Astral V-Eight 4.0 PFD

Specs

• Model: V-Eight 4.0 (Astral's current version)
• Weight: 1.46 lb / 22.4 oz / 660 g (Astral); REI lists 1 lb 8 oz
• Design buoyancy: 16 lb
• Rating: USCG Type III
• Sizes (chest): S/M 31–37 in, M/L 38–44 in, L/XL 45–51 in
• Foam: PVC-free Gaia foam and polyethylene foam
• Shell: bluesign-approved 300 x 300D 100% post-consumer recycled polyester ripstop; 200D nylon and polyester mesh liner
• Entry: YKK auto-locking front zipper
• Pockets: three-pocket front system; knife storage and integrated whistle
• Intended use: rec, touring, fishing
• Warranty: against defects for the reasonable life of the product (Astral)
• Price: $155 (Astral and REI, Oct 2026)

What reviewers say

Formal independent reviews of the 4.0 were thin this run. Paddlers who used earlier V-Eights on Paddling.com said it felt cooler and lighter than other PFDs and that they were more likely to keep it on in summer, though it still runs warm during hard effort and the older version's pockets were weak; the 4.0's three-pocket front is Astral's answer to that. REI has only five reviews on the 4.0 (3.2 of 5): some found it comfortable and out of the way, while others said bulky side foam rubbed their arms and the front rode up. Try it on in your own seat before buying.

Good

• Front zip, easy on and off
• Venting design aimed at hot-weather comfort
• High mesh back works with high-back kayak seats
• Recycled, PVC-free materials

Not so good

• Few independent reviews of the current 4.0 version
• Some report side foam rubbing during paddle strokes
• Some report the front riding up

Who it's for

Recreational kayakers and touring paddlers in warm weather who want a front-zip vest with good pockets. If fit is uncertain, try it on in a boat; whitewater paddlers should look at Astral's whitewater models instead.

Sources

• Maker product page
• REI product page
• Astral V-Eight opinions — Paddling.com forums