https://redoriginal.com
By Dale Mears
Being on the water is always a priceless time wether on your own or sharing adventures with friends and family, which is maybe why people get so angry when we see people without the correct gear. Maybe it’s choice or maybe simply just a lack of awareness of the dangers of watersports. Protecting yourself is becoming more and more important and one of the main pieces of safety gear that is on the rise amongst SUP paddlers is the use of a buoyancy aid or life vest. Yes, you’re strapped to a large inflatable board but that won’t necessarily help in all occasions.
Red Original Airbelt
Previously on the water I have worn a variety of kayak/canoe BAs, however, there are plenty of other options. This past month I got my hands on Red Originals Airbelt. This is a personal floatation device that offers assistance when or if needed. Think old school bum bag (fanny pack for the American readers) with one of those aeroplane style life vests rolled up inside.
First impressions are good, this is well made, the fabric is good quality and looks like it will last. I have the blue version but also comes in grey and purple and the colours are vibrant, so stand out nicely. There is a decent sized handle on the top which is easy to grab and a small waterproof pocket on the front which although not massive would be ideal for your car keys. The pocket would possibly fit a phone as is larger but the inflatable vest does impede on what you can store in it.
The general profile of the bag is great as it isn’t cumbersome when around the waist and represents a massive change from wearing a bulky BA over the top. Let’s face it you gotta have some style on the water! The bag has points to clip on karabiners and other items if required.
In event of an accident, the vest is easy to pull from the bag but you do have to place it over your head yourself something you wouldn’t have to do with a standard BA. You then pull a clear inflation cord and it’s inflated thanks to a small gas canister. There is also a manual option by blowing down a tube if time isn’t of the essence and you wish to save your gas. Replacement canisters are available, however, it’s likely this is one of those products you may hopefully never need!
Red Originals give this product a five-year guarantee which is impressive and worth considering as standard BAs do lose their buoyancy over time.
Price wise, this falls between the recreation market buoyancy aids and the more advanced/streamline models but would be a lot less annoying jumping on the water. It is recommended for paddler weight of 40-130kgs. I love the Airbelt and won’t be donning a BA again unless on white water and I recommend people check them out, especially coaches and those around the water on the banks.
