Quiksilver announced the launch of an inflatable safety vest exclusively designed for big-wave riding.
The Highline Airlift vest is the result of a joint venture between Quiksilver and French scuba gear company Aqua Lung and hopes to improve the surfers' safety in extreme conditions.
The red vest features four carbon dioxide cartridges that, when activated, will help bring the surfer or lifeguard toward the surface of the water.
The Highline Airlift can be worn as a standalone vest or over the top of a standard wetsuit.
The light and flexible neoprene comes with glued and blindstitched seams, as well as inflate/deflate pull tabs.
A dump valve is available to release the excess carbon dioxide from the bladder automatically, and an oral inflate tube can be used to partially inflate the vest in case of emergency.
Not a PFD
The new safety vest sold by Quiksilver was tested by big wave surfers Peter Mel, Jamie Mitchell, Koa Rothman, Ross Clarke-Jones, and Tom Carroll and should only be worn in situations where the risk of drowning is high.
Also, remember that this is not a personal flotation device (PFD) or lifejacket approved by the US Coast Guard. In the European Union, it has been considered a PFD.
Quiksilver also informs that this vest is not designed for kiteboarding and windsurfing.
The Quiksilver Highline Airlift safety jacket can be yours for $990, but it is only available in select stores.
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