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

Tag: Buoyancy AId (Page 2 of 2)

Astral YTV PFD – First Look

Firstly the Astral YTV PFD is not available in Europe but thanks to the Internet it is super easy to get hold of one.

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I have had mine for a number of weeks and was able to put it through its paces on whitewater for the first time this week. A full review will be published in a couple of months, so in the meantime here is a little detail on the YTV Continue reading

Astral YTV PFD – First Look

Although not available in Europe I managed to get hold of the new Astral YTV PFD for review.

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As yet it hasn’t been used in anger but first impressions are pretty good. Super light and super slim (unlike the model).

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Prototype Palm FX PFD?

Below are a few shots of what must be a prototype Palm FX PFD. The front of the PFD looks the same as the production models with the exception of the zip pull running in the opposite direction.

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The straps (other than colour) look just the same as the production models. Continue reading

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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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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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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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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