I first came across a Palm Nevis prototype about 2 years ago. Although at the time it was far from the final product, when I wore it I felt invincible. I stepped up and ran what is normally my local portage, firing up a couple of reverse freewheel attempts off Lady Falls on the Afon Pryddin. I'm not saying wearing this PFD will turn you into superman because it won't. But something happened to me on that high water day, I was oozing a little more confidence and boating better than normal...
After 3 years of development, rigorous safety testing, and input from river professionals like as UCLan, Bren Orton, and Palm's own Barney Caulfield, Palm have unveiled the next level in whitewater PFD's. The Nevis.
The new 'Delta wing system' wraps around the chest, hugging your torso, which adds comfort and allows you to breathe normally while paddling.
It features a simple adjustment system which makes on-the-water tweaks quick and easy.
I found Palm's brand new (and World first) piggyback harness system incredible!
You can adjust the harness on one side by simply pulling the strap tight. You don't even have to touch the buckle. This keeps excess straps to a minimum, reduces wear on the buckle itself, and the buoyancy aid retains a low profile so climbing back into a kayak or raft is surprisingly easy.
When it comes to storage, you wouldn't have an issue hiding away half a sweet shop!
The huge front clamshell pocket is the perfect place to store away a rescue tape, karabiners, or a tiger loaf bloomer should the need ever present itself.
Side pockets run all the way through that are easily big enough to carry a folded saw, or a couple of packets of pastrami if you're hungry.
The Nevis also has stash-away pockets on each side with pull away clip points to carry a karabiner, a cowstail, or (our Beckii's favourite) a block of Caerphilly cheese .
And of course, last but not least, the Nevis features its own separate knife pocket, just in case you need to make lunch in a hurry!
In conclusion, after using the Nevis for a few weeks in multiple environments, it has become a firm favorite for me. Whether you are extreme whitewater athlete, a professional dirtbag raft guide or a class 2 canoeist the Nevis has it all and you don't even notice you are wearing it. Palm have yet again slammed the rest of the field in designing a product that is currently, without a doubt, leading the future of the paddlesports industry!