Kru Elite 195 Personal Flotation Device — Overview
The Kru Elite 195 is a new personal flotation device (PFD) introduced by Ocean Safety. Designed with a tailored profile for improved comfort and mobility, this PFD emphasizes a close, secure fit while offering rapid inflation when needed. Its form and features are aimed at users who want reliable flotation without sacrificing movement or convenience during on-water activities.
Design and Fit
One of the standout elements of the Kru Elite 195 is its tailored shape. The cut follows the contours of the body more closely than many traditional PFDs, which helps keep the device in place during active use. A better fit reduces excess bulk under coats or foul weather gear and minimizes the tendency for the vest to ride up or shift in rough conditions. This refined profile supports both comfort and wearability for extended periods on deck.
Inflation and Safety Features
The Kru Elite 195 is engineered for quick inflation, which is a critical aspect of any life-saving garment. Rapid inflation reduces the time between immersion and flotation, giving wearers a better chance to stay buoyant and maintain a safe position in the water. The PFD provides 195N of buoyancy (approximately 44 pounds), a figure that indicates substantial flotation capacity intended for demanding conditions where higher buoyancy levels are desirable.
Practical Details and User-Friendly Elements
This model includes a front zipper for straightforward donning and doffing, making it easy to put on and secure even when time is limited. An inspection pocket is incorporated into the design to allow for routine checks and quick access to identification or small safety items. A hood is also provided, offering additional protection for the head and face in adverse weather or when taking shelter in the water.
For users who need tethering capability, the Kru Elite 195 features harness loops that allow a tether to be attached safely and securely. This is useful for crew members who must remain connected to the vessel in rough seas or while working on deck. The inclusion of a crotch strap further enhances security by helping to keep the PFD properly positioned on the wearer, reducing the chance of the device slipping up during use.
Who Might Choose the Kru Elite 195
This PFD is aimed at sailors, professional crew members, and serious recreational boaters who value a combination of high buoyancy, functional features, and a refined fit. The Kru Elite 195’s blend of tailored design, rapid inflation capability, and practical attachments makes it a sensible option for those who spend significant time aboard and require dependable flotation with user-focused details.
Availability and Pricing
The Kru Elite 195 is priced at $275. It is distributed by Revere Survival, based in Jacksonville, Florida. For inquiries or purchases, contact Revere Survival by phone at (866) 904-7360 or reference reveresurvival.com for more information. (This is provided as the original point of contact for sales and support.)
This article originally appeared in the February 2016 issue.