We Know: All About Buying a Life Jacket/PFD

What is a PFD?

PFD stands for Personal Flotation Device and is the official name for a life jacket.

About Life Jackets/PFDs

The primary purpose of a life jacket is to keep you afloat and save your life. It should fit your size and be worn snugly in order to be effective. Once secured to yourself, you should not be able to lift it up over your neck. If it slides much at all, tighten it. If it's still loose, the jacket is too large for you. The more comfortable you are when wearing the jacket, the more likely you are to wear it all the time.

Optional Features for Life Jackets/PFDs

There are many optional features a life jacket may have, including:

  • Reflective panels: Makes you more visible on the water.
  • Tabs or loops: For securing accessories like strobe lights, signal horns, whistle, etc.
  • Pockets: To store small-sized gear. Drainage holes are good to let the water out.
  • Cinch straps: For a snug fit.
  • Low profile: Enables you to swing your arms more fully and the vest is less likely to get in the way. An example of a jacket that isn't low profile are the traditional foam-filled bright orange jackets. Kayakers are one group that absolutely need low profile PFDs, though most prefer them regardless of their sport.
  • High up back flotation: Makes it more comfortable to wear while sitting down such as in a kayak where the seat back can hinder comfort while wearing a PFD.
  • Reflective tape: For visibility.
  • Ventilation: Can be located almost anywhere on the vest, but it makes it possible for your body to breathe and decreases likelihood of overheating.

Life Jacket/PFD Models

Depending on your style, budget, and needs, there are many life jackets on the market today, including:

  1. Stohlquist Motion Mens PFD: Price is around $126.
  2. Lotus Designs Rio Bravo PFD F'04: Price is around $85.
  3. Stohlquist A-sea PFD: Price is around $78.
  4. WinningEdge 3-Strap Universal Life Jacket Vest: Price is around $20.
  5. Jet Pilot Nomad Adult Nylon Vest: Price is around $30.


Privacy Policy | Terms of Use © 2003-2009, ineed2know.org

Sponsored by

ineed2know.org proudly supports