Is the era of lifesaver buoys and jackets over? It might be a bit early to bet on it, but the German product is definitely worth a look for those who like outdoor water activities. Named after a lizard species that can inflate his own frill to get out of danger, that inflatable wearable provides a lightweight, easy to use lifesaving option. The encumbrance caused by kingii is out of proportion with the usual lifesaver gear: set on your wrist, it only weights 4.9oz (139g).
Sizeable for adults (up to 275lbs/124kg) and children over 6 years old, it is easy enough to use so that nobody should fail at opening it: just take off the cap to release CO2 into the inflatable balloon. Physics will do the rest as the balloon full of air will help you stay on the surface of water! Kingii is reusable, as long as you put a new CO2 cartridge every time (the manufacturer provides 2 of them with the standard package). The wearable also packs a whistle and a compass in case of emergency!
The biggest advantage of Kingii is to provide a lifesaving gear that you can bring anywhere without the encumbrance of a standard jacket. The wrist has already raised more than $473,000 (compared to the $65,000 objective) on indiegogo and will be available from september 2015.
Price: $69 (€63)