Helite Turtle 2 Shell Inflatable Air Vest - Black

Firstly I can only comment on the fit of the vest and service received, as I've not had to use this in anger yet.

I ordered the jacket online to try on in store, as I wanted to make sure that a Large fitted, and it turned out it was a good fit for me based on the sizing information provided. I wanted to pay via Paypal pay in 3, which I could do online, however the shop couldn't give me the vest I'd just tried on using that method, and I had to wait a few days for one to come through the post. Delivery was great though via DPD and only about 3-4 days later as it was a weekend.
The vest arrived, and after adjusting the velcro straps, fits snugly over my current jacket. There's loads of room for adjustment if anyone puts on a bit of weight, or adds extra layers for winter riding. The quality of the materials used are also outstanding.

I wanted the lanyard version of the jacket, as I know that I'm likely to forget to charge an "E" electric jacket, so this way no issues if I don't use it for a while.

It's also great to see that these vests are re-usable, and spare cylinders can be purchased from Sportsbikeshop for less than £20 each, so always worthwhile buying a spare cylinder or two to take away on trips with you.

Brilliant product as always from the sportsbikeshop. Well made jacket.

Reputationally it's an excellent and well made product though I'm pleased to say I haven't fully put it to the test.
However, finding the right one was a bit of a pain because of sizing. For a start, the charts on Sportsbikeshop and Helite websites are pretty much at odds. In the end I bought an XL even though it's a bit baggy in the chest but fine lower down. Large was fine in the chest but tight lower down without a huge amount of slackening. In terms of shape I'm a pretty typical slightly flabby, 5'11" middle-aged British male.
Basically, "waist" in Helite-speak means "belly" in British. Try in-store if you can and make sure you wear your go-to jacket, with back protector removed.

I at first ordered online, but the vest was a very different fit to the size guide. I returned it and went to Birmingham store to try one two hours ride away. The guys were fantastic so helpful, sorted my refund and then started over making sure I had the right size. Looked at helmets, again brilliant advice even though the helmet that best suited me was not in stock. I will purchase as soon as it becomes available. I used to be a very loyal customer of a competitor but after seeing how you guys do it, not anymore. Total convert, I won't be buying anywhere else going forward. Thanks Guys see you soon.

I'd waited for quite a while to see how these performed and what people thought of them. Finally decided to take the plunge based on reviews, simplicity of design, replaceable CO2 cylinders and the obvious safety benefits. Needed some adjustment to my setup as o commute with a Kriega backpack but it's worth the extra protection I think

Great vest, fits well over all of my jackets. It's a well made high quality product that gives me peace of mind when I ride.

Quality of the product is superb, as you expect from Helite. I hope to never have to use it fully, but whilst it sits there waiting it is very comfy. Does not impede movement or view. My air vents are covered and so summer may see the need for a mesh jacket. All clouds have silver linings.
The real gem was the staff at the help centre I phoned before purchasing. They knew what they were talking about and were very helpful. They located my size at Leeds and I went to try it on. Leeds knew I was coming and had it waiting for me and could not have been more helpful. The store staff were fantastic. That was a breath of fresh air.

Quality seems to be excellent and the fit is also very good when on the bike.
Hopefully I never have to put this to test, but as I'm getting older I like the idea of the extra protection.
As ever SBS customer service has been second to none!!!

As other reviewers have said, it is a bit heavy and awkward, and looks like you are going fishing.

I haven't set it off yet but it seems sturdy. The buckle is easy to do up, even after you forget and have to do it while rolling along.

It would be great it if it had a loop so it was easier to hang up on a coat hook.

Once you have tightened the chest straps it is harder to do the buckles up.

Fortunately I can not give feedback on its use, but the quality reassures me it will work. I've worn it over my winter jacket and summer jacket and you can't really tell you have it on. As I have removed the back pad from both jackets, the vest makes it easier to put different jackets on knowing you have the protection

An excellent unobtrusive bit of kit that could save my life.

Excellent quality product that looks and feels sturdy. Sizing spot on with plenty of room for adjustment. Great value product compared to its competition. Would definitely recommend.

love it , fits well and light , outstanding 10/10

Brilliant product, surprisingly light and easy to fit to bike. Extra protection could save your life. I wear mine over an Oxford textile jacket and my fellow bikers did not know I was wearing one. Really impressed with it.

After reading a lot of reviews I decided to go for the Helite turtle 2 however I couldn't find a review on how it performed during a accident.
On the first day of wearing this vest I was involved in a crash and I think it saved me, I sustained 3 broken ribs and I really believe I would of been seriously injured or worse if it wasn't for the Helite air vest. So for me it's worth every penny and when I get back on my bike I will never leave home without it. So don't consider if this investment is for you, just buy it knowing that you will have a better chance of survival, we spend hundreds of pounds on leathers/textiles, helmets and gloves so it makes sense to protect our vital organs in our chest and back.