Sunday, December 18, 2011

Bluestorm Inflatable PFDs

The founders of Marine Technologies International (MTI) have a new brand focused on high-end personal protective marine safety equipment called Bluestorm, and they have some products ideal for the kayak angler. The name Bluestorm was chosen because a clear blue sky calm and controllable situation on the water can quickly turn into a storm, by weather or unintended accident, and the Bluestorm products use the latest technologies, fabrics, and quality workmanship to deliver safe comfortable products that work.


Bluestorm's PFDs come in three different inflation profiles, automatic, automatic/manual, and manual depending on your preference, and there are yolk/vest styles and fanny pack/belt styles. All of them have auxiliary oral inflation options and are U.S.C.G. approved Type III or Type V with Type III performance PFDs and come with a three year warrantee. Different models are available in buoyancy ratings from 29lbs to 35lbs.
I had the opportunity to test drive Bluestorm's inflatable PFDs on both inshore and mothership kayak trips and was very impressed with their comfort and quality. You hardly know they are on and they clean up easily. They also have a zippered pocket that is ideal for storage of a whistle or other sounding device. Remember when using an inflatable PFD the Coast Guard requires that the PFD be worn not just in reach. Bluestorm PFDs are available at a dealer near you or online at www.bluestorm.us.