Advanced Elements PackLite

Size, Weight, Capacity

Once inflated, the PackLite is 7 ft. 10 in. (240 cm) long and 35 in. (89 cm) wide. This beam gives you the stability you need to paddle with confidence, even in remote and challenging areas.

This boat is light. Seriously light. The PackLite comes in at just 4 lbs. (1.8 kg) and packs down into a compact bag. This makes it really easy to carry the kayak into wild spaces.

The maximum capacity of the PackLite is 249 lbs. (113 kg). This is just enough to carry small to medium adults and their lightweight gear on an expedition.

Features

The main feature of the PackLite is how seriously small it is. The lightweight, reinforced polyurethane build is PVC free. Despite this lightweight structure, the PackLite inflates to enough pressure to paddle responsively and to be stable on the water. The welded seams on the kayak prevent this pressure from causing a rupture.

The PackLite has a three-chamber design. In remote environments, safety is paramount. In the event of a puncture or deflation, the other chambers will remain inflated so you can paddle to safety.

Rubber molded carrying handles make it easy to carry this boat about once inflated. The small mesh carrying bag which the PackLite packs down into also doubles as a top-deck bag on the water. D-rings in the cockpit let you secure your gear.

Performance

Advanced Elements PackLite is a kayak with a very specific purpose. This is a boat for remote locations where experienced paddlers want to explore further than their usual boundaries. The PackLite is also an ideal choice for those who want to extend their trekking trip across bodies of water without the arduous walk around.

What this is not, however, is a kayak designed for long days out. Nor is this a kayak for particularly challenging conditions. The lightweight design means that this kayak doesn’t track effectively in the wind. The short stature and flat hull also limit the speed of the PackLite.

The inflatable seat fitted inside the PackLite is comfortable enough for shorter journeys and expedition crossings, but is neither supportive or connective enough for long trips.

When it comes to portability, there are very few kayaks which come close to the PackLite. Once packed down, this kayak fits into most rucksacks and weighs so little you will hardly notice you’re carrying it. Just don’t forget your pump!