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Wing impact vest
Lightweight protection that doesn't hinder your movement. GlissEvolution in Pornichet offers wing impact vests from Forward WIP, ION, Manera, Prolimit, and Sooruz.
Learn moreWing foil impact vest: cushioning your falls on the foil
Updated September 2026
When wing foiling, you're falling from a greater height than kitesurfing, and often near your foil. An impact vest cushions your impact on the water, protecting your ribs and back from board or mast strikes. It also helps bring you back to the surface quickly between waves. At GlissEvolution, our team of riders has been based in Pornichet since 2005. We'll help you choose between a thin vest and a 50N vest, depending on your skill level and local spots. This section is part of our wing accessories; also check out our wing leash and wing harness. For kitesurfing, our kitesurf impact vest section features models specifically cut for harnesses.
50N vest or thin impact vest?
The 50N vest is a buoyancy aid, standardized to EN ISO 12402-5. It supports a swimmer in sheltered water and brings you back to the surface quickly after a fall. This is the ideal choice for beginners, solo riders, and anyone learning pumping, where falls are frequent. The Forward WIP Wing Neo Vest 50N 2.0 and the Manera Open Sea Vest fall into this category. A thin vest, like the ION Vector Vest Core or the Manera Offshore Vest, prioritizes arm mobility for holding the wing. It cushions impacts but offers minimal buoyancy. Remember, a 50N is not a life jacket; it won't turn an unconscious rider over.
How to choose the right cut
A wing vest needs to allow full shoulder mobility for effective wing pumping. Pay attention to the armhole height and torso length. A front zip is easy to put on, even when wet. Side zip and overhead entry vests offer a smoother fit across the stomach. If you ride with a waist harness, opt for a short vest to prevent it from riding up under traction. ION offers an Ivy women's cut. This features a different torso length and chest fit compared to the men's version.
What size?
Your vest should fit snugly without restricting your breathing. Measure your chest circumference and consult the size chart on the product page. If you're between sizes, choose the smaller size for flexible neoprene vests and the larger for rigid ones. The best approach is to try it on with your wetsuit, which you can do in our store.
What's the budget for a wing impact vest?
Price ranges in this section as of September 29, 2026, excluding sale items.
| Type | Indicative Budget | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Thin Protective Vest | 100 to €140 | Experienced riders, arm mobility |
| 50N Buoyancy Aid | 140 to €230 | Beginners, solo riding, learning pumping |
Enjoy free shipping on new equipment over €150 (excluding promotions). Returns are accepted within 14 days if the size isn't right. You can also try on items at our Pornichet store.
The brands we offer
- Forward WIP (France): Wing Neo Vest 50N 2.0, Wing Impact Evo, Raley, and Impact Vest 50N junior. These are the benchmark for buoyancy.
- ION (Germany): Vector Vest Core and Collision Vest, including the Ivy women's cut.
- Manera (France): The thin and mobile Offshore Vest, and the 50N Open Sea Vest.
- Prolimit (Netherlands) and Sooruz (France): Buoyancy vests and the Watervest offer excellent value for protection.
Impact Vest and Helmet
A vest and helmet prevent most injuries during your first wing foil seasons. Find Forward WIP, Mystic, ION, and Bangproof helmets in our dedicated section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a vest mandatory for wing foil?
No vest is required for recreational riding in France. Schools mandate vests during lessons. Most riders continue to wear one afterward, especially for foil.
Should I start with a 50N vest or a thin vest?
Go with the 50N. Your first sessions will involve a lot of time in the water, getting back on the board. Buoyancy saves your legs and provides reassurance.
Is the vest worn under or over the harness?
Most vests go under the harness. Short vests can be worn over a waist harness; the product description specifies this.
Is a kitesurf impact vest suitable for wing?
Yes, for protection. For wing, prioritize shoulder freedom. If you are learning, choose a 50N vest.
Can you wear a vest without a wetsuit?
Yes, over a lycra or directly on your skin in summer. Make sure it is adjusted to prevent chafing.
Where can I buy a wing foil impact vest?
At GlissEvolution, online or in our Pornichet store. You can try it on there and get advice from experienced riders.
Why choose GlissEvolution?
We've been serving riders with twenty years of experience since 2005. In our Pornichet store, you can try on vests with your wetsuit and harness. We offer new and inspected second-hand gear, after-sales support, spare parts, and free shipping on purchases over €150. For personalized advice, call us at 09 62 64 74 77.
Find Us
Visit GlissEvolution at 2c avenue du Gulfstream, 44380 Pornichet (Loire-Atlantique). You can reach us by phone at 09 62 64 74 77. We're open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 7 pm.
