Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Kayak Review Video

This video is our full look at the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame, an inflatable kayak that takes a different route to rigidity — a fabric-covered hull stiffened by aluminium ribs fore and aft, rather than the high-pressure drop-stitch floor most of its rivals now use.

We look at what that design buys and what it costs. Tracking is genuinely good, with the inbuilt skeg and low profile keeping it on line even in a breeze, but the softer floor gives away stability against drop-stitch hulls and the tracking-focused shape makes it reluctant to turn quickly.

We also go through the everyday realities: several inflation points with valves that don't all match, a drying time long enough to matter if you pack away damp, and a single-shoulder carry bag that becomes a nuisance on anything longer than a short walk to the launch.

Every kayak we review is assessed across performance, construction, setup and pack down, portability and comfort, alongside value for money and best use cases. The AdvancedFrame scored 86 out of 100 — excellent build quality and confident straight-line paddling, best suited to lighter paddlers on calm water who don't mind the extra setup time.

For more details, head to our written review of the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame.