It’s important to wear the proper personal flotation device when you plan on swimming or engaging in water sports.
The correct PFD can save your life. Not all are built the same way. If you plan on going for a more arduous exercise, that is, kayaking, the PFD you choose is vital to ensuring your safety. A kayak PFD isn’t necessarily suitable fishing, paddleboarding, or whitewater rafting, and here’s why.
Personal Flotation Devices Categories
In most cases, the words life vest, PFD, buoyancy aid, life jacket, and swim vest are used interchangeably; however, a PFD is not the same as a life jacket. The latter falls under a specific category of personal flotation devices: Type I.
Type I PFDs, such as life jackets, are for offshore ocean use and are unsuitable for water activities that require a paddle. They’re bulky and may restrict you from paddling and swimming to safety. Type I PFDs have a buoyant collar and are commonly used when there’s someone unconscious who needs to be turned face-up to avoid drowning.
Type II PFDs are considered near-shore personal flotation devices and serve a near-identical purpose to Type I PFDs. They have a “horse collar” and are designed to keep an unconscious individual afloat.
Type III PFDs are the best PFDs for kayaking, SUP, sailing, and canoeing. They provide the most comfort and allow you to move freely, unlike the bulkier Type I and II PFDs.
Type IV PFDs are not meant to be worn. They are shaped like a seat cushion and thrown to those overboard. While they aren’t mandatory, larger vessels almost always have them on-board in case of emergencies, especially on cruises.
Type V PFDs are customized according to their use. They can come without zippers or as a pullover. They are specialized for specific water sports like wakeboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking and must not be used for another activity. According to the Coast Guard requirements, they should be worn at all times.
In short, the most suitable personal flotation devices for kayaking are Type III and V.
Things To Consider When Choosing a Kayak PFD
Safety and Visibility
If you’ll be venturing out onto the water at night, a PFD with high-contrast colors, like orange and yellow, will make it easier for rescuers to spot you. Some PFDs also have reflective tapes and come with pockets where you can secure your phone or whistle.
Comfort
There are vests with vents to provide optimal airflow between the pads. The pads you choose will depend on your preference and desired ease of use.
PFD Sizing
For a personal flotation device (PFD) to effectively keep a person safe in the water, the right PFD size matters. The right size for an adult is vastly different from a child’s. Here’s how you can tell:
Adults
For adults, the circumference of your chest (starting from the broadest point) serves as the basis for your PFD’s optimal size.
Kids
Unlike adults’ chests being the foundation for size, kids’ PFDs are based on their weight. Sizing is categorized into three: infant, child, and youth. Here’s a weight guide to determine the right size:
- Infant: 8 – 30 lbs.
- Child: 30 – 50 lbs.
- Youth: 50 – 90 lbs.
How To Wear a PFD Properly
“Do you have to wear a PFD in a kayak?”
Yes.
Safety always comes first. Regardless of how good a swimmer you are, there’s no telling when disaster will strike and how intense it’ll be.
Putting the PFD on isn’t the only step. You have to be comfortable and secured. A good practice is loosening the PFD straps and adjusting them accordingly.
Here’s how to wear a PFD:
1. Fasten the PFD.
First, secure the vest’s buckles. You should hear a click if done correctly. Zip it up, if applicable.
2. Do the straps next.
Afterward, tighten the straps. Start from the bottom, and tighten both straps simultaneously, if possible. If your PFD has shoulder straps, do those as well.
3. Double-check.
Double-check your PFD. Tug it upward gently. The PFD should remain intact and not slip or budge.
However, be mindful that your PFD isn’t so tight that it hinders your movement. A PFD will only help if you’re wearing it, not when it’s wearing you. Always consider your comfort and ease of use when choosing the one for you.
If you’re looking for an establishment that offers a wide array of activities complete with every safety amenity you’ll need, Island Marine Rentals is the best in Florida. We offer kayak rentals inclusive of the right PFDs, whistles, paddles, dollies, and transportation straps.
We also offer paddle board, scooter, bicycle, and boat rental services in Madeira Beach, FL. Book with IMR today!
