Yak Xipe 60N PFD
YAK has been making products for the Paddlesports industry for 30 years, starting in the whitewater kayaking market. A few years later, they moved into SUP and are developing products in Gosport, Hampshire, which is very local to my home.
A Personal Flotation Device (buoyancy aid) is a very personal thing, and it’s crucially important that you get the correct fit – without that, it will not only be uncomfortable but won’t work as it should, and a poorly fitting PFD is a dangerous thing. The best advice is always to try before you buy, so for this review, I am looking at the quality and performance of the Xipe 60N, and how it fits me. To this end, I discovered that tucked inside one of the front pockets with the care instructions is a simple guide to correctly fitting a buoyancy aid.
My first impressions are that it is not at all bulky, with a slimline, low-profile foam shape, front and back. The sides are made from elasticated mesh with an adjustable strap over and low enough to give excellent arm mobility. There is a built-in hydration pouch on the back, which makes this buoyancy aid perfect for touring or longer-distance open water paddling or racing. Inside that pouch, there is an internal top hanging point to fit a 2.5L bladder (not supplied).
The lower waistband, sides, and shoulders all have sturdy adjustable straps to ensure correct and comfortable fitting. The waistband also has an internal ‘grip strip’ that eliminates the PFD from riding up, as well as a buckle at the bottom below the substantial front zip.
Apart from the large pouch on the back, which could also be used for extra storage, there are two very roomy pockets on the front, each having its own internal mesh pocket and attachment point. The double zips on all pockets allow for making custom exit points for anything stored within, e.g., hydration hose, lanyard, or radio aerial. One more attachment point on the front completes a comprehensive range to keep everything you need close to hand.
The Xipe 60N is made from robust fabric and has reflective strips to enable visibility in the dark. Sizes range from Junior to XXL—mine is M/L (I am a 10/12 UK size) and is available in blue or red.
So, how did this PFD feel while I was wearing it and, more importantly, paddling in it? It’s lightweight and very easy to adjust and fit, with no particularly bulky areas. I definitely liked the low sides, which meant there was absolutely no danger of any impingement around my arms. The front pockets are roomy enough to house a large phone in its waterproof case and plenty of space for other bits and bobs: a knife, whistle, towline, and snacks.
If you are looking at buoyancy aids, then I would encourage you to consider the YAK Xipe 60N because of the many features and slimline feel – it has been designed with SUP in mind, and it feels like YAK has researched what makes a buoyancy aid work for a stand-up paddleboarder. Saying that, it would be perfect for other types of watersports such as canoeing and kayaking and if this one is not suitable for your size or shape, check out the other comprehensive PFD range at www.yakadventureequipment.com
Price: Around £90.00
