Always put safety first before getting in the water. And it can begin with wearing the appropriate life jacket, commonly known as a personal flotation device (PFD). PFDs can be an essential accessory for kayaking, even when paddling in calm water. We will go through what to consider in picking the finest kayak life jacket in this article.
Important Features to Look for in a Kayaking Life Jacket
You should consider several design elements while selecting a life vest for kayaking.
Safety Level of All Types
Type I
Extreme weather calls for a Type I life jacket. It is designed for vast waters, where assistance may be far away, and has the maximum level of stability of any life jacket.
Type II
In calm seas, such as those near the coast and inland bodies of water, a Type II life vest is intended to offer sufficient flotation for rescue operations.
Type III
These life jackets are made to be less bulky, unlike a Type I or II PFD. It may be better appropriate for activities close to shore where there is a greater likelihood of a quick rescue.
Type IV
It is prohibited to wear a Type IV PFD. Generally, it’s a personal flotation device that can be thrown and is self-assuredly buoyant. This may need to be carried by some longer vessels and be easily available at any time while they are underway.
Type V
Rafting, deck suits, and rowing vests are all activities specifically tailored to the Type V PFD.
Perfectly Fit
If you’re spending time on the water, your kayak life jacket must fit you snugly. To prevent your PFD from floating off in the event of a fall, it should fit comfortably. The PFD must be comfortable so that you’ll wear it the whole time you’re out on the water.
Color
Vibrant colors can be practical since they make you more visible on the sea, which is crucial during a rescue. You may add reflective strips to some PFDs to enhance low-light visibility.
Materials
Life jackets can be made from various materials, including polyester, polyamide, and latex. Closed cell foam frequently makes up the bulk of PFDs that are naturally buoyant and provides buoyancy.
The Style
Large arm openings with an unrestricted range of motion are the first. You can paddle with the most freedom if your life vest has large arm holes.
Some kayak life jackets feature netting at the bottom of the back. With the flotation cushioned above the seat, you may spend all day relaxing on the water with ease.
Pockets
PFDs with pockets can be beneficial, particularly for kayaking, swimming, or paddle boarding. They can be useful if you have little space and wish to keep small goods, like whistles, nearby and easily accessible.
Conclusion
You should wear a PFD every time you are on the water because it is lifesaving gear. If your PFD’s fabric is torn, discolored, or otherwise damaged, you should throw it away. Also, always check to see if your PFD is appropriate for the type of water activity you will engage in.
