The new 2012 Sport is 6 inches longer than the previous model, combining features of the 12 foot Velocity kayak. And according to the manufacturer, the newly redesigned Sport is lighter, more rigid and performs better than ever.

While the stated beam width is 31 inches, the rest of the kayak is tapered, shaving off some weight. According to Sean Smith, sales manager at Airis, “You will note we kept the seating area wide enough to maintain the stability of the previous model while stretching the boat out to maximize performance. There is no question that this boat tracks better and is faster then the previous model. I did not notice any difference in stability, if anything I think it is actually more stable due to the width at the seating area. I was able to stand up and paddle this version very easily.”

The seating area was also moved slightly forward, allowing for more even weight distribution across the kayak.

Redesigns allow the kayak to be rolled into a smaller footprint, making it easier to fit into the backpack. These include

• Fabric handles at the bow and stern
• A deluxe backrest is now standard with the Sport, but the seat back clips attach to the shock cord instead of the d-rings. This improvement makes it easier to fold down the seat and even roll the kayak up with the seat still in position.
• A larger, injection-molded, removable skeg allows the kayak to roll down tighter when detached, and also prevents the skeg from bending when pushed into the backpack.
• Replacing the integrated drybag with a bungee deck lacing system.
• Tapered width means less material.

Airis inflatable kayaks are best known for the proprietary High Pressure AirWeb construction (patent pending) featuring a heavy duty, seven layer polymer coated fabric that is joined inside by thousands of drop-stitch fibers. The AirWeb technology makes it possible to inflate Airis kayaks to more than 6.5 PSI or 0.45 bar, up to six times the maximum air pressure of other inflatable kayaks. This creates a hull that is incredibly rigid and durable without the use of complicated frame parts, and keeps the assembly of Airis kayaks quick and simple.

Other features include two foot rests, four carrying handles, splash guard, bungee deck lacing and a removable, inflatable floor cushion. There are eight d-rings on the kayak; four of them are stainless steel.

Specifications:
Length: 10′ 6″/320cm
Width: 33″/84cm
Total Weight: 22 lbs/9.7 kg
Air Chambers: 2
Capacity: 1 person max load 250 lbs/113kg
Storage Dimensions: 27″ x 16″ x13″

The Airis Sport kayak comes with the AirPack backpack, high-pressure hand pump with gauge, repair kit and instructions. Manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $1099. Available in April, 2012 at www.AirKayaks.com for $999, or $1049 with paddle.

For more info, visit www.AirKayaks.com.

For more info see http://www.AirKayaks.com

Add in NO TAX and FREE SHIPPING in continental US now through Dec. 31st  – it all adds up to some great savings. See all our demo deals at AirKayaks.com.

The Peg System consists of two foot pegs. Each peg has two straps which cinch around the kayak side tubes, and a lever system allowing one to slide the foot peg into one of several positions. The foot peg works on the AdvancedFrame series of kayaks as well as the Lagoons, but it will work on any kayak which features separate side chambers.

MSRP is $59.99. The Advanced Elements Adjustable Foot Peg System will be available at AirKayaks.com in mid-January, 2012 – we’ll put up full details then.

1) Aquatight Waterproof Paddlers Waist Pouch from Chinook Technology – $24.95.
Keep your valuables dry and nearby! The waist pouch is constructed from 70 denier ripstop nylon with watertight seams and a rollover velcro and double ziplock closure on all main openings. The compartment size is 9 x 5 inches, while the adjustable clip system fits a 23 to 49 inch waist.

2) Bilge Pump from Seattle Sports – $19.95
A must for any boater. The Seattle Sport 8 gallon per minute Bilge Pump features an easy-grab handle, super-strong pump shaft and heavy-duty impact resistant plastic.

3) Chinook Aquatight 5-Map Chart Organizer – $23.95
A unique dual-section, trifold map case holds up to 5 standard-sized maps! Two waterproof compartments with view windows and four attachment points for lashing to kayaks, canoes, backpacks and bicycle handlebars. A winner!

4) Original Backup Anchor from Maxxon – $19.95
A portable and practical anchor solution – all you need is rope and a rock! Simply place the Backup Anchor flat on the ground, find a suitable rock and place in the center of the anchor.  Snap the D-rings into the included snaphook, ad the desired length of rope to the snaphook and …. anchors away! When finished, it rolls up, taking up minimal storage space. Available in two sizes for fresh water lakes and rivers.

5) Paddle Leash from Seattle Sports – $17.95
Don’t be caught “up a creek without a paddle!” The streamlined, low-profile, retractable Paddle Leash cord is easy to pack and stays out of the way while providing an eight-foot expansion. A unique quick-release feature allows your paddle to be quickly and easily attached to and from the leash. Length 34.25 inches expanding to 8 ft, weight 1.8 oz.

6) 2.5 or 3 Gallon Solar Summer Shower from Advanced Elements – $18.99 – $23.99
A great portable solution for paddling excursions and camping trips. Just fill the solar shower with water, put it in the sun, and in hours – instant, energy-free hot water. Great for showers, washing the pet,  rinsing off or washing dishes. Two sizes.

7) MTI Cape-Style Dog Life Vest – $22.95
Don’t leave your buddy home, but keep him safe with his own life vest. The MTI “super-man cape” shape offers protection without binding or overheating. A carry handle helps you get wet wiggly Fido back in the boat, while reflective trim adds visibility. Two under-the-tummy adjustable cinches, collar cinch with velcro. Available in 4 sizes.

8) AquaTight GPS/Cell Phone Protector from Chinook Technologies – $17.95
Keep your GPS, cell phone or other small electronics dry while paddling! The AquaTight GPS/Cell Phone Protector features a waterprof TPU-coated 70D nylon ripstop and extremely durable TPU windows Fits items up to 3 x 6 inches – neck lanyard included!

9) 3 to 22 Liter Aquatite Dry Storage Sacks from Chinook Technologies – $12.95 – $22.95
Lightweight, economical and compact – they fit in the palm of your hand! The Aquatight Drysacks are a great choice for backpackers, kayakers or anyone who requires reliable, lightweight gear in extreme conditions. Keeps your gear dry, clean and organized – and compresses to a very compact size. Made of durable, ripstop nylon with a watertight, roll-top closure and easy grab handle.  Available in five sizes.

10) 12 Volt Electric Pump from Advanced Elements – $22.95
Have a friend with an inflatable kayak? The 12V Electric Pump connects to your car lighter or power point for faster inflation or deflation! Used in conjunction with a hand or foot pump, it’s ideal for use on both large and small inflatables when getting onto the water is your highest priority.

To see all our AirKayaks gift ideas under $25, visit AirKayaks.com:  Paddling Gifts Under $25

The Windpaddle Sail Kit expands the versatility of your Windpaddle Sail! Simply attach to your kayak, or in the case of inflatable boats, tie on to your boat. The WindPaddle Sail Kit allows for hands-free sailing by letting you cleat off the sail sheets (or control lines) so you can fish, eat your lunch, take pictures or whatever.

The Sail Kit includes;

• Two clam cleats (with mounting hardware)
• Two extended 7′ length 1/8 inch sheets or sailing lines
• Emergency Whistle
• Paddle Leash
• Instructions

See details and an installation video at AirKayaks.com.

1) Maxxon Original Fishing Rod Sling – $19.95
A “slinging” way to carry your fishing rod! The Maxxon Original Rod Sling is quick and easy to use, allowing hands-free wading or paddling. The sling is strapped to your chest, and the rod and reel are velcroed to stay safe and secure. Rolls up into a small bundle for easy storage, taking up minimal space.

2) Advanced Elements Folding Anchor System – $29.95
The 3 lb. Anchor System is a unique folding/locking 4-fluke design. It is great for use with kayaks and canoes, and holds well on most types of bottoms – from sand to rock. The galvanized anchor has a sliding collar which keeps the flukes drawn up tight against the shank when stowed, and then drops to lock the flukes open when deployed. It is easy to remove the anchor from the water – simply pull and stow!

3) Accessory Frame Mounting System from Advanced Elements – $59.95
Retrofit your inflatable or hardshell kayak for fishing, video and photography with an accessory bar! Once installed, add any aftermarket 1” rail-mounts, and customize most kayaks with rod holders, a fish finder, camcorder, cameras or other equipment. The Accessory Frame bar consists of three pieces of anodized aluminum with push-pin construction; once in position, the push pins keep the bar from sliding out, but allow for easy dismantling.

4) Seattle Sports Crossfire Sportsmen Fishing Deck Bag – $69.99
Holds all the necessities for a day of fishing! Designed for anglers, the streamlined Crossfire features a roomy top pocket while multiple organizer pockets inside are sized to fit standard fly boxes – this deck bag holds all the necessities for a day of fishing. Open the lid of the bag and use as a rod holder to keep your hands free. Four mounting straps offer easy deck mounting. The Crossfire offers excellent splash-proof protection with coated zippers, and easy shore-side totability, with an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap.

5) MTI Fisher SE Classic Angler Fishing PFD Vest – $69.99
Before the dawn of the kayak fishing movement, people fished from canoes. MTI was one of the first manufacturers to combine a fly fishing vest with a paddlesports life vest. This is the original MTI jacket outfited specifically for fishing. Outstanding value in a fishing vest, with a new design!

6) Seattle Sports Catch Cooler 20″ Fishing Storage Bag – $69.95
These deck-side coolers offer super-convenient access for stowing and keeping your catch fresh during a day on the water. Built with a thermally efficient heat reflective exterior and closed cell foam insulation. An easy-to-clean, pull-out fish bag allows you to keep the insulated shell on the boat, while you go ashore with the catch. These Catch Coolers also make great deck top coolers for any paddler.

7) MTI Calcutta Universal Size Fishing PFD – $79.99
For paddlers, anglers, naturalists and birdwatchers who love pockets! This 30-56″ chest “all-person-fit” jacket is all-equipped for kayak fishing! Sized to fit slim to super-sized torsos, with cool open sides and adjustable front buckle straps that can be loosened for quick ventilation. Five pockets for holding all sorts of fishing gear – 2 big tackle box cargo pockets with 2 interior pouches, plus an exterior mesh pocket. A cross between a fishing vest and a PFD, but great for canoeing, kayaking and sailing!

8) Windpaddle Adventure Popup Downwind Kayak & Canoe Sail – $159
After a long day of fishing, the Windpaddle Adventure sail is a quick and easy solution to help any angler get back to shore. Stow it on deck and with the wind to your back, you can instantly launch and sail home. The 42″ Windpaddle “Adventure” will withstand any condition you throw at it. The sturdy and unbreakable perimeter batten maintains sail shape in high winds and allows for high sailing downwind angles. Available in 3 versions.

9) Friday Harbor Commander 9 Inflatable Fishing Dinghy – $199
A great all-around utility vessel for fishing, hunting, tender or as a dinghy!  The Commander 9 is an inflatable 4-person boat from the Advanced Elements Friday Harbor line. Made of heavy duty PVC for extreme puncture resistance, the Commander is loaded with features including: 2 inflatable seats, a utility bag, a removable mesh gear bag, fishing rod holders, oar holders, swivel oar locks, and grab handles. The Commander can also use an optional motor mount with up to a 2.5HP motor capacity. Whether fishing, hunting or just hitting the water for a day of fun, you can be sure this boat is more than equipped to handle the task. And it’s portable! When deflated it folds up to a compact 30 x 24 x12 inch size! Also available in a 6-person version, the Commander 12.

And the “coup de grace” gift of them all …..

10) Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler Inflatable Kayak – $649
Designed with the needs of the kayak angler in mind, the StraitEdge Angler’s wide beam provides maximum stability when bringing in big catches. A revolutionary removable mounting rail offers a variety of options – by adding aftermarket rail-mounts, you can customize the kayak with rod holders, a fish finder or other equipment. Key features include the new high-back lumbar seat as standard (this has two rod holders on the back), stainless steel d-rings for drift anchor and stringer attachments, paddle holders and bungee deck lacing for abundant gear storage.  Coupled with the standard StraitEdge features of self-bailing plugs and aluminum bow and stern ribs – you’ve got an inflatable fishing kayak built for comfort, durability and portability.

See all our AirKayaks.com angler gift ideas at http://www.airkayaks.com/categories/Kayak-Fishing/