Safety: Lowpro Impact Vest - impact protection from Forward WIP put to the test

Whether foiling or speed surfing, an impact protection waistcoat can provide valuable services in the event of falls or crashes with other water sports enthusiasts. Manufacturer Forward WIP has a whole range of protective waistcoats in its portfolio, but the Lowpro model should be of particular interest to windsurfers and wingfoilers, as it can be used in conjunction with a hip leash or harness.

The Forward WIP Lowpro Impact Vest is available in five sizes (S/M/L/XL/XXL) for 129.99 euros. It is easy to put on and take off thanks to the zip, and the top of the slide is covered by a neoprene cover. There is no padding in the lower part of the waistcoat so that it can be used with a harness, which sits quite well on the rubberised surface without slipping. The padding in the upper part of the Lowpro Impact Vest is quite thick compared to other impact protection waistcoats on the market, resulting in above-average protection in the event of a fall. The shoulder area is also well protected. Overall, the waistcoat is cut quite generously, so that our test size fitted a little looser in the chest area. However, for a rough guide, you should definitely the manufacturer's size recommendation but if in doubt, you can safely choose an impact protection waistcoat one size smaller.

Good protection; compatible with harnesses

Quite wide cut in the chest area

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