Palm Equipment have taken a refreshing approach to designing their new female specific bouyancy aid, the Tika. 3D foam panels wrap around the torso and cup the chest without creating bulk at the waist. The sculpted shape is formed using a supple Gaia non-PVC floatation foam and supportive neoprene padding.
By studying what paddlers carry in their PFD pockets, such as phones, VHF, snacks and PLB's, Palm have designed the pockets and other external features to be low profile even when loaded.
Palm were possibly the first to design a woman's specific bouyancy aid with the Canyon S in 1993 and with the Tika they have designed one that they want to fit perfectly to all female forms.
Palm want to encourage more women to go paddling and as such £1 will be donated to causes that get more women out paddling with every sale.
The Tika was given fist place in the 'Aparrel and Equipment' category of the 2024 Paddle Sports Show Product of the Year Award.
Specifications:
Cost – £135/€159/$141
Sizes – WXS/S (40N), WM/L (45N), WXL/XXL (50N)
Colours – Teal, Purple, Tangerine
Weight - 820 g (WM/L)
Material - Nylon 420D ripstop fabric • Gaia and EPE PVC-free foam
Features - ISO 12402-5 certified (UKCA approved) • front zip entry • Flex Fit • adjustable shoulder straps • reflective details • 3D anti ride-up waistbelt • Easy Glide nylon straps • two zip front pockets • pocket clip-in point • fleece lined hand warmer • two webbing lash points.
Available from:
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By Philip Clegg
With over two decades of working in the sea kayaking industry, Phil can be found on a daily basis coaching for Sea Kayaking Anglesey. That's when he's not expeditioning, playing or putting kit to the test.