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It’s been a little while since we covered the Aquaglide range and this update is intended to give our staff view of the key models and changes. For those new to the brand, Aquaglide was established by watersports enthusiasts back in the early 2000’s. Originally based in White Salmon in America’s Pacific Northwest, this is a global mecca for paddle sports and particularly whitewater. Any brand based next to the White Salmon river is all but guaranteed to be driven by keen paddlers. Their range can be divided into two distinct areas, aquaparks and inflatable kayaks. Here we will cover the latter, explaining the main models and why we love them. It is perhaps best to split the range into twin and single skin boats, with a short explanation of each below:
Twin Skin – This is the main staple of the Aquaglide range and includes legendary models such as Chinook and Noyo. These boats have a fabric outer cover containing three separate internal bladders. The benefits of this system centre around abrasion resistance and improved pressure figures when compared with low end inflatable kayaks, many of which are more toys than serious propositions. In contrast, twin skin boats can be paddled for a good distance and suit use both inland and at the coast.
Single Skin – Above the twin ski range we see a move to high pressure single layer boats. These must not be confused with entry level inflatable kayaks, which are again single skin but use massively inferior materials, inflation valves and accessories. Instead, Aqauglide use a reinforced PVC called duratex that allows for higher pressure figures, improved durability, quicker drying times and smaller pack sizes compared with twin ski boats. Popular models such as their Chelan then combine this with a drop stitch floor bladder to give the feeling of being in a rigid boat.
Now we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to look at our pick of models from the Aquaglide inflatable kayak range.
Twin Skin Models
Noyo 90
Capacity – One person (113kg)
Dimensions - 274 x 86cm
Weight - 9.3kg
Spraydeck compatible - Yes
Perhaps the king of the closed cockpit style single seaters. The Noyo is perfect for solo kayaking, whether inland or coastal. Essentially a closed deck variant of the ever popular Chinook 90. Its compact dimensions keep pack size to a minimum, while storage space, comfort and performance remain excellent. The Noyo comes complete with carry case, skeg fin and seat. Looking for something longer and more efficient to cover distance with ease? Why not look to the Navarro 110 or 130.
Chinook 90
Capacity – One person (113kg)
Dimensions - 274 x 89cm
Weight – 8.9kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
If you like the idea of compact single person kayaking but don’t want to feel enclosed then the Chinook 90 could well be the right choice for you. These offer excellent value in the tried and tested twin skin construction. You can use the Chinook both inland and at the coast, with the included fin aiding straight line tracking, particularly when windy. The Chinook 90 comes complete with carry case, skeg fin and seat. If you’re looking for greater forward speed and efficiency to cover distance with ease then why not consider moving to the single skin Deschutes 110 and 130, or even Aquglide’s legendary Chelan 120 to make use of drop stitch floor technology.
Chinook 100
Capacity – One to two people (181kg)
Dimensions - 319 x 91cm
Weight – 11kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
The Chinnok 100 is a compact inflatable kayak that can be used in either solo or tandem configuration thanks to the fully customisable seating position. It offers excellent value in the tried and tested twin skin construction. You can use the Chinook both inland and at the coast, with the included fin aiding straight line tracking, particularly when windy. The Chinook 100 comes complete with carry case, skeg fin and seats. If you’re looking for greater forward speed and efficiency to cover distance with ease then why not consider moving to the single skin Deschutes 145, or even Aquglide’s legendary Chelan 140 to make use of drop stitch floor technology.
Chinook 120
Capacity – Two people plus child or dog (250kg)
Dimensions - 370 x 93cm
Weight – 12.6kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
The Chinnok 120 is a compact inflatable kayak that is best suited to tandem configuration, but can be also used solo thanks to the fully customisable seating position. As well as two padded seats you’ll receive an additional saddle for small children. It offers excellent value in the tried and tested twin skin construction. You can use the Chinook both inland and at the coast, with the included fin aiding straight line tracking, particularly when windy. The Chinook 120 comes complete with carry case, skeg fin, seats and saddle. If you’re looking for greater forward speed and efficiency to cover distance with ease then why not consider moving to the single skin Deschutes 145, or even Aquglide’s legendary Chelan 155 to make use of drop stitch floor technology.
Navarro 110
Capacity – One person (113kg)
Dimensions - 335 x 90cm
Weight – 12.3kg
Spraydeck compatible – Yes
The Navarro range of kayaks is popular with both our staff and customers. They balance the value and robust nature of the twin skin construction with a drop stitch floor bladder for the ultimate in rigidity and performance. This feature makes the hull six times stiffer than most comparable models, translating to more forward speed and glide. In this 110 (335cm) version you can paddle solo and also carry gear, potentially adding the optional spraydeck cover to stay dry if required. The Navarro 110 comes complete with carry case, skeg fin, footrest and seat. Looking for more storage space or efficiency from your solo boat? The longer Navarro 130 would certainly be worth consideration.
Navarro 130
Capacity – One person (136kg)
Dimensions - 401 x 95cm
Weight – 13.9kg
Spraydeck compatible – Yes
The Navarro range of kayaks is popular with both our staff and customers. They balance the value and robust nature of the twin skin construction with a drop stitch floor bladder for the ultimate in rigidity and performance. This feature makes the hull six times stiffer than most comparable models, translating to more forward speed and glide. In this 130 (401cm) version you can paddle solo and also carry gear for overnight trips, potentially adding the optional spraydeck cover to stay dry if required. The Navarro 130 comes complete with carry case, skeg fin, footrest and seat. Looking for a more compact design and lighter weight from your solo boat? The shorter Navarro 110 would certainly be worth consideration.
Navarro 145
Capacity – Two person (227kg)
Dimensions - 437 x 99cm
Weight – 16.3kg
Spraydeck compatible – Yes
The Navarro range of kayaks is popular with both our staff and customers. They balance the value and robust nature of the twin skin construction with a drop stitch floor bladder for the ultimate in rigidity and performance. This feature makes the hull six times stiffer than most comparable models, translating to more forward speed and glide. In this 145 (437cm) version you can paddle tandem and also carry gear for overnight trips, potentially adding the optional spraydeck cover to stay dry if required. The Navarro 145 comes complete with carry case, skeg fin, footrests and seats. You’ll love the ability to cover distance quickly and without expending excessive energy. Best suited to inland locations but also a capable coastal cruiser in calm conditions.
Single Skin Models
Deschutes 110
Capacity – One person (136kg)
Dimensions - 335 x 91cm
Weight – 8.2kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
The Deschutes is Aquaglide’s latest addition, creating a hybrid style boat that was well received during our initial test. Read the full review here. This model is a story of compact pack size and enviable performance. The Duratex reinforced PVC shell is aided by high pressure thwarts, adding rigidity to the structure. The use of a laminated foam floor aids comfort, while keeping weight to a minimum. You can use the Deschutes in both inland and coastal conditions, performing best in calm conditions. Its low rocker and pointed shape adds glide and forward paddling efficiency, while the included skeg fin helps with tracking. This single person 110 version comes complete with carry case, tracking fin, footrest and seat.
Deschutes 130
Capacity – One person (181kg)
Dimensions - 391 x 915m
Weight – 10kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
The Deschutes is Aquaglide’s latest addition, creating a hybrid style boat that was well received during our initial test. Read the full review here. This model is a story of compact pack size and enviable performance. The Duratex reinforced PVC shell is aided by high pressure thwarts, adding rigidity to the structure. The use of a laminated foam floor aids comfort, while keeping weight to a minimum. You can use the Deschutes in both inland and coastal conditions, performing best in calm conditions. Its low rocker and pointed shape adds glide and forward paddling efficiency, while the included skeg fin helps with tracking. This single person 130 version gives additional length over the 110. Not only is speed increased but storage and comfort further improves. It comes complete with carry case, tracking fin, footrest and seat.
Deschutes 145
Capacity – Two person (136kg)
Dimensions - 446 x 96cm
Weight – 11.5kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
The Deschutes is Aquaglide’s latest addition, creating a hybrid style boat that was well received during our initial test. Read the full review here. This model is a story of compact pack size and enviable performance. The Duratex reinforced PVC shell is aided by high pressure thwarts, adding rigidity to the structure. The use of a laminated foam floor aids comfort, while keeping weight to a minimum. You can use the Deschutes in both inland and coastal conditions, performing best in calm conditions. Its low rocker and pointed shape adds glide and forward paddling efficiency, while the included skeg fin helps with tracking. This tandem 145 version comes complete with carry case, tracking fin, footrests and seats.
Chelan 120
Capacity – One person (136kg)
Dimensions - 344 x 83cm
Weight – 12.8kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
It’s no secret that we love the Chelan and were we only carrying one inflatable kayak in store this would be the staff choice. It allows us to give a risk free recommendation, safe in the knowledge that the boat offers excellent performance, as well as working across a range of conditions. The Duratex reinforced PVC shell is strong, stiff and lightweight. However, the jewel in the crown is undoubedtly the drop stitch floor bladder. This addition makes the Chelan six times more rigid than most inflatable kayaks, translating into more distance covered with less energy spent. The moderate rocker and sleek pointed shape further aid glide. Aquaglide have included premium seats, adding more comfort and the ability to adjust your height relative to the floor bladder via an inflatable base. Go high for more leverage and comfort, or stay low for a more stable feel in rough conditions. The Chelan can be used in both inland and coastal locations and this 120 (344cm) version is best for solo paddling. It retains good storage space but if in doubt then why not consider moving to the 140 (413cm) variant for even more speed, comfort and space. Read more about the Chelan in our dedicated staff blog review here.
Chelan 140
Capacity – One to two people (181kg)
Dimensions - 413 x 89cm
Weight – 15.8kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
It’s no secret that we love the Chelan and were we only carrying one inflatable kayak in store this would be the staff choice. It allows us to give a risk free recommendation, safe in the knowledge that the boat offers excellent performance, as well as working across a range of conditions. The Duratex reinforced PVC shell is strong, stiff and lightweight. However, the jewel in the crown is undoubedtly the drop stitch floor bladder. This addition makes the Chelan six times more rigid than most inflatable kayaks, translating into more distance covered with less energy spent. The moderate rocker and sleek pointed shape further aid glide. Aquaglide have included premium seats, adding more comfort and the ability to adjust your height relative to the floor bladder via an inflatable base. Go high for more leverage and comfort, or stay low for a more stable feel in rough conditions. The Chelan can be used in both inland and coastal locations and this 140 (413cm) version best for solo or tandem paddling. It retains good storage space and the seats can be moved into almost any position to suit your leg length and intended use. If solely using the boat tandem then why not benefit from greater forward speed and comfort by choosing the 155? Read more about the Chelan in our dedicated staff blog review here.
Chelan 155
Capacity – Two person (272kg)
Dimensions - 461 x 91cm
Weight – 18kg
Spraydeck compatible – No
It’s no secret that we love the Chelan and were we only carrying one inflatable kayak in store this would be the staff choice. It allows us to give a risk free recommendation, safe in the knowledge that the boat offers excellent performance, as well as working across a range of conditions. The Duratex reinforced PVC shell is strong, stiff and lightweight. However, the jewel in the crown is undoubedtly the drop stitch floor bladder. This addition makes the Chelan six times more rigid than most inflatable kayaks, translating into more distance covered with less energy spent. The moderate rocker and sleek pointed shape further aid glide. Aquaglide have included premium seats, adding more comfort and the ability to adjust your height relative to the floor bladder via an inflatable base. Go high for more leverage and comfort, or stay low for a more stable feel in rough conditions. The Chelan can be used in both inland and coastal locations and this 155 (413cm) version best for tandem paddling. It retains good storage space and the seats can be moved into almost any position to suit your leg length and intended use. Read more about the Chelan in our dedicated staff blog review here.
Summary
The Aquaglide range makes up the majority of our inflatable kayak offering in store and with good reason. The spec, price and customer feedback give us confidence to make recommendations. Hopefully this information was useful in your decision making process. However, there is nothing like tailored advice based on your experience and intended use. Why not get in touch with our specialist kayak staff today.
