Kokatat is at it again with an update to its popular HustlerR Rescue PFD
(Video and photos by Aaron Wagoner)
Do the HustleR! That’s the word from boaters, who are dancing with delight for Kokatat’s new HustlerR rescue PFD. From its flotation’s curved shape to its clamshell pocket design and accessible rescue carabiner and release pull, unlike most of us on the dance floor its designers made all the right moves.
Watch the gear review video for more details and to see the HustlerR in action.
The Low-down
Two words describe Kokatat’s new side-entry HustleR PFD: low-profile and comfort. Both stem from two stacked and sculpted GAIA, PVC-free foam panels, covered with ripstop nylon, that wrap around and float to fit varied torsos. A large front pocket keeps small items accessible and adjustable shoulder straps and side adjustments keep it snug should you swim. Thankfully, on a mission on the South Fork Salmon, we never had to test the rescue tether, but it was there if we needed it, with easy access to clip the ‘biner to anything which might need a helping hand.
Knocks against, says video host extraordinaire Nick, who’s used it throughout the Northwest and is the author of “Paddling Pacific Northwest Whitewater,” include a little too much excess strap to deal with on the tow belt; and fact that he had a hard time tightening the shoulder straps. But he loved the clamshell pocket, and knife pocket with sleeve and Velcro covering to keep it in place. “It was easy to access and not obtrusive at all,” he says. Other loves: the amount of buoyancy and overall fit.
Info: www.kokatat.com