PFD stands for Personal Floatation Device, and is also known as a lifejacket. A lifejacket provides buoyancy, extra insulation on cold days, and body armor in the event of a swim. Wearing a lifejacket is a prerequisite in kayaking.

The style PFD you choose will be based on the type of paddling you will be engaging in.

Touring & Recreational Flatwater Lifejackets:
Touring and recreational paddlers need a PFD with a short torso and additional pockets to stow gear. A high visibility vest with reflective trim or bright colors is also a good idea. View Flatwater lifejackets  


Whitewater Lifejackets:
Range of motion is everything for the whitewater kayaker. A low profile yet high buoyancy PFD is the jacket of choice, and there are several great models to choose from! View Whitewater lifejackets


Rescue Lifejackets:
Those who have specific rescue training or those who engage in creek boating may opt for a rescue vest. This type of vest has extra gadgets that will assist the paddler in a rescue situation. It is important to understand how to use the vest before hitting the water. View Rescue lifejackets


Rafting Lifejackets:
PFDs for rafting provide more flotation and coverage than PFDs designed for kayaking. They have front buckles and more adjustment points to accommodate a variety of people. Some include padded headrests to keep your head up and out of the water. View Rafting lifejackets

Dog Lifejackets:
Some dogs jump in the water. Other dogs fall in. Either way, a lifejacket keeps them on the surface. Many vests feature grab loop and leash ring for security, and reflective tape on top for visibility. View Dog lifejackets

Kids Lifejackets:
Teach children water safety from the very beginning - get them a lifejacket. It will help make a child’s early experiences on the water safe and memorable. A comfortable PFD is the key to getting your kids wearing and enjoying water activities safely. View Kids lifejackets

General Lifejacket Info:

Fitting your PFD
First, zip the PFD and tighten the side straps. Be sure to fasten all zips, belts, snaps, and straps. The PFD should not rub your chin or around your armpits. Test the sizing on your PFD by holding your arms straight out and have a friend lift the jacket from the shoulder straps. If the vest slips upward, tighten the fit. The right hydraulic could rip an unsecured PFD right over your head. Be sure your PFD adjusts to fit over bulky, cold weather paddling clothes.

Care for your PFD
An old jacket will lose some of its buoyancy. If the foam in your PFD seems stiff and doesn't spring back when you push on it; it is time to replace it. Don't permanently alter your PFD, if it doesn't fit when all the straps are adjusted, you probably need a different PFD.

Other Tips:
Don't use your PFD for a kneeling pad or seat cushion
Let your PFD dry completely before you put it away
Store it in a well-ventilated place
Never dry your PFD directly on a heat source