ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame 1-Person Inflatable Kayak

Last updated: October 13, 2023

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame 1-Person Inflatable Kayak
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We looked at the top Inflatable Kayaks and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Inflatable Kayak you should buy.

Overall Take

You’ll get aluminum ribs with this kayak, which help shape the bow and stern and improve your control. There are three layers of material to help protect you from punctures while you’re navigating rocky waterways. Assembly is easy. You’ll just need to unfold, inflate and attach the seat, then return it to the carrying bag when you’re finished using it.

In our analysis of 20 expert reviews, the ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame 1-Person Inflatable Kayak placed 3rd when we looked at the top 7 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Inflatable Kayak – The Advanced Frame is a combination of the best of folding frame kayaks and inflatable kayaks. The Advanced Frame kayak’s bow slices through water like a knife and tracks just as well as any hard shell kayak. Built-in aluminum ribs help define the bow and stern and improve maneuverability greatly. The stern also acts as a skeg, further increasing the kayak’s tracking performance. The Advanced Frame IK uses 3 layers of extremely durable materials to resist the chance of puncture. The heavy-duty 30-gauge PVC main chamber is protected by a high density polyurethane-coated polyester inner cover and a tough PVC Tarpaulin with 1000 Denier Polyester outer layer. A double layer of material on the bow and stern, and welded-on landing plates increase protection when beaching the kayak. There is plenty of on-board storage room for extended trips in this kayak as well. The breathable foam mesh back support of the padded seat sets you up for all day paddling comfort. The best part is that the Advanced Frame sets up in just a few minutes and is compact enough to take along on a weekend adventure. Keep it in the trunk of your car, and paddle whenever you want. Or pack it into a remote wilderness area and paddle where no one has paddled before. Simply inflate with a pump and hit the water in minutes. The included carry duffel bag makes storing and transporting easy. With the looks and paddle-ability of a rigid hard shell kayak with the portability of an inflatable, the Advanced Frame IK has it all!

Expert Reviews


What experts liked

The aluminum-reinforced keel creates a V shape that tracks well and cuts through the water far better than the flat bottom of most other models.
The aluminum ribs in the bow and stern give the boat more control and tracking in the water so it handles as close to a hard-shell kayak as you’ll find in an inflatable, which, to many, makes it worth the extra weight.
Excellent stability thanks to the 32-inch, broad base Increased tracking performance

What experts didn't like

However, this boat is challenging to put away. Unlike many others with bottom drainage ports for drying out, the AdvancedFrame does not.
It’s hard to dry off the kayak, especially the interior
View our Inflatable Kayak buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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