How to Choose a PFD

• PFD Sizing and Fitting
• Types of PFDs
• Buoyancy
• What to Compare
• PFD Care
• FAQs

A personal flotation device - more often called a PFD, life jacket or life vest - gives you more buoyancy to help stay afloat. The most important advice you can get about PFDs is simply this: Be sure to wear one. Whether canoeing a calm lake, kayaking the open sea or running the rapids, your conditions can change at a moment's notice, and a PFD can save you, your child or even your dog.

In addition to personal safety, be aware most states legally require you to have a Type I, II, III or V PFD that is United States Coast Guard approved, marked with the USCG approval number, the proper size for the intended wearer, in good condition and readily accessible. Laws vary by state, but the USCG recommends anyone operating a human-powered watercraft wear a PFD and children under 13 wear one at all times while in a vessel.

PFD Sizing and Fitting

PFDs for Adults

Sizing: For adults, chest size-not weight-will determine what size is right. (For children, their weight will determine the size.) The PFD should be snug and fit like a glove, yet allow you to move freely and not chafe while paddling and playing. To get the best feel and fit, wear the clothes you would be while paddling when trying on a PFD to help find the right size and freedom of movement.

Women should consider women-specific PFDs versus unisex styles. Women's PFDs may offer a better fit thanks to princess seams, contoured cups for larger bust lines and styles made for longer torsos.

Each PFD will have a different design and foam placement to fit the contours of the body. It doesn't matter where the foam is located safety-wise, but comfort-wise you want it to fit comfortably. The more straps it has, the more adjustments can be made to customize the fit.

Fitting: Once you've selected the right size PFD, follow these fitting steps.

• Loosen all the straps, put the PFD on and zip it up.
• Start at the waist, and tighten all the straps. If it has shoulder straps, tighten them last. It should feel snug but not uncomfortable.
• Next, have someone pull up on the PFD shoulders. If it moves up past your nose or head, try tightening the straps. If it still moves up, the PFD is too large.
• The right size may seem "thick," but check your movements to make sure it is comfortable and will not chafe anywhere while paddling. To do so, sit in your kayak or canoe at home, or if you're at an REI store, ask the REI paddling expert to sit in a display kayak or canoe. This will stimulate how it actually feels while sitting.
• If possible, test your PFD in a pool or shallow water to see how it works. It should not ride up or slip over your chin while floating.

PFDs for Children

Sizing: Fit is important in keeping a child's head above water, so do not get a too-big PFD thinking he or she will grow into it.

Sizing for a youngster depends on his or her weight (not chest size):

• Infant PFDs - 8-30 pounds
• Child PFDs - 30-50 pounds
• Youth PFDs - 50-90 pounds

For infant and kids, look for:

• A padded head support to help keep the head above water.
• A handle to assist retrieving the child out of the water.
• A crotch strap to help keep the PFD from riding up.

Youth-sized PFDs look and have the features of adult PFDs. The more straps, the more adjustments can be made for sizing.

Fitting: As with an adult's PFD, a child's must fit snugly. To check the fit, once the child is secured in it, pick him/her up by the shoulders of the PFD. The child's chin and ears should not slip through. Familiarize the child with the PFD in the water so he/she will be comfortable wearing it and hopefully less likely to panic during the activity.

PFDs for Dogs

While many dogs are good swimmers, others lack confidence in the water or they may tire or panic away from shore. Dog PFDs are not USCG certified, but they can still be a lifesaver and help your pet to enjoy the water.

Considerations:

• It should fit snug so "man's best friend" cannot twist, step or swim out of it.
• A low-profile style will have less potential of catching a snag.
• Look for one with easy-release buckles.
• A handle for lifting your pooch out of the water is also helpful.

Types of PFDs

There are 5 categories of PFDs, but most paddlers should use a Type III or V USCG-approved PFD.

Type I: Offshore Life Jackets: These vests are geared for rough, open or remote waters where rescue may take a while. They are bulky, but they have the most buoyancy, a bright color and will turn most unconscious people face up in the water.

Type II: Near-Shore Vests: Calm inland waters, where there is a likely chance of a fast rescue, is the intent of these PFDs. They will turn some unconscious wearers to the face-up position but not all of them. They are bulky, but less so than Type I.

Type III: Flotation Aids: These are suitable for various sports activities and the most comfortable for continuous wear and freedom of movement. They are good for where there is a quick chance of rescue. They are designed so wearers can put themselves in a face-up position, but they may have to tilt their head back to avoid being face down in water.

Type IV: Throwable Devices: Cushions or ring buoys are designed to be thrown to someone in trouble and provide backup to a PFD. They are not for non-swimmers, rough waters or the unconscious. These are not considered USCG approved. The USCG does not require these for canoes or kayaks.

Type V: Special-Use Devices: These are specialized PFDs for specific activities. To be acceptable by the USCG, they must be used for the activity specified on the label. Varieties include kayaking, waterskiing, windsurfing, hybrid vests and deck suits.

Buoyancy

Buoyancy is the force (in pounds) required to keep a person's head and chin afloat above water. Most adults need just an extra 7 to 12 pounds of buoyancy to stay afloat. Additionally, your weight, body fat, lung size, clothing and whether the water is rough or calm are all factors to staying on top of the water. In general, the more physically fit you are, the more lift you need.

To check buoyancy, tilt your head back and relax your body. Your chin should be above water and your breathing should be easy. If your mouth is not above the water, select a different PFD with more buoyancy. It should not ride up or go over your head. However, if your stomach is larger than your chest, ride-up may occur. Remember, it will be different bouncing around in swift water where currents may be jostling or pulling you down than it will be in calm waters.

The USCG denotes each PFD classification to have the following minimum buoyancy.

Type of PFD	Min. Adult Buoyancy (lbs.)
Type I	22.0
Type II	15.5
Type III	15.5
Type IV Ring Buoys Cushions	16.5 18.0
Type V Hybrids Special Use	7.5(deflated) - 22.0(fully inflated) 15.5-22.0

What to Compare

Styling

Contoured foam panels have largely replaced the bulky foam ribs of older PFDs. The style of newer PFDs can be pullover, side-entry or a zipper up the front. They function the same, so your choice depends on personal preference.

To allow good freedom of movement, look for a deep neck, large armholes and narrow shoulder straps. Most PFDs are waist length or low-profile, designed for kayakers sitting with a high seat back, but they are comfortable for other paddling sports, too.

Flotation Materials

There are several types of PFD flotation materials. Base your choice on cost, environmental consciousness and performance.

GaiaTM: This newer foam is based on an organic nitrile compound. It is relatively eco-friendly thanks to being PVC- and halogen-free, plus it does not include CFCs, which is an ozone-depleting material. It is softer than PVC foam and effectively resists cold and heat. Gaia is easy to clean and resists most chemicals, petroleum products and humidity. Its low apparent density reduces weight without performance loss.

Kapok: This comes from the fluffy fiber surrounding the seeds of the kapok tree (also known as a ceiba tree). Kapok is resilient, very light and buoyant, but it is highly flammable. It resists water and is more durable than foam. Kapok fibers do not leach out over time or disintegrate and lose buoyancy. When retiring a vest that has kapok, the kapok fiber can often be recycled in your compost.

PVC: Polyvinyl-chloride foam is inexpensive, durable and widely used in PFDs. It is strong, and it is resistant to oil, chemicals, flames, sunlight and weathering. While it has longevity, because it contains the non-green components of chlorine and oil, it is not readily recyclable.

Features

Consider these features when deciding which PFD is right for you.

Tabs: Look at the number of tabs and their location on the front and back on the PFD. Tabs let you attach a knife, whistle (which is required in many areas), strobes or other accessories.

Pockets: Consider size and placement. Are there pockets to warm your hands or have easy access to your doodads? Is there a pocket for a hydration unit?

Color: A bright color improves visibility.

Reflective tape: This adds visibility in low-light conditions.

Ventilation: Where will you be paddling? Do you need a little or a lot?

Fishing features: Some manufacturers offer PFDs with fishing features such as multiple tool hangers, loops for a rod and a drop-down pocket table for working with lures and flies.

PFD Care

Before Using:

• Do not alter a PFD to make it fit. Get one that fits. An altered life jacket is not USCG approved.
• Check your PFD for rips, tears and holes. Check that seams, straps and hardware are in good shape. Give the straps a quick yank to make sure they are secure.
• Check that there is no waterlogging, mildew odor or shrinkage of buoyant materials. These are indications of buoyancy loss.
• Faded material may indicate loss of strength.
• Write your name on the jacket so not to mix it up with someone else's.
• Test it in shallow water.

During Use:

• Don't use the PFD as a cushion, kneeling pad or boat bumper. It will lose buoyancy.
• Do not put heavy items in the pockets.
• Be careful to not put objects in the pockets that could puncture.
• Don't leave the PFD lying in the sunshine for long periods.
• Rinse with fresh water after use, especially after being in salt water.
• Drip-dry before storing.

After Use:

• Don't use harsh detergents or dry clean a PFD.
• Drying it in a dryer or direct heat can destroy its buoyancy.
• Don't store it in sunlight - UV rays can damage the fabric.
• Store in a cool, dry, dark place where there is good ventilation.
• Older foam PFDs may lose buoyancy and need to be replaced.
• Get rid of old PFDs by cutting them up and properly disposing so a person who finds one does not try to use the faulty PFD.

FAQs

Q: Does it matter what I weigh when selecting a PFD?

A: Adult PFDs should be chosen based on your chest size, not weight. (Child PFD sizes are weight-based.) Most people are naturally buoyant in water and need just an extra 7 to 12 pounds of buoyancy to stay afloat.

Q: How long does a PFD last?

A: There is no standard time limit, though proper care will make it last longer. Waterlogged materials, mildew odor or buoyancy shrinkage indicate the need for replacement.

Q: If my PFD with kapok gets a leak, can it be fixed?

A: Though kapok is naturally buoyant, it may swell and mildew. The USCG requires kapok be kept in a bladder. Some manufacturers provide a lifetime guarantee and will replace the bladder. Otherwise, the kapok can be recycled in your compost.

Q: What is a hybrid PFD?

A: A hybrid vest contains some internal buoyancy (foam) and is inflatable to provide additional flotation. This high-end PFD is most often used by play-boaters looking for a lighter, less bulky design.

Q: Can I buy a PFD for my child to grow into?

A: No. A PFD that is too large can ride up too high and not support the child in the water properly. Make sure the PFD is snug and keeps the head and mouth afloat.

Q: If a person does not know how to swim, do they need a special PFD?

A: All people are naturally buoyant and Types I, II, III add 15.5 to 22 pounds of extra buoyancy. Type V adds 7.5 to 22 pounds of buoyancy. Most adults need only 7 to 12 pounds of extra buoyancy to stay afloat, so even a non-swimmer can float with a PFD.

Q: Can a woman wear a man's PFD?

A: Yes, however there are women-specific PFDs that may fit better and be more comfortable.

Q: Can I use one PFD for various sports?

A: Yes, if it is a Type III. No, if it is a Type V. Type III PFDs are USCG-approved for various sports activities. Type V is USCG-approved only for a specific water sport.

Q: Are there weight limits for a child's PFD?

A: Yes, a child's PFD is determined by how much they weigh. Three categories are offered: infant, child and youth.

Q: If unconscious, will I float face up?

A: Infant and child PFDs with a head support are designed to keep their heads up and faces out of the water. Larger youth and adult sizes generally do not have a head support, but they are made so the person can put themselves to a face-up position.

Q: Can I just have the PFD near me and ready to put on instead of wearing it all the time?

A: Situations can change rapidly. It is far better to wear it at all times to enhance your safety rather than risk being unprepared and sorry.

Q: How often should a PFD be tested?

A: At least once a year for wear and buoyancy. If waterlogged, faded or leaky, a PFD should be discarded properly so someone else does not use a retired model.

Q: Will a PFD protect me from hypothermia?

A: No. Hypothermia is the loss of body heat that starts with shivering, hand numbness and loss of muscle coordination. It can cause a coma or even death, and it won't be avoided just by wearing a PFD. A wet or dry suit should be worn under a PFD in cold waters, but hypothermia is always a risk if you are in frigid water or exposed to cold weather.