have had it since, the 90's? Not a single issue, used primarily in the ocean offshore, paddled through the surf, in and out, and...since I always wash the kayak when I get back, (or sometimes the next day.. heheh) the drying thing has been a total non issue. AND, I'm one of those guys who also owns and paddles hard shelled kayaks, but also skinned frame kayaks, one of which is from Russia and is not only the fastest kayak I own, but one of the most structurally sound. (was made for the Russian Spetsnaz, can carry god knows how much weight, and is just short of 22 ft long. When packed, it is like a full sized military duffel and is easily transportable, whether by foot, car or plane. If you want pure performance and convenience, I might advise one of the rotomolded boats which are not expensive, very strong, and frankly, if you're not strong enough to load it onto a roof rack, ...., 'floating down rivers' in a tube or raft might be more your thing than kayaking...

[@pamelahay6242]

Do you think the “ drying issue” mentioned in relation to Cat II has more to do with where you live? Eg in a cold damp V a warmer Mediterranean climate? Also AE seems to have dropped stitched PVC boats in their range too, so thinking some of the negatives mentioned re AE mught be dependent in “ which model” you choose? 🤔

[@6yjjk]

I have an Intex Challenger K1 and, now that me plus gear is too heavy for it, a K2. I recently took the K2 on a 4-day trip in northern Finland and had so much fun, for $100ish you really can't argue with the bang for the buck. Tandem versus two singles: Now that I have a second boat, I often paddle with friends. Rather than just taking the K2 for both of us, I always bring the K1 as well. This lets us pull alongside facing each other, put the paddles across both boats, and just drift while we chat, share snacks, etc. I find that more fun than someone trying to look over their shoulder - and it makes looking at a map together actually possible. Looking to upgrade at some point but can't quite justify the jump to $800+ drop-stitched yet.

[@4saken404]

I have a K1 and it's one of my favorite boats I've ever owned! I paid less than $100 and liked it so much I got two so I could bring a friend! (I did also get a K2 but haven't had a chance to mess with it much. However my goal with that one is not as a tandem kayak but to rig it for sailing!)

[@6yjjk]

@@4saken404 They really are brilliant boats for the money. And way more fun with a friend :) I finally made the jump to a drop-stitch boat (Itiwit X500) but I still love the Intex. I'll be interested to hear how you get on with rigging a sail on that K2. My experience with the K2 is that it's far more flexible even than the K1, so anything other than running straight downwind with a typical small kayak sail is likely to get entertaining very quickly, I reckon. Good luck! :)

[@4saken404]

@@6yjjk I'm just going to put a board along the bottom (inside) for rigidity. Then I'll use that as something to help mount my sail and any kind of leeboard or rudder. The main reason for me wanting something like the K2 is that I can take out the seat and sit against a side wall when I am sailing. More comfortable and also lets me utilize my body weight to keep it from heeling over as much.

[@AndreMartins2010]

This is the first time that I saw a complete review about inflatable kayaks. Congratulations! It’s really good! - Sao Paulo - Brazil

[@stuartmullan9154]

"I've owned about 40 inflatable kayaks" enough said.

[@suaptoest]

I have three and I'm satisfied with all of them. They are Advanced Elements. The oldest one I've had ten yrs and still working well. We use them several hundred km every year.

[@reallyhappenings5597]

I had to rewind that to confirm!

[@OngezoutenMening]

40 thats alot that you said everthing better to buy a Good hard one! :)

[@visoricGmbH]

Do you know which of this two-person kayaks is easier to dry? The AQUAGLIDE 145 CABRIO or the Advanced Elements Convertible

[@kite9039]

It's not enough said why have you had so many is it cause you love them or because they are crap?

[@irmaadams7780]

The details mentioned would have never crossed my mind. Thanks for sparing us the headaches from our ignorance.

[@mandiemolly902]

how refreshing, someone who can explain, is logical, to the point, and actually offers info you would want!

[@chickentacoawarenesssaga2654]

I was searching for an inflatable fishing pontoon and ended up here. I wish more reviews were like this. Straight to the point and info to back it up. Thank you good sir.

[@nathanieleasonbign81970]

This was the most informative video ever!

[@timsalness7417]

This is the best video I have seen about an introduction to anything. It seems to have the right amount of content and the attention to details are awesome. You are easy to follow, and I needed to watch until the very end. I wasn't expecting your video to pop up on my screen, and I am glad it did. Continue your teaching, sir, you are great! I am on the fence right now about a purchase, but may within a year.

[@inneradventures]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kenferguson9292]

This is brilliant! So, so glad I found this video before any others. THANK YOU!!!!

[@javiermontero4051]

As an older man interested in kayaking for the first time, I found your video very informative and honest. Thanks for taking the time.

[@charlescusack1609]

Really appreciated your in depth analysis and honesty. So tired of reviews that never say anything negative.And didn't mind your dating advice even though I am 73 and not looking for a date. Was nice to have the human touch. When can we go kayaking together?

[@sarah.shorter]

Thank you so much for including the drying aspect of owning and inflatable. I was looking for this info everywhere! You made me change my mind about type 2 kayaks, so glad!

[@chrisb25908]

You are well prepared before you start, you know your subject matter to the nth degree, and your presentation is tops. An excellent kayaking video, and a model for how to do other informative ones generally. Thank you!

[@SiegfriedWenus]

A really impressive review. I have some experience myself up to category 2 and have tested many types of kayaks. I have to say I totally agree with almost anything you say. This might be one of the best and objective reviews of all reviews (any topic) I have seen on KZbin.

[@candacelong8860]

I am beyond grateful for your experience, knowledge, and advice! I’m SO GLAD I found your video before making my first Kayak purchase, thank you 👊🏼

[@Juliejulez]

This has been the best 20 minutes of my day. I so stoked on trying out kayaks. Thanks Jack!

[@stephendenlinger3514]

J Baikoff, you knocked it out of the park!! Thanks for this great tutorial on the three basic types of inflatables. I've had several, and own two at present, yet I learned a lot from your video. Many thanks. Really appreciate it.

[@jillshaffstall3511]

Found this video recently while kayak shopping & wanted to add my thanks. You saved me from the category 2 we were going to purchase because we had no idea about the drying issue. Thanks for making this.

[@donwilber1628]

Having just purchased a Sea Eagle tandem, I'm happy to hear your expert review, and looking forward to our first ride.

[@BrassLock]

I've just started looking at these watercraft, and have enjoyed your analysis of the wide range available. The discussion about the number of paddlers onboard was very useful. Splitting them into 3 categories is brilliant, allowing you and the viewer to grapple with a sensible means of comparison, pointing out the advantages and disadvantages within each class.

[@beckford4234]

Also, best video EVER on inflatable kayaks!!! I have had about 10 in my life and you are really helping people who have no idea!! Rock on!!!

[@subhanair8351]

First of all, Thanks a million for making this video! You are so clear, explain very well and cover all the important points. You are a natural teacher who knows how to explain. I would happily watch any video you make, omg so informative. Thanks again.

[@Excaliburt]

Thanks, this was really good. I bought a Sea Eagle PaddleSki several years ago. Really great boat. I looked hard at Advanced Elements, glad I didn’t wind up with one.

[@boramiNYC]

So many great advices! I've been inflatable kayaking almost 20 years. Still have Innova Sunny tandem, which I took all over the places. Still looks good for another 20 yrs. New Alfonso from Innova looks interesting!

[@nicholasbruzza]

Brilliant video, me and my other half have just started looking into getting some inflatable kayaks and this video really broke down the terms and eliminated all the confusion so thanks!

[@keithcary5103]

This might be the most useful, comprehensive, and fun review on any subject that I’ve watched. Thank you!

[@jena425]

I've been researching kayaks for 6 months as I plan to buy one for next summer. This was the MOST helpful over anything I've read. Thank you.

[@JaydonRose]

Advice about drying before putting away!!!! Stellar advice. Makes since why chosing one is SOOO important.

[@lauriesansone3935]

I've owned a Sea Eagle Catamaran Kayak for almost 20 years. It's awesome. It skims very fast along the top of the water. Very easy to inflate and to maneuver and steer. Great presentation.

[@DrEdwardTsang]

Thank you for a sound, thorough tutorial! Much appreciated! The drying issue is important; thanks for reminding us!

[@stevehanlon7627]

Appreciate your insight and it has helped to inform my purchasing decision. I was attracted to the "Cat II" and the drying issue was very much in my mind. The extra cost for the "Cat III" makes since in the long run if used frequently. Thank you for posting this video and sharing your experience.

[@michellej.dellavita8257]

Love, love, love my Sea Eagle Razorlite. So glad you agree! Happy Paddling.

[@pearlms1624]

Can't thank you enough for your advice on this. Incredibly helpful. I wish someone would give you a show having adventures and giving tips on camping, boating, and hiking.

[@catherinecurvin4523]

Thank you so much. That "wet fabric nonsense" is a deal-breaker for me, and I had no idea. Helps my search a lot.

[@andyamalfitano7307]

One of the best, accurate, online reviews I''ve watched. Thank you for clear, objectives, accurate, and well-informed perspectives. I'm now ready to make my next kayak purchase!

[@cjjuddaustralianartist]

This was the single most useful review I found when I started to investigate inflatable yakkaks!!!!

[@andybader8747]

As a former satisfied Folbot owner (sadly, the company is now out of business) I started looking into inflatable kayaks with some trepidation. This video is extremely helpful and I also laughed out loud at some of Jack's pointed observations. His anlaysis and observations ring true! And also encourages me at 70+ years to get back on the water. Thank you, Jack for sharing your valuable experience.

[@ratherbfishing455]

I have the Sea Eagle Kayak 370. I bought it seven years ago and have used it over 40 times. It slow, but very stable.

[@gloppy101]

Andy, I still want the Folbot Cooper and sad they are no longer in business. They made some fine kayaks.

[@steveedenbo3488]

This video is great! Sober, thorough, and knowledgeable. Thank you!

[@edisonhernandez8066]

Good advice. Very thorough. Just on time when I'm thinking of buying one

[@babettehogan]

Love that the undervalued social prestige of kayaking is a great test for a relationship! :D

[@RMokros]

Thanks. I have decided, and have already purchased the Intex Excursion Pro K2. I just got it in the mail today. I am very pleased.

[@hughllewelyn-evans5053]

Thanks! I was set on an advanced elements, but as you say, nobody mentioned drying! Sea eagle now looks very appealing even if more expensive.

[@nickfrankel9334]

Thank you for this video. I have been feeling very stuck in the rat race of life and really need to get away onto the water. When I have a chance, I love to go hiking and visiting new natural places. Whenever I go hiking somewhere and see a boat dock, or a landing pad in the water, I always wish to go on that journey. Your video has really helped me with my kayaking knowledge, and has really helped me find one for myself within my budget. Thanks for all the advice! Just wanted to let you know you made my decision on which one to get a lot easier. :D Cheers

[@bettyhunt3384]

Very thorough and well organized by the 3 categories. Extremely helpful!

[@melissamorrow6674]

Brilliant, super helpful video for my husband and I as novice kayakers. Thank you so much!

[@antben]

Excellent video. What I like about paddleboards is how easy it is to go for a quick swim if you feel too warm. Also, they are very versatile: you can paddle standing up, sitting, even laying down if there's suddenly too much wind. Finally, they are very convenient for a pic-nic on the water with friends where you can sit and face each other.

[@frankstared]

Good work, J. Baikoff. I would just add in addition that two paddlers is necessary for many overnight trips as conditions may require more expedient travel, obviously not the case when each preferably has his or her own kayak. Also, there is the synchronistic element that you touched on-it is quite pleasant to paddle in tandem and it creates a rhythm that compliments the natural environment. I highly recommend it, though it may not be as efficient. And to your point about using it as a litmus test for the suitability of a potential partner-definitely!

[@boxbuster1000]

Wow! Just found your channel and the info contained was amazing in the overall knowledge in user experience. Too many times reviews expand on the good points but fail to mention the downsides that can be a deal breaker longer term. Giving us that info can save us money and frustration. Many thanks for a great review!

[@dankro279]

That was by far one of the most enlightening videos on the topic of inflatable kayaks. Thanks, you helped me a lot!!

[@BernardoSusanaFragmnesis]

Hi, I own a class 2 Sevilor Colorado for 17 years, and it hanged out pretty well, it was quite expensive and I totally agree with you in every aspect. On the market for a new one, and looking at the ones from Decathlon. Thank you so much for the video. Very, very good...

[@user-io2wb6ll2l]

This is an excellent review. Thoughtful, useful - worth every minute if you're considering an inflatable kayak of any type!

[@TheComputec]

REALLY REALLY REALLY Great video. Thanks for the time you took to explain the "undocumented features" of the differing brands and technologies, and for explaining the pitfalls and benefits of the different categories

[@herberar]

I 've been waiting for this video for more than 10 years! Thanks a lot for your excellent work!!!

[@melaniewhyte2045]

Thank you so much for this excellent video review! It is awesome. I experienced the inflatable Cat 1 kayak issue with getting it dried out. Totally slimy and difficult. After two trips in it, it developed two fairly large holes that really couldn't be mended without worry of getting stuck somewhere. So now I am leaning towards the Sea Eagle after reading mostly good reviews and your explanation of all the details has solidified it for me! Thanks so much! Wish I could try it out in Oregon but I'm way down here in Florida with all these coastal waters and springs that are awesome! You are awesome Jack! Thanks.

[@k8923]

Any worries about alligators and inflatables? No one ever talks about that.

[@user-ql6pg4wc5y]

After doing spearfishing and sailing for years, I have found that indeed the kayak is the easiest way to enjoy the sea. Portable and cheap, no trailer or engine hassle, and you would be amazed how far you can go.

[@nancydolan1647]

Thank you for REAL advice/reviews!! After watching tons of hype, these videos were so helpful. I really like how you cover all levels and price points. No bias or shame about where someone might be interest wise or financially. We are actually thinking of making a trip to Portland to join your meet up group!! Please keep the videos coming - e.g., features, paddles, pumps, tips, etc. Again, thank you for your fun, honest and useful information!

[@inneradventures]

My pleasure! It'll be a great honor to have you come from (afar I presume) to paddle with us!

[@jacquelineanne3934]

Thank you very much for all the good information! We've had our sea eagle 6 years now and Love it!!!

[@spiritzweispirit1st638]

Never Even Sat' In a Kayak In My Entire Life' Yet Your Presentation Is So Excellent and Intelligently Complimentary' That Im Genuinely Intrigued In These Atmospheric Flotation Devices ! - and Hoping These Manufacturers See This Great 'Real World Experience Critique' Video To Energize Actual Improvements Through New Technological Innovations! Most Awesome Sir' Thank You! A Clueless New Subscriber🌈

[@Imightberiding]

I keep coming back to this video with this young man's sound, excellent advice. Shame I can't like it more than once & click the thumbs up several times. Great advice & info for us newbs to inflatable kayaks.

[@vilmacordero2974]

As a smaller built person, this video is very helpful. Thank you 😊

[@Adams1984100]

Bought an AG Chelan 155 on sale after seeing this video. Glad I didn't go for the Advance Elements! Hot tip on the pump subject, I use a cheap ($20-30) battery powered (also doubles as a powerbank) air matress pump and a washing machine drain hose for inflating and deflating. To reach the correct pressure I do some final pump strokes with a manual pump.

[@beemitefreetime7369]

I think we had the same first experience with Advanced Elements orange inflatable kayak. Packing was a total pain and it got smelly fast. It was really hard to dry in the Seattle weather. Thank you for your informative video.

[@danielmenendez8249]

This is one of the best guides I have ever seen for any product.

[@tomfromnorthcarolina1491]

Wow, this one video is the best intro to inflatable kayaks I have ever seen. Well done and thanks for some good information.

[@brooksbell6272]

Great advice. I have the Sea Eagle razorlite and it is a great kayak. One additional wrinkle if you are in California is the invasive mussel issue. Almost all lakes that allow kayaks require an inspection before putting the boat in the water. This isn't a big problem but when you take the boat out you can get it "tagged" once deflated and in the bag. This enables you to avoid a fee next time you use it - as the boat is unusable without cutting the tag. But it also means the boat won't be completely dry as you have to bag it before leaving the lake. The razorlite is pretty good about this as you can dry it out pretty fast.

[@treforknight1366]

Great reviews .. you make the most sense of any of the inflatable kayak reviewers on KZbin .. a lot of them are clearly affiliated with a brand.. or they’re just omitting to mention things that are going to be important during real life ownership.. I did a fair amount of research, including your videos..and ended up going for the SeaEagle Fasttrack 385 .. enjoying it a lot so far! 👍

[@corirose8786]

Jeez, I'm definitely re-evaluating. Much gratitude for such am informative, honest and encouragement. Safe travels🤗

[@acurf]

Very informative! We own hard shell kayaks but want to travel with inflatables. I found this just after selecting the Intex Challenger K1, a Class 1. This review reassures me that this kayak will work well for us.

[@glenacord]

The most amazingly useful video ever on inflatable kayaks!

[@gutturf]

Thanks for this. It changed my mind from ordering an Advanced Elements tandem kayak to the Sea Eagle 473. However, I have had an Aire whitewater kayak (category II) and it has been incredibly durable for over 15 years in whitewater and seawater. I do dry it out for a few days every time I use it. I have had a number of other hard shell white and flat water canoes and kayaks over the decades but as I get older am seeing the benefits of lighter boats that can be transported inside the car. The only problem now is the two month backorder on that Sea Eagle. Protip for people with inflatables. The Ryobi high volume inflator has been incredibly helpful to me. If you already have the 18v lithium battery series, it is inexpensive ($30) and can fill your boat 80-90% of the way up in a couple of minutes, then finish with the hand or foot pump.

[@nathanielowensleigh7513]

Thanks Jack! My family is thinking about going inflatable. We’re currently a canoe family (old town tripper) but the child is old enough to go solo, so we’re shopping around to get a tandem and a solo. Your input reinforced my own suspicions, and will save us $$$$, so thanks again. We’ll keep the tripper, but probably spring for the category 1+ option for our camping trips to Battleground and Trillium. See you out there!

[@richardabramson7666]

Best product and category survey I have seen. Really well done!

[@stevebowier1998]

We have owned an Advanced Element, like the one in this video, for 5 years. Really enjoy it but he is absolutely correct, to dry it properly means taking it completely apart and sometimes breaking out the garden hose to wash out sand and grit. We have the outdoor space to do this, if you are more confined this extra chore could be difficult. We purchased the drop stitch floor as well, really good support compared to the standard bellows type. Very informative video.

[@philchubb8670]

Great video! As a former Advanced Elements owner, I was particularly impressed when it addressed the drying issue. It's a total pain in the butt, especially when dealing with salt water! I really liked the boat but avoided taking it out and eventually sold it because it typically took SEVERAL DAYS to dry.

[@whocares0316]

Wow! I seriously looked at Adv Element yak before and really liked the quality but never heard about the drying issue either. Glad i passed.

[@mikebutler3846]

@@whocares0316 I was just looking at the AE kayak also. I thought about the drying, but didn’t have a clue about the chambers and such. I live on the coast of SC above Myrtle Beach and want to start kayaking on the waterway so salt water would be involved. Good video with food for thought.

[@cutecoots]

thought about buying the lagoon 1 but now I'm overthinking. Thanks ^^ But what else to buy? Inflatable, cheap enough (of course as cheap as it can be.. but well I think it can go up to 650€) and "closed" so no sit on top as I want to avoid getting too wet on the tours ^^ Some ideas? I know, the itiwit x500 and Im thinking about it, too.. but people complain about waves / not being stable enough.. I will use the kayak for lake constance and rhine / rivers most time. So there are waves and flow which I want to paddle against. I also own a SUP. Want the kayak for lower temperatures and days when I dont want to get too wet. On the SUP I will sit and then I get totally wet due to waves etc. so it should be not open / sit on top like Ideas? Thanks =)

[@elpeltys]

Drying the AE kayak is easy. You lay it out and wait, it takes no effort and a bit of time.

[@colinblake4284]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and advice on an informative and straightforward way. Cat 3 for me which I have now purchased.

[@kristofferrydquist8384]

100% top content, regarding valves, the tracking, the pain of drying those AE kayaks, the wet butt issue, etc. I went into SUP and actually enjoy the simple and convenient way to get out on the water but it requires a lot more skill than IK and more cash to get similar performance.

[@dikelly2011]

Amazing Review, best I Have watched so far. We have a sea eagle 370 and we struggle a bit with the kayak spinning on longer sea expeditions. Looking to upgrade and your video is so informative.

[@wanderlust1965]

Addressed all my questions about inflatables!! Great info!!