Harken and Spinlock launch the Vito AFS Deckvest: the evolution of offshore flotation.
The new AFS system redesigns the distribution of volumes to improve body rotation and freeboard, integrating technologies born in the extreme contexts of ocean racing
Safety at sea is no longer just a matter of buoyancy, but of hydrodynamic trim and responsiveness. This is the concept that emerges from the launch of the new Vito AFS Deckvest, the result of the collaboration between Harken and Spinlock, officially presented in May 2026. This is not simply a cosmetic update of a proven model, but a technical evolution that draws directly from experience gained in the most grueling regattas, such as the Volvo Ocean Race, to meet the needs of professional crews and offshore experts.
The heart of the innovation lies in the name itself: the Advanced Flotation System (AFS). Unlike traditional systems, this new architecture features a 3D air chamber designed to optimize buoyancy precisely where it's needed. For those working on deck, the critical issue isn't just staying afloat, but how the body behaves once in the water. The AFS system ensures faster rotation of the body into a safe position and, above all, greater freeboard (defined as the distance between the mouth and the water's surface), reducing the risks associated with water inhalation and improving overall stability even in rough seas.
In addition to its static performance, the Vito AFS introduces features designed for active emergency management. Among these is the Harness Release System, a quick-release mechanism that allows the sailor to instantly free themselves from the lifeline should it become a hazard, such as if the boat capsizes or gets stuck. For activation, the choice fell on Hammar hydrostatic technology, a system that reacts to immersion pressure rather than simple humidity, eliminating annoying accidental inflations caused by heavy waves or torrential rain, common scenarios for offshore sailors.
Ergonomics was the other major design challenge. A life jacket is only effective if it's worn constantly, which is why the low-profile design aims to minimize bulk during the most hectic maneuvers. The softness of the structure and weight distribution are designed to not restrict the mobility of those who must maneuver easily between winches and pulleys. The combined use of high-visibility colors like pink and Hi-Vis yellow responds to recent studies on color recognition at sea, ensuring the survivor is more easily located even in low light or adverse weather conditions.
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