The most comfortable crew vest. Lighter. Distributed load. Ergonomic design.

The new Switlik X-Back Air Crew Vest is a quantum leap in comfort and durability over its predecessors. Specifically designed for constant wear in the seated position in your helicopter or fixed wing aircraft. It's the vest you'll forget you're wearing.

The New Switlik X_Back MOLLE Life Vest

Distributed load.

The aptly named X-Back is ergonomically fitted to your shoulder contour for a perfect fit. As accessories are added the weight is distributed over your shoulders and off your neck for vastly improved comfort. The adjustable X-Back straps provide enough range making it one size fits all.

A low-profile design

A unique proprietary interior cell folding technique combined with our open V-Neck design removes the bulk from your neck and chest to avoid interference with helmet and safety restraints.

Switlik Heli-vest Molle System.

The MOLLE System

space to attach everything.

The MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment) system lets you customize your vest with the accessories you need. The contoured cut of the MOLLE side panels locates the accessories away from your midsection providing more room for shoulder and lap belts. The new Switlik MOLLE System is the most comfortable way to carry your gear.

Learn more about Switlik MOLLE System Accessories

A breakthrough

zipper enclosure

The Switlik Zipper closure keeps your inflatable vest secure at all times. The simple reliable dual breakaway design provides immediate inflation when activated. Backup oral inflation tubes are conveniently located on either side of the vest and easily reached through the side access flaps.

Nomex/Kevlar

comfortable and safe.

The exterior cover is constructed from a blended Nomex®/Kevlar® Rip-stop weave fabric. The material is extremely soft and comfortable to wear. The Kevlar component provides excellent durability, while the Nomex gives you the in-cockpit fire protection you want.

See more X-Back Tech Specs

A simple deployment

our new beaded handle.

High visibility red beaded handles are found on both sides of the vest making for simple activation. They incorporate a breakaway safety feature to prevent snagging.

Established in 1920, Switlik Parachute Co. has been owned and operated by the Switlik family for four generations and is known worldwide as a manufacturer of the highest quality sewn and heat sealed inflatable safety and survival products for the aviation, marine, and military/government markets. Switlik products are defined by Quality, Performance and Innovation. All are proudly manufactured in Trenton, NJ USA, carrying the Switlik name on their labels for 90 years running.