Video · Rigging & Gear
Best Life Jackets (PFDs) for Kayaking: Types, Sizing and Picks
I break down life jacket types, sizing and my favorite PFDs for kayaking and paddle boarding, from NRS vests to inflatable waist packs.
What’s in this video
Before you buy a PFD for kayaking or paddle boarding, I wanted you to see this. I walk through the different PFD types, then get into sizing. From there I talk about NRS life jackets like the Chinook, and the inflatable waist pack style.
I finish with my personal experience wearing these on the water. The brands I trust most for PFDs are NRS, Astral, Stohlquist, Mustang, Kokatat, MTI and Onyx. In the description I also list picks for women, kids, infants and even dogs.
Key moments
Quick takeaways
- The brands I trust most for PFDs: NRS, Astral, Stohlquist, Mustang, Kokatat, MTI and Onyx.
- The NRS Shenook is designed for women, while the Chinook is unisex.
- Onyx makes both inflatable waist pack PFDs and auto/manual inflatable vests.
- Many PFDs have a lash tab that fits a knife like the Gerber River Shorty.
Gear from this video
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