Forward WIP 2015 Impact Vest

by Gordon Upton, Forward Sailing 26 Mar 2015 08:02 GMT 26 March 2015

Forward WIP 2015 Impact Vest © Forward Sailing

Water Impact Protection (WIP) has been a long neglected area of sailing for most sailors, with the exception of those at the extreme end of the sport, but it is something that many sailors are starting to become aware of. The higher speeds of modern high performance dinghies and cats mean that more thought should be given to what happens if things go wrong and when you suddenly discover a piece of the boat is between you and the water.

The Swiss company Forward WIP may be an unfamiliar name to many, unless you happen to sail a fast catamaran of any size - They designed and made the Impact Vests chosen by the Oracle and Artemis AC72 teams for example. Now, this innovative and stylish range is starting to be more readily available in the UK at various good chandleries.

"This is best low profile high absorption buoyancy aid I ever tested! I love the front zip pocket."

The WIP Impact Vest is a very comfortable and slim fitting 50N buoyancy aid that features a special protective foam in the front and rear panels. The higher density of this special foam is what gives the vest its slim profile allowing the wearer to feel far less bulky than in other types of buoyancy aid in addition to the impact protection it offers whilst still only weighing in at 1.2kg. There is also a back cushioning area below the rear panel to help prevent more impact injuries.

It features a side zip on the strong lycra side panels and has a pair of pull straps to fasten it securely but comfortably to the torso. There are 2 knife and equipment pockets on the front allowing the carrying of safety kit and small pockets under the high viz orange shoulder panels for safety cutters or energy bars. In addition, there is a pocket under the rear panel, suitable for a comms pack or similar, and a very large front zip pocket in the front panel.

Options also include a holder for the Spare-Air system if needed.

RRP £75 - more information can be found here

Sizes M, L and XL. Small will be coming along in due course.

Currently available at Andark, Firmhelm, V-Rigger and Rutland Chandlery.

www.forward-wip.com/en