Astral Serpent: Review

Over 15 years ago the best buoyancy aid on the market hands down was the HF Serpent.

The HF Serpent with its incredible fit, ample organized storage space and a great selection of technical features meant the Serpent revolutionised the paddlesports world and many whitewater specialists would argue it has still remained unbeaten. HF ticked all the required boxes for what was needed and achievable which made it a winner.

Drifting forward into 2020 and we are completely spoiled for choice when it comes to PFDs.

Advancing technology, experienced designers and widened company budgets have made way for some incredible pieces of kit such as the Palm Nevis, NRS Zen and the Kokatat Hustle R. (See links to other kit reviews)

When Astral (who already make one of the best white water vests on the market, the Green jacket) announced they were going to resurrect the Serpent, it was always going to be exciting news.

Having the ability to get my hands on one early, I was pretty keen to find out what had changed and how it would fit into the modern world competing with the big hitters. 

Surprisingly, not that much has changed. The world class design and fit have remained in Astral’s 2020 remake, although Astral have added an extra 20N to the 2.0, bringing the PFD from 50N to 70N ensuring increased floatation. Cordura is now being used to prolong the PFD and reduce wear and tear. Finally, the Serpent, like many others, now has modern PVC free foam inserts showing Astral is keeping in line with an environmentally friendly mindset.

I was a little concerned with the size of the pocket when I first collected the 2.0, however, after packing my tape, a couple of karibina’s and a pulley into it, my worries were lifted. Ok so I couldn’t then add a snickers 4 pack, a malt loaf and a ham and cheese baguette into it but realistically it’s adequate. Not only adequate, but still feels compact and comfortable when wearing it. There is a quick access knife pocket on the front of the pocket and a harness loop at the front for those savage operators.

The Astral Serpent 2.0 isn’t here to compete for the title of the best guide jacket, nor is it here to try and be something new and next level. HF released the ultimate paddlers buoyancy aid all those years ago, and Astral have updated a PFD designed by paddlers for paddlers. It's versatility allows this jacket to perform at the highest level no matter where you are, on the river, lake or sea.

The legend has returned!

>> View Astral Sepent 2.0 here <<