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HIT PFD Evolution: Meet the New Atlas & Elite Series

4 minutes

At a Glance
The Successor: The Atlas 190 replaces the HIT with D-Rings; the Elite 190 replaces the standard HIT.
The Tech: Same trusted Hydrostatic inflation, now with ADAPT Technology for faster face-up turning.
The Harness: We’ve moved to a soft harness loop (ISO 12401 certified)—it’s as strong as metal but lighter and quieter.
The Fit: All new models feature a low-profile, ergonomic fit to eliminate neck strain during long days on the water. 

 

Building on the Legacy of the HIT PFD

We know how much you’ve trusted our HIT and Elite inflatable PFDs over the years—and with good reason. These vests have long been industry leaders in comfort, safety, and performance. But at Mustang Survival, we don’t believe in standing still. We believe in pushing boundaries. That’s why we’ve refreshed and reimagined some of our most trusted inflatable PFDs—preserving what you rely on for comfort and safety, while enhancing their performance. 

 

Why We Reimagine Our Inflatable PFDs? 

We’ve listened to your feedback—weekend boaters, offshore racers, and seasoned sailors alike—and used it to guide the evolution of our inflatable lineup. Here’s what we focused on: 

  • More inclusive fit across a wider range of body types 
  • Improved comfort in the neck and shoulders for longer wear 
  • Greater versatility, including meeting the Offshore Special Regulations for organized racing 
  • A cleaner, simpler user experience—without sacrificing performance 

PFD transition diagram showing legacy hydrostatic inflatable PFDs evolving into the Atlas DLX 190 Hydrostatic Inflatable Life Jacket, Elite 190 and Elite 120 inflatable PFDs.Engineered for the Elements: Advanced Turning & Airway Protection

These next-generation PFDs come packed with thoughtful upgrades designed to make your time on the water safer and more comfortable: 

  • Ergonomic Fit: Redesigned to sit off the back of your neck, distributing weight across the shoulders for less strain and more comfort. 
  • New Bladder Design: Engineered from the ground up to enhance in-water performance, with better turning to keep airways clear and reduce spray inhalation. 
  • Streamlined Hardware: If you need a tether point, the new soft loop is lower-profile and quieter than traditional D-rings. 
  • Smarter Details: A tidy, stowable pull handle won’t snag or get in your way—and the simplified back panel improves breathability and reduces bulk, especially while seated. 

 

Product Comparison: Finding Your New Mustang PFD

Not sure which updated PFD replaces your tried-and-true model? Here’s a quick breakdown: 

If you loved the EP 38, check out the Atlas DLX 190. It’s built for offshore performance, meets racing regulations, and improves fit and ease of use. 

If you wore the HIT with D-rings, the Atlas DLX 190 still has you covered—with a new soft tether loop that’s more streamlined and less bulky. 

If you had the standard HIT, you’ll love the Elite 190 or Elite 120—still using the trusted hydrostatic inflator but with better wearability, a lower-profile design and improved neck comfort. 

If you rocked the Elite 28, the Elite 120 is your new go-to. It keeps the sleek profile but offers a more breathable, flexible fit with less neck irritation.

 

Mustang Survival PFD Transition: Frequently Asked Questions

Has the Mustang Survival HIT PFD been discontinued? The original Mustang HIT PFD has been archived and succeeded by the next-generation Atlas and Elite series. These new models serve as the direct replacement for the HIT line, retaining the same hydrostatic reliability while introducing improved ergonomics and ADAPT bladder technology. 

Which new model replaces the Mustang Survival Elite 28 PFD? The Elite 120 PFD is the direct successor to the Elite 28. It maintains the sleek, low-profile design favored by high-activity boaters but features a more breathable back panel and a refined neck shape to eliminate the irritation and weight strain often associated with traditional inflatable vests. 

Does the new Elite/Atlas series still use the same Hydrostatic Inflator Technology (HIT) as my old vest? The new Elite 190, Elite 120, and Atlas 190 PFDs continue to utilize the same trusted Hydrostatic Inflator Technology found in previous Mustang Survival HIT models. This system is designed to activate only when submerged in four or more inches of water, ensuring "no-fire" reliability in high-spray or humid environments. 

Is a soft harness loop as strong as a steel D-ring? The soft harness loop safety on the Atlas 190 PFD provides the same breaking strength as a traditional steel D-ring and is fully certified to the ISO 12401 International Standard. Utilizing engineered and reinforced materials used in the climbing industry, it offers a lighter, lower-profile alternative that won't scratch a boat’s gelcoat or create noise while moving. 

What is ADAPT Technology in the new Mustang Survival PFDs? ADAPT (Advanced Airway Protection & Turning) Technology is a proprietary bladder design that uses a "dog-leg" shape to turn a wearer face-up faster in the water. This latest innovation includes a wide head pillow for stability in high sea states and integrated baffle barriers designed to dissipate incoming waves and spray away from the user’s face.  

Mustang Survival Ambassador Carl Jocumsen operating a boat on open water, wearing the Elite 120 inflatable PFD.

Expert Support for Your Safety Transition

Whether you’re heading out for a casual day on the water or gearing up for offshore adventure, our updated inflatable PFD lineup is designed to move with you—more comfortably, more intuitively, and with the same life-saving reliability you’ve always counted on. If you’re unsure which model is right for you, our team is always here to help you find the perfect fit. Different name, better experience—same commitment to keeping you safe out there. 

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