What should your next dinghy sailing buoyancy aid look like

The importance of wearing a buoyancy aid when on the water should never be underestimated. Baltic has a broad range of options, they are there for a reason, not just simply for show. We caught up with Johan Molund, senior area sales manager here at Baltic a former Olympic Athlete and highly knowledgeable in explaining the different features and what you should be looking for in your next dinghy sailing buoyancy aid.

“The thing about sailing is it really is a sport for all,” comments Johan. “Professionals and leisure users are all ultimately doing the same thing, just at different speeds and levels and for that reason, here are my top tips for what you should look for in your next buoyancy aid.”

Ask yourself are you a competitive or leisure sailor?

Colour Multiple buoyancy aids one light (warmer climates) and one dark (cooler climates) Make it personal and choose to suit your style.

As a competitive sailor, you want to blend in with the crowd, particular when lining up on on a startline you don’t want to be seen. As you will be working the boat hard, insulation is not a factor, you need full movement and pockets are not as essential due to a support rib in the area. Dark colours, less or no pockets and a minimal buoyancy aid are key features to look for.

As a leisure sailor, it’s potentially more important that you are visible when on the water, either for those spectating on the shore or rescue crew looking for you. You are likely to be out enjoying the conditions and therefore not working as hard so a buoyancy aid that provides some warmth can add comfort.

Fit over style

The fit of the buoyancy aid is crucial, whilst you may aspire to wear the same as your favourite Olympic Sailor or hero at your club, what fits them will not necessarily fit you the same way. We suggest you head to your local chandlery or the next boat show near you to try a variety on. Your personal body shape: chest, waist and shoulder width will all determine what is right for you. It must sit comfortably and not ride over your head should you find yourself in the water.

Bonus tip, if you can try it on over your sailing kit, that way you know how it truly feel, especially if you are trapezing!

Extra features come last

Once you have found the perfect fit then comes the added features, such as pockets, and their location and number. Maybe you go on long dinghy cruises and a hydration pack would be useful. These are options in some buoyancy aids. What colours is your most suitable one available in, perhaps you can coordinate with your helm/crew or even boat colour. Yes, we know that’s a thing!

Care for your buoyancy aid

Your buoyancy aid should be considered an investment. It’s there to provide buoyancy and it will keep you afloat when in the water, and it will help save your life. It will not keep your head above the water should you find yourself unconscious and face down in the water. Take care of your buoyancy aid and it should take care of you.

After each use particularly in salt water when you rinse your boat down, make sure you rinse your buoyancy aid, empty your pockets using the bins provide and dry out of direct sunlight ready for when you next need it.

See the full range of Baltic Dinghy sailing buoyancy aids here baltic.se/dingh-sailing-buoyancy-aids?