Introducing the first Layla LE life jacket.
Made in collaboration with whitewater kayaker, Nicole Mansfield, and artist, Kate Shea, the Layla LE (limited edition) features Shea’s iconic figure illustration to celebrate the elegance and playfulness of water and women.
“Layla is a very versatile PFD”
“Layla is a very versatile PFD” shared Ollie Smithers, kayaker and Astral’s Sourcing Manager. “This two-year project celebrates athletes of all levels and interests in the water, especially as they work through challenges.”
“When on the river or in the mountains, I want my gear to be functional, but I don’t want it to be boring.”
“I really enjoy seeing how people’s creativity manifests itself in so many different ways – whether it be through visual or literary mediums, a unique line through a rapid, styling a trick, or finding a new first descent,” shared Nicole Mansfield, Astral athlete, and kayaker. “When on the river or in the mountains, I want my gear to be functional, but I don’t want it to be boring. So, it’s fun having the opportunity to be part of a project where art is interfaced somewhere it often isn’t – a PFD.”
“I think this project is important and will be well-received by the river community because it is something for the everyday paddler and not just aimed toward the class V boater,” said artist, Kate Shea. The artwork “represents the peace and inspiration I get from being amongst the Ottawa River and everything and everyone that comes with it.”
“[The art] represents the peace and inspiration I get from being amongst the Ottawa River”
10% of sales of the Layla LE will be donated to the Lulu Love Tour and Columbia Gorge Kids Club, organizations empowering women and youth in the outdoors.
Nicole Mansfield
