Havspaddeln Loke Manual

This is the complete manual for Havspaddeln Loke, our inflatable tandem kayak. It shows you how to inflate the kayak to the right pressure, fit the seats, footrests, mesh pockets, paddles, fins and splash guard, and how to deflate, look after and repair it. If you want to print the manual, the PDF is at the bottom of the page.

Havspaddeln Loke inflatable tandem kayak with paddles and seats
Important: Inflate the side tubes and seats to 5 PSI and the deck to 15 PSI, and never exceed the pressure stated on the valve. The kayak carries a maximum of 250 kg including equipment. It is not recommended for use on the open sea.

Havspaddeln Loke specifications

Dimensions400 × 98 × 30 cm (L × W × H)
Weight16.5 kg
Maximum load250 kg (paddlers and equipment)
Recommended pressureSide tubes and seats 5 PSI, deck 15 PSI

Package contents

  • Inflatable drop-stitch seats with adjustable backrest
  • 2 × four-piece aluminium paddles
  • 1 × double-action hand pump
  • 2 × removable mesh storage pockets
  • 2 × removable fins
  • 2 × paddle holders
  • 4 × carry handles
  • 2 × elastic bungee cords
  • 2 × footrests
  • 1 × repair kit
  • 1 × large carry bag

Inflating the kayak

We recommend using the included hand pump. An electric or 12 V pump can also be used. Choose a clean, flat surface free of stones and sharp objects.

  1. Unroll the kayak fully so that it lies flat with the deck facing up.
  2. Unscrew the three valve caps anticlockwise.
  3. Make sure the valves are tight. Insert the wrench from the repair kit and turn it clockwise until the valve is secure. This prevents leaks.
  4. Set the valve button to the upper position (inflation). Press the button all the way down to switch between inflation and deflation.
  5. Screw the pump hose clockwise onto the pump outlet marked OUT, and the other end clockwise into the valve.
  6. Inflate all three chambers to about half. Check that the deck is correctly positioned and centred.
  7. Inflate to full pressure: 5 PSI in the side tubes and 15 PSI in the deck. This locks the deck in place.

Tip: The pressure gauge shows no reading until the pressure reaches about 5 PSI. By then the kayak already feels fairly firm and pumping becomes noticeably harder.

Pressure in cold and warm weather

Air pressure changes with temperature. In cold weather the air contracts and you may need to add a little air. In warm weather the air expands – release some air so the kayak does not become over-inflated and damaged.

Fitting the seats, footrests, mesh pockets, paddles, fins and splash guard

Havspaddeln Loke inflated with two seats fitted

Seats

  • Place the seat where you want it in the kayak.
  • Attach the seat straps to the D-rings on all four sides.
  • Adjust and tighten the straps until the seat is firmly secured.

Footrests

The kayak has two adjustable footrests for better comfort and control. Attach the footrests to the D-rings on each side and adjust the distance to get a stable and comfortable paddling position.

Mesh pockets

Press the pockets onto their fasteners. They are easy to remove for cleaning.

Paddles

  1. Join the paddle sections so that the spring buttons line up with the pre-drilled holes.
  2. Press until the spring buttons click into place, and check that all parts are secure.
  3. To take apart: press the spring buttons into the shaft and pull the sections apart.

Fins

  1. Slide the fin into the fin box and make sure it faces the right way.
  2. Lock the fin by inserting the locking pins until they click into place.

Splash guard

  1. Insert both corners of the plastic sheet into the left and right attachment points.
  2. When upright, the sheet acts as a splash guard and reduces the amount of water coming in.

Deflating and packing

  1. Remove all accessories from the kayak.
  2. Open all the valves (button in the lower position) to let the air out.
  3. Use the pump in deflation mode to remove the last of the air – this makes the kayak easier to roll up.
  4. Roll up the kayak from the end furthest from the main valves, so the remaining air is pushed out.
  5. Put the kayak and all accessories into the carry bag.

Care and storage

  • Never inflate beyond the recommended pressure.
  • Do not store the kayak inflated when it is not in use.
  • Do not leave it in direct sunlight or high heat for long periods.
  • Rinse the kayak with fresh water after use and let it dry completely before storage.
  • Store it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place to prevent mould and wear.

Repairing a puncture

The repair kit lets you fix minor punctures. Larger tears or extensive damage cannot be repaired safely – attempting it may make the kayak dangerous to use.

Finding the leak

If the kayak loses pressure, it may have a slow leak. Inflate it to normal pressure, wet the surfaces or slowly lower them into water and look for air bubbles. Mark the spot with a permanent marker and deflate the kayak.

How to repair

The surface must be completely dry. Ideally repair at 18–25 °C and below 50% humidity – not in rain or direct sunlight.

  1. Mark where the patch will go. Use a rectangular patch (approx. 8 × 12 cm) that is at least 5 cm larger than the damage on all sides.
  2. Clean the damaged area and the back of the patch with an alcohol-based degreaser. Let dry for about 5 minutes.
  3. Apply three thin coats of glue to both the patch and the kayak. Dry each coat with a hair dryer until the glue feels tacky before applying the next.
  4. Place the patch without pressing and adjust if needed. Then press it down from the centre outwards with, for example, a spoon. Remove excess glue with solvent.
  5. Let the repair dry for at least 12 hours before using the kayak.

Work in a well-ventilated area, do not breathe in glue fumes and avoid contact with skin and eyes. Keep chemicals out of the reach of children. If you need more material, we sell a repair kit for inflatable kayaks.

Safety on the water

Before you set off

  • Always wear an approved life jacket.
  • Check that all equipment is in good condition.
  • Do not paddle alone or beyond your abilities.
  • Check the weather, wind and waves. Do not go out if conditions seem unsafe.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.
  • No alcohol or other drugs before or during paddling.

Bring

  • A mobile phone in a waterproof case – ideally also a waterproof VHF radio
  • Drinking water, sun protection, a hat and sunglasses, and clothing for the weather
  • A paddle leash in windy conditions
  • A pump and repair kit
  • First aid and rescue equipment

Rules of the water and staying visible

  • Keep to the right (starboard) in channels and give way to sailing boats.
  • Keep clear of larger vessels and cross channels quickly.
  • Wear bright colours, stay together in a group and keep close to the shore when possible.
  • Between sunset and sunrise a white torch is the minimum requirement. An all-round white navigation light is recommended.
  • Watch out for rocks, logs, bridges and posts – they can puncture the kayak.

Havspaddeln Loke FAQ

What pressure should Loke have?

5 PSI in the side tubes and seats, 15 PSI in the deck. Never exceed the pressure stated on the valve.

Why does the pressure gauge show 0 while I am pumping?

That is normal. The gauge starts showing a reading at about 5 PSI. Keep pumping.

How much weight does the kayak carry?

Max 250 kg including paddlers and equipment.

Can I use an electric pump?

Yes, for example our battery-powered pump or 12V pump. Keep an eye on the pressure.

Can I paddle on the open sea?

No, the kayak is not recommended for the open sea.

How do I repair a puncture?

Minor punctures can be fixed with the repair kit. See Repairing a puncture.

The manual as a PDF

Want to print the manual or save it on your phone?

Open the manual (PDF)

Questions about your kayak? Call us on +46 8 740 05 05 or email info@langholmenkajak.se.