Relentlessly Refined

Personal Surf Inflation

With over a decade of R&D, our product designers and testers dove into the PSI Vest 2.0 at a micro level, with each material and feature tested and developed specifically for this project.

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Pull the cord, get back to the surface.

Daniel Russo

The PSI Vest was born from watching our friends get worked in serious surf—and in some cases, not coming back up.

Working with many of the world’s best big-wave riders, we’ve spent 10 years developing and testing our PSI (Personal Surf Inflation) vests.

In 2014, we received a US patent for our PSI design and offered the technology to the surf industry for a fee. With the proceeds, we made our first donation of $150K to the Fundación Punta De Lobos, helping preserve that iconic Chilean point break.

With input from our big-wave ambassadors, we’ve redesigned the bladder and canister placement of the PSI Vest 2.0 and updated to new lightweight materials for increased mobility and comfort.

Prototype testing begins in the pool. After they’re proven to work in a controlled environment, we hand them off for more R&D in the ocean.

We moved the canisters and bladder off and away from the chest. The PSI Vest 2.0 now features gender-inclusive sizing.

PSI vests have added an extra layer of safety and helped push the level of big-wave surfing to heights we never imagined.

Design Update

Redesigned Bladder and Canister Placement

New polyurethane bladder material is designed to withstand extreme pressure. Canisters are now in the back and off the chest area for better board connection, increased comfort for women and ease of paddling.

Design Update

New Lightweight Materials

The overall thickness of the vest has been reduced to avoid overheating. The chest features thinner material for better feel on board.

Design Update

Updated Pull Tabs

While maintaining the two-handle design, we’ve updated the pulls for improved performance and ease of access.

The PSI Vest 2.0 is available exclusively to BWRAG-certified surfers.

Surfers should not rely solely on the PSI Vest 2.0 in waves of consequence. The PSI Vest must be worn under an Impact Wetsuit. We designed it as the last line of safety for experienced big-wave riders who have taken the necessary precautions and training to handle the heaviest conditions. Because we are against the use of flotation without preparation, anyone who wants to purchase this vest must complete a Big Wave Risk Assessment Group (BWRAG) course and become certified.

For all inquiries and questions, contact inflation.vest@patagonia.com

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