For those people who don't like wearing conventional lifejackets, Baltic has developed a range of sailing clothing with hidden buoyancy aids.
Latest addition is the Baltic Softshell, made from ultra lightweight
pliable fabric. It can be worn as a normal waterproof jacket but has a
hidden integrated inflatable lung rated 50
Newtons. (A standard yacht lifejacket is rated 150 Newtons).
The jacket is designed for comfort as well as practicality and there are two versions: one which automatically inflates on immersion in water and a mouth inflation version. The lung can also be topped up via an inflation tube
accessible on the top left chest via a water protective zip.
The outer material is claimed to be 100% waterproof and to protect the wearer against the elements there are adjustable comfort cuffs. The zips are wind and shower repellent. For additional safety there is also a reflective patch on the hood .
The Softshell, which is only available in black and comes with Baltic Lifejackets' two- year guarantee, is available in both men's and women's styles: men's from size XS (50kg) to XXL (100+kg) and women's in S/M (50kg) and L/XL (80kg). It costs about £240.
