Safety: Deckvest VITO AFS, Spinlock's new lifejacket has a 3D buoyancy chamber

The main innovation of the VITO AFS from Spinlock is the Advanced Flotation System (AFS). This is what the Brits call their three-dimensionally moulded buoyancy body, which follows the outer contour of the waistcoat and fits closely to the body. Unlike traditional two-dimensional, welded bladders, the AFS body is sewn in a 3D shape and places the buoyancy where it works best. The low profile is designed to offer significantly more freedom of movement in and out of the water. The lifejacket is smaller, lighter and softer than traditional life jackets with 2D bubbles, but should perform better in all required performance values.

Pink and yellow for better visibility

The 3D design of the chamber allows the use of two signal colours. Spinlock uses a combination of neon pink and neon yellow to improve the visibility of the lifejacket in the water. The waistcoat is made from ripstop fabric and has a Deckvest 6D-style harness with toggle fastening. Together with the 3D bladder, the spray cap has also been redesigned. In addition, the attachment points for emergency radio buoys have been improved and central attachment loops have been created for attaching MOB alarm systems or autopilot remote controls.

Hammar release and harness release system

Instead of moisture-sensitive automats, VITO AFS utilises the hydrostatic Hammar release, which is positioned in a protected position on the back of the lifejacket, thus reducing the risk of snagging and damage during wear. The Harness Release System (HRS), which allows the lifebelt to be detached in an emergency, is now fitted as standard on every VITO. The Lume-On and Pylon lights are also standard, making it much easier to find in the dark.

One size fits all, enlarged adjustment range

The VITO AFS is available in one size for chest circumferences from 80 to 145 centimetres. The harness should be easy to adjust to different layers of clothing. The lifejacket is said to weigh 1.24 kilograms and offer 170 newtons of buoyancy. It costs 499 euros.

Technical data:

• Buoyancy: 170 N
• Weight: 1.24 kg
• Size: one size, chest circumference: 80-145 cm
• Trigger: Hammar hydrostatic (automatic)
• Buoyancy system: AFS (Advanced Flotation System) - 3D-stitched bladder
• Colours: Neo pink and neo yellow

Equipment:

• Strap fastener: Deckvest 6D toggle fastener
• Lifeline eye with harness release system
• Spraycap
• Pylon Lifejacket Light, Lume-On
• Crotch strap: 40 mm wide with storage compartment
• Adjustment: single-point adjustment, can be fine-tuned for different layers of clothing
• Optional factory-fitted: Ocean Signal MOB2 AIS, Ocean Signal PLB3, Chest Pack, Safety Line Cutter with stowage bag

More articles on this topic:

• 24 automatic waistcoats in a comparison test
• Lightweight lifejacket from Spinlock with 275 Newton buoyancy
• Lifejacket, maintenance and seasonal check