Kayak PFD Lifevest Guide

A kayak PFD (Personal Flotation Device) or lifevest is an essential part of every kayaker's outfit. PFD's required for sea touring are certified by the U.S. Coast Guard as Type III (marked on the label inside the PFD). They are constructed of a nylon shell filled with vertical sections of closed-cell foam. Many states now require you to wear them by law and if you're caught not wearing your PFD you could pay a fine. I strongly recommend that you and every member of your family wear your PFD at all times while in your kayak(s). Especially your children....let's bring them home safely.

PFDs intended for general boating are not suitable for kayaking; their long waists interfere with the spray skirt and overall paddling performance. PFDs intended for kayaking are cut like a high vest.

The role of a PFD is simple: In case of a capsize, it enables you to float on the surface without expending energy. To do this a PFD must be in the right place at the right time---on you when you go into the water. A comfortable fit is very important. Look for a style that's fairly snug but will allow adequate layers of clothing for the conditions you'll encounter while paddling. The fit around your arms should allow ample room for movement, and PFDs with pockets provide handy access to items such as sunscreen, snack bars, and safety flares. Let's take a look together at some important considerations.

Head over to your local kayak and canoe shop and look at the PFDs on display. You'll find most are above the waist designs called shorties. Some PFDs are made from a series of vertical tubes, while others are made of panels. Try on several designs from different manufacturers keeping in mind the fit considerations below.

Now that you've found a design you like, you need to get the right size. You want yours to be snug without constricting. On the sides you'll see adjusting straps. By snugging down on them, you can start with an approximate fit and customize it to your body. Here's a helpful tip: don't try finding the right PFD if you're wearing just a teeshirt. If you purchase that PFD based on using just a teeshirt, when you're on the water wearing a sweatshirt, sweater, or other bulky clothing...you won't be very comfortable or happy. Wear your paddling clothes when you try on a PFD and at least sit on the floor and see if you can stretch through your paddling motions without discomfort.

When you try on a PFD for size, check especially around the armholes and waist. Your PFD should have ample armhole openings, so you won't fight the armhole with each stroke. Your PFD should also be snug around your waist. Type III PFDs are designed not to ride up while in the water. A good rule of thumb is to wear your PFD as your outermost layer of clothing.

Women Paddlers: Many manufacturers think that you can cram into a "Unisex" model. If you find those just aren't comfortable, the better paddling-oriented manufacturers now offer both traditional and side-entry PFDs that acknowledge the gender difference. Kokotat, Lotus Designs, Perception, and Extrasport are four well worth examining.

When considering color for your PFD, go with the brightest color you can find. Orange, lime green, and bright yellow are good choices. In case of a serious emergency, you want to be highly visible. Forget the browns, dark greens, and camouflage patterns. This same rule applies to other gear as well. Like your dry bags. Get bright colors that are easy to see and hard to lose.

Care & Maintenance

PFDs don't last forever, although with sensible care they'll hold up for a number of seasons. To test your kayak PFD once you've had it for awhile, just plop yourself into the water with it on and see if it supports you with your chin out of the water. If the water line is up to your eyes or worst case you sink.....retire it and get a new one. Do the same with your childrens PFDs as well.

Most Type III's fasten with a zipper. Keep it clean from sand and dried salt. Many PFDs also fasten with snaps and buckles. Keep them clean as well. If the zippers or snaps are beginning to corrode, replace your PFD. Don't bet your life or the life of a loved one on a piece of weak kayak gear.

As a final note, use your PFD for what it was intended for. Don't use it as a seat at the campsite, boat cushion on top of your car, kneeling pad or as a boat fender. And if your PFD gets wet, don't dry it over a campfire. Let it air dry naturally. It'll last much longer.

Kayak PFDs for Children

Children are not adults. Don't dangle your kids in an adult lifevest. Aside from being uncomfortable, in the event of a capsize, a child can slip right through the PFD and float away. So use PFDs that fit your children. Today you'll find PFDs for infant, child, and youth with chest sizes on the label. Just follow the fit guidelines from the above section and you'll have a safe, fun family outing. You'll also have peace of mind too!