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FAQs
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Is the Tekrapod a life vest?
No, the Tekrapod is not a life vest. It’s a buoyancy aid and should never be used to replace a life vest where one required.
Where is the Tekrapod made?
Tekrapod is designed, prototyped and tested on the West Coast of Ireland, where the Tekrapod is also manufactured. The bladder is manufactured in the UK using fully certified USA and EU components by a very experienced and well established life vest manufacturer
Where is the light manufactured?
The light is manufactured in Northern Ireland, with all design, industrial and software engineers also being based there.
Will my bladder inflate instantaneously?
While the answer is largely yes, it does depend on the ambient temperature in which the bladder is inflated. In colder conditions it may take a second or two longer to become fully inflated.
Do I need to replace my bladder regularly?
We recommend that you inspect your bladder at least once a month by manually inflating and deflating using the oral top-up tube. If there’s any sign of wear and tear or air leakage you should replace immediately. We also recommend that you activate the bladder at least bimonthly to ensure it works correctly and consistently.
What is the corrosion that appears at the connection between the bottle and the activation valve and will it damage the bladder?
Because there are two different metals being used in the Co2 Bottle and the Inflation valve, you will notice over time that a furry material will beginning to accumulate. We recommend that your unscrew the bottle bimonthly, clean off the material with a dry cloth on both the bottle and the valve. You can use a small bit of vasaline or lubricant on the bottle threads before replacing the bottle, it will help it to screw in easier. You should also replace unused bottles every 6month if they have corroded. With regular maintenance your bladder should not be affected.
Sometimes I like to wear a wetsuit when I swim in the open-water, other times I go swimming in my skins. Will my Tekrapod adjust to fit me in both instances?
Yes, there is more than enough adjustability built into the Tekrapod to accommodate you in both scenarios.
Does the Tekrapod come in a male and female version?
No, the Tekrapod is unisex, because of the design of the clasp and its location it will fit all body shapes and sizes.
Is the Tekrapod race legal?
Under ITU regulations so long as the device does not provide any buoyancy or advantage it is deemed race legal. As the Tekrapod is neutrally buoyant and remains deflated until you activate it, it should be race legal in all instances. However, you should always check with the race director before you race.
Can you buy spare parts for your Tekrapod?
Yes! On the website under individual parts you can buy replacement bladders, backpacks, CO2 cartridges and the little green grommets or clips.
Can I use the Tekrapod without a wetsuit?
Yes, the straps and backpack are specifically designed to minimise chafing. The silicone grippers keep the straps in place so you can swim without having to worry! Just like a wetsuit, if you have a rub point, try using an anti-chafe lube.
