Australian PFD (Personal Flotation Device) manufacturer, Stormy Lifejackets has launched a range of sailing specific PFD’s with an inbuilt ISO approved harness. All products are water-activated with a manual inflation option and the various styles provide between 165 and 300 Newtons of buoyancy.
Stormy Lifejackets has developed products to suit all levels of sailing from the recreational sailor to extreme offshore racing enthusiasts.
The award-winning inflatable jackets and vests have been adapted to include the harness system. Also available are sailing specific yokes with harness that can include a spray hood and several other safety products.
After the horrendous Sydney to Hobart Yacht race in 1998 where 8 people perished at sea, Stormy Lifejackets identified the need for an internationally accredited range of inflatable PFD’s with deck harness.
By combining a lifejacket and harness, sailors only need to wear this all in one item over their clothing.
“Stormy Lifejackets has always been motivated to save lives by designing lifejackets that are worn not stowed’” said Helen Moore, Managing Director and Chief Designer of Stormy Lifejackets.
“The success of Stormy Lifejackets in the commercial and recreational fishing industry has proven the quality of our product. Incorporating a top of the line harness system to our inflatable PFD’s was a logical progression,” said Helen.
The Stormy range of Sailing lifejackets that include a variety of yokes, have been developed for the most extreme environments.
The ‘Pro Sailing Yoke’ has 180N of buoyancy and can have the added feature of an expanding spray hood and SOLAS approved water-activated light. Starting at $260 the product is proving popular for sailors nationwide and is suitable for offshore racing.
The ‘Super Yoke’ offers 300N of buoyancy and is for floating heavier weights due to wet weather gear or a tool belt or for those over 120kgs. The extended waist strap is also suitable for bigger individuals.
A junior yoke with harness is also available for 15-40 kg sailors.
The Stormy Jacket provides protection from the elements as functional wet weather clothing that inflates to become a PFD when required. The inclusion of a harness in this product ensures that safety is never compromised as the user remains warm, dry and secure. A Sailing vest without sleeves is also available.
Stormy Lifejackets is currently launching its full range of products into Europe.