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How to choose
your PFD
Whether you're
kayaking down whitewater rapids or canoeing
around your local swimming hole, you need a
personal flotation device. It's not just a good
idea — it's the law! Federal regulations require
every boat on the water to have on board at
least 1 wearable, US Coast Guard approved PFD
per person. This includes canoes and kayaks. If
you're smart, though, you won't just have one on
your boat, you'll have one on your body. Many
states have laws requiring the wearing of PFDs
in certain situations. It's your duty to know
what those laws are. In the event of capsizing,
having a PFD on board won't save you, but
wearing it might. By the way, every vest that
Lake George Kayak sells is USCG approved, so you can buy with
confidence.
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Select a PFD based on its intended end use.
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Check with each state regarding their
specific laws regarding the wearing of PFDs.
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Fit is crucial. Make sure your PFD is the
right size.
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Proper maintenance ensures better buoyancy.
Types of PFDs
PFDs are broken
down into 5 categories, based upon their
intended use. Manufacturers must meet certain
requirements in order to obtain USCG approval
within these categories. If you are paddling,
you will probably want a Type III, as they are
considerably more comfortable and less bulky
than their counterparts.
Type I
This offshore PFD is recommended for rough, open
water. It's the "Mae West" life jacket that's
found aboard ships at sea. Although it will turn
most unconscious wearers to a face-up position
in the water, it is extremely bulky, and not at
all comfortable for paddling.
Type II
Designed for use near shore, where the chances
of a quick rescue are likely, this is the
standard bright orange "horse collar" that fits
around your neck. It will turn most but not all
unconscious wearers to a face-up position. This
style of PFD is a bit cumbersome for paddling.
Type III
PFDs rated Type III are the most comfortable for
paddling. Designed for inland water where rescue
will be quick, these vests require the wearer to
place himself in a face-up position in the
water. The streamlined fit and large armholes
offer maximum freedom of movement. Jackets in
this category range from vests and pullovers to
a combination of the two, with the best choice
being a matter of personal comfort and
preference.
Type IV
Buoyant cushions and rings that can be thrown to
a swimmer fall into this category. They are
intended for use in calm water with a lot of
boat traffic, where help is always available.
For paddling, they are best used in conjunction
with a wearable PFD, as they are not USCG
approved for canoe and kayak use.
Type V
These highly specialized vests are designed for
specific activities such as sailing,
water-skiing and paddling. They must be worn
according to the instructions on the label, or
they are not considered USCG approved.
Flotation
The average
adult needs about 7 to 12 extra pounds of
flotation to keep his head out of water. In
order to meet USCG requirements, Type Type III
vests must offer 15 lbs. 6 oz. of flotation.
Standard children's vests must provide 11 lbs.,
while small-child and infant vests must provide
at least 7 lbs. Many PFDs exceed these
requirements.
Sizing
For a PFD to
work properly, it must fit properly. Wearing one
that doesn't fit is almost as bad not wearing
one at all. If it's too large, it won't hold
your head above water. If it's too small, it
will be uncomfortable and you probably won't
wear it anyway. When you're trying PFDs on, wear
clothes you'd wear while paddling. The following
steps can help you find a PFD that fits.
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Choose a PFD based on your chest
measurements.
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Loosen all the straps, put it on and zip it
up.
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Tighten all straps, beginning with the
waist-belt. Make sure the jacket is snug,
but not uncomfortable. If it has shoulder
straps, tighten them last.
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Now, have someone push up on the bottom of
the vest or pull up on the shoulders. Does
the vest easily slide up your chest? If it
rides up past your nose or head, it's too
large or not adjusted correctly. If
retightening the straps doesn't help, try a
smaller vest.
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Once you have a vest that fits, try some
paddling moves with it on. Does it bind or
chafe anywhere? If so, try another brand. If
it feels good, you're ready to hit the
water.
Women
Women's PFDs are a relatively new invention.
They feature princess seams and/or panels that
are contoured to fit the female shape. If you're
having trouble fitting into a standard life
vest, check these out.
Kids
Children should always wear PFDs. Some states
require it by law. PFDs for infants usually have
flotation collars to keep heads out of the
water. They also have crotch straps that help
keep the vest snugly in place. Weight ranges can
help you choose which size to buy. Don't buy a
vest for your child to grow into. It might not
stay on in the water. Follow the adult sizing
guidelines when trying them on.
Dogs
If your canine likes to canoe or kayak, consider
a PFD designed for dogs. Built to fit
comfortably around Rover's chest and middle, a
PFD can help your dog stay afloat in rough
water. Look for grab loops that make it easy to
pull Rover out of the drink.
Other
Considerations
Style
Some PFDs are made with ribs of foam, while
others have panels. Some are pullovers while
some zip up the front. The style you choose is
largely a matter of personal preference. If
possible, try on a few of each to determine
what's most comfortable for you.
Length
Most Type III PFDs are "shorties," meaning they
are waist-length. Originally, these were
designed for use with spray skirts, but over
time, many paddlers found them more comfortable
than the longer "skirted" vests. If you paddle a
kayak or decked canoe, buy a shorty. Otherwise,
buy whatever feels best to you.
Pockets
If you want to keep small essentials such as lip
balm or sunscreen close at hand, consider a PFD
with pockets. Look for zippers and hook-and-loop
closures for security. Mesh pockets drain
quickly when wet.
Maintenance Tips
If you treat it
right, your PFD will last for many years to
come. Follow these tips to extend the life of
your vest.
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Don't use your PFD as a cushion or bumper.
It will compress the foam and decrease
buoyancy.
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Rinse your PFD thoroughly after each use,
especially after contact with salt water.
Let it dry out before storing.
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Don't store your PFD in the sun. UV rays can
damage the nylon fabric.
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