Astral Bluejacket PFD review for white water kayaking | most important kayak gear

This is my review of my new PFD the bluejacket Astral Life jacket! As someone who kayaks regularly you need something that’s gonna keep your head above water at all times!

[@johjnHERNANDEZ]

NEW TO MY RAFT THAANKS FOR GREAT VIDEO AND INFO

[@paulmartin5889]

The hand warmer pocket is a really nice feature too

[@adventureboise_]

100% honestly such an upgrade in life jackets!!

[@robertnissenbaum]

One of the best PFDs I have ever used, but sadly was discontinued several months ago and replaced with the Bowen. Two notable missing features - the hydration bladder capability - I never used it and find them a pain when included - as the bladder empties, the PFD is no longer as snug.
The other is the ability to add a quick release rescue belt. Part of the idea is that the Bluejacket is not rescue rated. That said, as an open water sea kayaker, the quick release belt provides me a contact tow option without the need for one on my deck. We don't use them at sea as we would on a river.
I opted NOT to get a Greenjacket and won't in the future - I'll go with the NRS Zen, since the greenjacket is an over-the-head style and with the rest of my kit, the bluejacket, Bowen, and Zen are all side entry and easier to manage personally.
The Bowen has a nicer internal pocket configuration. The external lash tab on the front is added but I find them more trouble than they are worth.
I picked up a bluejacket on closeout to ensure I would have one for a few years.

[@adventureboise_]

This is a super helpful comment! Thank you!

[@PenelopeRose238]

thanks - I just ordered one and was wondering how it fit women.

[@adventureboise_]

I love mine so far ! The multiple straps make it super nice !