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Stay Safe


Whether you're new to your sport or a seasoned pro, Vaikobi watersports safety gear is designed to give you the confidence to push your limits. Our PFDs, impact protection gear, and accessories keep paddlers, foilers and sailors safe and confident.

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DESIGNED TO PERFORM

Risks of injury vary from sport to sport, and change under different conditions. Vaikobi PFDs, safety gear and accessories are engineered to protect you from the specific risks of your sport, designed to be comfortable enough that you'll actually wear it and reliable enough that you can trust it when you need it most.

  • Stay afloat comfortably - Vaikobi PFDs are so low-profile and comfortable you forget you're wearing one, with sport-specific designs for paddling, sailing, foiling, and high-impact watersports. ISO 12402-5 certified and available in high-vis colours so you're easy to spot in the water
  • Stay connected to your craft - Vaikobi leashes keep you attached to your ski or board in open water no matter what the ocean throws at you, with a 2-piece calf leash for one-handed connection past the breakers and a fixed leash for a simple, strong hold in all conditions
  • Stay protected on impact - the Impact Protection Series uses EN 812 certified moulded 6mm low-rebound foam and heavy-duty Cordura to reduce the risk of injury during foiling, kitesurfing, and high-speed PWC without restricting your movement or compromising comfort
  • Stay in control in an emergency - the Torque Quick-Release Harness is developed with Olympic and World Champion sailors to release instantly when you need it, with full adjustability for extended time on the wire and robust stainless steel components built for the long term
  • Stay warm and protected in cold water - FlexForce wetsuits and the Hiker Force Suit combine REACH certified neoprene, VAR abrasion-resistant panels, and purpose-built construction to keep you warm, visible, and performing safely in cold water conditions across every discipline

 

Not sure what accessories you need for your sport? Explore our accessories and build a system that matches how you use the water.

FAQs
What is a Level 50 PFD / life jacket?

A Level 50 life jacket, also known as a buoyancy aid, provides 50 Newtons (N) of flotation and is designed for use in sheltered waters where immediate help is available. Please read our article on PFD buoyancy rating to learn more.

How do I fit the Vaikobi Quick Release Harness Hook?

When you purchase your Vaikobi QR harness, the hook will be attached to the harness by a cord. Untie the cord to get it ready to put on the spreader bar.

On the spreader bar you will see two prongs as well as a hole in the top of the spreader bar. You will also see the quick release pin that is attached to the spreader bar by elastic.

Place the quick release hook on to the spreader bar and line up the holes on the hook with the two prongs. The hook is positioned to allow you to insert the pin through the top of the hook and into the spreader bar.

For the first time, you will find it a very tight fit to get the pin into the hole at the top of the spreader bar. This is designed to be that way.

We recommend that you keep the hook on the spreader bar permanently, because within 7 days, the hook will settle into the foam pad on the spreader bar which will make it easier to pull the pin out to release the hook.

The QR Hook system is designed to allow you to release the hook in an emergency, but it is also designed to ensure that the pin will not accidentally come out of the spreader bar. For more information on this, visit our article on how the QR harness works.

How does the quick release skiff harness work?

The Vaikobi Torque Quick Release Harness has a pin with quick release tab mechanism, that can be activated when NOT under load. This pin is not designed to be pulled out while under load, because no one wants to be quick released while trapezing or manoeuvring! Find out more in our comprehensive Harness article.

Where can I buy a life jacket in Australia?

Vaikobi PFD life jackets (buoyancy vests) can be found in most good watersports outlets in Australia. Pleas visit our stockists page to find your nearest Vaikobi retailer.

What is the difference between a PFD and a life jacket?

We’re glad you asked! A life jacket, buoyancy vest or PDF are pretty much the same things, but are called different terms around the world. To find out more, read our article: What is the difference between a PFD and a life jacket.

What is a PFD life jacket?

A PFD life jacket is a personal floatation device which has a safety and buoyancy rating for keeping adults or children afloat in the water. All Vaikobi PFDs have a buoyancy rating above the minimum floatation required, which is ISO 12402-5 certification. Find out more in this article: How to choose the right PFD for you.

Do life jackets expire?

Life jackets do not have an expiry date, but there are several things to watch out for as your PDF life jacket gets used over time. Stay safe and find out more about PFD expiry dates in our article: Do life jackets have an expiry date.