A couple of years ago, the AIRE Force Inflatable Kayak was entirely renewed from the two separate Aire Force models made in previous years, in a single larger and easier-to-use version. A more stable boat, with a deeper seat position, more similar to the AIRE Tributary Strike model, with a body speed that is still good, but not as zippy as the originals. None of the Aire Force models, old or new, have excellent back support and some of us find it helpful to add a Cheetah seat (the one used in all other AIRE kayaks) or Backsaver.
Other major differences between the current model and the older Force series include several easy-to-remove floating pockets without a floor zipper, a single large pair of mesh protection holes just in front, and a flatter floor bladder.
Inflatable kayak performance
In terms of performance and gameplay, the body speed of this new Aire Force Inflatable is similar to the Strike I, in other words, a bit faster than the Lynx I for small to medium oars and about the same as a Lynx for heavier paddlers over 200 pounds. It is certainly slower than older forces, especially XL, due to the shorter and wider waterline/footprint.
In short, we can say it is probably a safer and friendlier option for paddlers who usually use class IV and V steep water. Older models have always had trouble starting quickly on steep ramps, although once you point them in the right direction, these kayaks could get out of trouble quickly. In short, the audience for the new Aire Force includes almost everyone, even total beginners, and it is debatable whether this was true in older versions of Aire Force models.
Comparing the new AIRE Force inflatable kayak
When it comes to comparing the new Aire Force model with the imported Aire Tributary Strike, apart from the lack of floating bags on the Strike, the other three differences are in width, length, and taper. The inside of the Strike kayak model is a little too wide for many of us, so the slightly narrower inside of the Aire Force helps lock you better assuming your hips aren’t too big.
The tubes get pretty drastically worse on the Strike (and so have the older Forces) similar to craft like the Custom Inflatable’s Thrillseeker. Tubes on the current force remain fatter for longer than 9’6 “. This prevents it from sinking deep into the foam in large droplets, although it may not have the ability to cut the waves of narrow-arc models. It’s hard to do a good AB test on every detail and we failed to test the new Force in high flow conditions or in any huge drops. Your comments and opinions are always welcome. If you’ve paddled one, let us know your opinion.
AIR force inflatable kayak – the main chamber
The Air Force inflatable kayak is exactly three feet wide, with a single main air chamber for the entire tube, like all previous Air Force models, plus the floor and two floating bags. Our scale says it’s just over 33 pounds. We measured the tubes at 11 ” although the AIRE site says 10.5″. The design of the floor pocket on it pees a little water for a while from the back or front when you pull it ashore on a slope. Colors include red, orange, green, yellow, lime, and blue. Take note to choose the first and second colors. Violet is generally a special order, with a delay of up to six weeks.
* The price for the AIRE Force kayak includes free ground UPS transportation in the lower 48 states. After our personal research, you can find the best prices on the market on nrs.com and outdoorplay.com
Specifications:
- Best uses: white water, rivers up to 4th grade
- Brand: Aire
- Number of paddlers: 1
- Stats: 9 ‘6 “length, 36” width, 32 lbs weight, 275 lbs load capacity
- Included accessories: thigh straps, 1 set of drain holes, 2 carrying handles, repair set, 10-year warranty
- Kayak material: 1100 Denier polyurethane
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: sturdy, easy to lift, comfortable, excellent handling, compact, easy to get in and out, lots of fun, can barely get water into the cab
- Cons: The backrest can become uncomfortable when paddling in flat water (mostly designed for white water kayaking), more expensive than many other whitewater inflatable solo kayaks
More detailed information
Many hardcore kayakers wouldn’t even bother to use an inflatable kayak unless it was an Aire kayak. Aire inflatable kayaks are known for top excellence and Aire Force I is no exception. This is a self-bailing inflatable kayak in white water for beginners, intermediate to advanced kayakers.
It’s a little more expensive than some of the rest, but when you compare the quality, performance and the fact that it comes with a 10-year warranty (wow!) The thigh straps and pedals are easy to manage and extremely responsive and fast. There is not much room for equipment, so it is certainly not a kayak for those who spend the night or camping. Also, if the Air Force is loaded with equipment, it can become more difficult to control and not as easy to handle.
Excellent features to deal with any situation
Aire Force is one of the best inflatable kayaks on the market that can be rolled if you have the ability. An extraordinary feature is that the interior cabin has flotation built into the bow and stern, which reduces the amount of water that can enter inside the cabin. This will definitely increase the ease of rolling.
It has the same continuous rocker as a hard-shell kayak for ease of rotation and navigation. The inflatable backrest and footrest can be adjusted to easily trim the kayak and fit the paddler. Thus, the Aire Force is likely to exceed your performance expectations. Most kayakers will find that the Air Force Inflatable Kayak will cope nicely with most situations.
Travel and Paddle
One of the great things about the Air Force is that it’s easy to carry. It weighs only 32 kilograms. and can be easily transported on a plane. Traveling with an inflatable kayak can allow you to explore the rapids and waterways that you may not have experienced otherwise.
Keep in mind that the Air Force is indeed at its best in white water. Eventually, Aire redesigned Aire Force I and discontinued Aire Force XL (which was a slightly larger version of Force I). This made a hybrid between the old Force and the old Force XL. Force now fits a wider range of paddlers and therefore decided to give up the XL model.
In conclusion
All in all, you can’t go wrong with Aire Force if you’re looking for a convenient, high-quality inflatable kayak that works very well in white water. Built to deal with any white water situation with ease and style, it is very fun and sporty. If you are used to a hard-shell kayak and want the same type of performance, the Air Force will deliver. In addition, it has the added bonus of being able to be thrown in the trunk of the car, stored in a closet, and taken on a plane.
