New Packraft by Advanced Elements

[sean neves]

From the Summer Outdoor Retailers show. I had the opportunity to take a look and get some quick impressions. Felt very sturdy. Polyurethane coated polyester fabric felt very strong. Kept a good shape. The floor seemed like it would take a small lifetime to inflate and deflate. No self-bailing or deck, so flat-water and easy rivers only. Way more impressive on a first-look that the Klymit thing, which has failed to impress since I saw the first one last year:

http://airkayaks.wordpress.com/2013/08/03/sneak-preview-new-4-lb-packlite-inflatable-kayak-from-advanced-elements/

Sub $300 MSRP, so street pricing in the mid-twos and sub 4 lbs. Not too shabby. Glad to see some more competition in this market.

[John S.]

Cool. It should track a little better than shorter boats? I wouldn't expect much better though.

[Ryan Bressler]

Do you think it could carry a bike?

[sean neves]

Looked like it was sturdy enough. 250lb listed capacity. Those numbers are usually useless. Side chambers look smallish, but with care, it seemed like it could take a payload.

One thing I liked is that it has three chambers (good for emergencies). Outer ring, inner ring and floor, just like some of the cheaper dinghies.

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