Advanced Elements Airvolution2 Kayak Review
Rating
Performance: 6
Size/Weight: 7
Durability: 10
Setup: 9
Value: 7
OVERALL: 7.8
Big, stable and capable.
The Advanced Elements AirVolution2 really leans into the idea that an inflatable doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. With its full drop-stitch construction, it delivers a noticeably firmer, more planted ride than most inflatables, getting surprisingly close to that hard-shell feel on the water. It’s built for confidence, whether that’s your first time paddling or you just want something that feels solid under you. That said, that performance comes at a cost. The same construction that gives it rigidity also adds weight and bulk, so while it performs like a premium kayak on the water, it asks a bit more from you before and after each paddle. It’s a classic trade-off: stability and structure versus portability and convenience.
Comparison
Rank: #6
Open Size: Long and wide
Packed Size: Large
Weight: Heavy
Capacity: Very high
Perfect For: Relaxed paddling, couples, beginners, and anyone who values stability over speed.
Pros: Super rigid for an inflatable, very stable in almost all conditions, tracks straight with minimal effort.
Cons: Heavier than most inflatables, limited internal storage space, bulky when packed.
Verdict: A high-performing inflatable that feels close to a hard-shell, but you’ll notice the extra weight every time you move it on land.
Skip ahead to First Impressions, Setup/Packdown, Paddling Experience, or the Final Verdict, check out how the Advanced Elements Airvolution2 compares to others in our list of the Top Ten 2 Person Inflatable Kayaks or see how we choose the best inflatable kayak.
Specs:
Open Size: 14’5”x37”
Packed Size: 39×20×7in
Weight: 52lbs
Capacity: 550lbs
Approx Price: $1319.00
First Impressions
Right away, this feels like a serious piece of gear. At 14’5” long and 37” wide, it’s big, and you notice that immediately. It looks clean and modern, with a more streamlined drop-stitch build compared to older inflatable designs.
The standout feature is the full drop-stitch construction. It gives the kayak a rigid, almost hard-shell feel, which is exactly what a lot of paddlers are chasing in an inflatable.
That said, the size and weight are hard to ignore. At around 52 lbs, and even more once you add paddles and pump, this isn’t a ‘grab and go’ lightweight option. The included wheeled duffel helps, but it’s still a big package.
Setup/Packdown
Setup is straightforward, but not effortless.
You get a battery pump for high-volume inflation, which helps a lot early on, but you’ll still need a manual pump to reach the full 10–12 PSI. Expect around 10–15 minutes to get everything fully inflated once you get the hang of it.
The pressure relief valves are a nice touch. They prevent overinflation, especially on hot days, so you’re not constantly worrying about damaging the kayak.
Packing down is easier than expected. The smooth internal design means less water and debris getting trapped, and the drain plug helps clear things out. Once deflated properly, it rolls up neatly, though still quite bulky.
Paddling Experience
This is where the AirVolution2 really does well, with a few caveats.
On the water, it feels impressively solid. The drop-stitch hull gives it a rigidity that genuinely gets close to a hard-shell kayak. Tracking is strong, especially with the large skeg attached, and it moves efficiently for its size.
Speed is decent, but not class-leading. Because it’s wide, it’s slightly slower than slimmer inflatables. You’re trading a bit of speed for a lot more stability.
And that stability is a big highlight. This thing is very hard to tip. Great for beginners, families, or anyone paddling with kids or even pets. Some users can even stand up on it with good balance.
Wind can push it around a bit due to its size and lighter structure compared to hard-shells, so you may find yourself correcting your line more in breezy conditions.
Storage is one of the main compromises. There’s limited space below deck, and loading gear on top can affect handling and catch the wind. This isn’t the best choice for longer touring trips where you need to carry a lot.
Comfort is decent but not perfect. The high-back seats are supportive enough, but not the most cushioned, and taller paddlers may feel a bit cramped without adjustments.
Final Verdict
The AirVolution2 is a strong performer that delivers on its promise of hard-shell-like performance in an inflatable format. You get excellent stability, solid tracking, and a durable build that can handle lakes, rivers, and calm coastal water. It’s especially appealing for beginners or casual paddlers who want confidence on the water. On the flip side, it’s heavier and bulkier than many inflatables, with limited storage and a few comfort quirks. If your priority is stability and performance over portability and lightweight convenience, this is a good option.
Want to see how the Advanced Elements Airvolution2 compares to other kayaks we tested? Head over to our list of the Best Two-Person Inflatable Kayaks.
Water & Outdoors reviews are written by our staff writers, who combined have over fifty years of experience on the water and outdoors. We may earn commissions if you choose to buy through a link you’ve clicked on our website, however this does not influence our reviews. For more information, please see our Editorial Policies.