PRODUCT REVIEW: PEAK PS EXPLORER ZIP PFD By Doug Cooper

Photo courtesy of Peak PS

Professional Coach, guide and Author, Doug Cooper from Scottish Sea Kayaking recently gave his personal review to Peak PS on the popular sea kayaking PFD, the Explorer Zip.

He quotes, that whenever he reflects on going out on the sea, the weather, conditions and aspirations for the day widely differ but "that's what makes it so special" he says. 

With these inevitable changes, what he chooses to wear is always changing. Shorts or salopettes, sandals or shoes, one-piece or two-piece, short or long cag?

He goes on to state, that with all the variety and constant change, the one piece of kit he will always carry on him, no matter the weather or conditions, is the Explorer Zip PFD "It has travelled the world with me and has become my tried and tested friend" he goes on.

Doug favoured the colour combo of the Explorer Zip PFD because it matched his kayak ;) which many can relate to. Here's what he had to say about the fit:

"For me the sizing and fit are great, with plenty of adjustability to always be snugly comfortable no matter what I wear underneath. The shoulder straps are comfortable"
He states on (rare) hot days in Scotland, he can wear the Explorer Zip PFD next to the skin with no rubbing from the straps. 

Doug especially liked that there are "plentiful 'Tardis' pockets" that comfortably and discretely hide away everything he needs ready to access when out on the water.

"The back pocket is all set up to be used with the H20 drink bladder, which is invaluable on those open crossings, hot days or rough days where hydration is so critical and stopping is perhaps not easy."

He goes on to say throughout all his years of coaching, trips and excursions on the sea in all conditions, out of all his kit he has, the Explorer Zip PFD has been the only piece that has supported him through everything he does.

"That is my tried and tested friend"

See Doug Cooper's website for Inspiration and Information on Scottish Sea Kayaking

The Explorer Zip PFD is also available for women which features stepped chest foam for increased comfort.