Advanced Elements PackLite Kayak

http://airkayaks.wordpress.com/2013/12/15/product-review-ultralight-4-lb-packlite-inflatable-kayak-from-advanced-elements/

I see a quoted weight of 4 pounds, another one of 4 pounds 7 ounces, and another one of 48 ounces. Which one is correct?

–B.G.–

Always assume the heaviest weight. You will be right 98.3% off the time ;)

Bob,

According to Advanced Elements the PackLite Kayak is 4 pounds. In its packaging it weighs 6lbs 2.5oz. I have not taken the product out of its packaging to weigh it. In the article it indicates that the PackLite weighs 4.7lbs in the bag. Without the carrying bag, the boat probably hovers at 4lbs give or take an ounce or two.

Now for the bad news…as of right now a pump is needed to inflate this product. Oral inflation would not enable the user to pump the boat to its recommended pressure. My understanding is that Advanced Elements is working on a smaller lighter solution to pump it up.

Marc,
Any word on when your 1.8 lb. Ultra Flyte pack raft will be available and what it will cost? Thanks!

Matt

Matthew –

That is a great question. I am not sure that we will ever move forward with the UltraFlyte. In addition to fabric and construction challenges, other products such as the Supai Adventure boat and the Lightwater Dinghy are already filling the 2lb and under market. At this point we are focused on getting the CrossFlyte out the door and production should be wrapping up shortly.

That having been said, I do see that the FlytePacker filled somewhat of a void. In comparison to the other boats (Supai and LWD) the FlytePacker is a big boat for 35oz. I have considered bringing the FlytePacker back, but I may have to increase the cost of the product by about $15 to $20.

What would be helpful to me, is to understand what you are specifically looking for?

Marc,
"What would be helpful to me, is to understand what you are specifically looking for?"

Something 2 lbs. or less that does not cost $800-$1000, like an Alpaca raft, and is not a pool toy. LOL. That's about it. Oh, and a paddle fin that attaches to trekking poles would be nice. I think your Flytepacker was a great boat at an even better price point.

Matt

I have created a solution to the need for a pump with the PackLite Kayak. Our Universal Backcounty Pump can now be used to inflate the PackLite Kayak. Weighing in at only 4.8oz, the double action hand pump is both compact and effective. Additionally, the pump is compatible with standard sleeping pad valves, in addition to the Boston Valves on our CrossFlyte and FlytePacker boats.

I am now shipping the Pumps free with the PackLite Kayaks!

http://flyweightdesigns.com/product/advanced-elements-packlite-kayak/
http://flyweightdesigns.com/product/universalbackcountrypump/