Gear Review: Astral YTV Personal Floatation Device

Value Rating: 8 Durability Rating: 9 Overall Rating: 8 Location of Test: All over Duration: A month or so, so far Product Name: YTV PFD Product Brand: Astral Best Use: Paddling Sizes Available/ Specs: Many from xs to xl + The Full Review The Astral YTV is a light weight type five pull over PFD that utilizes PVC free foam and a minimal design. I try on life jackets literally like its my job and I went with YTV because it is comfortable and light, but not to the point where durability is sacrificed. I have paddled in it quite a bit and it still looks new. So far I am very pleased. Astral's attention to the environment is refreshing... Kokatat is the only other brand *that I'm aware of* using PVC free foam. The Good: Light, comfortable, minimal The Bad: Not a lot of storage... only 2 small pockets The Bottom Line: A great minimal PFD, not for your sea kayaking expedition to the San Juans, (no place for a radio, or easily accessible chart for instance), but a great lightweight, durable and simple option