The AIRE Lynx II Inflatable Kayak is one of the most expensive inflatable tandems available, and yet experts and amateurs agree that it is worth every penny. It is robust enough and maneuverable to withstand Class III and IV speeds, stable enough for beginners, and durable and repairable enough to last for decades.
The industry-leading warranty offers 10 years of protection for tubes, fabrics, D-rings, AIRE cells, valves, and zippers, ensuring that this kayak will last for years of use, offering much more than the few seasons you expect from other inflatables. The Aire Lynx II Inflatable is definitely a great competitor for the best 2 person inflatable kayaks and we’ll take a look at the reasons in this post.
Specifications
- Type: inflatable kayak for 2 people
- Size: Inflated size: 12’6 ”x 39”
- Weight: 43 pounds
- Tube diameter: 11.5 inches
- Bow height: 16 inches
- Severe lift: 13.5 inches
- 2 ”waterline: 91 inches
- Weight capacity: 475 pounds
- Materials: PVC of 1100 denars
- Material weight per square yard: 24/27 ounces
- AIREcell material: 14 mm in water
- Valves: Leafield
- Number of air chambers: 3
- Warranty: 10 years error-free warranty
- Available colors: red, yellow, blue, green, or orange
Construction
The AIRE Lynx II tandem has the unique AIREcell construction of AIRE. AIREcell blisters are made of 14 mm urethane, which is incredibly flexible and durable, and then protected by the boat’s 1100 denari PVC construction. The design of the continuous curve provides fast speed and an improved response.
Leafield valves are made of sturdy acetal plastic and have a seal designed to clean the surface while operating, reducing the amount of dirt and debris in the valve that can cause leaks.
The D AIRE rings are welded on an oversized PVC base inside the boat, with two pieces of straps. The ring is then perforated through two precision slots in the body so that they are structurally integrated into the boat, rather than simply attached to the outside. These D-rings offer incredible durability and reliability for years of worry-free binding, towing, and attachment.
Lynx II has self-blowing double-mesh drain holes that hold debris from the floor pocket and two low-profile grip handles that make it easy to turn the kayak upright if it overturns.
The AIRE Lynx II tandem inflatable kayak comes with two Cheetah seats, a rigid backrest, large storage pockets, and a bottle holder. The seats fit easily into the 17 loading loops that line the kayak floor and can also be used independently around a camp chair.
About the brand: AIRE
AIRE stands for Argonaut Inflatable Research and Engineering. In 1989, the company was established with the goal of making inflatable white water kayaks that did not require glue to hold them together, and therefore could be more durable, safer, and easier to repair.
Another great addition is the heat-sealed seams that use heat and pressure to create a permanent bond that is much more durable than glue, and removing glue protects employees and the environment from VOCs and harmful solvents.
As a result of this mission, AIRE invented the AIREcell system, an internal bladder made of 10-12mil urethane film. Urethane is elastic and flexible, with high resistance to punctures. AIRE cells are oversized and thermally welded to prevent pressure on the seams.
AIRE cells are connected together with a watertight Lycra wall, and AIREcell floors have urethane-coated nylon with welded I-beams for rigidity. More so, the awesome full-length zippers can be used to easily access and repair AIRE cells, and every part of an AIRE inflatable kayak can be repaired or replaced, making them an excellent investment.
Pros
- AIREcell system and 1100 denari PVC make an incredibly robust, safe, abrasion-resistant inflatable
- Stable and maneuverable
- Large weight capacity
- The cheetah chairs have built-in storage and double as a camp chair
- Leafield valves are durable and self-cleaning
- Drainage with double mesh for self-resistance that reduces debris
- D rings integrated into the body structure
- Bow and stern handles
- 17 load securing points for versatile storage
- Very repairable kayak, inside and out, and comes with a repair kit
- 10-year no-fault warranty
- It comes in five vivid, attractive colors
Cons
Relatively expensive
In conclusion
The AIRE Lynx II tandem inflatable kayak is an excellent river runner with excellent control and maneuverability, even in rough waters. It can handle waves, rapids, and whirlpools with excellent safety and durability.
The robust design and high weight rating make it an excellent choice for overnight adventures, where it can hold all the equipment, and the chairs can be used both in the camp and on the water. It is suitable for solo or tandem kayaking, full of excellent features, and backed by a fantastic guarantee, the AIRE Lynx II is a favorite inflatable for both beginners and experts.
Where to buy
Click on the links below to find the best price ranges on the market for the Aire Outfitter II inflatable kayak.
