Paddling tips, tricks, news and gear reviews from an Unsponsored point of view

Tag: white water pfd review (Page 2 of 2)

Palm FX PFD – First Look

I had a close look at the Palm FX PFD today. Both the fit and design are definitely upgrades from the previous model.

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The FX is a simple over the head slab design with fully adjustable shoulder straps, a nice broad set of straps to get the fit nice and snug around your middle and a thinner web strap for the waist.

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Palm FX PFD In Action – Freeride fun in the new Palm FX PFD

Freeride fun in the new Palm FX PFD from ROOT DOWN on Vimeo.

Palm FX PFD

I suspect the Palm FX PFD will be quite popular! Looking forward to trying one out.

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Astral Green Jacket 2013 – First Look

I was never really a big fan of the previous Astral Green Jacket. I loved the features and the design but it simply didn’t fit me very well.

For 2013 the Astral Green Jacket has been tweaked and I had the chance to check out its new features and try it in the dry. Therefore I am unable to comment of what it is like to swim/paddle wearing the Green Jacket at this stage. UPDATE: Full review here.

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Astrals New PFD

Astral have released details of their new YTV PFD. It looks like a nice and simple design. It’s definitely one I’d like to try out.

For 2013 we are proud to announce new freestyle inspired design from Astral, the YTV. This newest addition to the line introduces our Torso-Lock™ foam platform that has been in evolution for almost 8 years now. The YTV was created to be “Simple by Design” to address the specific needs of freestyle kayakers , sailors, and general use whitewater enthusiasts. We also wanted to create a design that was ideal for first time paddlers looking for a comfortable and easy to use lifevest.

Astral Willis PFD – Review

The Willis from Astral is a super slim PFD. The PFD has a number of features in common with the very popular green jacket.

Astral Willis PFD - Review

This includes a buckle system that allows side entry into the PFD, a front throw bag storage compartment, and a deep front pocket. A knife attachment point and reflective detailing complete the front of the PFD.

Astral Willis PFD - Review

The rear of the Willis is a no nonsense affair and has a very clean design.

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Old School Series – Lotus Lowrider PFD

This is the top freestyle vest from US manufacturer Lotus. Lotus is one of the U.S’s top buoyancy aid or as they say PFD (personal flotation device) manufacturers, and at current they aren’t available in the UK, neither are they CE approved, however they do rock!

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Palm Helix Freeride Buoyancy Aid (PFD)

The Palm Helix is billed as the ultimate play vest. RRP is around £80, but a search of a few UK Kayak stores will reveal that a brand new Helix can be had for less than £45!

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Palm Extrem Vest PFD – Review

I have been using the Palm Extrem Vest for the past year as my main PFD. I must admit that from the start I was a little sceptical about the front opening system and did have a debate with myself about whether or not I should have bought the over the head Amp vest.

Palm Extrem Vest PFD - Review
Palm Extrem Vest PFD – Review

After 12 months of use I am now ready to commit my thoughts to the site.

From Palm:

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Palm Axis River Buoyancy Aid (PFD)

The Palm Axis River Buoyancy Aid is a heavy duty, tough whitewater PFD. Designed to be dependable when it gets sticky. Bombproof fabrics and construction make this PFD ideal for running those high spate creeks.

River leaders and instructors will appreciate the features built into the design of the Axis BA by Palm. With fully stitched through shoulder straps, and plenty of buoyancy, The Axis is a well proven Personal Floatation Device. Continue reading

HF Occoee PFD – Review

The HF Occoee is a slab design PFD with a simple no frills approach. The fit is extremely good with the soft foam molding to the bodies shape easily. It doesn’t feel bulky or restrictive in any way. Adjustment is made by four cinch straps (two under each arm).


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Astral AV 200 PFD – Review

I come from a background of never having experience with Phil Curry’s previous Lotus designs. I had of course seen them around the web some years back as well as in the flesh when I was out in the US.

I first spied the Astral AV200 on boaterinformation.com. It looked pretty good and seemed to be pretty well thought out. I ordered one!

Well I have not been disappointed. The construction is great. The stiching is close to a work of art – obviously good quality control.

The fit is good I found that the XS-M size was best for me as it fits upto a 42inch chest! The PFD is low profile and unrestrictive. A swim test showed that the bouyancy was spot on for my 14st bulk.

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