The Gumotex Swing used to be sold in the US and Canada as the Innova Swing.
Innova kayak was owned by Tim Rosenhan and Paul Neutz. They partnered with the Czech manufacturing facility Gumotex to import high quality PVC-free inflatable kayaks into the United States.
However when Tim sadly passed away in late 2015 the Innova kayaks were eventually phased out of production for the US although Gumotex was still selling kayaks in Europe as they had been since the 1950’s.
It took some time but we are very fortunate that Gumotex has brought these awesome inflatable kayaks back to the US and Canada market by selling them on Amazon.com.
Best Uses: Lakes, ocean bays, calm rivers (up to class II)
Number of Paddlers: 1
| SPECS | |
|---|---|
| LENGTH X WIDTH | 10’4″ x 34″ |
| WEIGHT | 22 LBS. |
| MAX LOAD | 265 LBS. |
| PERFORMANCE |  |
| STABILITY |  |
| WARRANTY | 2 YEARS |
| PRICE | BEST DEAL: AMAZON.COM |
Accessories Included: Removable tracking fin, seat and back rest, footrest, bungee tie downs (front and back), bow and stern grab handles, carry bag, repair kit
Optional Accessories: Spray skirt
Pros: Environmentally friendly – no PVC!, decked inflatable kayak – looks fantastic, very comfortable, large cockpit – good for any sized paddler, inflates in only 5 minutes, dries quickly, extremely light weight, compact, urethane-coated decks with zippered access for gear storage and cleaning ease, gear bungees on bow and stern, aluminum arches fore and aft of the cockpit opening contribute to stiffness and better performance.
Cons: Does not come with a carry bag (Innova is in the process of creating a PVC-free backpack/drybag that will be available at the end of July), not super fast but speed is comparable to a rigid kayak of the same size
More In-Depth Info
The Gumotex Swing has a totally unique design that you do not normally see in an inflatable kayak.
Although there are a few other closed-deck models around, the Swing shines in that it uses a ‘tubeless’ system which allows it to be very light weight.
I was pretty psyched to try the Swing because I loved the look of it, the idea behind it and most of all the great price tag.
It is truly a very cool, compact and fun kayak that is best suited for flat water paddling such as lakes, ocean bays or calm rivers.
* Please note that the images that follow below are my review of the older model. It is extremely similar to the new Swing model however with very few changes.
Set-Up
I would suggest with the initial set-up to take-care to follow the instructions. It is surprisingly easy, but different than what you might be used to with other inflatable kayaks.
There are 3 main air chambers which is great for safety… if there is ever a leak in one air chamber you still have two others to safely get you back to shore.
However I do not foresee any issues in this area as the material is strong and resilient.
The fore and aft braces are something I have not seen before and they work very well. They essentially clip into the front and back of the cockpit and keep the deck and center quite rigid. This will help with any possible flex as well as performance.
The tracking fin needs to be inserted before the kayak is inflated. The seat needs to be attached, the footrest should be tied down and the fore and aft braces put in place. Then you can start pumping.
All in all it takes me about 5 minutes to fully put together and inflate the Swing. Very simple, very easy… just follow the order in the directions.
My Experience With the Swing
I had been wanting to test out the new Swing for quite some time and was really excited to finally get my hands on it.
Unfortunately the timing of receiving the Swing coincided with a long distance move I was doing so it got put on the back-burner for a bit.
When I was finally able to get it out I was impressed with:
a) The very cool looking design.
b) The ease of set-up for a closed-deck inflatable kayak (they are usually far more complicated).
c) How fun it was to paddle.
There are a lot of positives to the Swing and it is definitely worth checking out.
Quality of Construction
The construction is truly unique from most other inflatable kayaks on the market.
Manufactured In A Czech Factory
These kayaks are constructed in a Czech factory that uses a vulcanization process for the kayak seams. The results of the vulcanization are seams that are bonded together exceptionally strong and a very durable inner lining.
Pressure Checked
After the whole vulcanization process is done, the main valves are installed and each chamber of the kayak is pressure checked.
The kayak is inflated to 1.5 times the working pressure and after holding for 4 hours the pressure is rechecked.
Hand Glued Seams
Any pressure loss beyond 10% rejects the boat. Boats that pass the pressure check are then completed by hand-gluing the bows and stem shapes and fitting on decks and accessories.
Leaking seams are one of the main complaints with inflatable kayaks that are not constructed well. This unique vulcanization process means that you are getting a super strong and very durable product that will last for years and years to come.
Great Deck!
I have to say the deck is awesome. The bow and stern zippers make it really easy to store and access your gear as well as clean any water out after use. It is a really nice design feature.
The deck makes it feel more like a traditional rigid kayak and it provides fairly good protection from the elements.
The cockpit opening is quite large so easy for a person of any size to get in and out and be comfortable.
There is an optional spray skirt that can be purchased if desired. The spray skirt attaches with velcro and offers additional protection from the elements and rough water.
The bow and stern bungee cords are a nice feature for securing gear that you want easy access to such as a jacket or water bottle.
Light and Compact
Closed-deck inflatable kayaks are known to be heavy. It is usually their biggest downfall. With the Swing, Innova was able to use a unique design that kept it very compact and light weight.
At only 22 pounds it can easily be carried by one person and brought anywhere you want to go including on an airplane, a larger boat or in the trunk of your vehicle.
When deflated it rolls up into a super compact package. There is a clip-on strap to keep it securely rolled up.
Performance
The performance is good. This is not the fastest moving kayak in the water but for the length, width and weight it paddles fairly well. It turns easily and is very simple to maneuver.
It takes very little strength to get this kayak going and move it every which way.
The tracking fin helps with going straight but you will still notice a slight yaw movement (side to side). The tracking and speed will be far better with the longer tandem version of the Swing.
I would have loved to see a more rigid floor which I think would have helped with the performance. However all said and done, it paddles well and I think most recreational paddlers will be quite happy with it.
Tracking Fin
The tracking fin is a decent size and is very necessary when paddling in open water. You can remove it when paddling in rivers.
The fin attaches a little differently than what I am used to with other inflatable kayaks. It slides into slits in the base material. I found it very easy to put on as well as take off and it is extremely secure when attached.
Make sure you attach the fin before you inflate the kayak otherwise you will not be able to get it on! Check out the instructions.
Carry Bag
The bag that comes with the Gumotex inflatable kayak is basic but does the trick.
It has a nice wide zipper that allows easy access to get the kayak in and out of the bag.
This is a bag that you carry by hand or on your shoulder. It does not have straps to be carried on your back.
The bag dimensions are 24″ long x 16.5″ high by 9.5″ wide.
Speed
I would not classify the Swing as a super speedy kayak however it is comparable to a rigid kayak of the same size.
As a comparison Innova paddled the Swing flat out against a rigid kayak of the same length and the top speed was identical.
Once you get moving it glides nicely through the water and I found it took very little effort to paddle along.
My Video
Please excuse the quality of this video, it was done several years ago now and I definitely need to do an update. However if you’d like to see how the Swing paddles this video shows that well.
More Of My Pictures
Final Thoughts
Overall I am impressed with the Swing. The design of course is fantastic, it is a very attractive looking model and easy to set up. The performance is decent and I think it is ideal for flat water paddling.
The price is decent and what I would expect for the quality and uniqueness of this inflatable kayak.
Bottom line is that it is comfortable, easy, compact, stylish and fun. I would not hesitate to recommend the Gumotex Swing.
Where To Find The Best Deal
For US and Canada customers the Gumotex Swing inflatable kayak is only sold at Amazon.com. Click here for the best deal on Amazon.
Anyone ever fished from the Swing?
Hello, I stumbled on this site while google, great site 🙂
I have one of these and it is lovely kayak…. but I managed to snag it on something underwater and have ripped a gash in the bottom panel, probably 20cm or more long.
Does anyone have any recommendations of where I might be able to get this professionally repaired???? I am struggling to find somewhere that will take it on.
I’m based in London, UK…..
thanks!
Andrew
Hello 🙂
I would like to know which kayak is the best between Inova swing and advanced element frame. I know the Innova is lighter but I was wondering which one is the most resistant and which one is the best( lake/river / ocean). I already owned a convertible advanced element kayak but it is too big/heavy for me. I have a backbone on my kayak so I am also looking for a kayak that is confortable. ( does backbone also exist with Innova/ is it neccesary To have one?)
Thank you very much
Emilie
I actually find the performance between those two quite similar. The AdvnacedFrame is a little faster and I would say tracks a little straighter. However the difference in performance is not huge. The Innova Swing is a little more durable and obviously more portable because of the lighter weight and type of material. My preference is the Swing mostly because of ease of portability. If you paddle often in stronger winds however the heavier weight of the AdvancedFrame isn’t such a bad thing on the water. Hope that helps!
We have had a Innova Swing tandem for three years and really love it. It has traveled with us all over the US and Canada. Last week while kayaking among the Mangroves of Lovers Key in Southwest Florida we noticed that the left side of the kayak was getting a little soft. When we got home we couldn’t find any obvious tears ore holes so we did the soap test and found that the air was slowly leaking out about 3 inches in length on both ends right along the crease line where the kayak is turning into the point. No problems with any of the seams. We have called the company we bought it from on the west coast but so far have not heard back. Has anyone else had this problem?
Hi Ed, That is disappointing to hear. I haven’t heard of any similar issues with the Swing personally. If you don’t hear back from the company you bought it from contact Innova directly. I have found them really helpful in the past. Good luck!
hi guys–i have a 4 yr old swing 2 and have indentical problem–rear of kayak tube on left side is leaking from the inside thru fabric in and around the crease–have been patching with aqual seal and it helps but air(tiny bubbles) continue to leak at edges of patch each time i seal it–i think the inner coating on the fabric must be deteriorated–at present i get about 4-6 hours before it soft enough to notice–overnite way soft–no response from innova–
Well that’s not good. I am very sorry to hear that is happening and even more sorry to hear that Innova isn’t responding. Seems odd to get no response. Good luck I hope you are able to get this solved!
I recently bought an older display model Swing 1 and have similar leaking on the crease lines on both the bow and stern. Has anyone had any success with Innova regarding this issue?
Thanks.
Hey Brian I’m sorry to hear that. I hope someone here can give you some insight on their experience. The owner of Innova Kayaks passed away a few years ago, which was so unfortunate because I always found him excellent to deal with on any customer service related issues. I haven’t had the same level of communication with the company since then. Hope you’re able to get some help in your case!
Thanks Allison. Just heard from Innova and they have agreed to replace the kayak. Excellent customer service to say the least! Great to see Innova stand behind their products. Looking forward to paddling the Swing 1.
That’s great news Brian, I am so happy to hear that! Thank you for letting us know. Happy paddling!
Hi Allison,
I used to have an AE Expedition but then I changed to the Strait Edge and totally can’t get use to it. The SE was slow. Real slow. Will the Swing be anywhere close to the speed of the Expedition or even the Airis Play Tandem (I have that as a family kayak).
Thanks.
To be honest Kenneth I don’t think the Swing will paddle as fast as the Expedition. It is shorter and wider and although I found it easy to paddle and very responsive, I didn’t find it that fast. I also don’t think it paddles quite as well as the Airis Tandem. Check out the Sea Eagle RazorLite if you are looking for a solo IK that can get good speed and tracking. It’s awesome and performs really well… faster than the Expedition, more streamlined and extremely rigid. If you are looking for a closed-in deck model take a look at the Innova Swing EX… The EX model will paddle as well if not better than the Expedition and be faster to setup.
Big hole in my Swing I, a year after I bought it. Too bad, because I bought an Innova Helios 12 years ago and it never has had a leak.
Sorry to hear that Doug, how disappointing!
How does the Swing compare to the Helio EX?
I find the Helios EX tracks much better than the Swing. I like the design of the Swing and it’s fun to paddle but I much prefer the Helios performance wise.
Great boat, been paddling it for a year in New Hampshire and Maine Lakes, Caribbean, including Antigua, st lucia, Barbados, Bermuda and a week long solo exped in the Exuma cays of the Bahamas.
Like the deck spray skirt and storage space. Keeps the sun off as well as water out. Also good storage for my tent, camping/survival kit etc including 2x gallons of emergency water and sat phone. Totally portable and self sufficient. Boat fits in North Face duffel (large) including pump compass water bag, life vest skeg support bars and compass and nav lights. I mean everything! . And it still floats.
With a separate duffel for my clothing tent etc I’m still man portable. Paddle shafts carried as hand baggage.
My only suggestion for improvement: the deck zippers should be of a waterproof type, as they tend to leak and burst open as the deck gets very tight.
Please add the waterproof zippers at the next upgrade and I’ve no complaints!
Enjoy
Kevin McDonald
Awesome! Thanks Kevin for the info, it’s great to hear about your experience with the Swing.
2 years later, still paddling my swing 1 and stand by my comment above requesting marine standard zippers. Ie water and salt resistant..
Anyone have any idea on the storage capacity below deck of Swing I?
Thanks — Nate
Hi Nate,
There is actually a fair amount of room up front past your legs and the zippered deck gives you easy access. There is also a very small amount of room in the back. I would say it could easily store a few dry bags and a backpack. Of course there is also the bungee tie down cords on top to secure gear. I don’t know the exact figures however for the storage capacity. You might be able to get that info directly from Innova.
Cheers.
Very similar of the Swing consept is the newest Seaway from Gumotex or Innova. Here is same information. For me looks very well.
http://apaddleinmypack.wordpress.com/2013/04/04/seaway-a-new-sea-kayak-from-gumotex/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSMEBbWFO2s
Excellent review. Looking at your videos it seems that it takes less effort to paddle the Swing than the Sea Eagle Fast Track 385. Is that really so or did I get the wrong impression.
Thanks Carlos! The Swing definitely takes less effort to paddle than the 385 FT as it is a much smaller kayak. However the FastTrack tracks better in the water and is able to go faster. So even though the FT takes more effort, it is possible to get further faster. The tandem Swing would have a better chance of keeping up with the FT.
Wow! What a wonderful kayak. I love that it is so easy to assemble and that its easy to carry anywhere.
Nice. I’ve been looking at this kayak for a couple months. It’s great to see a decked inflatable that weighs under 30 lbs.