Swim Gear Tests
Easy to use rescue device
The compact Restube Active rescue mechanism, worn around the waist, appeals with its lightness. This German product is in principle suitable as additional safety for all kinds of water-based sports and adventures.
Depending on the open-water swimming or swimming location, the Restube swim safety device can replace a tow float. When used with a wetsuit and positioned on the back, Restube can even feel more convenient than a traditional tow float. It is so compact and light (195 grams) that it hardly slows the swimmer down in the water or interferes with other activities. On the other hand, Restube is not as visible in the water as a buoy that can be seen from far away by other water users, especially boaters.
There are also several other Restube products, including tow floats of different sizes. Based on the versatility of the website and the brand’s presence at international trade fairs, the brand is quite popular, especially in Central European countries.
Restube’s performance was already tested last summer in lake conditions.
When swimming with a wetsuit, it caused no inconvenience, but when wearing only swim trunks, Restube was more noticeable. Most importantly, the product worked as it should in an emergency. With a pull of the activation cord, the rescue tube inflated instantly. Floating with it is convenient, but compared to a tow float, the 75-newton buoyancy is more modest, even though the relatively narrow Restube still provides a reasonably good grip.
After use, Restube is deflated, carefully dried and equipped with a new 16-gram CO2 cartridge. It is also possible to swim with the inflated Restube tube, but it is clearly less stable in the water than a “regular” tow float.
It is worth learning how to pack it tightly and correctly. This may require a bit of trial and error. Instructions are included with the product, and instructional videos available online can also be used. The manufacturer promises that Restube will withstand around 100 activations.
The CO2 cartridge is small and weighs 16 grams, so it can be taken along when travelling and carried on an airplane. However, it is advisable to check that this is allowed, as different airlines may have restrictions that do not fully align with international regulations.
Thanks to its affordability, the Restube product can also be used for other water safety training. When purchasing the product, for example from an online store, it is advisable to buy several cartridges at once. It is worth practising the use of the product once or twice before taking it into active use. (06/06)
We like
+ convenience
+ versatility
+ reusability
We dislike
- availability (with reservations)
- not visible in the water to others
Price: 99 €
Length: 65 cm
Weight: 195 g
Durability: About 100 activations
CO2 cartridge: 16 g (€12)
More information: restube.com