Aire Force XL


Best Uses: Whitewater, rivers up to class IV, great for tall or stockier kayakers

Brand:  Aire

Aire Force XL
Available At:

  • The Aire Force XL is no longer available. In 2010 Aire redesigned the Aire Force I. They created more kick and added some diameter to the tubes. This made for a hybrid between the old-style Force and the old-style Force XL. This new 2010 Force model fit a bigger range of paddlers and they therefore discontinued the XL model.  Please see the review for the new and improved Aire Force.

Number of Paddlers:  1

Stats:  Length 10’ 4”, Width 34”, Weight 34 lbs, Load Capacity 300 lbs

Accessories Included:  Thigh straps, repair kit, 10 year warranty

Kayak Material:  1100 Denier polyurethane

Pros:  Rugged, easy to lift, comfortable, excellent maneuverability, compact, easy entry and exit, loads of fun. great for rolling, a little more room than the Aire Force I, 10 year warranty!

Cons:  Not much room for storage, backrest not too comfortable for long flatwater stretches

More About the Aire Force XL

The Aire Force XL is a slightly larger and more stable version of the Aire Force I.  This kayak is great for the advanced beginner to the advanced whitewater kayaker that is slightly stockier and/or taller who is looking for a performance whitewater inflatable kayak that will have more stability.

You can expect this kayak to surf, perform enders, do flat spins as well as do rolls (with the help of the thigh straps).  The Force XL has adjustable back and foot rests and many people have claimed it to be much more comfortable than the Aire Force I.

This slightly larger model will allow you to take on bigger water and not have to worry about getting swallowed up in holes.  The all around performance of this inflatable kayak is superb.

There is not a lot of room for gear (it is truly a whitewater play boat) so if you are looking for a kayak for overnighters you may want to take a look at the heavier Aire Lynx which has a much greater cargo capacity.  The Aire Force XL will track slightly better on flat water although there is no rudder or skeg so this won’t be its forte.

However for whitewater rapids it is sturdy, maneuverable and unbelievably rugged.  It will last you a very long time and comes with a great ten year warranty.

For more detailed information please read the review for the Aire Force I as these kayaks are virtually identical except for size and weight capacity.

Final Thoughts On the Aire Force XL

This is a phenominal choice for an inflatable whitewater kayak if you have had previous experience with whitewater kayaking. Stable, a little roomier, excellent performance and quick to maneuver, the Aire Force XL inflatable kayak is a favorite for many. It is hard to find a negative review on this kayak and it is said to rival any hard-shell whitewater kayak.

Pro Aire Force XL

  • Rugged
  • Light weight and easy to lift
  • Excellent maneuverability
  • Compact
  • Easy entry and exit
  • Loads of fun
  • Thigh straps included… Great for rolling
  • A little more room than the Aire Force I – great for tall or stockier paddlers

Against Aire Force XL

  • Not much room for storage
  • Backrest is not so comfortable for long flatwater stretches
The Aire Force XL Inflatable Kayak Is Available At:
  • The Aire Force XL is no longer available.

 

 

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