[The Innova Group] Burlington, Wash., U.S.A
Innova inflatable kayaks make getting on the water a simple, one-person task—even for a two-person craft. The Helios inflatable double kayak (Helios II EX) is made of 1200-denier polyester, rubber-coated fabric on both faces (inside with a blend of natural rubbers, and outside with nitrile synthetic rubber) offering a “greener” product than other inflatable kayaks, which typically use vinyl coatings or PVC bladders. Air-holding seams are vulcanized together, a process similar to the one used to make car tires. The resulting construction has excellent abrasion and UV resistance. Measuring 12.5-feet long by 30-inches wide, it can be paddled at four knots and takes less than 10 minutes to set up. At only 36 pounds—half the weight of rigid double kayaks—it’s easily transportable in its own backpack and compact enough to fit into the overhead bin on a commercial airplane.