Already ridden: ION Vector Vest
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Even the surf test team shied away for (too) long from the oversized life jackets with integrated whistle, hanging webbing straps and the unstylish Titanic memorial design that slipped down to the face during the water start. It was better to risk a hefty fine here and there.
The ION Vector Vest is one of the most functional pieces we've tried in a long time. The Italian carabinieri apparently tacitly accept such waistcoats as buoyancy aids - but beware, it is not a lifejacket in the sense actually prescribed.
However, when combined with a harness and wetsuit, you should still have enough buoyancy to be able to swim for a really long time in an emergency. What's more, it really impressed in the practical test: made entirely from stretchy neoprene and simply closed with a front zip, the waistcoat fits snugly around the body. The buoyancy elements are mainly incorporated in the chest and upper back area. This not only creates a wide cross under the Lycra, but also saves space in the area where the waist harness is worn. This means that the harness can be worn over it without any problems, almost as if it were integrated into the waistcoat.
When surfing, you hardly notice that you're wearing an additional piece. In summer on Lake Garda, the neoprene thickness on the upper body should be almost enough to protect you from the cold and the padding in the upper area offers additional impact protection. In the Nordic winter, this also improves the protection against the cold on the upper body.
Price: 119 Euro
Our conclusion: This makes surfing with a waistcoat - whether prescribed or not - fun again.
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
