Aire Kayaks versus NRS Kayaks

If you are looking for a whitewater inflatable kayak you have likely come across two major brand names… Aire Kayaks and NRS kayaks. At first glance it may be a little difficult to see too many differences between these two manufacturers. Both are extremely popular, both have been around for quite some time – however both are not created equal.

A little bit about Aire Kayaks

Aire Kayaks are known to be the leaders in the inflatable kayak world. They are American made and most Aire kayaks come with a phenomenal 10 year warranty. The construction of their inflatable kayaks is just that much better and it will be reflected in the performance. Consequently many kayaking enthusiasts who use an inflatable kayak will swear by the Aire kayaks.

A little bit about NRS Kayaks

NRS does not offer the same extreme quality as the Aire kayaks but they are a force to be reckoned with none-the-less. They have been a pioneer in the inflatable kayak world and are known for producing affordable yet good quality inflatable kayaks. They are lower in price as well as usually have a  lower warranty. However they do offer good kayaks for everyday use that more people can afford.

Which Brand to Go With

From my experience, even though the Aire kayaks cost more, I still see them as more popular. If you are looking and trying to decide whether to go with an Aire inflatable kayak or a NRS inflatable kayak I really think it is going to come down to how much you are willing to spend.

• If you have the money, you are likely going to want to choose the Aire kayak as there is no question that it is a better inflatable kayak. It will last you longer, it will likely come with a better warranty and it will probably give an all around better performance. The chances of being disappointed are slim to none.

• However if you are looking to spend a little less, I would not hesitate in recommending the NRS kayaks. Many people have been more than satisfied with them. One thing about NRS is that the company in general is extremely passionate about kayaking. They are continually improving their models and they even offer a couple of inflatable kayaks that come with a great 10 year warranty. They are competing with Aire and consequently are always striving to do better.

I think as far as making a choice, it is going to come down to how often you plan on using the kayak, as well as how much you are willing to spend. My own preference would be to go for the Aire Kayak as I think it is a better product that offers a lot more versatility.

Perhaps you have some thoughts of your own on these two brands? Please feel free to share them in the comments section below.

For more detailed information on individual inflatable kayaks view our comprehensive reviews on AIRE kayaks and on NRS kayaks.

Digital Waterproof Cameras

Want to record your whitewater kayaking adventures? These waterproof cameras can attach either onto your helmet, onto your wrist or onto your kayak paddles and allow you to take phenomenal shots. There are three different cameras to choose from. Please see details below.

Available At: NRSweb.com – Digital Waterproof Cameras

GoPro Digital Helmet Hero Wide 5 MP Waterproof Camera

This waterproof camera gives high quality images or TV resolution video with a fantastic wide angle lens. It is suitable for the most brutal of conditions and gives a great 5 megapixel picture. It has a 3X sequence burst and also an auto “photo every 2 or 5 seconds” mode.

Other great features:

• 16mb internal memory which is expandable to a 2GB SD card for 56 minutes of TV resolution audio video
• Programmable power off settings ,lock mode and a 3+ hour always-on mode
• Includes USB and RCA cables for PC and TV review – compatible with Mac and Windows
• Pivoting camera locks flat and straps to bike handlebars, kayak paddles and more
• 1 year warranty

GoPro Digital High-Def Helmet Hero

This wearable HD camera has not only an awesome picture but also phenomenal sound. The HD Helmet Hero is the world’s first 1080p / 960p / 720p True HD video at 30 and 60 fps.

Other great features:

• Shock resistant and has a depth rating of up to 180 ft (60m)
• Industry’s widest 170” Surround Video
• Phenominal sharp lens
• Battery lasts for over 2 hours of shooting a photo every 2 seconds. Or you can use 5, 10, 30 or 60 second intervals
• Self-timer
• Removable SD card of up to 32GB capacity
• 5 megapixel HD
• Headlamp style head strap
• Vented helmet strap
• 2 curved 3M adhesive mounts
• 1 three-way pivoting side arm assembly
• 2 quick-release buckles
• 1 USB cable, Component video cable, Composite video and audio out cable
• 1 year warranty

GoPro Digital Hero 5 MP Waterproof Camera

This one is the cheaper of the three waterproof digital camera and provides great bang for your buck. It is waterproof up to 100’ and is suitable for most brutal conditions.

Other great features:

• 3X sequence photo burst
• 5 megapixel picture quality
• 16mb internal memory – expandable to a 2GB SD card for 56 minutes of TV resolution audio video
• Programmable power off settings, lock mode, and a 3+ hour always-on mode
• USB and RCA cables for PC and TV review, compatible with MAC and Windows
• Pivoting camera locks flat and straps to bike handlebars, kayak paddles and more
• 1 year warranty

Visit NRSweb.com for more information and pictures on these Digital Waterproof Cameras.

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

History of the Kayak

I began researching the history of the kayak more for my own interest and thought I would share my findings with everyone. Here is a brief explanation of what I found out…

There is evidence that kayaks are at least 4000 years old. They were originally made from stitched animal skins such as seals. The skins would be stretched over a wooden frame that was made from driftwood collected from the area. They were used originally to hunt on lakes, rivers and coastal waters by indigenous people living in the Arctic regions. Read more

NRS Kayak Bilge Pump with Float

I have never personally had to use a bilge pump while kayaking on a lake. However for kayaking on whitewater or on the ocean it would be very wise to have a kayak bilge pump handy.

A bilge pump helps to easily get rid of excess water inside a kayak. It is very easy to use as there is no hose and can pump 8 gallons of water per minute. I personally like the NRS kayak bilge pump because first of all it is inexpensive, second it is a good size (21” long), and third it comes with a float. The float is handy as you don’t want to lose the pump. Also the NRS bilge pump has stainless steel screws which reduce rust build-up. For most kayakers this pump will be great and last a long time.

The NRS bilge pump is available at:  NRSweb.com – NRS Kayak Bilge Pump with Float

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

Tall Back Kayak Seat – Pure Comfort

There is nothing worse than an uncomfortable kayak seat. I’ve sat in many and suffered the consequences with my overly sensitive back. The only way to paddle is in comfort and this tall back kayak seat is the best! It has a high back (18’’) with good support and a great zippered storage pack in the rear which is an excellent feature that you will likely use all the time… it is a great place for snacks.

This seat will fit into any inflatable kayak or hard shelled kayak as long as there are d-rings for attachemnt. It is made of thermal molded foam and gives a low sitting position. This will maximize your stability as well as improve the back support. The tall back seat weighs only 2 pounds and is highly recommended for any kayaker who has ever suffered from annoying aches and pains. This seat is worth the small investment and will likely be the only one you ever have to buy.

The tall back kayak seat is available at:

• SeaEagle.com – Tall Back Kayak Seat

View more reviews of popular kayaking gear.

Inflatable Canoe or Inflatable Kayak?

Inflatable boats are convenient, compact, easy to travel with and very easy to store in small spaces. If you have decided you want an inflatable boat but are having a hard time deciding between an inflatable canoe and an inflatable kayak then hopefully the facts below will help.

Facts about Inflatable Canoes

• Canoes are versatile enough to be good for a lot of different things, however they do not excel at anything.
• Canoes are usually quite stable and fairly comfortable. They tend to offer a fair amount of space for maneuvering, for stretching out your legs and loading up gear.
• Canoes are easy to get in and out of whether you are in the water or on the shore. Many older people and young kids like canoes because of their great stability.
• Canoes have an open concept and often will allow in a lot of water. Anyone who has ever gone for a paddle in a canoe has usually had the experience of bailing out excess water.
• Canoes tend to ride up fairly high and often get caught by the wind which can make paddling a lot of extra work.

Facts about Inflatable Kayaks

• Kayaks are typically built a lot sleeker than canoes. This sleekness allows them to paddle further, faster and hopefully without too much trouble from high winds.
• Kayaks can handle many more water types and weather conditions than a canoe.
• Some inflatable kayaks have closed cockpits and will keep you much dryer while paddling through the water. Many kayaks will even have drain valves that allow us to rid the boat of excess water quickly and easily.
• Inflatable kayaks range from whitewater kayaks to recreational flatwater kayaks to expedition sea kayaks… there is lots of choice.
• Kayaks use a double ended paddle that offers much more control, speed and technique.

It’s all about personal preference…

Which kind of inflatable boat you choose will depend entirely on which type of paddling you plan on doing most and your own personal preference. Personally I would choose an inflatable kayak over an inflatable canoe any day because I love the low ride, the speed and the sport of paddling my kayak. I find canoes to be a much slower paced boat that is great for relaxing days out on the lake but not good for too much else.

Either way both the inflatable canoe and kayak offer an economical and environmentally friendly way to enjoy the water, the great outdoors and nature.

Read our inflatable kayak reviews or our inflatable canoe reviews for detailed information on each inflatable boat model.

Kayaking Books

Below is an array of popular kayaking books that may be of interest. These books cover everything from whitewater safety, to canoeing, to kayak fishing to safety guidelines and also just some pure entertainment. Learn everything you need to know about paddling on the water.

Kayaking DVDs

Below is an array of kayaking dvd’s with topics including paddling adventures, whitewater kayaking, sea kayaking and much more. These make great entertainment as well as excellent gifts for anyone who loves kayaking. Learn safety precautions, guidelines, tips, advice and see some phenominal kayaking shows.

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