Nookie Rockhopper PFD

Putting the PFD on is super easy, with the ability to undo and slacken off so many straps makes it a dream – there is clearly lots of adjustment. The front pocket is accessed via a two-way zip, with both zip tabs having additional fabric zip pulls. The front pocket is easily accessible whilst wearing the PFD and can store a relatively large amount of gear. The pocket itself is pretty large, with a number of smaller compartments and you’ll get loads of gear in with ease, whilst remaining straight-forward to access even when full. I carried my river knife, a couple of carabiners, prussik and a few other bits and bobs without issue.

rear pocket

I don’t personally like carrying knives on the outside of a PFD but there is the option to do just this with a plastic attachment point. One unusual feature is the additional of a rear pocket. These were quite a thing many years ago and it’s good to see a return of this feature.

The rear pocket has two sections. One that has been designed to store a hydration bladder (there’s also a Velcro loop to hold the end of the hose). I used a fairly bog-standard hydration bladder that had a three-litre capacity. The location of the one Velcro point does mean that the hose needs to go over your right shoulder. There is also a mesh outer pocket designed to hold things such as flares. It’s a nice touch that would see this PFD being perfectly at home on a range of different waters. This makes it a pretty versatile system for those wishing to find a PFD that works well out on the sea.

The outer shell is made from 500D Cordura, so you know it will take a beating and come back wanting more. The stitching is precise and it looks like a really well thought out package.

The floatation provided by the Nookie Rockhopper is 66 to 74N depending on the size of the PFD. This one at Unsponsored HQ is a L/XL so has 74N – plenty of buoyancy for most folk.

Failsafe shoulder straps

Having great buoyancy is one plus but it is super important that any PFD fits well and can be adjusted in such a way that if you do end up swimming, the PFD isn’t going to ride up. The straps on any PFD are one of the most critical components and a failure of such would be a big deal. Nookie have used Failsafe shoulder straps with a continuous length webbing bar-tacked at both waist and shoulder. There is also a lower belt and a chest belt. All are fitted with quality quick-release buckles and/or ladder lock buckles.

Although I have found that the Rockhopper PFD is great on all types of water (and great for swimming in) it doesn’t have a rescue belt or the ability to add one. So if you were looking for such a feature the Rockhopper isn’t for you. However if you do a bit of white water, sea kayaking, SoT, SUP, or a combination of them all, the Rockhopper is well worth a look.