
Packa-spy Self-Inflating PFD Wins Gold Award at the Asian Outdoor Gear Awards 2024
Packa is a brand renowned for its focus on innovative design in watersports gear, with an emphasis on practicality and lightweight solutions. One of the brand's flagship products, the Packa-spy Self-Inflating PFD , made its debut at the Asian Outdoor Gear Awards 2024, where it was shortlisted and ultimately awarded the prestigious Gold Award. The competition saw participation from 102 brands and 187 innovative products across six categories, and the event has become known as the "Olympics" of outdoor equipment.
This achievement highlights the Packa-spy PFD's exceptional design and performance. The product was rigorously evaluated by an international panel of experts over a six-month period, involving both theoretical and practical assessments, and stood out amidst fierce competition to claim the top spot.
Official Self-Assessment Report from the Asian Outdoor Gear Awards

The jury was particularly impressed with the Packa-spy Self-Inflating PFD , commending its practical design, solid material choices, and ease of use. The self-inflating system was described as both simple and efficient, making it a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts.
“ When packed, the Packa-spy Self-Inflating PFD is roughly the size of a standard jacket, weighing just 595 grams. It can easily be stowed away in the corner of a rucksack. When unpacked, it operates like a self-inflating sleeping pad, with three air chambers on the back and chest inflating automatically. This transforms the jacket into a traditional, full-functioning life vest. The multiple air chambers ensure maximum safety, providing a total buoyancy of up to 60N. Even if one air chamber is punctured, the PFD remains fully functional, ensuring the user’s safety. The highly abrasion-resistant nylon fabric is not easily to be torn, while the mesh construction connecting the air chambers allows for exceptional breathability, even in hot weather. The chest zipper, waist tightening strap, and shoulder straps offer an adjustable, tailored fit for any body type. The high-back design also prevents discomfort from packraft backrests, meaning long paddling sessions are free from back pain.During a trip along the Kaitu and Tarim rivers in Xinjiang in October, whether paddling on a stand-up paddleboard or a packraft, wearing the lightweight and virtually undetectable Packa-spy pfd offered an unmatched sense of freedom and comfort. This feeling of being 'barely there' is perhaps the most telling testament to its design.”
Winning the Gold Award at the Asian Outdoor Gear Awards 2024 is not only a recognition of the Packa-spy Self-Inflating PFD’s innovative design and top-tier quality, but also an affirmation of Packa’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and delivering superior water sports experiences. We look forward to seeing more exceptional products from Packa in the future!