This spring Astral has had some lovin’ in a few print publications. With the release of the new V-Eight, the world’s first breathable PFD, we had a spot in the June issue of Popular Science Magazine under the “What’s New” column. We really enjoyed thumbing through this mag and reading about all the new inventions. Check out the cover featuring the “Uno,” a 40 MPH electric Unicylcle!

(Click images below to view larger size)

Next up is this years Colorado Kayak Supply catalog where we collaborated to feature the new “State of the Art” ad. It features Tyler Curtis running a really nice waterfall on the Lower Rauma River in Norway. This one came our really beautiful thanks to the photography of Mariann Saether and the graphic design skills of CKS’ Heather Gorby.

Last up our friends from Canoe and Kayak’s Whitewater Magazine featured a trip report from this fall’s SWA trip to Ecuador. Thanks to Kate Stepan for writing a really good article about the trip and to Chris Menges for providing some great photography of Darcy and Bryan sporting their Aquavest 300’s on the Rio Jondachi.

For Immediate Release

Asheville, NC

April 8th 2008

Astral Buoyancy Company begins shipment of the highly anticipated V-Eight, the world’s first breathable lifejacket. Developed for recreational and touring paddlers in warm climates, the V-Eight introduces Astral’s patent pending Airescape technology which eliminates excessive build up of body heat and perspiration. The principal components of Airescape include special contoured foam which reduces the body-to-PFD contact by 70% in combination with strategically placed vent ports which allow hot air to escape and fresh air to enter. The V-Eight also features a mesh back design making it ideal for paddling in boats with high seatbacks and facilitates airflow within the back panel, keeping your entire torso cool while paddling. “Airesecape represents a paradigm shift for the recreational PFD market.” says President and Lead Designer Philip Curry. “After 3 years of development, we are proud to bring the rec market a PFD that has a tangible performance superiority at a fair price.” The V-Eight is constructed with 100% PVC-Free Gaia and PE Foams to minimize its impact on the natural environment.

Look for the V-Eight at your local Astral dealer. MSRP $108.95
For a full product description CLICK HERE

Each year Sailing World magazine reviews different sailboats as they choose their nominees for “Boat of the Year.” This year the judging committee approached Annapolis Performance Sailing for recommendations on a good sailing jacket to wear during the testing. The jacket of choice was the Astral Norge which has proven itself on the open water.

Read the full review here:

http://www.sailingworld.com/

Asheville’s Mountain Xpress recently ran a feature on Astral’s Philip Curry and his use of the Kapok fiber in PFD’s entitled The Divine Gift.

Get the full story here.