Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible
Best Uses: Day trips, flatwater, rivers, ocean, camping, family, dogs
Brand: Advanced Elements
Available At:
Number of Paddlers: 2 but can be converted for 1
Stats: Length 15’, Width 32”, Weight 56 lbs, Load Capacity 550 lbs
Accessories Included: Carrying duffel bag 35” x 21” x 12”, 2 folding foam mesh seats, repair kit, owner’s manual
Kayak Material: PVC Tarpaulin with 1000 denier polyester outer fabric, heavy-duty 30-gauge PVC main chamber, high density polyurethane-coated polyester inner cover
Pros: Stable, Compact, Great Maneuverability, Easy Entry and Exit, Easy to Paddle, Spacious, can be converted for one person, optional spray decks
Cons: Heavy, Better in calmer water than in large ocean swells or heavy rapids
More About the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible
The general opinion after reading umpteen reviews is that this inflatable kayak rocks. Taking everything into consideration the bottom line is that you are getting a tandem kayak that is extremely stable and portable for under $1000.
Truthfully I very seriously considered purchasing this inflatable kayak for myself. What I love about it, and it seems that others agree, is that it can be used for two people or if going solo, can be converted into a one person kayak. It is a very attractive looking boat that offers an optional backbone for more rigidity and spray decks to keep you dry. This inflatable kayak sits low in the water and though it does give you the true kayak feel a downside is that water can easily splash into the cockpit even with the spray decks on (but in my opinion that is to be expected in a kayak anyway). I would advise to always carry a small water pump with you especially if out in rougher conditions. For the price I think this tandem kayak is a phenomenal choice for traveling, exploring and fun on many types of water.
There have been complaints that the seats can get uncomfortable and that it is difficult to repack into its bag. However there are others who have boasted it to be extremely comfortable and say that it is simply necessary to remove all of the air from the kayak and then it easily folds back into its carry case. I would guess the comfort level depends on how long of an excursion you plan on doing. This kayak is a little heavier than other tandems but can easily be carried by two people. A suggestion would be to get a little cart with wheels to use if you have to transport it anywhere of distance or if you are going solo.
Final Thoughts On the AE Advanced Frame Convertible
It is hard to beat the price and versatility of the Advanced Frame Convertible inflatable kayak. It is a beautiful looking kayak as it doesn’t have that inflatable toy boat look that many seem to have. It will glide you and your paddling partner (or your dog) effortlessly through the water. I do wish this kayak was a little lighter, however it is still a great buy!
Pro AE Advanced Frame Convertible
- Stable
- Compact
- Great maneuverability
- Easy entry and exit
- Easy to paddle
- Spacious
- Can be converted for one person
- Optional spray decks
Against AE Advanced Frame Convertible
- Heavy
- Better in calmer water than in large ocean swells or heavy rapids
The Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible is Available At:
- Mountain Plus – Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible
- Water Outfitters – Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible
- Amazon.com – Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible
Click thumbnails for larger image.
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If you own or have used the Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible please leave a comment and share your thoughts with others.
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I bought Advanced Frame Convertible from West Marine in Toronto on March 29.2009 and exploited it intensively the whole summer (see my blog: http://yaktraveller.blogspot.com/). I like this kayak very much and found it to be very matching to Ontarian lakes.
I summarized my experience with this kayak on the above blog and at Outdorsica – a Canadian Outdoor adventurers’ site:
http://outdoorsica.com/guidebook/advanced_frame_convertible_inflatable_kayak__2/
I’m 100% agree with the above review and just thinking to buy solo model which is only 36 lbs (16 kg for my solo trips.
Thanks Boris, we really appreciate your comments. Happy paddling!