WIP Impact Vests 2024 Preview

Retail Buyers Guide: Impact Vests 2024 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: wip
Interviewee: Mathis Bourgnon Sport Marketing Manager

How was the 2023 Market for impact vests?
The 2023 market for impact vests has shown steady growth, with increased demand in various water sports disciplines. More and more hydrofoil sailors are recognizing the dangers of falling onto foils, and are equipping themselves accordingly.

Which market segments are you noticing the most growth in and why?
We have seen significant growth in the freestyle and foiling segments. This growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of these disciplines, such as Wing Foil. People who also practice Wind are getting older and want now to protect themselves. There are also Olympic classes like IQFoil and KiteFoil that make Impact and 50N (ISO 12402) vests mandatory, and we are one of the very few brands to offer vests that meet these standards.

What are the main trends in the market for impact vests in 2024 and how are you addressing them?
In 2024, the main trends in the impact vest market revolve around product versatility and durability. Athletes are looking for vests that offer increased protection without compromising freedom of movement. It’s also worth noting that even the slower-moving riders want to protect themselves to avoid the silly injury that could easily have been avoided with an impact vest. The criterion of vest weight, whether you want a lightweight or a heavyweight, takes a back seat to the decision. Durability has also emerged as a key factor, with consumers showing a preference for environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes.

Tells us about your new vests styles & designs?
For 2024, we’re coming up with a 50N Wing Impact Vest developed with double world champion Mathis Ghio, which will offer Wingers a real solution optimized for them, with everything for leashes, harness and safety. There’s also the new LowPro Impact Vest. An Impact Tested vest without being 50N in order to diversify and meet the demand for practices that don’t require special flotation. We also focused on improving existing products, correcting weak points identified by clients and our team riders.

What trends are you seeing in terms of fit, feel and protection?
We’re seeing a demand for impact vests that offer a balance between lightweight comfort and robust protection. Athletes are looking for vests with enhanced breathability and flexibility, ensuring a comfortable wearing experience without compromising safety standards. There is also a more complicated trend that riders want to protect themselves with highly visible helmets but with an impact vest that is more sober in color, that is darker and more discreet. Head protection is cool, body protection is in progress.

What (new) technology or materials are using in your crash jackets to give you a unique selling point?
At WIP, we rely on cutting-edge technology and premium materials to differentiate our impact vests. We’re the only ones to offer optimized 50N and Impact Tested vests, which keep a slim, low profile. Number 1 choice of all Kitefoilers and IQFoilers. We have developed WIP Inside Technology. An advanced impact absorption system, using 3 special layers:
1- High Density Foam Layer
2- Anti-Puncture Shield Layer
3- Soft Dampening Layer.
Offering unrivalled protection while retaining a lightweight, flexible construction.

How are you helping shops and Parks to sell your product?
To support our retail partners and fleets, we provide comprehensive training programs, marketing materials and promotional support. In addition, we offer flexible ordering options and customized solutions to meet the specific needs of each partner. Marketing investments are made worldwide with top teams and riders wearing our equipment.

Key Products:

The Impact Vest 50N:
Designed to offer optimum protection for all your water sports activities. Used by SAILGP, Dunkerbeck, Max Maeder and all the fastest riders on the planet. Lightweight and comfortable, it offers maximum freedom of movement while ensuring enhanced safety thanks to its high-quality materials and ergonomic design.

IMPACT VEST 50N

Kompact Vest 50N:
lightweight, compact and safe. Optimized for tight-fitting harnesses thanks to buoyancy concentrated at the top. Harnesses don’t pull the whole vest up. Very simple, with good protection and a practical ventral zip. Top 1 in IQFoil.

KOMPACT VEST 50N

Wing Impact Vest 50N:
The Wing-optimized version of the Impact Vest 50N. With better hook retention for the harness. One front loop for the sail leash, one for the board leash, with a solid carbon finish on the lower back. Keeping all the essentials, water pocket, safety knife pocket, visibility, anti-cut reinforcement. Developed with Mathis Ghio 2x World Champ.

WING IMPACT VEST 50N