We were lucky enough to get hold of a Palm Equipment Riff PFD for review at Unsponsored. The one we have here is in Palm’s signature Jet Grey colour way.
The Riff is of a slab design with a side entry system. The buckle side entry is a convenient feature that allows the user to easily put on and take off the Riff. It is designed to be simple and easy to use, ensuring that the user can quickly get in and out of the product as needed. This feature is particularly useful when you are trying to negotiate a drysuit zip when putting a PFD on.
Features five attachment points for knife, lights, or strobe and extensive 3M® reflective accents to increase visibility in low-light conditions.
Hand warmer pocket features 4-way stretch double knit polyester lining that’s soft against the skin; pocket doubles as quick storage for webbing or gloves.
Strap garages and a deliberately placed lash tab reduces snag points.
The Orbit Fit System layers multiple pieces of lightweight closed-cell foam cut to precise specifications to create a unique, flexible, pre-curved shape that effortlessly conforms to your body.
Graded Sizing takes into account the appropriate amount of flotation needed for individual body types resulting in a better-fitting, more comfortable life jacket for all.
Sustainable construction combines a recycled ripstop nylon shell with a recycled nylon inner that protects the fully recycled Ethafoam shims.
AirMesh lining on the lower back adds ventilation and helps manage moisture.
Side entry, with adjustments on shoulders, side and waist to secure the life jacket and customize fit.
Silicone-coated inner waistband helps hold the PFD in place when swimming.
Sizing
Chest
User Weight
XS/M
30″ – 38″
90 – 150lbs
M/L
36″ – 46″
90+lbs
XL/XXL
44″ – 56″
90+lbs
This PFD will be available in early 2024 and is expected to retail at around $229.95.
The new NRS Vector PFD picks up from where the Zen and Ninja PFDs left off. Both PFDs had a superb fit and if the Vector fits at least as well it will sure to be a winner.
The Vector uses the Orbit Fit System designed for overall comfort, allows for full range of motion, and eliminates the need for excessive tightening.
The NRS Vector PFD will be available in three sizes and three colours. Colours include black, red and the citrus yellow/green shown above. The Vector comes in three sizes as detailed below.
From L to R: Astral Green Jacket, Palm Nevis, Kokatat Hustle R, and Yak Taurus PFD
When I’m at paddling events or on a river when I meet other paddlers it is pretty much guaranteed that someone will be wearing an Astral Green Jacket. After all it is a stand out design that works really well. However I have recently picked up a Kokatat Hustle R and wanted to take the opportunity of comparing the two in a little more detail.
The Astral Green Jacket and Kokatat Hustle R I have here are EU versions. For the European market the Green Jacket has a side entry feature where as the US version does not. The Kokatat Hustle R has some additional reflective SOLAS tape on the shoulder straps to meet newer ISO requirements in the EU.
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