We’ll help you choose the right impact vest!
Whether you’re going kitesurfing, windsurfing, or wingfoiling, an impact vest is an essential part of your gear. It not only provides extra protection during hard crashes but also makes your session much more comfortable. In this blog, we explain what an impact vest actually is, the different types available, and what to look out for when choosing the right one.
Check out our Telstar Surftalk video here. In this video, we briefly explain what to pay attention to when choosing an impact vest. Make sure to also watch our other Telstar Surftalk videos on our YouTube channel!
What is an impact vest?
An impact vest is designed to protect your body from hard hits or falls on the water. The foam padding absorbs the impact and shields your ribs, chest, and back. In addition, it often provides a bit of extra buoyancy.
Important: an impact vest is not a life jacket. It’s made for active watersports where freedom of movement is essential, and it’s intended for confident swimmers.
Whether you’re looking for a windsurfing impact vest with a thinner lower section to fit comfortably under your harness, a kitesurfing impact vest offering maximum freedom of movement, or a wingfoil impact vest providing full protection and extra features, there’s always a model that suits your sport and skill level.
Half-padded or full-padded vest?
When choosing an impact vest, the level of padding is one of the most important differences to consider.
- Half-padded vest: this type mainly provides protection around the chest and ribs. The lower back area is thinner, allowing you to comfortably wear a harness over it — ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
- Full-padded vest: this option offers protection around the entire upper body, frond, back and sides. It's perfect for wakeboarders and wingfoilers, where impacts tend to be heavier and maximum protection is desired.
Tips for choosing the right fit
A good impact vest should be both comfortable and snug-fitting. Keep the following points in mind:
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Try it on with a wetsuit or lycra, not with a thick sweater, this gives you a realistic sense of how it fits in the water.
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Use a harness? Make sure it fits properly and doesn’t press against the foam, as this can become uncomfortable while riding.
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The right size: the vest should feel tight when dry; it will loosen slightly once you’re in the water.
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Check the protection: ensure there’s enough coverage around your ribs, chest, and spine.
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Choose for your sport: there are models specifically designed for kite- and windsurfing, as well as for wakeboarding and wingfoiling.
Tip: a well-fitting impact vest stays in place, it shouldn’t twist or ride up while you’re in the water.
Ready for your next session?
With the right impact vest, you can enjoy every session on the water with confidence. Whether you’re looking for maximum protection or ultimate freedom of movement, Telstar Surf is here to help you make the perfect choice; in-store or online. Check out our full range of impact vests and get expert advice from our team.
Have questions or want personal advice? Get in touch with us or visit our store, we’re ready to help you find the best impact vest for your sport!