Impact Vests for Wind Sports Explained
Impact vests have held a somewhat enigmatic role in wind sports, with varying perceptions about their purpose and who should wear them. However, with the pursuit of big air and technical tricks in kiteboarding, along with the rapid rise of hydrofoiling and wing foiling, the impact vest has become a crucial piece of equipment for wind sport enthusiasts.
Functions of an Impact Vest for Wind Sports
- Impact Protection: As the name implies, impact vests provide protection from hard impacts with water, boards, foils, and other equipment. The foam padding is strategically placed to optimize protection, especially when used with a harness that shields the lower torso while the vest covers the ribs and upper body.
- Flotation: While primarily designed for impact protection, the foam materials in these vests also offer varying degrees of buoyancy. It's important to note that impact vests are not the same as life vests or personal flotation devices. However, many impact vests, including Ride Engine’s line, are certified with 50N (newton) buoyancy, providing added peace of mind in situations like wind drop or equipment failure, ensuring you can swim safely.
- Insulation: Constructed mainly from neoprene, the same material used in wetsuits, impact vests add an extra layer of warmth. This can complement your wetsuit, helping to cut the chill and keep you on the water longer.
Who Should Wear Impact Vests?
Impact vests were once seen as beginner gear. Today, with wind sport enthusiasts pushing the limits with big air, higher speeds, and new equipment like hydrofoils, which present another dimension of potential impacts, impact vests are for everyone, including professionals.
“Riding an impact vest not only during competition but also when training and free riding helps me stay safer and try more risky tricks, knowing that the vest will soften the hard crashes! So, I can get back up and try those tricks without fear!” says Jeremy Burlando, 2024 GKA Big Air World Champion.
Ride Engine's Impact Vests
Ride Engine offers a range of optimized impact vests for all wind sports to help build confidence, inspire progression, and enhance the on-water experience.
Empax Vest
Defender HF (Men’s and Women’s)
Pali Women’s Impact Vest
