The new Switlik X-Back Air Crew Vest is a quantum leap in comfort and durability over its predecessors. Specifically designed for constant wear in the seated position in your helicopter or fixed wing aircraft. It's the vest you'll forget you're wearing.
The aptly named X-Back is ergonomically fitted to your shoulder contour for a perfect fit. As accessories are added the weight is distributed over your shoulders and off your neck for vastly improved comfort. The adjustable X-Back straps provide enough range making it one size fits all. A unique proprietary interior cell folding technique combined with our open V-Neck design removes the bulk from your neck and chest to avoid interference with helmet and safety restraints. The MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment) system lets you customize your vest with the accessories you need. The contoured cut of the MOLLE side panels locates the accessories away from your midsection providing more room for shoulder and lap belts. The new Switlik MOLLE System is the most comfortable way to carry your gear. The Switlik Zipper closure keeps your inflatable vest secure at all times. The simple reliable dual breakaway design provides immediate inflation when activated. Backup oral inflation tubes are conveniently located on either side of the vest and easily reached through the side access flaps. The exterior cover is constructed from a blended Nomex®/Kevlar® Rip-stop weave fabric. The material is extremely soft and comfortable to wear. The Kevlar component provides excellent durability, while the Nomex gives you the in-cockpit fire protection you want. High visibility red beaded handles are found on both sides of the vest making for simple activation. They incorporate a breakaway safety feature to prevent snagging. |
Obviously bulkier and warmer than Switliks Aviator Life Vest, but perfectly wearable by people (like me) who prioritize safety over extreme lightness and comfort. I think its safer than the Aviator Life Vest because: 1. The back straps makes it impossible for the vest to work loose over your head and float away. 2. It has two buoyancy chambers. 3. Just to be extra paranoid, I bought the version where even the external cover is orange for greater visibility than blue. 4. Besides safety, I can also clip my handheld radio to a MOLLE strap. Summary: Im fully satisfied with it. I also have the Aviator Life Vest, but this X-back is the one I will wear regularly.
Switlik X Back Life Vest Orange
Please note, Aircraft Spruce Australia's personnel are not certified aircraft mechanics and can only provide general support and ideas, which should not be relied upon or implemented in lieu of consulting an A&P or other qualified technician. Aircraft Spruce Australia assumes no responsibility or liability for any issue or problem which may arise from any repair, modification or other work done from this knowledge base. Any product eligibility information provided here is based on general application guides and we recommend always referring to your specific aircraft parts manual, the parts manufacturer or consulting with a qualified mechanic.
It is recommended to get this inspected for airworthiness annually (every 12 months).