Developed for the Volvo Ocean Race, Spinlock lifejackets now arrive on the yachting market with a model named Vito. This model benefits from 2 years of development and 1 year of real-life testing, often in conditions that are not very frequented. In fact, this vest was fitted to all participants in the last round-the-world race. A good trial run and a truly unforgiving test.
The hood tucked into the back
To better balance the vest on the shoulders and avoid carrying all the weight on the front, Spinlock has integrated the hood and its reinforcement into a breastplate placed on the team member's back. The hood's reinforcement holds it rigidly over the head once in place on the inflated lung.
This vest comes in one size only, but with adjustments on the back. Simple visuals for adjusting the vest are displayed on the inside, while graduations on the webbing ensure that adjustment is evenly distributed on each side. You can preset the vest by adjusting the straps on the back, thanks to these easy-to-read graphic markings. This vest slips on from the side. It's closed at the front, which can be a little awkward, forcing you to remove it before taking off your jacket.
Hammar only
This model, designed for ocean-going sailors, is only available in the Hammar version, which is triggered by hydrostatic pressure. The Vito does not come in a salt tablet version. Yachtsmen who want this type of release can still choose the old 5D model, which opens at the front and remains in the catalog.
Available from ?329
The loop on which the lanyard carabiner is hooked is made of webbing (to avoid stainless steel). It can be released under tension as an option. This option prevents you from drowning, towed behind the boat by your lanyard. In the event of use, it can be easily reset.
In addition to the hood, Vito vests also have a pocket for an AIS beacon. On the other hand, you no longer need a knife to cut the lanyard, as you can now release the buckle even under tension.
Available in a single black color, these vests are priced at ?329 for the standard model and ?349 for the model with the tension-release lanyard loop.
