https://lyon.co.uk
By Tez Plavenieks
I tested Restube’s personal floatation device – first generation – back in the day. At that point the issue of personal floatation, or the lack of it within SUP, was just coming to the fore. Fast forward and following a few tragic incidents, close calls and near misses it’s pretty much a talking point and top of many paddler’s agendas, along with leash connections. These days, Restube offer a variety of devices to suit multiple watery scenarios.
Restube personal floatation
The overriding factor with Restube is that you do actually need to be conscious for it to work. As you have to pull a chord, that in turn fires a Co2 canister causing the tube element to inflate, therefore, it won’t work if you’re not awake. So it’s more a confidence boosting product and one that comes into its own if you and your craft are separated.
As an addition it’s worth carrying a method of communication and position identification, such as a mobile phone or VHF. Restube’s handy, and discreet hip pouch has just enough room for the former and smaller version of the latter. It can then be fitted around your waist and forgotten about until needed.
Restube
If paddlers need to inflate, it’s simply a case of yanking the pull chord and the tube doing the rest. Being extremely efficient at keeping your head above water we found it a good last resort if your operated from your craft. You’ll still need to be mobile, and kick with your feet, but it certainly makes for less tiring work until help arrives. Back on land it’s then a case of replacing the Co2 capsule, folding the tube back up and repositioning within its pouch.
In most cases, with prior planning and preparation, nothing untoward will befall paddlers who are safety conscious. For additional peace of mind, however, you have Restube. A well designed product that’s both discreet and functional. It’ll do the job of keeping you afloat while waiting for help but it’s also worth combining with a means of contacting emergency services. If you’ve been looking for a means of increasing your paddle session safety then Restube will no doubt fit the bill.
Price:
Basic – £60.00;
Classic – £72.00;
Swim – £86.50;
Sports – £95.00; P
FD – £96.00
Info: https://lyon.co.uk/restube-uk-stockists
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