Been using one for a couple of months now.....using it in both small and big surf (only wearing a 2 mm wetsuit and it is very warm )
When I first got it I looked at it and said.....what's going on....am looking for extra float and it seems very slim......but there is a big difference in buoyancy.......rather than just your head sticking out of the water.....its more like the tops of your shoulders are above water.
For people who are looking for aids to help them surf safely and cope better with heavy impact zones I would say this is a good investment :)
thanks for posting Gizzie been thinking about getting something along these lines for a while , mainly surf on my own on deserted beaches and had a young bloke on a SUP nearly drown here on Sunday , he was lucky enough to have a few others out on shortboards at the same time that pulled him out .
main concern is how do you find ducking under waves with the extra floatation
Definitely feel way safer and warmer in my jet pilot vest. I surf deserted south coast beaches sometimes (see my pic) and it makes a difference.
I don't find it a problem at all getting under waves. It also reduces your drag time under water on bigger days. Helmet also helps specially when you get smacked in the head with a 9' lump of epoxy. 
Yup.....will be after one of the Oneill Techno Impact vests ......not sure if they are same buoyancy but tight fitting etc. will use in winter......very cold over here.
you don't even notice you are wearing one as far as ducking under waves and stuff like that is concerned.....there is just that "oh I am floating a bit higher and maybe I could gulp a breath of air quicker in times of tribulation" feeling. I feel safer
Am quite big.....got the XL (biggest size). Seems to have stretched a bit. Quite easy to get off if you using rash suit underneath (zipless). If I was a warm water surfer not wearing a wetsuit I think the large size would be the way to go (anticipating future stretch)
I've got the same vest. Got it in the spring and started to use it this summer over my skin under a loose fit long
sleeve surf shirt. I find it really comfortable as well.
Recently was wearing it in 10-15' where I took some beat downs. Really glad for the safety upgrade.
Even considering adding a second vest for further big wave adventures this winter.
I see Beasho of the stand up zone wears another vest over this one at times when he is surfing mavericks.........but just this one should do me I suspect (not surfing mavericks lol)
Okay couple of questions.
Firstly where does one purchase this vest as I am a strong candidate to use it given how often I go out alone.
Secondly, is it effective to use UNDER a steamer during the winter months or does it have to be used independent of any other clothing.
Cheers Ozzie
PS Live on the Central Coast of NSW in terms of where to purchase.
This would be them.....not at all expensive either
www.torpedo7.co.nz/content/closed
