Want an affordable IK the whole family can use?
Capitalizing on its recent acquisition of IK-maker Advanced Elements, Pelican marks its first foray into the world of inflatables with the iEscape110, a convertible tandem IK that’s fun, safe and, best yet, affordable for the whole family, at a price of just $299.
The company calls it the “ultimate convertible tandem inflatable kayak that prioritizes fun, safety and durability, whether embarking on a solo journey or paddling in tandem.” And that’s one of its keys: it lets you paddle solo or with a partner easily with the switch of an adjustable inflatable seat.
“We designed it as a solo or tandem convertible kayak by inflatable watercraft experts with over 20 years of experience in the category,” says Jean-Sebastien Bélanger, Pelican’s director of inflatable products and accessories. “As part of Pelican International’s acquisition of Advanced Elements, the design and engineering knowledge of the AE team was funneled into Pelican’s first inflatable kayak, to create a high quality and super durable product at an introductory price, that will allow a whole new segment of people to try and fall in love with kayaking.”
Design-wise, it’s made of Durazone polyester material for durability and abrasion resistance, with three Safetech airchambers, and a rigid I-beam floor, which aids tracking. Pressure relief valves on its Boston air valves ensure proper inflation, carry handles help with getting it from car to water, and bungee deck lacing allows you to carry extra gear. It also has an open cockpit design for easy entry and paddle holder loops. For accessories, it comes with a manual-dual-action pump, transport bag, and more.
As far as the reasons behind making the craft, it comes down to continuing to find ways to get people into the wonderful sport of paddling.
“One, was to continue our mission of creating affordable and long-lasting kayaks that introduce new people to the sport,” adds Bélanger. “More specifically, with an inflatable kayak which is ultra easy to store and transport, we can reach a sizable group of new people who perhaps haven’t considered kayaking in the past. We think of people living in urban areas with limited storage space, or perhaps those who don’t have a suitable vehicle to transport a traditional kayak.”
” We also wanted to launch a high durability and performance inflatable product in the entry-level kayak segment versus what it currently out there today,” he adds. “We want people to fall in love with kayaking, with being on-water and with being outdoors. Quality, long-lasting products contribute highly to our love of the outdoors. And particularly in inflatable kayaks where durability is key to help people feel safe on the water. That’s why we integrated such safety features as numerous air chambers, multi-layered Durazone materials, and an Ultrabeam floor, a which will allow paddlers to explore on water with ultimate peace of mind.”
It appears to be working for the company. “Since the first day we unveiled this boat, the feedback is almost unanimous, especially its quality for such an affordable price,” says Bélanger. “The design, the materials, and the attention to detail will give new people all the confidence they need to try an inflatable kayak, and discover the beauty of being on water as a perfect escape.”
Specifications
- Length: 134 in
- Height: 14 in
- Width: 37 in
- Weight: 35.9 lb
- Max Weight Capacity: 400 lb – 181.44 kg