All water sports require the use of a life jacket. For some disciplines that stay close to shore, 50N vests are recommended. These foam jackets (no self-inflating system) serve both to help buoyancy when falling into the water, but also as protection against blows for all practitioners.
Only, between a kite or windsurfing user and a kayak, jet ski or water ski user, the needs are not the same. Both in terms of accessories and ergonomics.
Vests designed for activities
It is precisely with an approach that differentiates practices that Plastimo, a French manufacturer specializing in safety, has just developed two new vest models that fall into this category.
The first, named Jibe, is intended for all sailors. Developed in collaboration with ENV (National Sailing School), it is aimed at users of sport boats, dinghies, windsurfing and even kitesurfing. This is the blue model.
The second orange, named Rodeo, is designed for kayaking, but it will also be comfortable for paddle.
Many finishing details
These two vests have in common a neat finish, modern colours and multiple details. Note the ventral pocket closed by a Velcro flap and open at the bottom with a net to drain water well. It will be useful to store its safety accessories (beacon, lamp...). The reflective photo borders contribute to security for night marking, and by day their aluminium colour refines the design.
The two foam breads that make up the vest are removable. This makes it possible to wash the cover at the end of the season and dry it thoroughly. Note that the ventral foam bread is thicker than the dorsal one. This difference is used to promote buoyancy on the back to keep the head and airways out of the water.
Jibe, the vest for light sailing
For the sail, the Jibe (blue waistcoat) has a high cut to clear the waist. The straps on the shoulders allow to adjust it well to its corpulence. The vest closes on the right side with a zip. It differs from the second by its notch at the belly to allow the loop of the harness to pass through. It's a 50N model.
Rodeo for kayak and paddle
For the canoe (among others), the Rodeo is the orange vest. The kayak federation (FFCK) demands a greater buoyancy for the practice of its activities so that the Rodeo makes 70N (but who can more can less, this vest is adapted for all the activities requiring a buoyancy of 50 N).
This vest has no notch on the front for the passage of the harness, but on the other hand it has a back pocket intended to receive a gourd type Camel Bag (water pocket of 1 liter maxi). The front pipette is held in place by an elastic band. This gourd will also be appreciated by paddle hikers.
The life jackets Jibe and Rodeo are available at 76,80 € in 4 sizes :
- 30/40 kg -60/78 cm
- 40/60 kg - 78/100 cm
- 60/80 kg - 100/120 cm
- 80 kg - >120 cm
