Vaikobi V4 Ocean Racing PFD

The Vaikobi V4 Ocean Racing PFD is a lightweight, low-profile 50N performance PFD designed for ocean racing, paddling, downwind foiling, surf ski, SUP and other high-performance watersports. Built for freedom of movement, ventilation and practical storage, the V4 combines a breathable ergonomic fit with increased front pocket capacity, hydration compatibility and high-visibility colours.

The V4 is the evolution of Vaikobi's popular ocean racing PFD, redesigned to provide greater storage while maintaining the clean, low-profile feel needed for racing and long-distance sessions. The updated design provides 40% more front pocket storage than the previous version, giving you more room for essentials without creating unnecessary bulk.

Two strong front zip pockets feature mesh gussets and heavy-duty Vislon zippers, providing secure storage for items such as energy gels, phones, radios and other race-day essentials. The front pockets also incorporate routing for a UHF radio aerial or hydration tube, making the PFD practical for longer sessions where communication and hydration are important.

The V4 is hydration compatible, with a large rear pocket designed to accommodate a Vaikobi 1.5L hydration bladder. The front pockets can also accommodate a smaller hydration bladder, providing convenient access to fluids while paddling or racing.

Comfort and mobility are central to the V4 design. The side panels have been removed to maximise airflow, while soft, form-fitting foam contours to the body. Adjustable shoulder and waist straps allow the fit to be fine-tuned, with padded strap covers helping keep excess webbing tidy for a clean, low-profile aerodynamic profile.

Visibility is enhanced through vibrant colour options and reflective shoulder trims, helping improve recognition in lower-light conditions. A lower leash attachment hook provides a convenient connection point for compatible equipment.

The Vaikobi V4 Ocean Racing PFD is certified to ISO 12402-5:2020 with a 50N buoyancy classification. Vaikobi notes that actual lift varies by size, with the XS V4 providing 40N lift and sizes S and above providing 50N lift. For correct certification compliance, select the PFD according to chest measurement and the manufacturer's sizing guidance.

TEAM PRICING AVAILABLE

Key Features

• 50N performance PFD
• ISO 12402-5:2020 certified
• Lightweight, low-profile design
• Designed for maximum freedom of movement
• Breathable construction with open side profile
• 40% more front storage than the previous V4 generation
• Two strong front zip pockets with mesh gussets
• Heavy-duty Vislon pocket zippers
• Front pocket routing for UHF radio aerial or hydration tube
• Rear pocket compatible with Vaikobi 1.5L hydration bladder
• Front pockets compatible with smaller hydration storage
• Adjustable shoulder and waist straps
• Padded strap covers for improved comfort and strap management
• Reflective shoulder trims for increased visibility
• Lower leash attachment hook
• Form-fitting, super-soft foam construction
• Available in high-visibility colour options
• Suitable for racing and long-distance watersports sessions

Ideal For

• Ocean racing
• Surfski paddling
• Downwind paddling
• Downwind foiling
• SUP
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Watersports training
• Long-distance ocean sessions
• Competitive paddling and racing

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Vaikobi
• Product: V4 Ocean Racing PFD
• SKU: VK-777
• Buoyancy Classification: 50N
• Certification: ISO 12402-5:2020
• Construction: Lightweight, breathable foam PFD
• Storage: 2 front zip pockets with mesh gussets
• Rear Hydration: Compatible with Vaikobi 1.5L hydration bladder
• Front Hydration: Compatible with smaller hydration bladder
• Radio Compatibility: Front pocket routing for UHF radio aerial
• Fit: Adjustable shoulder and waist straps
• Visibility: Reflective shoulder trims
• Leash Attachment: Lower attachment hook
• Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
• Colours: Yellow, Orange, Pink, Cyan, Green
• XS Lift: 40N
• S and Above Lift: 50N
• Sizing: Select primarily according to chest measurement rather than body weight

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I buy the Vaikobi V4 Ocean Racing PFD in Australia?
A: You can buy the genuine Vaikobi V4 Ocean Racing PFD online at BoatCrewGear.com. We are an Australian specialist sailing and watersports retailer and ship nationwide.

Q: What is the main benefit of the Vaikobi V4 Ocean Racing PFD?
A: It combines lightweight 50N certified buoyancy with a low-profile, breathable design, increased storage and hydration compatibility for comfortable high-performance paddling and ocean racing.

Q: Is the Vaikobi V4 Ocean Racing PFD suitable for downwind foiling and paddling?
A: Yes. The V4 is designed for high-performance watersports including downwind foiling, surfski paddling, SUP, ocean racing and long-distance sessions.

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Vaikobi PFD Sizing Guide

Note: Vaikobi recommends choosing the V4 primarily by chest measurement rather than weight.

Vaikobi PFDs have buoyancy above the minimum floatation required for under our ISO 12402-5 certification.