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Tag: pfd (Page 9 of 9)

Palm Rivertec Fusion PFD – Review

The Rivertec Fusion PFD has been about for some time now and has only seen one real revamp in its history. It first appeared in the late 90’s in a rather smart dark blue which was later joined by red and now grey. The new grey version also has a zipped chest pocket, something which its colourful predecessor lacked. The basic concept of the Fusion will be familiar to most – a slab PFD with adjustment on the shoulders, sides and waist.

Palm Rivertec Fusion PFD - Review
Palm Rivertec Fusion PFD – Review

Where it differs is the use of neoprene to help provide a snug fit without being restrictive or allowing the PFD to ride up. The neoprene forms the basis of the shoulder straps with additional tape adjustment. Further neoprene is also evident on the the front and back of the Rivertec Fusion and are joined by tape adjusters fastened by fastex buckles. This makes the Fusion very easy to put on, adjust and remove. An additional strap on the bottom of the Fusion makes riding up almost impossible.

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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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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 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

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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