How big is it?How heavy is it?
"When the kayak is 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 Dimensions of the bag) + 2 hatch storage: 60 cm
An innovation, and a patent pending!
The initial idea?Design our dream kayak: a high-performance inflatable kayak that you can take everywhere with your backpack, in short:Freedom!To do that, 30 months of design and development, 7 prototypes - which we call "monsters" here - were necessary.The main challenge:to add rigidity, performance to an inflatable kayak.And so we have patented the unique cutting and assembly of the materials used.
Why a rigid inflatable kayak?
"We listened to the kayakers:""I have a good level in kayaking and I want an inflatable kayak that has 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 is goes fast!""
It was therefore necessary to design an easily transportable and efficient kayak, in short innovative."
Marc Ronet, naval architect tells us about the adventure with DECATHLON:
"My work involved defining the overall geometry of the kayak, its general balance.When the Itiwit team called me, I was surprised but very interested.And it was also thanks to our common passion for kayaking.We were able to share our respective knowledge.It's been a great experience!"
Why the name "Kayak X500 DropStitch"?
""Dropstitch"" is a material.Two layers of PVC are connected by thousands of nylon threads.When inflated to high pressure, these threads tighten and create a rigid volume, which prevents the kayak from loosing its shape.
This is what makes our inflatable kayak extremely rigid but easy to store in a backpack once deflated."
How was the design worked?
A real teamwork with the engineer, the architect and the product manager.Emmanuelle designed the product based on its technical constraints.We can speak of functional lines.The dark grey corresponds to the paddling area, light grey for the loading area and orange for visibility.
How to inflate and mount the kayak?
"1. 1. Inflate the main chamber (floor), then the intermediate chambers (walls), followed by the small chambers (arches).All the volumes are inflated to 10 PSI max (0.7 bar).
2. You can insert the foot-rests on the flexible guides, push them inside the kayak, and adjust to your leg length with the buckle.
3. 3. Position the seat by fitting it onto the shims provided.
4. Position the backrests under the coaming.
We recommend the HP Itiwit twin-action hand pump (8387655), not supplied."
How to disassemble and deflate the kayak?
"You'll see it's quite simple!
1. Make sure the folding surface is clean.
2. Remove the seat.
3. Remove the foot rests
4.Deflate the kayak by removing the cap and pressing the valve.(Leave the valve in the open position for air to escape)
5.Tuck in the hatch and start folding lengthways."
How to fold it up to put it in the bag?
"1. We recommend placing the canvas of the bridge inside the fold.
2. Fold the keel over its entire length.This fold ensures that the width of the kayak is the same as that of the bag.
3. Fold each end towards the inside of the kayak and line up the ends with the Itiwit logo.
4. Slot the seat in the last fold of the kayak and finish expelling air from the kayak by pressing on it.
5. Finishing step: strap the kayak (a good strap makes it easier to put it in the bag)."
What if the kayak is pierced?
"It would take something sharp to make that happen. If so, the kayak is composed of 5 independent "air chambers". 1 or 2 of punctures? The kayak floats enough to make it back to the shore safely.
To preserve the life expectancy of your kayak, we advise you to avoid contact with oyster shells and sharp reefs."
The team offers their tips for your comfort ...
"Olivier takes care of the stock at Itiwit.Like the whole team, he is passionate about kayaking.His advice:""To make the most of it, really take the time to sit in the middle to balance yourself, to adjust your foot rests.Once you are comfortable, off you go.""
Nico is a product engineer, his thing is to always leave with dry clothes in a small waterproof bag.You can place it in the front of the kayak for easy access."
What does the Kayak bag contain?
"The kit comprises:
- the backpack
- the kayak
- the seat
- the foot rests
- a repair kit
It does not contain a spray deck.The kayak is compatible with the Itiwit spray deck code:8543915."
Directions for use.
We recommend that you practise with a buoyancy vest.
