NRS Zen PFD, Stratos shorty cag & Benny Board shorts
The NRS Zen got put through its paces during my time on the Zambezi. There are three pockets: a clamshell-shaped one on the front panel, a handwarmer section between the two layers and a zip closure pocket in the second panel. I found that putting bigger items, such as a sling, in the bigger pocket on the second layer didn’t affect the bulk of the vest at all while also being very quick to access in a pinch. The clamshell pocket fits the rest of my safety gear nicely, with many attachment points for knives, carabiners and prusiks.
The side entry is set up very well with colour-coded buckles to ensure it is fastened correctly. I found myself leaving the buckles done up and putting it on over my head as I found it simpler and quicker.
The vest features a rescue strap, and thankfully I didn’t have to use it under pressure, but it is well made and looks tidy when tightened.
It is made of nylon with Cordura reinforcements and has aged very well in the time I’ve been using it with no rips or fraying straps, no matter how many bramble bushes I’ve walked through.
Stratos shorty
The NRS Stratos shorty was perfect for Zambia as the temperature wasn’t a problem, but it did a great job of keeping my boat dry.
I’m impressed with how the cag is cut; I am a medium-large most of the time, but the medium was slim fitting, and my shoulders were rarely restricted unless I was in a position I probably shouldn’t have been.
One of my favourite things about NRS cags is the materials they use for the double waist tunnel. The sticky neoprene and small Velcro tabs get a watertight seal against a spray deck that doesn’t shift around whilst on the water.
I had only ever worn gear with latex seals and never glide skin neoprene, and I was surprised at how little water got it. I certainly wasn’t dry, but I spent a lot of time upside down in fairness. The comfort surprised me most as latex often irritates my neck after a long day out, but the neoprene was far more enjoyable to wear.
The Silk weight short-sleeved top quickly became my favourite t-shirt for both paddling and in the gym. It is super flexible and dries much quicker than other base layers while managing to smell fresh. It fits a bit bigger, particularly around the hem, which prevents the dreaded chaffing above your hips from the backband of a boat which was a great touch.
Benny board shorts
The NRS Benny Board shorts are some of my comfier shorts, and they are incredibly stretchy and are great for all day in and out of boats. The lacing closure system works well, along with the zipper fly. The back pocket didn’t get much use on the water but was great for a travel wallet or a phone while out and about.
Zen: £179
Stratos shorty: £129
Benny Board shorts: £54
