WIP Impact Vests 2026 Preview
Retail Buyers Guide: Impact Vests 2026 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: wip
Interviewee: Benjamin TILLIER Marketing & team manager
How was the 2025 market for impact vests?
The 2025 market for impact vests has shown steady growth, with increased demand in various water sports disciplines. More and more hydrofoil sailors are recognizing the dangers of falling onto foils, and are equipping themselves accordingly. Riders are more demanding and the rules in competition are evolving in the same direction.
Which market segments are you noticing the most growth in and why?
In the Olympic classes like IQFoil and KiteFoil that make Impact and 50N (ISO 12402) vests mandatory, we are one of the very few brands to offer vests that meet these standards. Wingfoil racing is also growing the same way and we have seen significant growth in the freestyle and foiling segments. This growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of these disciplines. People who also practice Wind are getting older and want now to protect themselves. Surfing will be the next development where there is more and more demand.
What are the main trends in the market for impact vests in 2026 and how are you addressing them?
In 2026, the main trends in the impact vest market revolve around product versatility and durability. Athletes are looking for vests that offer increased protection without compromising freedom of movement. It’s also worth noting that even the slower-moving riders want to protect themselves to avoid the silly injury that could easily have been avoided with an impact vest. The criterion of vest weight, whether you want a lightweight or a heavyweight, takes a back seat to the decision. Durability has also emerged as a key factor, with consumers showing a preference for environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes.
Tells us about your new vests styles & designs?
For 2026, we’re coming up with a new version of the 50N Wing Impact Vest with an integrated carbon plate for a better transfer of energy. The New Kompact for Windsurfers and Kitefoilers come with a Pocket and a new look with Camo style. We also focused on improving existing products, correcting weak points identified by clients and our team riders.
What (new) technology or materials are using in your crash jackets?
At WIP, we rely on cutting-edge technology and premium materials to differentiate our impact vests. We’re the only ones to offer optimized 50N and Impact Tested vests, which keep a slim, low profile. We have developed WIP Inside Technology. An advanced impact absorption system, using 3 special layers:
1- High Density Foam Layer
2- Anti-Puncture Shield Layer
3- Soft Dampening Layer.
Offering unrivalled protection while retaining a lightweight, flexible construction.
Any exciting marketing campaigns coming up for your product line?
Marketing investments are made worldwide with top teams and riders wearing our equipment. We are working closely with the Big Wave Surfers to develop more specific gears for them and for the rescue teams that are fully part of all the adventures.
How are you helping shops and parks to sell your product?
To support our retail partners and fleets, we provide comprehensive training programs, marketing materials and promotional support. In addition, we offer flexible ordering options and customized solutions to meet the specific needs of each partner.
Key Products:
WING IMPACT VEST EVO:
50N Impact Vest with Wing Harness Hook & Carbon plate integrated
- Integrated Carbon plate with ergonomic hook
- Optimized force tranfers
- High-density thermoformed foam for Shock absorption
- Perfect Fit with Reinforced back pad
- Integrated wing leash and board leash loops
- Extra Protection – Side pads shield the ribcage
- Freedom to Move – Slim profile, wide openings
- 5 smart pockets for gear and tools
- Built Tough – Tested with professional protective equipment
- Perfect Fit – Adjustable shoulder straps
- Certified Safety – 50N buoyancy, EN ISO 12402-5, impact tested
Developed with the World Fastest Wing foilers.
WING IMPACT VEST 50N
KOMPACT VEST 2.0:
50N Impact Vest Optimised for Racing and Harness fit
- Competition Ready – IQfoil, Wingfoil, and Kite foil class rules
• Soft Landings – High-density thermoformed foam for impact comf ort
• Flex & Comfort – Super-stretch neoprene for maximum mobility
• Harness Friendly – Foamless waist area for a perfect harness fit
• Stay Put Design – Compact anti-ride-up system keeps vest secure
• Chest pocket – Safe storage on the go
• Certified Safety – 50N buoyancy, EN ISO 12402-5, impact tested
Approved by the best international athletes all over the World, with a new design and specific evolutions for even more performance.
KOMPACT 2.0
WING NEO VEST 2.0:
50N Impact Vest with integrated Harness for an Absolute Mobility
- Ultra-Thin Design – Super stretch neoprene
- Intergated Wing harness hook 40 mm
- Higher Hook position
- Back Support Pad for more comfort and Power in the harness
- Freedom to Move – Low profile cut and wide openings for total mo bility.
- Smart Storage – 2 easy-access pockets: 1 large 3D stretch zipper, 1 shoulder pocket
- Stay Put Fit – Harness loop prevents ride-up found in standard PFDs
- Certified Safety – 50N buoyancy, EN ISO 12402-5, impact tested
- One color : Grey / Red inside
Become “one” with your body, get the best of impact protection and buoyancy for a maximum freedom of movement during your Wing & Para Wing sessions.
WING NEO VEST 2.0
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