Gear Review: Astral GreenJacket PFD
Value Rating: 10
Durability Rating: 10
Overall Rating: 10
Location of Test: Whitewater rivers all over the US
Duration of Test: 2 Years
Product Name: GreenJacket PFD
Product Brand: Astral
Best Use: Whitewater Kayaking, Rafting, or Sea Kayaking
Size: S/M - M/L - L/XL
The Full Review:
I have owned this PFD for 2 years now and it is for sure my favorite piece of gear besides my kayak. This PFD is fully equipped with all the safety mechanisms which make it a Type 5 PFD and has plenty of storage for all the extras you bring on the river.
This PFD comes with a quick release safety loop for emergency extractions or tying off for a "Live Bait" rescue. The quick release aspect means that at any point if the rope you are being rescued with gets snagged or caught you can release yourself by pulling the yellow tab located on the PFD. What's also awesome is that the shoulder straps on this vest are reinforced and rated up to 1,100 lbs.
One of my favorite features is the large pocket on the front of the PFD with room for carabiners, snacks, and tools. It’s very easy to access right there while you're in the kayak. Right behind this pocket is a fleece lined layer which is nice to warm up your hands. And behind that is a convenient slot to put a compact throw rope. I can't stress enough how important it is to have a throw rope on hand without popping your skirt.
The outer material on the GreenJacket is a tough Cardura fabric, which is very durable and can stand the harsh conditions that occur out on the water. Lastly, is STYLE. These are without a doubt the coolest looking PFD's on the market. If you're rocking a GreenJacket, people know you mean business.
The Good
-Quick release rescue loop
-Large pocket for gear and snacks
-Throw rope pocket
-Knife Tap
-Fleece hand warmers
-16.5 lbs of flotation
-Shoulder straps rated up to 1,100 lbs
-Durable
-Stylish
The Bad:
-Not the cheapest PFD on the market
The Bottom Line:
The Astral GreenJacket is the best type 5 PFD on the market. They are being used across the world, enduring some of the most extreme whitewater conditions there are. I have owned mine for 2 years and haven't seen much wear at all. This is a super durable product made by a brand that will always take care of you with any issues. If you are looking for one PFD to rule them all.... the green jacket is IT.
The Full Review:
I have owned this PFD for 2 years now and it is for sure my favorite piece of gear besides my kayak. This PFD is fully equipped with all the safety mechanisms which make it a Type 5 PFD and has plenty of storage for all the extras you bring on the river.
This PFD comes with a quick release safety loop for emergency extractions or tying off for a "Live Bait" rescue. The quick release aspect means that at any point if the rope you are being rescued with gets snagged or caught you can release yourself by pulling the yellow tab located on the PFD. What's also awesome is that the shoulder straps on this vest are reinforced and rated up to 1,100 lbs.
One of my favorite features is the large pocket on the front of the PFD with room for carabiners, snacks, and tools. It’s very easy to access right there while you're in the kayak. Right behind this pocket is a fleece lined layer which is nice to warm up your hands. And behind that is a convenient slot to put a compact throw rope. I can't stress enough how important it is to have a throw rope on hand without popping your skirt.
The outer material on the GreenJacket is a tough Cardura fabric, which is very durable and can stand the harsh conditions that occur out on the water. Lastly, is STYLE. These are without a doubt the coolest looking PFD's on the market. If you're rocking a GreenJacket, people know you mean business.
The Good
-Quick release rescue loop
-Large pocket for gear and snacks
-Throw rope pocket
-Knife Tap
-Fleece hand warmers
-16.5 lbs of flotation
-Shoulder straps rated up to 1,100 lbs
-Durable
-Stylish
The Bad:
-Not the cheapest PFD on the market
The Bottom Line:
The Astral GreenJacket is the best type 5 PFD on the market. They are being used across the world, enduring some of the most extreme whitewater conditions there are. I have owned mine for 2 years and haven't seen much wear at all. This is a super durable product made by a brand that will always take care of you with any issues. If you are looking for one PFD to rule them all.... the green jacket is IT.