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Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Kayak Review
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame kayak (AE1012) combines the best features of folding frame and inflatable kayaks with the dependability of a hard shell. With built-in aluminum ribs to reinforce the bow and stern, the AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak tracks and performs extremely well in the water.
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The double coated Rip Stop fabric works with 3 layers of material to protect against cuts, scrapes, punctures, and leaks. Not only that, but Advanced Elements goes through a process of inflating, inspecting, and pressure testing all AdvancedFrame kayaks for a period of 24 to 48 hours for quality assurance. The AdvancedFrame is extremely difficult difficult to damage, but if something does happen, you can easily repair the kayak yourself with the included repair kit.
With a quick and easy set up and compact size when deflated, the AdvancedFrame is perfect for long trips on the road – you can even bring it with you on an airplane. In this Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame kayak review, we’ll go over the specs and best features, frequently asked questions, and pros and cons of this great inflatable kayak.
In a Hurry? Here’s a Quick Summary…
Pros | Very portable Extremely stable Reinforced bow and stern Durable construction Good tracking Fast Comfortable |
Cons | Limited cargo room On the heavy side |
Price & Where to Buy it |
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Review: Kayak Overview
As with many other inflatable kayaks, the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame is best suited for inland waters. A bit of a current is fine, but you may want to avoid rapid waters or coastal ocean waters in this kayak.
Calm open seas are fine if you’re willing to work a little harder against the current. Shallow, rocky rivers should also be avoided. The AdvancedFrame is tough, but it’s important to respect the kayak’s limitations.
Due to the AdvancedFrame’s built in seat and backrest, you’ll be able to comfortably paddle for hours on end. However, due to the fact that you sit in this kayak instead of on top, taller folks will find it a bit more difficult to tuck their legs inside.
It’s recommended to rinse off the AdvancedFrame kayak and make sure it’s completely dry before packing it up. If you tuck the AdvancedFrame away without properly drying it first, don’t be surprised to find a little mold next time you take it out. The material dries relatively quickly, but some may find the wait a little irritating.
Paddling the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame is slower and involves more effort than you would experience with a hard shell kayak, but overall it is very steady and faster than most other inflatable kayaks.
Kayak Construction and Design
The AdvancedFrame kayak handles similarly to a hard shell kayak, but maintains the portability of an inflatable. It is stable and comfy and definitely doesn’t fall under the “glorified inner tube” stereotype that many other inflatable kayaks have.
There are a total of 7 chambers, and depending on the kind of pump you have, you can have the entire kayak setup and ready to go in under 15 minutes. The specially made Advanced Elements spring valve ensures that there is no air leakage while you pump up your inflatable kayak.
The AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak comes in highly visible classic red or lime green. A thick coating on the bottom of the kayak is tough enough for years of use, and the main chamber is made from sturdy 30-guage PVC that is protected by polyurethane coated polyester on one layer and a tough PVC tarpaulin with 1000 Denier Polyester on the outer layer. Although not completely waterproof, the material of the kayak is water resistant and dries relatively quickly, and the welded seams do a great job of guarding against leaks.
The AdvancedFrame’s stern doubles as a skeg, which adds to the kayak’s maneuverability. The aluminum enforced frame within the stern and bow is awesome, and the hard edges help you cut through the water with precision without drifting to one side or the other.
The storage component is moderately sized – you can’t bring a week’s supplies with you, but you do have room for lunch, a first aid kit, and other similarly-sized items. You may even be able to sit your pet in the cockpit with you.
Best Features
The AdvanedFrame comes equipped with an integrated pressure relief valve in the floor, so you can adjust the air pressure as you go. If overinflated, the performance of the kayak can be affected which makes this a convenient fix without having to go back to shore.
A skeg tracking fin makes maneuvering the AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak easy for the beginner and expert alike. The hard edge on the bow and stern as well as the extra support from the aluminum frame underneath adds to the outstanding tracking ability.
In addition to 3 layers of extremely tough material, the neoprene paddle guards protect the main body of the kayak from wear and tear while you paddle. The AdvancedFrame is a sturdy kayak that you have to work hard to capsize — all while being extremely lightweight and easy to transport.
Portability and Storage
At a folded size of just 30 inches x 17 inches x 10 inches, you can easily tuck the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame kayak into any car trunk or closet. There’s no need for a roof rack with this kayak, so you’ll save hundreds of dollars as well as the time and hassle of loading and unloading a bulky hard shell kayak from the roof of your car. Plus, with easy set up, you’ll be on the water in no time.
Weighing in at 36 pounds, the AdvancedFrame is a little heftier than some other Advanced Elements inflatable kayaks, but it’s much more lightweight than pretty much all hard shell kayaks. It ultimately boils down to what you can handle. Keep in mind that the kayak has molded rubber handles to make it easier to carry around.
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Rating
- Durability
- Features
- Versatility
- Stability
- Speed
- Portability
- Warranty
- Customer Service
- Price
User Review
( votes)Specs
Length | 10'5" |
Width | 32" |
Weight | 36 pounds |
Max Capacity | 300 pounds |
Type | Solo |
What’s Included
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame kayak includes a convenient duffel carry bag which makes travel and storage a cinch.
A padded folding seat is also included for maximum comfort. It’s adjustable, and the high back support ensures that you will be able to paddle comfortably for hours on end.
An inflatable kayak repair kit is included in addition to an owner’s manual with general setup directions. The outer skin of the AdvancedFrame is extremely tough, but accidents do happen and when they do, you’ll be prepared to quickly patch things up.
FAQ
How long does it take for the material to dry?
Very quickly! You won’t have to wait long for the AdvancedFrame to dry out.
How long does it take to inflate the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame kayak?
It shouldn’t take you more than 15 minutes to inflate, and is typically much less.
Can I bring my dog onboard?
Yes, but it depends on how big you and your dog are. The max capacity the AdvancedFrame inflatable kayak can handle is 300 pounds, so you need to factor in your combined weight plus any supplies you want to bring along. The inner chamber and outer material are more than tough enough to withstand your pooch’s nails.
How tall is too tall?
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame kayak has a total length of 10 feet and 5 inches, leaving about two-thirds of that length for your legs. People 6 feet and over may feel a little cramped.
How fast is the AdvancedFrame?
The AdvancedFrame is much faster than most other inflatable kayaks, and it’s actually comparable to some hard shell varieties. With that said, don’t expect to set any speed records in this kayak — it’s mainly designed for leisurely paddling.
Final Thoughts
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame kayak glides extremely well with help from the reinforced bow and stern, hard edges, and skeg. You can cruise along the water at around 3 knots, which is comparable to some hard shell kayaks.
This kayak is great for beginners and advanced paddlers, but be prepared to limit yourself to calm waters. It is a bit higher in price than many inflatable kayaks on the market, so you’ll have to decide if the reinforcement, tough material, and overall portability makes it worthwhile. In our opinion, you definitely get what you pay for with the AdvancedFrame.
People who are limited on space will love the compact size of the AdvancedFrame. It does require a little more work for set up, but that’s a fair tradeoff for its portability. You can even bring it on the plane with you for overseas trips and vacations.
Overall, the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame is a fine inflatable kayak and an investment that should pay you back with many years of paddling enjoyment.