Kokatat’s new HustleR rescue life vest nabs Paddling Magazine award

September 5, 2019

Vest named one of top products showcased at PSR trade show

ARCATA, California— Kokatat’s new HustleR life vest won a prestigious Paddling Magazine Industry Award at the 2019 Paddlesports Retailer Show held Aug. 27-29 at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City.

The HustleR was one of just 11 winning products that were voted on from the 92 products featured in the trade show’s New Product Showcase hosted by Paddling Magazine. The awards, decided by voters both onsite and online, recognize outstanding achievements in the development of new products introduced to the paddlesports market at the annual Paddlesports Retailer Show.

“A long-standing goal of Kokatat is to make best-of-class products for paddlers,” said Jeff Turner, Kokatat’s Sales Manager. “To be given this award is validation that others in the paddling industry recognize our consistent commitment to quality.”

A low-profile PFD, the HustleR ($229) comes designed with the features that veteran paddlers and river guides require in swiftwater rescue situations. With 16 pounds of buoyancy, the HustleR comes with a quick release chest harness, a stretch mesh sleeve designed to fit Kokatat’s River Tow Tether and a D ring attachment for a standard cow tail. Available in March 2020, The HustleR features two stacked and sculpted, pre-curved GAIA, PVC-free foam panels that wrap around the paddler’s torso and allow optimal fit on varied torso sizes. A large, extra-deep front pocket, complete with an extra security zipper and internal organization, is another highlight. There’s also a covered front lash tab for a rescue knife on the pocket’s front.

“Winning this award is a proud moment,” said Turner, “Particularly for our product design and production team that pours so much of their passion and energy into making outstanding pieces like the HustleR.”

About Kokatat Inc.

Kokatat has been manufacturing paddling gear in Arcata, California for almost 50 years. At a time when many technical apparel brands were moving manufacturing offshore, Kokatat continued to invest in infrastructure in the United States. Kokatat founder Steve O’Meara was committed to the development of the finest and driest paddling apparel in the world and recognized the need to control and continually evolve the development of our dry wear. In the early days, Kokatat worked closely with W.L. Gore & Associates, makers of GORE-TEX®, to refine the sewing and sealing techniques required for full immersion suits and tops. Today, our hands-on approach to manufacturing continues to set the standard in paddling apparel. Into the water with Kokatat! Learn more at www.kokatat.com.