Seattle (April 10, 2024) — Astral, the leader in equipment designed for high performing wilderness athletes, introduces the Indus, the world’s first freestyle-inspired high float life jacket.
Built on over three decades of experience, the all-new Indus uses Astral’s Foam Tectonics architecture from Astral’s GreenJacket, the current safety and performance standard for rescue PFDs. The Indus becomes the first life jacket in the world to offer 22 lbs. of buoyancy in a design that prioritizes full mobility and performance. The 33-percent increase in flotation offered by the Indus significantly improves chances of survival, especially on high or flooded bodies of water.
“People are running rivers at higher flows than ever before. As a brand that makes gear to promote calm confidence in extreme places, it’s obvious that more buoyancy was needed in case of a swim. The obstacle has been how to do it in a manner that doesn’t interfere with your body’s natural biomechanics.“ explains Philip Curry, Founder and CEO of Astral. “The answer is our signature “Foam Tectonics” architecture that allows the various foam panels to work independently of each other .”
The Indus is designed for advanced whitewater athletes, guides and swiftwater professionals on larger volume whitewater who seek a higher buoyancy, low profile and mobility-forward fit. Designed with reinforced shoulders, a quick release belt for swiftwater rescue, Astral’s proprietary Flotection impact protection system, multiple storage options and an industry-high 22 lbs. of buoyancy, the Indus is built to usher in the next generation of large volume whitewater descents.
“Modern PFDs have to balance function, fit, and style. The Indus puts function first by significantly increasing flotation without compromising comfort or fit,” said Benny Marr, big water kayaking legend. “This is an important consideration for the whitewater industry as more and more paddlers take on huge-volume whitewater. More flotation for safer progression in the sport.”
The Indus is available now at astraldesigns.com and at participating retail partners. For additional information about Astral and the new Indus high float life jacket, please visit astraldesigns.com.
