At the recent Outdoor Retailer Summer Show, Aquaglide Inc of White Salmon, Washington announced the launch of their new line of inflatable kayaks for 2014 – twelve models ranging in price from $199.95 to $1099.95. This is our second writeup on the new models.
The Aquaglide Deschutes HB series of inflatable kayaks feature a wide, stable outline designed for all-purpose recreational paddling. Three sizes, ranging in length from 8 feet to 12 feet, provide multiple paddling options.
Each of the Deschutes HB models are constructed from a commercial-grade Duratex hull material blended with a rugged 600 denier polyester for durability and UV protection. Combined with a 6+ PSI “Hard Bottom (HB)” high-pressure floor, the kayak body becomes stiffer, increasing paddling performance and stability.
Front and rear spray guards are positioned to keep paddlers dry, each with ample bungee deck lacing for attaching gear.
Adjustable Pro-Formance seats provide comfort and support, featuring an inflatable base and high backrest with plenty of storage features – mesh pockets, integrated fishing rod holders and removable beverage holder.
Other features include neoprene knuckle guards, military inflation valves, quick-release tracking fin system, molded handles, front foot rests and paddleholders. Each kayak comes with an oversized carrying bag with backstrap.
The three Deschutes models include:
Deschutes One HB:
Paddlers: 1
Size: 8 feet long with a 34″ width
Weight capacity: 250 lbs
Boxed weight: 36 lbs
MSRP $799
Deschutes Two HB
Paddlers: 1 or 2
Size: 10 feet long with a 34″ width
Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Boxed weight: 44 lbs
MSRP $899
Deschutes Tandem HB
Paddlers: 1 or 2 with extra space for gear, child or pet. Includes a removable third “jumper seat.”
Size: 12 feet long with a 34″ width
Weight capacity: 600 lbs
Boxed weight: 51 lbs
MSRP $999
Available early in 2014.
Other Aquaglide models include the Columbia – a high-pressure touring model in three sizes; the Klickitat – a high-pressure, whitewater self-bailer for for solo or tandem kayaking and the Chinook – an economically-priced, low-pressure recreational model in two sizes. The lineup is rounded out with two entry level inflatables – the Rogue diving/fishing model and the price-conscious Yakima. Aquaglide also offers the Cascade line – three inflatable SUPs ranging in size from 10 to 12.5 feet.
Stay tuned. We’ll have further details on each of the new inflatable kayak models on our website at AirKayaks.com.