Jet Pilot Impact Vests 2024 Preview

Retail Buyers Guide: Impact Vests 2024 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Jet Pilot
Interviewee: Kolyn Howard, Brand Manager

How was the 2023 Market for impact vests?
From a Jetpilot point of view we believe the marketplace continues to show promise but has been fluctuating as we continue to come off peaks from the pandemic. Sentiment in the marketplace seems a lot more positive compared to this time last year and continues to improve. Here at Jetpilot we are focused on what we do best and that is innovate to deliver the best possible products.

Which market segments are you noticing the most growth in and why?
Cable wakeboarding remains solid, as it becomes increasingly accessible to everyday consumers with the continuous emergence of new wake park locations globally. The rising trend of foiling is becoming more popular, we are definitely noticing a growing number of consumers expressing interest. This increase has only amplified the demand for multipurpose vests to cater to diverse water sport needs. Wake surfing has also been amazing for us with low impact and great growth for over 8 years now.

Tells us about your new vests styles & designs?
Designing a slim vest continues to be at the forefront of consumer feedback. With performance, segmented panels continue to be a fan favourite, providing enhanced flexibility and comfort. Our ‘Hyperflex’ range is making waves in water sports, featuring a segmented neoprene flex panel meticulously crafted to facilitate effortless vest rotation and helping to prevent lifting or riding up during use. We have worked very hard this year with our entire pro team in choosing fabrics, graphics, colours, fits, and etc. The feedback from the team is the core of the market and we love the influence and drive they have shown today. Our team is so connected with the youthful riders associated with the industry.

What trends are you seeing in terms of fit, feel and protection?
Whilst safety has been a core focus, we have worked closely with our athletes and community to ensure we are offering a range of fits and purpose built vests. Whilst Jetpilot is known for it’s product tech features there is still a trend with consumers chasing a vest that has sleek style lines with thin construction that is comfortable and does not comprise on safety all whilst being sustainably sourced. Our introduction of Ecoprene and continuous work on our 360 stretch neoprene and bevelled edge buoyancy foam have resulted in better flexibility, a more comfortable anatomical fit, and superior impact protection.

What (new) technology or materials are using in your crash jackets to give you a unique selling point?
Sustainability has become a focus point in Jetpilot’s ethos. It’s a shared understanding among brands that contributing to the reduction of our carbon footprint not only resonates with the increasingly eco-conscious younger audience, influencing their purchasing decisions, but also moves us towards a more sustainable future for our industry. Jetpilot’s innovative Ecoprene program transforms recyclable plastic bottles into pallets, then into yarn, ultimately creating our recycled neoprene. With a triple-layer construction, this process ensures that Jetpilot maintains its renowned durability and quality while introducing a material that is also 30% lighter than traditional neoprene.

How are you helping shops and Parks to sell your product?
We recognise the overwhelming choices consumers face in the marketplace. We emphasise the critical role of educating our retailers on new product innovations, materials, and purpose-built products. What this looks like can be different across digital resources, instore product education and catalogues. We also understand the important role played by our retailers in communicating the unique requirements of consumers. By informing our retailers on our product tech will only enable them to recommend the bests suited products to the individuals needs, creating a personalised and informed shopping experience.

Key Products:

Jetpilot Felix X1 Front Entry Vest:
Felix Georgii Signature Series / 100% 360 Stretch Neoprene / Custom Felix Leather Patches / Durable PK Lok Zipper / Freelite L50S Approved Bevelled Edge Buoyancy Foam / Anatomical Fit

Felix X1 Vest Caramel

Jetpilot Allure Front Entry Vest:
100% Ecoprene / Custom Topography Inspired Print / Durable PK Lok Zipper / Freelite L50S Approved Bevelled Edge Buoyancy Foam / Anatomical Fit

Allure Ladies Vest Mint

Jetpilot Freeride Front Entry Vest:
100% Flexlite Ultra Neoprene / Durable PK Lok Zipper / Freelite L50 Approved Bevelled Edge Buoyancy Foam / Anatomical Fit

Freeride Vest Charcoal