Kokatat recently released a new pair of PFDs, the Hustle and the HustleR. These vests are both low profile with large clamshell pockets. They seem to be Kokatat’s response to the popular Blue and Green Jackets from Astral.
I took the Hustle for a quick three-day test trip early this month. When I took it out of the box, I was surprised by its shape. The shape is very different than any of the other vests I have used in the past. It is wider and shorter.
From a construction standpoint, the Hustle is clean! The stitching and reinforcements are well placed and built to last. Following suit with all of my Kokatat equipment. The outside of the vest is mostly ripstop nylon. The shoulder straps are mesh inside, which I don’t love. Mesh captures seed pods and tends to wear on Velcro, but it does breathe well, and the faster drying times could be worth it. The inside of the PFD is a super soft neoprene-like material that is exceptionally comfortable. For the next model, I hope the neoprene replaces the mesh.
On the water, the Hustle is one of the most comfortable PDFs I have ever worn. The wider, body molded design fits amazingly well and does not interfere with my stroke much at all. The lowest strap on the side is designed in a way that prevents it from folding and becoming uncomfortable, while still securely holding the vest in place. The Hustle is a simple, minimalist design, while still offering significant storage space.
I was able to fit all my phone, notebook, wax, earplugs, compass, sunscreen, Chapstick, zipper lube, electrical tape, emergency light, and some snacks without making it feel bulky. When opening the PFD, there is a fold where the zipper stops, which slightly blocks access to the very bottom of the pocket. Still, I managed to deal with that by placing small items in the zippered compartment inside.
The foam chest plate in the Hustle has an unusual ridge in the sternum. I was not bothered by the shape, but it may be more comfortable for women than the typical flat designs. I ended up using the gap above the ridge as a place to stash my waterproof camera quickly. It was not particularly secure, so make sure whatever goes there is attached or risk losing it.
The Hustle competes with the Blue Jacket as Type III PFDs. Both PFDs are comfortable and well built, but the blue jacket feels bulkier in the front to me, and the foam does not contour as well as the foam in the Hustle.
The HustleR has a few extra features. One of which is a Knife garage. I wish the Hustle also had the flap to protect the knife when scrambling around my boat, but next time I might just go for the rescue version.
So my final thoughts, this PFD is incredibly comfortable to wear and does not restrict motion nearly as much as the average PFD. The pocket is an excellent size without complicating the front of the vest, and the construction seems built to last. It is also a huge bonus to be approved in the US and Canada. The only thing I would change is the shoulder straps. I would remove the mesh and add lash points for a knife, light, or radio. Even without those changes, I’m looking forward to having this PFD on my upcoming expeditions.
