KAPA‘A — A Kapa‘a man claims to be the proud inventor of “floatation surf shorts,” an idea he originally came up with and started using himself in 2005. Now, Ray Leton is selling his “life-saving” swimwear, which he claims are
KAPA‘A — A Kapa‘a man claims to be the proud inventor of “floatation surf shorts,” an idea he originally came up with and started using himself in 2005.
Now, Ray Leton is selling his “life-saving” swimwear, which he claims are perfect for surfers and boaters alike.
“They work great,” Leton said. “I wore my first pair 7 years ago. Now I have developed and mass-produced them.”
Leton, now in his 60s, said the concept was born out of the need to survive while surfing big waves.
“They’re for people who don’t want to drown … It’s a new kind of PFD (Personal Floatation Device).”
The shorts, being sold under the brand name Tsunami Surfers, feature two polyolefin foam pads — the same stuff used in camping mats — one on each side of the swimmer’s body, which eliminates interference while surfing.
Although not yet approved by the Coast Guard, Leton says his product fits the federal requirements for a PFD “to a tee.”
“You’ll already be wearing them when the emergency starts,” he said.
Leton is selling the shorts $40. They come in a variety of colors and are available in sizes 26 to 38.
“If you were stranded at sea you could sit and read the newspaper,” he said of his product. “You’re almost drown-proof if you wear them.”
For more information or to purchase a pair of Tsunami Surfers floatation surf shorts contact Ray Leton at 651-5637.
• Chris D’Angelo, lifestyle writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 241) or lifestyle@thegardenisland.com.
