HIKO Pilot Ion

Hiko Pilot Ion: Versatile and Durable Protection for Paddlers and Rental Shops

Pilot Ion: Versatility and Durability in One

The Hiko Pilot Ion is a jacket that has earned a reputation as a reliable workhorse on the water. It’s not an unnecessarily complicated piece of clothing full of fragile components, but rather a well-designed, rugged piece of protective gear that’s built to last. It’s designed to provide a solid barrier against water and wind at an unbeatable price, making it a favorite among both recreational paddlers and professionals in the fields of water tourism and rafting.

Material and Construction: Double Protection and Abrasion Resistance

At the heart of this jacket is a well-thought-out and durable design:

• Double waterproof layer: The combination of 100% nylon with a PU laminate and PU coating (190 g/m²) ensures reliable protection against water penetration without making the jacket unnecessarily heavy or stiff.
• Durable outer material: The outer layer is specially treated to be abrasion-resistant, which you'll appreciate during frequent contact with the boat or seat, or when the gear is handled roughly on shore.
• Taped seams: All critical seams are carefully taped at the factory, which ensures a high level of waterproofing and prevents leaks in the areas subject to the greatest stress.

Key Details: Neoprene cuffs and smart sizing

Hiko prides itself on practical details that make everyday use easier:

• Neoprene collar with drawstring: The comfortable neoprene neck collar can be tightened further for a perfect fit and to prevent water from seeping into the jacket.
• Extended neoprene cuffs: They fit snugly around the wrists, minimize water penetration into the sleeves, and protect against cold wind without restricting blood circulation.
• Elastic waistband with a non-slip finish: It helps the jacket fit the body better, prevents it from riding up when you move, and improves overall protection.
• Smart sizing labels: Individual sizes are distinguished by the color of the print on the sleeve (each size has its own color), which is a brilliant solution for quick identification at rental shops and in club locker rooms.

Suitable activities: From family outings to commercial use

The Hiko Pilot Ion is a versatile protective layer for various water activities:

• Water Tourism and Recreational Paddling: A reliable companion for spring and fall river trips, when you need protection from the wind and splashing water.
• Rafting companies and rental shops: Thanks to its extreme durability, easy maintenance, and smart sizing, it’s one of the most popular choices for bulk purchases that need to withstand a lot of wear and tear.
• Boating Clubs and Schools: An affordable training solution that emphasizes functionality and the durability of the equipment.

About the Hiko Brand: Czech Reliability and Tradition

Czech brandHiko It has long been synonymous with high-quality, functional, and affordable water sports equipment. Their products are developed with Central European conditions in mind and are constantly being innovated. The Pilot Ion model proves that Hiko can offer solid craftsmanship (such as taped seams and durable materials) even in the most basic and affordable price range.

Jacket Care and Maintenance

To ensure a long service life, we recommend thoroughly rinsing the jacket with clean water after each use and letting it air dry. Wash gently by hand or on the delicate cycle in the washing machine (max. 30 °C) using a mild detergent. Never use fabric softener or bleach! Rinse the neoprene parts and let them air dry while hanging, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not tumble dry or iron.

Technical parameters and specifications

Bonus program and purchase benefits

When you buy this great jacket, you'll get 155 points to our loyalty rewards program! You can immediately use these points as a discount toward the purchase of additional gear, such as wetsuit accessories, vests, or paddles. This product is covered by Free shipping throughout the Czech Republic. We have this product in stock at our store in Brno, where you can try it on and get advice on choosing the right size based on our size chart.