Buzz
When I purchased my first kayak, I quickly realized I’d need to buy my own PFD (personal flotation device). Typically, when you rent a boat, the staff gives you a lifejacket, and you try to forget how uncomfortable it feels while enjoying your time on the water. But now that you're buying one, you have the chance to choose the best fit for you.
The Importance of Wearing a Personal Flotation Device
The Coast Guard advises that every recreational boat must have a PFD for each person onboard—and yes, this applies to paddle boards as well. Additionally, there may be other regulations to consider: For instance, in state parks, you must follow the park's rules. Generally, children and non-swimmers should always wear a PFD when on the water; adults who are able to swim don’t have to wear one, but it’s still wise to have a PFD on board.
Adult-sized PFDs don’t always fit children, so it’s best to plan ahead. Before I even had my own boat, I owned several Coast Guard-approved child-sized lifejackets. This way, I could take my young son on a family canoe trip without worrying about whether the rental place would have one his size. Kid-sized PFDs are also great for swimming pool use.
PFDs come in various designs and styles.
By law, PFDs must display prominent, clear labels indicating the type and intended user. Children’s lifejackets are labeled accordingly with weight guidelines: Infant PFDs are for up to 30 pounds, child PFDs cover 30 to 50 pounds, and youth PFDs fit 50 to 90 pounds. Above these weights, kids can transition to adult models.
This Coast Guard pamphlet explains the features of different PFD types. Some are designed for kayaking, offering ample shoulder room. There are hunting PFDs with mesh and camouflage designs, and others that provide warmth in cold water. Additionally, there are PFDs that inflate automatically, as well as models that inflate when you pull a cord.
Think about which type suits your needs
Minimalist designs are appealing if you want to avoid wearing a full lifejacket but also find it odd to only have a PFD on your boat (which, by the way, is something the Coast Guard notes in their pamphlet—many fatalities in calm waters involve individuals who had a lifejacket on board but didn’t wear it). However, it’s important to be honest with yourself about whether these options truly work for you.
I have one of these, a belt-style PFD that inflates manually. In an emergency, I would need to pull a cord, releasing a CO2 cartridge to inflate a yellow bag. When inflated, this bag rests like a bib on my chest, and I would secure it around my neck with a strap. Given the complexity in an emergency, this type is best for strong swimmers who aren’t likely to be caught off guard (e.g., knocked off a boat). But honestly, who can predict that?
I also own a paddling vest, which is definitely the better option in most situations. If I were to fall from my boat and couldn’t climb back in, it would keep me afloat without exhausting me from treading water, and it might even offer some warmth.
Children’s PFDs come with extra features compared to adult versions: they include a strap between the legs to prevent the child from slipping out of the vest, and a handle on top to easily pull them from the water if necessary. Many kids’ PFDs, and some adult ones, also feature a head pillow to help keep the user’s face above water in case of prolonged floating or unconsciousness.
Water safety goes beyond just wearing a PFD, but starting with a properly chosen and well-fitted one is a solid first step. As the Coast Guard points out, the best PFD is the one you’ll actually wear.
