Advanced Elements ADVANCEDFRAME Kayak Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Will my pump fit the inflation valves? Important - (valve adaptor is located in the black nylon repair kit in the mesh seat pocket).

Yes, our kayaks can be inflated with a standard bellows style, or double action hand pump. The AdvancedFrame kayak comes with an adaptor to fit different size pump nozzles.

2. What kind of valves does the AdvancedFrame have?

The main chambers use high-end military style, plunger valves (Push in and twist 90 degrees to activate the spring-loaded check valve for inflating, or push-in and twist to lock open for deflating). You will notice the stem of the valve move outward, or lock inward. When inflating the stem should be in the outward position (or valve closed position). The pump pressure will bypass the the closed valve then when you stop pumping and remove the adaptor no air will come out. If using a standard foot or hand pump, you will need to use the hose adaptor included with the AdvancedFrame kayak. (located in the black nylon repair kit bag) Inflate the first chamber until it starts to fill out. Then close that valve, and proceed to the second gray valve. Inflate the second valve until the tube body fills out and feels firm. The other chambers are twisting style valves. Simply hold the pump hose on the end of the blue nozzle and pump. When the chamber is full twist shut. To begin inflating your kayak, you will need a Bellows Foot Pump or a Double Action Hand Pump (see accessories). Never use compressors, CO2 or compressed air as they may damage your kayak.

3. How does the bow and stern improve the performance of the kayak?

The unique bow and stern improve performance by doing the following. The bow is narrow and sharp as well as raised (Greenlander style). This reduces the resistance through the water and keeps the waves from breaking on the deck. The Stern closes the water behind the boat and acts like a skeg to keep the kayak traveling straight.

4. Do I need to make a plywood floor for my kayak.?

NO, absolutely not. When the AdvancedFrame is inflated properly the skin is tight, and the air chambers are firm. The AdvancedFrame requires no additional stiffener. The only reason that a board would be needed would be if the kayak was not inflated properly. You must use a foot pump or hand pump to inflate to the needed pressure, an electric mattress inflator will not generate enough pressure.

5. What is the deflated and packed size of the AdvancedFrame kayak?

The dimensions of the deflated AdvancedFrame kayak are 33 x 17 x 8 inches.

6. How much does the kayak weigh?

It weights 34 lbs.

7. Does it come with a carry case?

Yes, The AdvancedFrame kayak comes complete with a very heavy-duty duffel bag for transporting your kayak to your favorite destination.

8. What is the best way to pack the boat back into the duffle bag?

The key to repacking the kayak is to get all the air out of it. Do this by reversing your pump and sucking the remaining air out of each chamber. Then follow the folding instructions in the owner's manual.

9. Is there a way to increase the foot room?

Yes, if you need more space for your feet, simply let the air out of the floor chamber, then fold the rear of the floor over on itself (by 6" or 8") and slide the floor toward the rear of the boat. Then re-inflate the floor. This adds about 4" of toe room.

10. Can I fit a spray skirt on the seating compartment coaming?

Yes, the coaming around the seating area can be used to attach a spray skirt, however it is not a rigid coaming so it would not be sufficient for Eskimo rolls, but it will keep excess water out of the boat and keep the warmth in on winter day. They have one specially designed for it.

11. How do you clean the kayak?

Hose it down with freshwater, and let it air dry before packing away for extended periods. Use a sponge to soak up any excess water and grit that may have made its way into the boat.

12. How long does it take to set up?

On average it takes about 5 minutes when inflating with a foot pump. It will obviously take longer than that the first time you setup as you will want to get familiar with the components and assembly described in the owner's manual.

13. Is there storage room inside the kayak for additional gear?

Yes, one of the nice features about this kayak is that there is actually room behind the seat to bring extra gear along on your adventure. There is also deck space to lash down any safety gear (spare paddle, etc.).

14. How easily can the boat be punctured?

Advanced Elements use top quality reinforced PVC, and Hi-density fabrics. In order to puncture the main chamber from the bottom you would need to pierce through (3) three layers of material.

15. How should I store my boat?

When storing for an extended period of time, Advanced Elements recommend storing your kayak deflated in a cool dry area, out of direct sunlight.

16. How well does the AdvancedFrame track in a straight line?

The AdvancedFrame kayak is designed to move thru the water like rigid and folding boats, instead of on top of the water like most inflatables. This greatly enhances the tracking, especially on powerful strokes.

17. What type of conditions you can expect to use the AdvancedFrame kayak in?

The AdvancedFrame is designed to be a day touring type boat, for flat or open water. The bow and stern have a rigid semi-frame that gives it a hard edge. This greatly improves the tracking over traditional inflatables. The AdvancedFrame is fine for class 1 and 2 rivers, and durable enough for class 3, however it is really designed to paddle in a straight line, and therefore not recommended for rivers above class 3. When choosing a kayak for class 3 whitewater or greater, you really want a boat with a very rounded hull that will not grip on to the current, especially in eddys. Unfortunately kayaks with very rounded hulls will not paddle very straight on flat water.