Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite

Size and Weight

The AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite measures 15 feet / 457 cm in length and 32 inches / 81 cm in width. It weighs 52 lbs / 23.5 kg and measures 35 x 21 x 12 inches / 89 x 53 x 30 cm when deflated and folded. 

At this size, it fits easily into the trunk or the back of a truck but the weight isn’t the lightest on the market. Moving a fully-deflated kayak might be a challenge and it would be way easier with two people. 

This kayak is slightly heavier than another inflatable kayak of similar size, the Sea Eagle 420x which weighs 44 lbs / 20 kg. 

Hannu Sairanen

Capacity

The AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite has a maximum payload of 550 lbs / 249 kg which is significantly less than the Sea eagle 420x which can accommodate 855 lbs / 388 kg. However, the Convertible Elite is still suitable for two medium to large-sized adults and all their gear. 

Even close to fully loaded, the kayak tracks well, remains relatively maneuverable, and doesn’t sacrifice too much on speed.

Features

The AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite package comes with the kayak, a repair kit, a backpack, and two inflatable seats. The kayak doesn’t come with a pump, so you might want to look at one on your own. 

The AdvancedElements double action hand pump is an excellent choice and comes with a PSI gauge and all the fittings that fit onto the inflation valves.

The Convertible Elite’s key strength is the drop-stitch construction that sets it apart from other inflatables. The technology allows a greater PSI to create rigid, high-pressure forms that enhance tracking and speed, adding incredible rigidity not seen in other inflatables. 

In addition, the AdvancedFrame series have patented internal aluminum rib-frames that give the boat the rigidity and feel of a traditional hardshell. You basically have the portability of an inflatable with the performance of a plastic boat! 

At the bow, you’ve got the front carrying handle and a bungee system with D-rings to secure your belongings. Like its predecessor, the Convertible, the Convertible Elite has a removable deck that is sold separately, so you can paddle the kayak as a sit-in to keep the water out or a sit-on-top in calmer waters and on warmer days. 

Til Further Notice

You can also choose to use a spray skirt to keep the water out. The spray skirt isn’t included and has to be bought separately.

The Convertible Elite has seats with high-density foam for your butt and inflatable lumbar support, which is an upgrade from its predecessor, the Convertible. 

You can enjoy all-day comfort in this kayak on these seats which also can be moved fore and aft on the kayak to fit one or two paddlers, allowing you to choose whether to paddle solo or tandem. 

Hannu Sairanen

However, if you paddle tandem, the height limit would be about 6 feet 2 inches / 186 cm, while a solo setup can accommodate taller paddlers. 

Til Further Notice

If you paddle solo, the area where the back seat is located can be turned into a rear cargo hatch for more storage room. 

Towards the stern is the back carrying handle and another aluminum rib frame which keeps the back of the kayak in the water and helps significantly with tracking. 

The kayak is protected by a triple-layer PVC tarpaulin that is wrapped around multi-layer construction, making this kayak extremely durable, which is a concern for many paddlers considering inflatables. 

The Convertible Elite comes in a bag with removable backpack straps which will allow you to easily hike a couple of hundred meters to launch your kayak. In comparison, the Convertible comes in a duffel bag which can be awkward and cumbersome to carry. 

Performance

An upgrade from the wildly-popular AdvancedFrame Convertible, the Convertible Elite is a dream to paddle in chop as the patented aluminum rib frame cuts through water like a hot knife through butter.

The frame minimizes nose-walking, unlike other inflatables where you sit high on the water and the kayak “waggles” from side to side as you paddle. 

The aluminum rib frame at the stern also acts like a skeg and keeps the kayak in the water, helping it track straight. In addition, there is a fin on the underside, making this kayak excellent at tracking. 

The AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite is a pleasure to paddle and will suit kayakers of all experience levels. 

The stability will suit the most nervous of paddlers and at 15 feet / 457 cm, it might not be the most maneuverable but it will be able to handle many conditions like that of Class I and II rivers, lakes, and oceans. 

Overall, the AdvancedFrame Convertible Elite is an excellent choice for kayakers that spend a significant amount of time in the water, either alone or with a co-pilot. Reliable, durable, and easy to paddle, it will suit kayakers of all levels.