New Sea Eagle Electric Turbo Pump

Sea Eagle has just come out with a new electric turbo pump that is able to pump up their inflatable boats and kayaks in a few short minutes flat.

There are a few things that I like about this electric pump that make it unique from other electric pumps on the market.

No Over-Inflation Worries

It allows you to set the exact pressure amount for your kayak or boat and when it reaches that set pressure it automatically stops.  It does this by pumping your boat in two stages.  At first it will quickly inflate it with a high pressure blower and once it gets near the pressure point it switches to a piston pump in order to finish off and fully pressurize the hull.   This means that you do not have to worry about over inflating your inflatable and possibly popping it.

With other electric pumps over-inflation is always a concern and it is recommended that if you use an electric pump to stop just before it is fully pumped up and then to top it off with a hand pump or a foot pump to finish.

However with the Sea Eagle electric turbo pump this is no longer an issue and it is the only pump you will need.

Battery Pack Option

I love that this electric pump comes with the option of purchasing a portable battery pack and charger. That means that you can inflate your boat right at the waters edge where it is convenient and you do not have to hook it up to an external power source such as your vehicle.

The battery pack costs a little extra but I think it is completely worth it as it gives you the versatility and convenience of being able to pump it up absolutely anywhere.

Sea Eagle states that with a full battery charge you can easily inflate their largest boat several times over.

Specifics

• Easy Configuration – set your pressure and press ON.
• Stops Automatically – the pump stops when it reaches the set pressure amount
• Very Fast – this electric pump will inflate a Sea Eagle 12.6 boat in less than 5 minutes and inflates a kayak in even less time
• Two Stages – quickly inflates with a high capacity blower and then switches to a piston pump to pressurize the hull
• Optional Battery Pack – portable lead battery and battery charger, no need for external power source
• Accessories Included – includes alligator clips, hose, adaptors, and carry bag
• Power Supply – 12V DC
• Maximum Pressure – 14.5 PSI/1 Bar
• Weight – 4 lbs.
• Dimensions – 12” x 4” x 6”
• Warranty – covered by their two part guarantee (30 day return policy for a full refund excluding shipping and 3 year warranty against manufacturer’s defects)
• Price – available with alligator clips for $149 for use with an external 12 volt battery, or with the battery pack for $199

For an inflatable boat this is the best electric pump I have yet to see on the market. It is not cheap but it is the most convenient, versatile and safe option I have seen so I think well worth the money if you want an electric pump. The option of the battery pack, the good warranty, the two stage inflation process and the fact that you don’t have to worry about over-inflating your boat makes it worth every penny.

Personally I don’t mind using my little foot pump for my inflatable kayaks and I would think that the majority of people who have an inflatable kayak will choose the less expensive foot pump option. However I can understand the convenience of using this electric turbo pump especially if you own a larger inflatable boat in which case I think it would be almost a necessity.

The electric turbo pump with optional battery pack can be found at SeaEagle.com.

Important Accessories for an Inflatable Kayak

If an inflatable kayak has become your #1 self-powered mode of transportation, recreation and fun then there are a few accessories that you will need to have.

Most of the accessories listed below are essential to have with you at all times, but some you will only ever need if doing a longer excursion.

Accessories you will likely need at some point while using your inflatable kayak:

• Bilge Pump – I normally bring my bilge pump with me each time I go paddling even if it is very unlikely I will need it. It is typical for a little water to get in my kayak while paddling but I have never needed to use the bilge pump when flat water kayaking. However if there is a chance that you may tip over or that you will be in stronger waves or whitewater then a bilge pump is a very handy accessory to have. Most kayak outfitters will tell you to have one with you at ALL times.

• Boat Sponge – I really LOVE my boat sponge. This is a fantastic accessory for mopping up uncomfortable wetness in the kayak. I didn’t use a boat sponge for several years but now that I have one, I will never go out again without it. It is the most convenient little accessory you could get for your inflatable kayak and it costs next to nothing.

• Cell phone – This is a personal choice of course, but I rarely go kayaking without it. Sometimes I am kayaking out of cell phone range but I still seem to always have it handy. I have never actually used it while kayaking but it seems like a good safety item to bring… just in case.

• Comfortable Seat – Not all inflatable kayaks come with a supportive and comfortable seat. If you don’t find your regular kayak seat to be as good as it should be, I would highly advice looking into a good supportive kayak seat as it makes a massive difference in your overall kayaking experience – not to mention will save you from many aches and pains.

• Dry Bag – If you don’t have a dry bag then you won’t be able to bring anything along with you on your kayaking trip. Dry bags come in all shapes and sizes and can cost very little. As most of my kayaking trips are one day recreational types of adventures I mostly use my dry bag for food, extra clothing, my camera, my cell phone, my repair kit and my car keys.

• Foot Pump – Obviously if you have an inflatable kayak you will need to be able to pump it up. Which type of pump you use will be personal preference but I definitely prefer the foot pump. It is easy to use, weighs next to nothing and takes a lot less effort than a hand pump. Electric pumps can be good too, but even if you use one you will want a foot pump to top it off.

• PFD – A lifejacket is essential for kayak safety and all water safety. I actually very much dislike wearing my lifejacket on hot sunny days while kayaking on a calm lake. However you cannot deny that ultimately anything could happen, including tipping your kayak and bumping your head, so it is very necessary to always wear one.

• Repair Kit – If you have an inflatable kayak, it would have come with its own repair kit. Keep it with you in your dry bag at all times as you never know when you might need it.

• Rope – I don’t always bring rope with me, but it can be an important safety accessory. It is very easy to keep rope stored in your kayak so you might want to add it to your kayaking checklist before you go out for the day. If you are doing an overnight trip I would definitely recommend bringing rope with you.

• Whistle – Store a whistle in your repair kit or you can attach it to your PFD. This is a very easy little accessory to acquire and one that every kayaker should own. Do not go kayaking without a whistle, it could save you in a stressful situation.

Of course there are lots of other accessories you could bring with you, especially some other safety items but these are the main ones to be aware of. The most important thing to remember is that if you are prepared for anything then you can relax and enjoy your paddling experience.

Check out our list of the top kayaking online retailers for the best places to suit up.

Inflatable Kayak Glossary of Terms

In your research on inflatable kayaks you may have come across certain terms that are slightly confusing. Especially if you are new to kayaking it is nice to know what all the words mean when reading the kayak descriptions.

Below is a list of important inflatable kayak terms – most of which are also terms you will come across for all types of kayaking.  If there are any terms that you know of that you see missing, please let me know and I will add them to the list. Read more

NRS Deluxe Boat Sponge

I don’t know of anyone who kayaks who hasn’t had to deal with excess water in the boat. I know for myself even with a spray skirt on water still seems to manage to collect within my kayak… and sand as well!

This NRS deluxe boat sponge is a fantastic accessory for any person who kayaks. It is really neat in that it will soak up sand and moisture that gathers at the bottom of your boat or on your seat.

If you have a lot of water in your kayak then of course you are going to want to use a bilge pump, but for  the excess moisture left behind, this boat sponge will do the trick and it is actually quite surprising how much water it can soak up. I personally love it as it keeps the inside of my kayak clean and dry.

It is just little and really easy to carry with you as it weighs next to nothing. It has a terry cloth cover and the dimensions are: 8” L x 4.5” W x 2” H.

The deluxe boat sponge is available at: NRSweb.com – NRS Deluxe Boat Sponge

NRS Blast Inflator Pump

The NRS Blast Inflator pump is a compact and durable 12-volt pump. Using this electric pump is the absolute easiest and fastest way to get your inflatable kayak inflated.

This particular pump is capable of inflating to 2psi. It can also deflate your kayak so that you can get it rolled back into its storage bag lickity-split.

NRS Blast Inflator Pump Features…

• adapter that fits a wide variety of valve types
• inlayed rubber that insulates from heat and sound all the while providing a more secure grip
• 12 foot power cord
• Alligator clamps for quick and easy connection to your vehicles battery
• 2 year warranty

Pro using the NRS Blast Inflator Pump

• super quick setup
• compact – easily stores in trunk of car
• lightweight
• very easy to use
• good for inflation plus deflation

Against the NRS Blast Inflator Pump

• only good if you have a vehicle around – not for traveling

In my Opinion…

I would highly recommend this electric pump – it is extremely durable. If you will mostly have your vehicle with you it makes inflating as well as deflating your kayak very simple.

However even if you do use this pump I would also recommend having either a hand pump or a foot pump with you in order to top off your kayak. For maximum performance it is important that your inflatable kayak is completely rigid. With an electric pump it is possible to burst your kayak so the trick is to inflate it to a certain point then to top it off with a hand or foot pump. Also it is extremely handy to have a hand or foot pump in case you want to take your inflatable kayak traveling with you by airplane.

Final Thoughts…

There are lots of different electric pumps on the market. Many are extremely high priced. Those electric pumps are usually best suited for bigger inflatable boats and not for a kayak. The NRS Blast Inflator Pump is truly the best one for inflating kayaks and is also a decent price.

If you are interested in the NRS Blast Inflator Pump it can be found at:

• Mountain Plus – NRS Blast Inflator Pump

or

• NRS Web – NRS Blast Inflator Pump

Bravo 2 Foot Pump

If you own an inflatable kayak or are thinking of purchasing one, you will need a good pump.  There are a few options for inflatable kayak pumps.  You could use a hand pump, a foot pump or an electric pump.

A hand pump tends to put a lot of strain on the back as you have to be bent over while you are pumping your kayak.  It is hard work and I’m not particularly fond of them.

An electric pump can be great but they are sometimes a bit more costly as well as heavier and not so easy to travel with.  Some are better than others though.

A foot pump is my favorite as they are easy to use, light enough and small enough to pack up easily if traveling and you will have no back strain.  A good foot pump will have your kayak inflated in 5 -8 minutes (depending on the size of your kayak).

The Bravo 2 Foot Pump is a great one.  It is very sturdy, not flimsy at all.  It has a 4.5’ hose, three valve adapters and weighs only 2.68 lbs.  It will inflate small rafts and all inflatable kayaks.  It is very inexpensive and comes with a one year warranty.

It is possible to spend more on a pump, but to be honest you just don’t need to.  The Bravo 2 has been rated with 5 stars by many users.  It will get the job done easily and quickly.

For more pictures and information please go to Altrec.com – Bravo 2 Foot Pump.

Packing an Inflatable Kayak First Aid & Safety Kit

If you have a standard first aid and safety kit that you have with you at all times while kayaking then you don’t ever have to worry. You know you are prepared for the worst and you can enjoy and have fun. Packing your own safety kit is easy… you just need a few essentials.

Below is a list of items to have in your first aid and safety kit:

• Waterproof bandaids – for cuts, blisters and owies
• Waterproof matches – for starting a fire if needed
• Knife – for cutting rope, bandages, tape, etc.
• Inflatable kayak repair kit – usually comes with your inflatable kayak
• Bilge pump – to get excess water out of the kayak if needed
• Compass and map – know how to use your compass and where you are on the map
• Extra snacks and water – fuel for the body and staying hydrated keeps you strong and focused – as well as alive
• Waterproof poncho – good for keeping dry in rain or to build a small shelter if needed
• Rope – used to tie up your kayak or to build a shelter
• Sunscreen and sun protection – avoid suffering from unnecessary sunburns or sunstroke
• Extra clothing – keeping warm may be essential
• Disinfectant – for cuts or scrapes
• Water purifying tablets – available at most outdoor stores and very easy to use
• Whistle – don’t ever go out on the water without it
• Signaling flares – for longer trips far away from shore
• Small hand lens – to help start fires
• Needle and thread – should be part of any survival kit
• Chapstick – the elements can be very harsh on our lips
• Cellphone – it may not always work where you are, but its smart to have it with you anyway

Once you have all of these items, put them in a waterproof and durable case that is easy to carry or attach to your waist. Store it in your drybag and know that you are prepared for anything. If you would like to purchase a pre-made paddler first aid kit the Adventure Medical Ultra Light Paddler First Aid is a great buy and offers the essentials – all in a waterproof dry bag.

Finding the Right Inflatable Kayak Gear

Having the right gear for your inflatable kayak expedition can literally make all the difference for an enjoyable ride. If you have already chosen a kayak, now you are ready to suit up. This does not need to be an expensive process as there are really only a few basics you need to be concerned with.

Necessities:

Paddle
Many kayaks will come with a paddle, but some will not. Which type you choose will depend on the type of kayaking you want to do. There are basically two kinds of paddles, touring and whitewater. Read our article on choosing the right kayak paddle length before purchasing so that you know exactly what you will need. These are the choices you will have when purchasing a kayak paddle:

• Touring kayak paddle –  These are made for efficiency and comfort. They are usually two pieces with adjustable ferrule positions which allows for feathered or unfeathered paddling. You will be able to choose the length, the blade shape as well as the material of your paddle.
• Whitewater kayak paddle –  These paddles are all about control so they will have a rigid shaft and wider blades. Again you will be able to choose the length, blade shape and material of your paddle.

Double Action Pump
An inflatable kayak needs to be pumped up. It is wise to invest in a good hand or foot pump. If your kayak is hard to inflate you will most likely be less inclined to use it. Having a good pump will make inflating your kayak a quick and easy process and therefore provide for an overall happier experience.

Dry Bag
Having a waterproof kayak bag allows you to store things like extra clothes, sunscreen, a compass, food, a camera, or anything else you’d like to take with you on your excursion that needs to be safe from the elements.  They come in all shapes and sizes so there is one to fit everyone’s need.

PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
A lifejacket is needed for the obvious safety reasons. Though it can be tempting to not wear your lifejacket on hot days and while in flat water, I must caution you that there are huge safety risks to doing this. A kayak can capsize at anytime for a multitude of reasons. Even if you are a good swimmer it is essential that you wear a PFD.

Spray Skirt
Unless you are always going to be kayaking in calm waters a spray
skirt will be necessary. The spray skirt connects to the cockpit of the kayak and essentially creates a watertight seal. This will keep you as well as the inside of your kayak dry. When purchasing your inflatable kayak, many companies will suggest a spray skirt that is right for your boat.

Crash Helmet
Only necessary if you are doing whitewater kayaking.

Luxuries

Kayaking Gloves
It is really personal preference whether you will want a pair of kayaking gloves to wear. Some people love them and others hate them. I can tell you from first hand experience that a good pair of kayaking gloves will save your hands from unnecessary blisters, cuts and scrapes. They will help you to be able to kayak much further with absolutely no pain (to your hands anyway). Though on super hot days they may seem like a slight nuisance, your hands will be much happier having them on.

Compact Cart
This will make either rolling from car to water or strolling through an airport effortless. You just strap your inflatable kayak duffel/storage bag to the frame and away you go. Well worth the few extra dollars!

Drytop/Paddle Jacket
I have personally never used either of these, however there are others who will never go out without one. On hot summer days while doing easy recreational kayaking, I don’t find them necessary. I usually just have a light waterproof rain jacket with me in case it should get drizzly. I can see though that if you are way out in the ocean or in the whitewater rapids, a drytop would really help you to stay comfortable. Depending on the weather as well as how long of an excursion you plan on doing, a drytop may make a huge difference.

Water Shoes/Booties
A good pair of water shoes will be extremely helpful to have. Your feet will inevitably get wet while getting in and out of your kayak and possibly within your kayak. With water shoes, you simply don’t have to worry about it. Make sure they are not clunky and that you fit easily in your kayak while wearing them.

Rope Bag
Hopefully something you will never need to use, however it is a great safety device that could help save the life of a friend.

Knife
Admittedly I have never carried a knife with me kayaking. However I also tend to do fairly short excursions. Some die-hards though will always have one with them. You will probably never use the knife, however it is handy to have should the unlikely event happen where you get caught up in some rope or stuck under a raft.

For the best selection of inflatable kayak gear check out our list of top online retailers for kayaks and gear.