How to Buy a Life Vest for Kayaking

Unlike life vests--also known as personal flotation devices (PFD)--for water skiing or rafting, a PFD for kayaking should be a personalized piece of equipment. This means it should fit in both size and comfort. There are a few things to consider when shopping for your PFD.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• It helps to have your boat.
• Bring usual kayaking attire.

1. A properly fitted PFD should fit you in every season, from those hot summer days in the local river trails to paddling alongside glaciers in Alaska. This PFD will last you many good years if maintained. Keep in mind what clothes you’ll be wearing while paddling in cold and rainy conditions when choosing a PFD.
2. A paddling life vest is often cut high in the back so it won’t ride up when you’re in the cockpit. It should provide your arms ample room to rotate even with a dry-suit and gear. There are a variety of styles and some fitted specifically for women and those with shorter torso length.
3. When shopping around for a new PFD, wear it in your kayak or a model similar to yours. See how easy it is to maneuver, attach a spray skirt and paddle. If you’re unable to test one in a boat, at least wear it in a seated position and mimic a number of paddle strokes.
4. Look for spots where the vest may ride up on you, chafe your armpits or chest or feel tight or uncomfortable. Many are adjustable to accommodate a variety of clothing and can carry some basic supplies such as a compass, whistle, energy bar or small flares.