JAWS GAIA 4.0x – The world’s first 3-in-1 packraft
Gaia 4.0x from the French company Jaws is a premium packraft characterized by its extremely durable material and innovative “3-in-1” design. This means that the packraft can be quickly and easily configured in three different modes based on how the packraft will be used, for example paddling in rapids, calmer water, wet climate, on warm calm days, etc. The packraft is primarily suitable for those who do not settle for anything other than the absolute best – those who plan to use the packraft a lot and for a long time, in different types of adventures but perhaps also just for calmer paddling on lakes and rivers.
GAIA 4.0x is not one of the lighter packrafts – the weight is 4.2 kilos complete. Therefore, Gaia will probably appeal to those who plan to use the equipment a lot and for a long time – those who want a very reliable boat that can withstand hard long-term wear and tear.
Three configuration modes – “3in1”
The packraft is equipped with Jaw’s innovative 3in1 system, which means that you can configure the packraft in three different positions.
- “Closed Mode” – For weather-exposed adventures
Gaia is equipped with a removable spraydeck that can be easily removed when needed. With the spraydeck on – closed mode – you stay dry even in really wet conditions. The spraydeck also helps you stay warm on colder days on the water. The spraydeck connects to the packraft via a high-quality YKK zipper, and the rigid coaming/frame provides a tight transition to the included skirt. This mode is used advantageously during expeditions, ocean paddling or during the autumn and spring seasons when weather conditions can change quickly. - “Open Mode” – For calm waters and warm days
In the open mode, you paddle without a spraydeck. This mode is ideal for paddling in calm waters, such as lakes, calm rivers and coastal areas in good weather. The mode allows for freedom of movement and also makes it easier to get in and out. Paddling in the open mode also means you save some weight by leaving the spraydeck, frame and skirt at home. - “Self-draining mode” – Especially for whitewater paddling
Gaia 4.0x is equipped with 16 waterproof plugs in the bottom that can be easily unscrewed – creating a self-draining floor. This makes GAIA 4.0x a very competent packraft for whitewater paddling in class 3+. With a self-draining packraft you don’t have to stop every now and then to scoop out water – the boat empties itself automatically. Perfect for technical paddling, in waves and in rain. When paddling in self-draining mode we recommend a drysuit.
Design
The Jaws Gaia 4.0x comes with an inflatable floor that not only improves the packraft’s buoyancy but also provides the packraft with greater comfort. When paddling in self-bailing mode, the floor eliminates most of the direct contact with the water. When paddling with a dog, the floor provides extra protection against impacts from below, while also insulating against the cold of the water.
The fully removable spraydeck protects against heavy rain and splashes from waves and paddles. The packraft is equipped with 8 attachment points all around, for lashing down your pack or attaching carabiners with other equipment.
The seat is integrated into the inflatable floor, and a very comfortable adjustable backrest is included. The packraft also comes with thigh straps (mainly used for whitewater rafting) to increase control over the packraft during more technical paddling.
The valves in the floor and packraft are of the Leafield D7 type, a very reliable valve. The packraft is inflated like all other packrafts with the included inflation bag, but can of course also be inflated with our small battery-powered pumps (sold separately).
The Packraft has 2 air chambers, unlike its “little brother” Gaia 4.0 which has one air chamber and a slightly thinner material in the tubes.
The packraft is delivered with a fin that significantly improves packrafting tracking/directional stability. The Gaia has two carrying handles installed, one front and one rear.
The GAIA series has been tested in expeditions by the French high-alpine elite military group GMHM – proof that it can withstand the toughest conditions.
Technical specifications
Inflated dimensions: 260 × 94 cm
Inner length: 148 cm
Tube diameter: 31 cm
Packed dimensions: 40 × 22 cm
Weight (complete): 4.5 kg
Material: TPU, double coated (420D/840D), 100% recyclable and repairable
Max load capacity: 185 kg
Air chamber: 2
Valve: Leafield D7, screw model
Pressure: 1.5 PSI / 0.1 BAR
Warranty: 2 years
What’s included in the package
GAIA 4.0x comes complete with:
- Full-length removable canopy with zipper and hard coaming/frame and skirt
- Integrated inflatable floor
- Adjustable 4-point backrest
- Leg straps for better control in rapids
- 8 stainless steel D-rings for load securing
- Front and rear carrying handles
- Storage strap and fin
- Repair kit, pump bag and storage bag
Recommended accessories
Patch N Go Kit – rapairkit for your packraft
ROK Straps – easily attach your gear to the packraft with these straps
Flextail Pump – a small, battery driven, pump that easily inflates your raft
Stormsure – to repair small pinholes etc
Tectis Sitko Flex – Repair tape that can repair everything. Sort of.
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