Astral Ronny

This is an extremely light and very comfortable PFD. I wear my PFD at all times, and I have found this to be comfortable in heat, easy to wear over a paddle jacket, nicely adjustable, and so far it seems quite durable.

I had wanted to get a new PFD, one that is lightweight, cool in the summer, and which has lots of pockets! I am always carrying "stuff" and find it hard to access pants pockets when seated in a canoe.

When I won my choice of Astral PFD, I selected the Ronny (men's), and am very pleased with it. This PFD has three handy pockets in the front, including one which has a beverage can holder. I wonder what beverage they could have in mind? I do not drink beer when I paddle, but I have put a small water bottle in it.

There is an accessory lash tab on one pocket, but I do not use this, as I do not want any gear flapping about in front of me. I can put a small light there, when paddling in low-light situations. I do have plenty of room for camera, dog treats, whistle, compass, etc.

The jacket is extremely lightweight (19 oz.), especially compared to my prior jacket. There is a cooling ventilation back. The flotation is polyurethane foam, and given the design of the jacket. It is probably best for lighter duty paddling.

It has been used 3-4 days per week this season, and shows no signs of wear, but it is a very lightweight, low-profile, USCG approved jacket. On my prior, heavier duty PFD, there are secondary straps, which would keep the PFD on you, should the zipper not be zipped. With the Ronny, for safety, it must be kept zipped.

The PFD has multiple strap adjustments, waist and shoulders, allowing it to fit a range of sizes. It also has reflective highlights, for safety. It is low-profile, and though I use it in a canoe, I expect it would be very nice for use in a kayak, as well.

The PFD is available in two colors, blue or saffron (gold-ish).

I certainly recommend this PFD to other  paddlers!