Choosing a boat is always a search for a balance between reliability, comfort and price, and the Russian market has been firmly in place for more than two decades. LAS inflatable boatsThese vessels are manufactured in Novosibirsk, and over the years, the company's engineers have been able to create a unique product line adapted to the harsh conditions of Siberia.
Unlike many competitors using standard assembly schemes, LAS developers have implemented a number of innovations aimed at improving safety and seaworthiness. PVC boats These brands are distinguished by a reinforced keel, which allows you to reach high speed even on excitement, and a thoughtful geometry of cylinders. If you are looking for a reliable vessel for fishing in large reservoirs or for quiet walks with your family, the range of this brand is worth considering first.
In this article, we will discuss design features, compare popular series and give practical tips for operation. Understanding the technical nuances will help you avoid mistakes when buying and extend the life of your boat.
Brand history and philosophy of production
The company "Leader" began its activities in the early 2000s, setting a goal to produce boats that are not inferior to foreign counterparts, the production is located in Novosibirsk, which dictates its requirements for products: it must be resistant to temperature changes, mechanical stress and aggressive environment.
The main material for production is high-strength reinforced PVCIt's a five-layer material that's not afraid of ultraviolet light, gasoline and salt water, and unlike cheap analogues, LAS fabrics are very dense, allowing boats to be used not only for fishing, but also for professional tasks, including rescue operations.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a boat, pay attention to the quality of the seams. LAS uses a hot gluing method with double overlap, which ensures tightness even under extreme loads. Check the seams for bubbles or unpainted areas before the first operation.
The brand's philosophy is modularity, and most models can be transformed: take off or set a transom, change the configuration of the cockpit, add a control console, and that makes boats versatile: today you fish together, and tomorrow you take children on board for a walk.
The focus is on safety, and all models are equipped with perimeter safety rails, which is critical when driving on water. inflatable tubes They are divided into independent compartments, so even if one of them is punctured, the boat will remain afloat.
Series H: Classics for Two and Three
The H series is the gold standard in the manufacturer's lineup, designed for those who value time-tested design. keelwhich provides excellent germination on the wave and stability of the course.
The H series boats (e.g., H-320, H-360, H-380) are equipped with water-resistant plywood slate decking. It takes a little time to assemble, but the result is worth it: you get a hard bottom that you can move freely on while fishing, which is especially important for spinners who need stability when throwing.
When assembling slate flooring, start laying the boards from the bow of the boat, gradually moving towards the transom, which will avoid distortions and getting stuck in the last board.
The cockpit has a place for installation stationary fuel tank The trunk is made of moisture-resistant plywood with a texture film coating that protects it from scratches and moisture, and the load capacity of the models allows you to take on board up to three people with a full set of equipment.
The key feature of the series is the ability to install electric motor Or a gasoline engine up to 15-18 hp (depending on the length), and the aerodynamic shape of the bow makes it easy to plane even with two passengers on board.
Series M: Maximum stability and comfort
If the H series is a classic, the M series is an evolution of comfort, and the acronym "M" often stands for "Motor" or "Modernized," but the main difference is in the design of the cockpit. floor-floor (BDND) or a combined variant, which significantly reduces the weight and assembly time.
The M-series boats (M-330, M-360, M-400) are remarkably stable, with their wide cylinder and special bottom geometry making them virtually unsinkable and roll resistant, ideal for those who take children or dogs on board, as the risk of overturning is minimal.
Inside the cockpit, there is often an inflatable bench that not only serves as a seat, but also serves as a spacer, increasing the rigidity of the structure. In some models, the bench can be moved or removed altogether, freeing up space for large prey or cargo.
⚠️ Attention: High pressure inflatable bottoms (HPD) require careful handling, do not walk on them in rigid sole shoes and avoid contact with sharp objects, use special mats or shoes on soft soles.
The M series is often equipped with a reinforced transc designed for engines up to 20-25 hp This allows you to develop solid speeds, making the boat suitable not only for fishing, but also for hiking.
Series R: Professional approach and load capacity
The R Series (R-320, R-380, R-430) is designed for professionals and those who have high demands on carrying capacity, and these boats are often used by rescue services, environmentalists and hunters who need to carry heavy equipment.
The main feature of the series is the increased width and height of the cylinders, which gives a huge margin of buoyancy. The P series models are able to carry up to 500-600 kg of payload on board, while remaining stable on water. Reinforced keel-balloon It runs through the entire cockpit, providing excellent handling.
The secret of the R series
The design of the R series uses a double layer of PVC in the most loaded places (bottom, joints of seams), which increases the life of the boat by 1.5 times compared to standard models.
The transoms in this series are often performed rotary or removable, which facilitates transportation and allows the boat to be used in rowing mode with maximum efficiency. squirt-bolt along the perimeter allows you to fasten additional equipment: anchors, sonars, rod holders.
The P series is characterized by the ability to install powerful engines. Models from 3.8 meters long easily carry engines of 20-30 hp, turning into fast boats, while thanks to the large volume of cylinders, the boat remains dry even on a strong wave.
Comparative table of specifications of popular models
To make it easier for you to navigate the variety of modifications, we have prepared a summary table that will help you quickly compare key parameters and choose the best option for your tasks.
| Model | Length (cm) | Width (cm) | Load capacity (kg) | River motor (L. S.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LAS H-320 | 320 | 145 | 450 | 12 |
| LAS M-360 | 360 | 160 | 600 | 18 |
| LAS P-380 | 380 | 170 | 700 | 25 |
| LAS H-430 | 430 | 180 | 850 | 30 |
As can be seen from the table, with increasing the size of the boat increases not only the load capacity, but also the requirements for engine power. The optimal choice for one angler with a stock of equipment is a length of 320-360 cm, and for a company of 2-3 people it is better to look at models from 380 cm and above.
You should not chase the maximum power of the engine "for growth", using too powerful engine on a light boat can lead to yaw and reduce safety. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations listed in the product passport.
Maintenance and care of PVC
And LAS inflatable It's been yours for years, and you have to take care of it, and PVC is durable, but it has its weaknesses, and the main enemy is dirt and sand, which, when they get into folds, act like abrasive when they blow.
After every fishing trip, especially if you've been swimming on shallow water or overgrown shores, the boat needs to be rinsed with fresh water, which will wash away salt, silt and organics, dry the boat in the shade, straightening all the folds, direct sunlight when drying can lead to uneven air expansion and deformation of the seams.
☑️ Checklist of preparation for wintering
Use special bags or cases for storage. It is not recommended to keep the boat deflated under heavy objects or in places where it can be punctured by rodents. The optimal storage temperature is from +5 to +25 degrees Celsius.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave a fully pumped boat in the sun or in a hot room unattended. The thermal expansion of the air can cause the seams to rupture. If the boat is standing on the water, blow some of the air in hot weather.
Once a season, it is recommended to inspect the valves and lubricate them with silicone lubricant to prevent acidification. cross-plate and fastenings of jars - vibration on water can weaken bolt joints.
Tuning and useful accessories
The basic equipment of LAS boats often allows you to go out immediately, but additional tuning can significantly increase comfort. door-wheelIt allows one person to easily move a motorized boat along the shore.
Another popular accessory. anchor It's a quick-removal mechanism, and it allows you to instantly uncouple the anchor if it's stuck on the bottom, just by pulling a special flap, which saves you from losing anchor and damage to the boat.
For lovers of long hikes, the installation will be indispensable consoleIt allows you to fix the sonar, the navigator and the smartphone in one place, and also protect the devices from spray. LAS consoles are often made removable and do not require drilling cylinders.
Competent tuning improves not only comfort, but also safety of swimming. Do not skimp on quality accessories from proven manufacturers.
Also worth considering is buying a protective awning or a running awning that will protect you from rain and the scorching sun, turning the boat into a full-fledged camping on the water. Awnings for LAS tend to have a precise fit and do not require complex fitting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best glue for repairing LAS boats?
For repairing PVC products, a two-component polyurethane adhesive (e.g. 990I or analog) is best used, which provides chemical welding of materials, creating a strong and elastic seam that is not afraid of water and temperature changes. Single-component adhesives are only suitable for temporary repairs.
Can I use the LAS boat in winter?
Yes, PVC retains elasticity at low temperatures, but it requires caution. In the cold, the material becomes stiffer, so you need to pump the boat to a lower pressure to avoid breaking the seams when you hit the ice. You only need to keep the boat warm in the winter.
How long does it take to build a boat for the first time?
For a beginner, slate floor models (Series H) can take 20-30 minutes to assemble, time is reduced to 10-15 minutes with experience, and models with inflatable bottoms (Series M) are assembled faster in 10-12 minutes, since they do not require laying of floorboards.
Do I need to register the LAS boat in GIMS?
Under current Russian law, boats weighing more than 200 kg (including engine weight) or with an engine of more than 8 kW (about 10.88 hp) are subject to registration. If your boat is lighter and the engine is weaker, registration is not required. However, the rules may change, so please clarify the current information.