Mark Hentze on the Rio Negro, Colombia
The Astral lifejackets are the best designed and most comfortable lifejackets I have worn. Whether I am probing deep into a new river in Colombia, or paddling on a training run in Central Oregon I wear my Astral Type V Rescue Jacket. The lifejacket has all the essential creek boater and river professional rescue features, a Spectra® webbing attachment loop in the event emergency evacuation is necessary and a quick release rescue ring. The Astral fits well and does not restrict movement in the shoulders or the torso. The flotation is smartly distributed across the back and lower front. The rescue ring is on a quick release and handy for hauling lost kayaks or other gear around on the river, or in the event that you must extract your partner from some sort of hydraulic predicament. The back of the lifejacket accommodates a Platypus® bladder which makes staying hydrated easy during those long river days. The front of the vest features a fleece lined hand warmer and a zipper pocket which is perfect for a spare carabiner and a couple of prusik loops. The 500 denier Cordura® is durable and will give the lifejacket a long life. Astral will always be my choice for everything from playboating to expedition boating.
-Mark Hentze
