What's New in the Paddling Industry
The quick headlines:
> The new Walker Bay inflatable lineup.
> Seven new models for Current Designs/Wenonah in 2009
> Kokatat launches new kayak fishing line
Walker Bay Expands Airis Inflatable Kayaks Line With Four New Models
Look for the Angler, Tender, Velocity and Tandem
Yakima, WA, August 6, 2008 – Walker Bay® Boats Inc. launches four new models in the award winning Airis™ Inflatable Kayak line: the Angler, Tender, Velocity and Tandem. “Produced using the same innovative AirWeb™ High Pressure Construction, each new Airis model is geared toward a specific market”, said Stefano Rista, VP –Business Development for Walker Bay Boats.
“The Angler is designed specifically for kayak fishing, the Velocity is built for speed, the Tandem is perfect for couples and families, and the Tender is designed for boaters needing to transport people and gear.” Known as “the kayak-in-a-bag”, all Airis Kayaks come in a custom designed rip-stop nylon backpack. Lightweight, portable, and quick & easy to set up, all Airis Inflatable Kayaks are made from AirWeb™, the patented high-pressure construction formed from a heavy-duty seven layer polymer coated fabric that is joined inside by thousands of drop-stitch fibers, making it the world’s most rigid and compact inflatable kayak.
Angler - compact, versatile and loaded with features
The Angler’s durable hull has a wide body with moderate tapering at the bow and stern making it very stable and
easy to haul in fish. The Angler comes fully equipped with two rod holders, several storage areas for tackle, integrated
bungee cords, paddle holders to stow the paddle when fishing, foot rests and a bow line which can be used to secure a
small anchor. In addition to this, Walker Bay has developed Versa-Track™, a versatile accessory attachment system that
runs down both sides of the kayak and comes with a 28 by 8 inch aluminum gear mount platform. The Versa-Track
system has 32 separate attachment points to fasten ropes, bags and other equipment, and will also accommodate
additional gear-mount platforms (sold separately) for adding more tools such as depth sounders, fish finders, down
riggers or even swivel seats. There are several accessory options for the Angler such as the pneumatic wheel kit for
launching and maneuvering on land. The wheels double as outriggers once moved into the paddling position, by
remaining out of the water and only engaging for additional stability when needed. The Angler is available in yellow
or camouflage.
Tender – utility meets excitement
The Tender is designed to go from ship to shore with gear & groceries while still offering the enjoyment of kayaking. It
comes loaded with features such as an integrated bow storage compartment, holders to keep the paddle safe when
ashore, a bow line for docking, storage bungees, integrated foot rests and two removable skegs for excellent tracking
and maximum portability. The stern cargo space also has the Versa-Track system for an optional platform and is ideal
for a storage cart, as the bungee restraints keep it in place when fully loaded. The Tender also features Walker Bay’s
Walker Bay exclusive Connect-a-Yak™, patent pending system that enables you to
connect two or more boats bow-to-stern to create a tandem kayak, providing the
option to paddle with others, fetch passengers, or haul more gear. The stern of each tender has a
half circle indentation allowing it to hug the bow of the other tender and is then locked into position with an
integrated loop and bar mechanism making it quick and easy.
Velocity - sporty and fast
The Velocity has a narrow beam and Sleek-Skin™ hull design that together maximize paddling efficiency, enabling it to glide through the water quickly and easily. A foot long skeg is positioned for consistent tracking and integrated footrests provide the paddler with support for a more powerful stroke, making longer journeys more comfortable. With an integrated storage compartment and bungee cords to hold gear and food, the Velocity is the ideal kayak for day trips.
Play Tandem – perfect for two
Part of the popular Play line, the tandem offers comfortable room for two. Multiple handles and d-rings enable the
seats to be at any location in the kayak offering paddlers maximum flexibility for legroom. Still compact enough to
fit in its own custom backpack, the Tandem can convert into a single paddler kayak by simply adjusting the seating
arrangement. Other features include integrated bungee cords, drain plugs and handles for easy transport.
Packages, Pricing and Availability
The Angler is 12 feet in length and retails at $1,699 while the Velocity is $1,599 and 12 feet long. The Tandem retails for $1,599 and is 12 feet long. The Tender is 10 feet in length and retails at $1,599. All new kayaks have two seating options, the standard seat cushion and backrest, which retails for $49 or the deluxe extra padded seat cushion and backrest which retails for $99. Walker Bay stands behind all Airis Kayaks with a 2-year limited warranty. Contact Walker Bay Boats for more information www.AirisKayaks.com.
Kueper named Wenonah VP
Wenonah Canoe, Inc. announced the promotion of Bill Kueper to Vice President of the company, effective 01 August 2008. Previously, Mr. Kueper served as North American Sales and Marketing Manager for the Wenonah Canoe and Current Designs brands. Over the previous two years, Mr. Kueper also participated as a member of the design team, oversaw technical projects involving resins, fibers and chemistry and took part in sourcing campaigns. These activities relied heavily on Mr. Kueper’s background; Ph.D. organic chemist with over 10 years of industrial experience. “Bill’s academic and industrial backgrounds are proven assets to Wenonah Canoe and Current Designs,” said Jim Brown, company President. Mr. Kueper will report to Mr. Brown and Mike Cichanowski, CEO and founder of Wenonah Canoe, Inc. Mr. Kueper will continue to oversee North American sales and marketing, in addition to his direct responsibilities for international sales and sourcing. The North American Sales and Marketing position will remain open pending a restructuring.
Wenonah/Current Designs adds seven new models for 2009
Wenonah Canoe and Current Designs announce 7 new models in addition to pProduct upgrades and color options for 2009.
2009 New Model Introductions
Kestrel 120 OC by Current Designs
The Kestrel 120 OC (Open Cockpit) is a super recreational kayak that gives the free and easy feeling only an open cockpit can offer. Featuring the renowned Kestrel hull and spacious open cockpit for easy entry and exit, it'll hold all the gear you need and keep it readily visible and accessible. Perfect for the kayak fisherman, it has
enough stability enough to battle the biggest fresh and salt water fish. The Kestrel 120 OC is also great for those leisurely paddles and floats down your favorite river.
Material: Polyethylene (Speckled Yellow, Speckled Mango, Speckled Red)
Length: 12'0" (3.66 m)
Width: 27" (69 cm)
Weight: 48 lbs (21.77 kg)
Vision 135 Roto with Optional Rudder by Current Designs
The Vision 135 Roto is an awaited addition to our Vision family. The Vision 135 offers the same great qualities of all our Vision models, in a short and manageable kayak. The Vision 135 Roto is a super transitional category kayak with a budget conscious price. The Vision 135 Roto is available with an optional rudder.
Material: Polyethylene (Speckled White, Speckled Yellow, Speckled
Mango, Speckled Red, Speckled Lime)
Length: 13'6" (4.11 m)
Width: 24" (60.9 cm)
Depth: 12.75" (32 cm)
Weight: 49 lbs (22.68 kg)
Zone SOT Composite by Current Designs
The Zone SOT combines a true performance kayak hull with the unique paddling experience of a sit-on-top kayak. The open air cockpit offers a free feeling and the high back seat makes this an extremely comfortable ride. Faster and more efficient than traditional sit-on-tops, the Zone handles like a dream on all waters and in all conditions. The Zone has a forward dry hatch and mesh covered rear storage compartment.
Material: Fiberglass/Aramid composite (Red Deck, Smoke Hull with Black Accents)
Length: 17'0" (5.18 m)
Width: 24.25" (62 cm)
Weight: 54 lbs (24.5 kg)
Unity by Current Designs
The Unity tandem couples efficiency, performance and seaworthiness into a kayak for two. The Unity is an expedition-grade, super-seaworthy kayak. Sized large, it will take on big water, rough conditions and plenty of gear. Experienced paddlers will appreciate the quick acceleration and efficient glide this 21' boat provides. A true joy to paddle, the Unity will bring you in tune with your paddling partner.
Material: Fiberglass/Aramid composite (Red Deck, Smoke Hull with Black Accents)
Length: 21'0" (6.4 m)
Width: 26" (66 cm)
Depth: 13" (33 cm)
Weight: 83 lbs (37.7 kg)
Infinity by Current Designs
The Infinity is an expedition-grade sea kayak for British-design aficionados. The foredeck is roomy enough to comfortably accommodate larger paddlers and the spacious hatches will hold enough gear for any expedition you campaign. The Infinity will conquer the world's waters with the efficiency, speed and dependability only Current Designs can deliver. Skeg, back band, and day hatch come standard.
Material: Fiberglass or Kevlar® Composite (all current Current Designs colors available)
Length: 17'9" (5.4 m)
Width: 22" (56 cm)
Depth: 13.5" (34 cm)
Weight: Fiberglass 52 lbs (23.6 kg)
Kevlar: 48 lbs (21.8 kg)
Isle by Current Designs
The Isle is a super-sized Greenland-style kayak designed specifically for larger paddlers. Sized comparably to our Solstice Titan LV, the Isle offers an alternative performance package to North American designs. If you need a larger boat and seek the edging, rolling, and paddling qualities of a hard chine boat, the Isle is for you. Skeg, back band and thigh braces come standard.
Material: Fiberglass or Kevlar® Composite (all current Current Designs colors available)
Length: 18'0" (5.48 m)
Width: 24" (61 cm)
Depth: 14" (36 cm)
Weight: Fiberglass 54 lbs (24.5 kg); Kevlar: 50 lbs (22.7 kg)
Fusion by Wenonah Canoe
The Fusion is a uniquely designed solo boat fusing the best features of canoes and kayaks for recreation and fishing. Extra stable, it can be paddled with a double or single bladed paddle and the optional rudder makes maneuvering a synch. An adjustable seat with high back rest allows for hours of comfort. The Fusion runs drier and holds more gear than any fishing kayak, while keeping all your gear readily accessible. Rudder is optional.
Material: Kevlar or Royalex (Skin Coat and Spruce, respectively)
Length: 13'
Heights: Bow 15 1/2": Center 12"; Stern 15"
Widths: Gunwale 31"; Waterline 28 1/2"; Maximum 31"
Rocker: Minimal
Weights: Kevlar: 29 lbs: Royalex: 45 lbs
2009 Changes and Improvements to Existing Models
Minnesota II
The Minnesota II received approximately 0.5"-1.0" of increased depth
along the entire shear line.
Escapade
The Escapade received bow and stern profiles that match the Minnesota II and Escape. Additionally, the Escapade's tumblehome is more dramatic for improved solo paddling.
Kestrel Composite Colors
Smoke/Smoke with Red accents - All Kestrels
Lime/Smoke with Black accents - All Kestrels except Kestrel 170 T
Kestrel Roto Colors
Speckled Red, Specked Mango, Speckled Yellow
Vision Composite Colors
Smoke/Smoke with Regatta Blue accents; Red/Smoke with Black accents
Kokatat launches new kayak fishing line
In 2009, Kokatat will introduce a selection of new garments geared to the folks who like to fish from their kayaks. These products, merchandised with others from the existing Kokatat line, will make a comprehensive set of solutions for the kayak angler’s needs.
Kokatat’s design team worked closely with kayak anglers to create these innovative new products to meet the specific needs of this expanding market. New products in this line include the SuperNova Angler Paddling Suit, Tempest Pant with Socks, and Launch Sock, all made with Kokatat’s new TROPOS 3 layer waterproof, breathable fabric (T3), as well as the Tempest Jacket made from standard 2 layer TROPOS fabric.
SuperNova Angler Paddling Suit: Based on Kokatat’s popular SuperNova, the new angler version is exactly what cold water anglers have been waiting for! This one piece paddling suit allows the angler the necessary freedom of movement. The increased cordura coverage from below the waist to the ankles on the front of the suit, and on the seat, provides necessary reinforcement and protection needed for changing tackle and handling gear. A relief zipper cover is added making it easier to haul your catch onto your lap after landing the big one!
Unisex sizes: S-XXL
Colors: mango/gray or NEW pacific/gray.
Tempest Jacket and Pant: The Tempest jacket is designed for all paddlers but feedback from kayak anglers assisted in the design to be sure that this jacket would address their specific needs. Incorporating wrist gaskets, a double tunnel and APT collar to keep the paddler comfortable and dry in inclement weather, the Tempest jacket also has a stowable hood for use in wind and rain. A new pant, the Tempest Paddling Pant, will also debut for 2009. This innovative pant is the first in Kokatat’s history to incorporate the same sock system found on our dry suits. Also featured is a waist with adjustable “hook & loop” tabs on both sides for a comfortable secure fit. This jacket/pant combination provides protection and comfort while allowing the freedom and ease to adjust with changing elements.
Unisex sizes: S-XXL
Colors: Jacket- mango or radish, Pant- gray
Launch Sock: Whether you’re on the Pacific, Atlantic or somewhere in between, Kokatat’s new launch sock is great for keeping your feet dry while launching and landing your boat in knee-deep water! The Launch Sock pulls on over bare or socked feet, snugs down with elastic and a cord lock for launch and can then be easily pulled off when under way.
Unisex sizes: S-M (foot sizes)
Color: gray
Kokatat launches new neoprene footwear program
Arcata, CA- In 2009, Kokatat will introduce a new neoprene footwear program to complement the Hand Jacket (neoprene glove) program and round out the entire insulation category. Three new models will be introduced in the 2009 footwear line; the Seeker, the Scout and the Nomad.
Seeker – This ultra-lightweight, highly flexible, low profile paddler’s shoe is designed for use in whitewater playboats and low volume touring kayaks. The single hand adjustable shock cord lacing system allows for precise volume adjustment and fit. A .5mm superstretch neoprene lace cover eliminates the snag hazard associated with other lacing systems. Made from 3mm double lined neoprene with ultra-thin vulcanized rubber sole, toe cap and heel counter, the seeker provides comfort, durability and enough protection for put-ins and portages.
Scout – A light-weight, mid-high paddler’s shoe that slips on easily and offers great protection and support. The 3mm double lined neoprene upper provides protection both in and out of the boat. The foot bed is built using a medium thickness vulcanized rubber outsole with vulcanized rubber toe cap and heel counter for traction. The hook and loop instep adjustment strap provides the lateral support necessary for extended hikes or portages.
Nomad – This innovative lightweight mukluk offers the paddler a full coverage waterproof breathable boot that provides the necessary protection while launching your boat. Perfect for touring and canoeing, the Nomad has an adjustable volume 3mm double lined neoprene lower shoe with the same covered lacing system featured on the Seeker. The waterproof breathable gaitor on the upper part of the boot allows for more comfort in variable temperature and weather conditions. An adjustable neoprene cuff secures just below the knee. A medium thickness outsole with stiffening insert and a vulcanized rubber toe cap and heel counter provide protection and support.
All models are available in whole sizes, US 6-13
Kaiser new on Wenonah staff
Wenonah Canoe, Inc. is pleased to announce Jim Kaiser as the newest member of their sales team effective 23 June 2008. Kaiser will represent the Wenonah Canoe, Current Designs and C4 Waterman brands to specialty retailers and their consumers in New England. The search committee, chaired by Wenonah's Sales Manager Bill Kueper was impressed by Jim's industry experience and accomplishments. "Jim is an excellent fit with our sales team. He brings a proven track record in the industry and like all of our sales staff, is a genuine paddler," said Kueper. Kaiser transitions from his partnership position with Chuck Joy at C-J Rep creating his own agency to work with Wenonah. Over the years Kaiser worked in house for Old Town and has represented notable lines including Old Town, Stolquist, AquaBound, and most recently Legacy Paddlesports, Astral, and IR. "I really enjoyed working with Chuck and with the lines we carried. Legacy is a growing company and I certainly enjoyed the people I worked with. The move to Wenonah Canoe, Current Designs and C4 Waterman was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. I've always admired their products and their philosophy. I believe this is a great fit for both parties and I'm excited to work with such a well respected company," said Kaiser.
About Wenonah Canoe:
Established formally in 1968 in Winona, Minnesota, Wenonah Canoe has roots reaching back into the 1950's. The company is the outgrowth of a lifelong devotion to paddling by Mike Cichanowski, who began canoeing as a Boy Scout, and who began manufacturing canoes while still in college. Today, Wenonah Canoe and its Current Designs kayak brand place them among the largest makers of paddle sports boats in the world, with emphasis on ultra-light and high-performance models. Nearly 400 knowledgeable paddle sports retailers throughout the world distribute their boat and accessories.
New Product Announcements
Seaward Chinook TX
Seaward is proud to announce production of their new Chinook TX thermoform kayak. Incorporating all the innovation and safety features that have made Seaward the bench mark in kayak design, the Chinook TX is built in true Seaward tradition.
New Ergonomically Correct Paddle
Gullwing Paddles has designed a revolutionary new paddle to help kayakers of all ages enjoy kayaking while reducing the major stress caused by straight paddles. The Gullwing Paddle provides a natural motion that reduces the typical stress on the joints and arms, with an added bonus of greater paddling ease and control. The ergonomically curved shape allows for a more comfortable holding position and an easier, smoother stroke.
The Gullwing Paddle blades are made of fiberglass reinforced nylon. The handle is made of a lightweight, durable aluminum alloy, T-832 ALUMINUM, coated with a tough abrasive-resistant surface, improving wearability and corrosion resistance. Total weight: 35 oz. For more information please visit www.Gullwingpaddles.com
> More New Product Announcements