The inflatable kayaks are quickly becoming one of the most popular kayaks on the market. With prices that range massively from cheap kayaks to the most expensive ones. But most inflatable kayaks have two major issues or flaws as you want to call them. Firstly, the most important thing before buying an inflatable kayak is to check the features that the boat has. The resulting rigidity and the pressure figure are important factors. A kayak that has both of these features will track very well and at the same time at a great speed. Secondly, the worst thing that can happen to an inflatable kayak is leaks that might occur. But rest assured that Aquaglide Chelan 120 Inflatable Kayak boasts impressive durability and performance.
Shape
The Aquaglide Chelan 120 Kayak’s shape is nothing special. But nonetheless, the shape is so designed that it excels in allowing paddlers to cover the distance easily. With this shape, paddlers can cover more miles with less effort. Unfortunately, the kayak is only suitable for mirror flat waters. Chelan can also be used both inside and on the coast. But most of the customers are using the boat on local rivers, canals, and lakes or small trips to the sea. The Chelan is the best partner for those who want a reliable inflatable kayak. The kayak has smooth and efficient forward paddling which uses lesser corrective strokes and thus maintaining the boat in a straight line. With a 15ft length, the kayak is fairly big. The widest point is where the user sits. An aggressive taper and pointed bow and stern complete the kayak’s design. Chelan 120 cuts through the water like a shark.
Construction
No one should choose to purchase a kayak before a closer look at the construction. The Chelan boat uses a drop-stitch floor with single-layer PVC side chambers. The hull gives a kayak the bulk of the performance, and thus Chelan is made of the best drop-stitch technology available. The base and the top of the floor chamber are connected by reinforced fabric strands. This is to make sure that there is no potential for the bladder to increase the volume while on inflation. With these fabric strands, you achieve a high-pressure figure which then results in an epic glide. A single layer of PVC fabric is used for the side chambers that offer an improved pressure when compared with the twin skin models.
Seating
The kayak is available in three sizes. The Chelan DS 120 is a 12-foot single-seater that is ideal for a paddler with whatever the height. The kayak offers useful space for gear and dry bags. Chelan DS 140 is a 14 feet variant that can be used by a maximum of two paddlers. While used in single-seat configurations, the paddler benefits from an improved forward speed compared with the 120 version and more storage capacity.
Chelan DS 155 is the biggest version at 15.5 feet and is an inflatable kayak that is recommended for two paddlers. You won’t have to worry about comfort or space as this kayak offers the best conditions. This version is the best seller and it also can be used by a single paddler. The kayak is the perfect match for taller people and is mostly used while going longer distances or for those who need bigger storage space. The boat also has an additional perch seat that is meant for small children.
The seats are premium quality offering the utmost comfort and support. The seats are attachable using stainless clips and a velcro track together with the floor bladder. The positions are changeable in any place that offers the most comfortable trip. The vessel’s seats also have an inflatable base that raises paddlers up in the boat, providing leverage and eliminating the chance of accidentally hitting your knuckles against the sides of the kayak. A mesh pocket is also present in the back of each seat which serves as useful storage.
Other features
The Aquaglide Chelan Kayak has Halkey Roberts Style Valves that offer premium quality content that facilitate the high-pressure figures which are used in these types of kayaks. The system is self-sealing and can be easily locked open for the most rapid deflation while packing away.
Multiple Clip Points are present in most of the Chelan-type kayaks that have a variety of attachment points inside the boat. With them, the paddler can secure all of his accessories and dry bags to have easy access to them. At the bow and stern of the kayak, you will find splash guards that are made of plastic and which protect against water ingress. The self-draining hull can be easily opened or closed so that water can be drained while paddling in rough waters.
The comfortable handles are made of plastic and are present at the bow, the stern, and in the center of the kayak and offer easy handling. The handles work well even while being wet. The tracking fin aids straight-line tracking and is useful especially on windy days. The method of attachment is the most popular one because it allows the use of a wide array of alternative fins. The model is also raked back, making sure that no vegetation is snagging on the vessel.
The final feature of the kayak is a premium carry case that includes a backpack in which all items can be easily deposited and carried comfortably. While deflated, the kayak can be transported in a car boot.
Conclusion
The Aquaglide Chelan Kayak is a popular choice among paddling enthusiasts. The superior quality of materials used for this kayak gives the boat a positive image in the eyes of experienced paddlers. The kayak is perfect for inland and coastal areas. The drop stitch floor and the reinforced PVC side chambers give the kayak the rigidity and the durability a kayak would want.
