Aerofoils eFoil Collision Vest Element Side Zip by ION

Aerofoils eFoil Collision Vest Element Side Zip by ION — Overview

The Aerofoils-branded version of the popular ION Element Collision Vest with side-zip closure — specifically tested and recommended for eFoiling on the Aerofoils Audi e-tron platform. Impact-rated foam construction protects ribs, chest and back from board contact during falls, while a soft neoprene-style outer keeps the vest comfortable for full-length sessions.

The side-zip variant is the easier on-and-off version (the alternative is the Front Zip vest, which sits closer to the body but takes longer to put on). Both vests share the same impact rating; the side-zip is the more flexible everyday choice.

Impact-Rated Multi-Zone Foam

The vest uses an impact-rated multi-zone foam construction that protects ribs, chest and back from board contact during falls — the most exposed body zones during eFoil crashes.

Side-Zip Closure for Easy On / Off

The side zipper makes the vest fast to put on and take off, even over a wetsuit or rashguard. The Front Zip alternative sits closer to the body but takes longer to put on.

Soft Neoprene-Style Outer

A soft, flexible neoprene-style outer keeps the vest comfortable for full-length sessions and minimises chafing under the arms.

 

Collision Vest Details & Technical Specifications

Brand	ION (water sport co-brand with Aerofoils)
Model	Element Collision Vest — Side Zip variant
Use Case	eFoiling, kite, wing, SUP and general impact protection
Sizes	XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL (ION-standard sizing)
Foam Construction	Impact-rated multi-zone foam
Closure	Side zipper (faster on / off than Front Zip)
Outer Material	Soft, flexible neoprene-style
Use with	Every Aerofoils Audi e-tron eFoil set

 

Side Zip vs. Front Zip — Which Closure?

Both variants of the Element Collision Vest share the same impact rating and the same multi-zone foam construction. They differ only in closure system and fit.

	Side Zip (this product)	Front Zip
Closure Position	Side seam zipper	Center-front zipper
Putting on / off	Faster, easy over wetsuit	Takes a moment longer
Fit	Standard everyday fit	Sits closer to the body (no side seam)
Impact rating	Identical	Identical
Best for	Everyday eFoil use, mixed conditions, wetsuit layering	Tight body-hugging fit, advanced riders

 

Who is the Aerofoils Collision Vest for?

The Collision Vest serves a clearly defined audience:

• Aerofoils Audi e-tron eFoil owners who want a body-protection layer that absorbs impact from board contact during falls — the most common eFoil injury source
• Beginners learning take-off and balance who fall more often and benefit from added impact protection during the early sessions
• eFoil schools, charter operators and rental fleets that equip clients with impact protection as standard — the side-zip is the everyday-friendly closure
• Multi-sport water riders who use the vest across eFoil, kite, wing and SUP sessions — the ION Element is a multi-sport impact vest

 

FAQ — Fit, Use & Care

Who is the Aerofoils eFoil Collision Vest for?

Aerofoils Audi e-tron eFoil owners who want a body-protection layer against board contact — especially beginners during the learning phase, schools and rental fleets, and multi-sport water riders.

Is the vest a life jacket?

The Element Collision Vest is an impact-protection vest, not a coastguard-rated life jacket. It provides buoyancy support and protects ribs, chest and back from board contact during falls. For open-water or beginner use, consider combining it with a dedicated buoyancy aid.

What size should I choose?

Sizes XS to XXL are offered. The vest should fit snug enough that the foam stays in place during a fall, but loose enough not to restrict breathing or arm movement. ION-standard sizing applies.

What is the difference between Side Zip and Front Zip?

The Side Zip is the everyday-friendly version — faster on and off, especially over a wetsuit. The Front Zip variant sits closer to the body (no side-seam) but takes a moment longer to put on. Both vests share the same impact rating.

Can I wear the vest with a wetsuit?

Yes — the side-zip design slides easily over a wetsuit or rashguard. Many riders wear the vest as an outer layer, with a long-sleeve rashguard underneath for sun protection.

Can I use the vest for other water sports?

Yes — the ION Element Collision Vest is a multi-sport impact vest. It also works for kite, wing, SUP and general water sport impact protection.

Does the vest provide buoyancy on its own?

The foam construction adds significant flotation but the vest is not a coastguard-rated life jacket. It is rated as an impact-protection vest with buoyancy support, not as a stand-alone life-saving device.

What temperature range does the vest work in?

The vest is designed for typical water-sport temperatures. In cooler conditions wear it over a wetsuit; in warm water it can be worn directly over a rashguard or skin for sun and impact protection.

How do I care for the vest?

Rinse with fresh water after every saltwater session, lay flat or hang to dry away from direct sunlight. Avoid machine washing — hand-wash with a mild detergent if needed. Air-dry in shade to maximise foam lifespan.

How long does the foam last with regular use?

With proper care (fresh-water rinse after salt-water use, shade drying, no machine washing) the impact-rated foam stays effective for many seasons of regular eFoil use. Replace the vest if foam compresses noticeably or zipper components fail.