What dimensions? What weight?
When inflated:
> length: 380 cm
> width: 64 cm
When stored in its bag:
> height: 94 cm
> width: 50 cm
> thickness: 27 cm
> full weight: 18 kg (16 kayak + 2 bag)
Storage hatch dimensions: 60 cm
An innovation, a registered patent!
The idea? To design our dream kayak: a high-performance inflatable that you can take anywhere with you in your backpack - in short, freedom! It took 30 months of research and development, 7 prototypes - we call them "monsters" - to get to this point. The main challenge: to bring rigidity and performance to an inflatable kayak. And it was the unique cutting and assembly of the materials used that we patented.
Why an inflatable rigid kayak?
We listened to kayakers: "I'm a good kayaker and I want an inflatable kayak with the same performance as a rigid kayak", "I want to go kayaking using public transport", "Inflatable kayaks are nice, but I want a kayak that moves well!"
So we had to design a kayak that was easy to transport and performed well, in short, innovative."
Naval architect Marc Ronet recounts the adventure with DECATHLON :
"I was involved in defining the kayak's overall geometry and balance. When the Itiwit team called me, I was surprised but very interested. And it also came down to our shared passion for kayaking. We were able to share our respective knowledge. It's been a great experience!"
Why the name "Kayak X500 DropStitch"?
Dropstich is a mesh of polyester threads sandwiched between 2 layers of PVC. When the floor is inflated at high pressure, the threads become taut and the construction becomes very solid, preventing any deformation.
This is what makes our inflatable kayak extremely rigid, yet easy to store in a backpack once deflated.
How is the design worked?
A real team effort with the engineer, architect and product manager. Emmanuelle designed the product according to its technical constraints. We can speak of functional lines. Dark gray corresponds to the paddling area, light gray to the loading area and orange to the need for visibility.
How do I inflate and assemble my kayak?
1. Inflate the main volume (bottom), then the intermediate volumes (walls) and the small volumes (arches). All volumes are inflated to 10 PSI max (0.7 bar).
2. You can insert the footbraces on the flexible guides, push them inside the kayak, adjust to your leg length with the buckle.
3. Position the seat on the wedges provided.
4. Position the backrest under the coaming.
We recommend the HP Itiwit double-action hand pump (8387655), not supplied.
How do I dismantle and deflate my kayak?
You'll see, it's quite simple!
1. Make sure the folding surface is clean.
2. Remove the seat.
3. Remove the footbraces
4. Deflate the kayak by removing the cap and pressing down on the valve (leave the valve in the open position to allow air to escape)
5. Retract the hatch and start folding along the longitudinal axis.
How do you fold it up to store it in the bag?
1. We recommend that you place the deck cloth inside the fold.
2. Fold the keel lengthwise. This ensures the kayak's width is consistent with that of the bag.
3. Fold each end of the kayak inwards, aligning the points with the Itiwit logo.
4. Fit the seat in the last fold of the kayak and press the air out of the kayak.
5. Finally: strap the kayak down (strapping it down helps you store it more easily in the bag).
What if the kayak has a hole in it?
It would take something sharp to make that happen. If it did, the kayak is made up of 5 independent bladders. 1 or 2 punctures? The kayak floats sufficiently to return to shore safely.
To preserve the life expectancy of your kayak, we advise you to avoid contact with oyster shells or sharp reefs.
The team shares its tips for your comfort...
Olivier is Product Manager at Itiwit. Like the rest of the team, he's passionate about kayaking. His advice: "To get the most out of your kayak, take the time to sit in the middle to balance yourself, and adjust your footrests. Once you're comfortable, you're ready to go."
Lucas is a product engineer, and his trick is to always take dry clothes with you in a small waterproof bag. You can place it at the front of the kayak for easy access.
What's in the Kayak bag?
Kit includes:
- backpack
- kayak
- seat
- footbraces
- repair kit
Skirt not included. The kayak is compatible with the skirt Itiwit code: 8801423.
Instructions for use.
To extend the kayak's lifespan, it's best not to use a pump to suck air out when deflating
We advise you to practice with a buoyancy aid.
Warranty
Warranty on spare parts essential for use: 2 years
Availability: 10 years
Payment in 3 instalments is possible from a basket value of CHF 50 and requires the approval of our partner CembraPay. You will be able to choose this method of payment, and consult the terms and conditions and applicable fees when finalizing your order.
