Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible

Size, weight, capacity

The AdvancedFrame Convertible is a two person kayak with a length of 15 ft. (4.5 m). At 32 in. (81 cm) wide, it’s really stable, without being difficult to paddle.

This kayak is designed to be a recreational day tourer. The two person weight capacity of 550 lbs. (249 kg) is enough for two medium adults and equipment for a long day on the water.

The benefit of any inflatable is how portable they are. The AdvancedFrame Convertible weighs 52 lbs. (23.5 kg). While this isn’t the lightest option on the market, it’s still easy to move around as a pair.

Features

The AdvancedFrame series has a key feature which sets it apart from standard inflatables. Internal aluminium struts give the boat a rigidity and responsiveness similar to that of a traditional, rigid kayak. In short, you get all the portability of an inflatable, but the paddling capabilities of a plastic boat.

The v-shaped bow and stern of the boat gives the boat good tracking capabilities. These are enhanced by the tracking fin at the rear of the kayak.

Convertible is as convertible does. Additional deck areas can be fitted to change your open top kayak into a closed cockpit boat, either for one or two people. These can even be fitted with spray skirts to keep the water out and keep you warm on the water.

The adjustable, high backed seats inside the AdvancedFrame Convertible give you all day comfort. There are three seating positions for these, so you can enjoy this kayak either solo, or tandem. 

There is top deck lacing for quick access to your kit, as well as D-ring tie downs to stow your equipment. There are also rubber handles at the bow and stern. There are small pockets and paddle holders for each position. 

Performance

The AdvancedFrame Convertible takes inflatables to a whole new level of versatility. The ability to quickly change from an open top kayak to a closed cockpit style can change this boat from a family tripper to a cold weather adventurer. These deck covers are optional extras, though.

The frame system in this boat gives it a good level of rigidity and responsiveness. This makes the boat feel more like a traditional touring style kayak rather than an inflatable. It covers the water with a reasonable amount of speed and is comfortable as a one, or two person boat. 

As an inflatable, you would expect this to be lightweight and easily portable. While this boat does fold and deflate to a point that it fits into the trunk of a car, it certainly isn’t light. Anyone who has moved a deflated kayak will know how unwieldy they feel. At 52 lbs., you’ll struggle to lift this alone.

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