It is generally advised to avoid games called “live bait.” Particularly if you are the bait in question, and it’s as irresponsible as it sounds: jumping boat-less into whitewater, tethered to a throw rope, and aiming to grab an unconscious boater. For this to be safe, you need a rescue vest — a specially souped-up PFD — and not a small amount of confidence.
Thankfully, my Kokatat HustleR Rescue Vest was more than up for the task. This “game” is really only “fun” in this controlled scenario (my recent swiftwater training course). And, since I wouldn’t want to mess up the maneuver in real life, now was the best opportunity to act like a human claw machine and practice.
After checking my buckles and taking a deep breath, I clipped into the throw rope. My shore team braced themselves, and I successfully dragged a man (100 pounds or heavier than me) to safety. During the entire process, the HustleR performed wonderfully.
I put the HustleR through the wringer this spring, paddling the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers in Oregon and during my recent swiftwater rescue course, where it was both comfortable and capable. I tested the vest paddling class I-III whitewater and through a handful of rescue exercises.
In short: The HustleR PFD ($289) is built for intermediate and advanced paddlers with rescue training and is designed to organize equipment for efficient action on the water. A smart cut keeps the bulk down when paddling, and for those who frequently paddle wicked water, this vest is a winner.
There are plenty of PFDs on the market, but only a few true rescue vests. To see how the HustleR stacks up to these and others, check out GearJunkie’s Best PFDs Buyer’s Guide.
- Entry Style: Pullover
- USCG Rating: Type-V
- Flotation: 16 lbs.
- Foam: Gaia PVC-free foam
- Materials: 500D Cordura outer shell
- Sizes: XS/S (32-38"); M/L (40-46"); XL/2X (49-55")
- Weight: 2 lbs., 8.8 oz.
Pros
- Adjustable shoulder straps allow paddlers to adjust for chest size
- Large front pocket keeps items well organized and drains easily
- A knife tab can keep your raft knife from getting torn off while paddling
- Removable rescue belt
Cons
- Long, extra material on the tow strap (which can be cut down)
- The vest itself can be cumbersome to pull on
- Some knives are too large to be compatible with the knife tab
Kokatat HustleR Rescue Vest: Review
First, a Primer: PFDs vs. Rescue Vests
A “rescue vest” generally has rescue equipment for recovering gear and swimmers while on a river. A regular PFD will not be equipped to handle rescue maneuvers. If you will be frequenting class II rapids and above frequently, it’s always a good idea to take a Swiftwater Rescue course and invest in a rescue vest.
The main feature of a rescue vest is a rescue belt, which is specially designed to connect to a “pig tail” or tow line to haul gear or swimmers. If, for example, a kayak flips and the paddler wet exits, you can use your tow line to take the kayak back to shore.
Alternatively, the rescue belt can also connect a rescuer to the end of a throw rope and rescue a swimmer or gear (“live bait”). The belt has a quick release if things get snagged or the water gets scary.
A rescue vest will also have other unique features, like spots to stash tow tethers and reinforced shoulders or stress points. A rescue vest like the HustleR should only be used by properly trained paddlers.
Safety Capabilities on the HustleR
This vest is a workhorse when you have to rescue a swimmer, gear, or yourself. Its thoughtful organization keeps gear where you want it, and its low-profile fit makes me feel nimble while providing plenty of flotation and protection on my back.
Floating through rapids during my swiftwater training, I felt completely supported and buoyant. My face and upper body could pivot, and I could swim with and without a paddle. Paddling to shore and into eddies was unhindered. My arms were able to catch and handle a throw bag comfortably.
On shore, the vest is as low-profile as on the water. Sure, my chest is puffed out (it’s just how PFDs work), but it was easy to act fast on land. The vest even held up to being dragged across a boulder when my team dropped me — on accident.
Plus, the safety system itself is adjustable. The tow/safety belt is completely removable, which is great for flat, low-risk days, and it easily reattaches when you are ready for a day with whitewater.
One minor flaw is that the safety belt is very long. This is great for size accessibility and flexibility, but the belt should ultimately be cut down. Test how much of that tail you actually need (adjusting for layers). Cutting the rest off will reduce the time you’ll need to completely be released from the system.
Again, I like that this allows paddlers to adjust for their own size preference, but if not modified correctly, it could reduce the efficiency of the release system.
It’s in the Details
Where the HustleR really shines is in its details. The vest has a conveniently covered lash tab for knives (since we all know getting in/out of a raft will rip them off), and the shoulder adjustment straps can be easily tucked away so they stay out of your face. The rugged Cordura shell will last for years (mine still looks brand new) if you dry and care for it correctly.
The clamshell pocket keeps my phone, carabiners, keys, and snacks organized and secure on the water. Plus, if you paddle with a tether, there’s a spot to stash the attachment up top to keep it from snagging or getting in the way.
Fit & Mobility
The vest itself rides low on the chest and provides ample room for movement. I love how well the shoulder straps adjust, especially since I often remove and add layers from float to float, though the sizing doesn’t work for everyone. The curved foam paneling keeps the vest from feeling too bulky, although other vests have lower profiles (like the Astral GreenJacket).
Pulling the jacket on and off is also a struggle, but it is better if the vest stays on than if it wants to come off. Most of note is that the HustleR typically fits folks with busts much better than its counterparts (like the GreenJacket) because of its adjustable shoulder straps.
Room for Improvement
Despite all of its charm, this vest has its quirks. If you expect that you’ll be using the safety belt, make sure that it is cut to size. Also, if you are really bothered by flapping straps, then look elsewhere. This vest stows straps well, but it can be a process to get them perfectly coiled and out of your face.
The Astral GreenJacket, by comparison, doesn’t have this issue since your clavicles do not have tension straps riding on them. My biggest gripe is how difficult the vest is to pull on/off. If you are nursing any shoulder mobility issues, avoid this vest.
Kokatat HustleR: Conclusion
The Kokatat HustleR Rescue Vest is a workhorse that will last season after season. The Cordura shell fabric holds up to wear and tear and drains and dries quickly. The vest was dry every day of my swiftwater course and has yet to develop a smell (I even accidentally left a soggy Buff in the pocket for a week).
The vest itself is overkill if you’ll be on flat water and are not rescue trained (opt for the regular Hustle PFD instead). Still, it’s worth having if you’ll be in anything consequential, especially if you have a swiftwater course on the books.
Also, it’s worth checking out the HustleR with some of your accessories in tow (mainly, not all knives fit in the built-in pocket). For those with tight shoulders or who are used to a side-entry PFD, this vest will feel clunky when removed. It’s definitely not a dealbreaker, but the vest was not designed to be elegantly removed.
Regardless, the HustleR Rescue Vest is a mainstay in the paddling community. Its thoughtful design increases ease and comfort on the water, and while it might not fit everyone or jive with every system, the vest is a must-try. Because when it works, it just works well.