Watersports

Standard or inflatable personal flotation device (PFD)? 

• Standard: Low-maintenance, always buoyant, great for various sports, often with pockets. Can feel bulky, restrictive and hot while paddling. 
• Inflatable: Slimmer profile, comfortable, but must be inflated to work and requires more maintenance.
• Hybrid: Balances features of both, but heftier price. 

What conditions will you encounter? 

• Level 50: For competent swimmers and high-mobility activities (kayaking, paddle boarding), where quick rescue is expected.  
• Level 70: For calm, inland waters where fast rescue is likely. 
• Level 100: For rough or remote waters or offshore where rescue may lag.  

Finding the right fit 

• Try on PFDs over paddling clothes for the best fit.  
• Mimic paddling motions. 
• Test with your seat to see if it's comfortable. Kayakers may prefer a shorter PFD.  
• If possible, test your PFD in a pool or shallow water; it shouldn't ride up while floating. 

Paddle length

• The wider your kayak, the longer your paddle needs to be
• Your height is also a factor, especially for a narrower boat; taller paddlers need longer paddles

Shaft material

• Lightweight materials improve performance but add to the price
• Carbon fiber is the lightest and most expensive compared with composite

Paddle style

• High-angle paddles have shorter, wider blades for faster, more precise strokes
• Low-angle options are common for recreational kayaking in flatwater

Shaft type

• A bent shaft or feathered blades can also improve a paddle's effectiveness.
• Two-piece or four-piece: A four-piece has shorter sections so it's more portable