Choosing The Proper Kayaking Life Jacket is Essential

When you are out on the water, you need to have a kayaking life jacket for every person on board. Life vests are very lightweight and not uncomfortable to wear. No matter what type of kayaking you plan to do, when you purchase the kayak, you should also purchase life vests for yourself and anyone else who might accompany you on your trip.

Wearing a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) while kayaking will save lives in case of a mishap. According to statistics, most boating accidents involve the improper use or non-use of life jackets. Never stow a kayak life vest in the kayak’s bow compartment, or worse, sit on it! It is meant to be worn at all times. When an accident occurs, there may not be enough time to put on your PFD.

There are five different types of vests or life saving devices available for kayakers and inflatable boat owners. Deciding which type of jacket to buy and wear depends on where you intend to go and the expected water conditions.

Type I: Offshore life jackets – This type of vest is the best personal flotation device for ocean kayakers and anyone venturing into remote waters where rescue may take some time. This personal flotation device will keep the head above water until help arrives.
Type II: Near-Shore life vests – As the name suggests, these PFDs should not be used offshore. Suitable for calm waters and areas where rescue may not be far away. This type of kayak jacket may not keep the head of an unconscious person above water.
Type III: Flotation Aids – Used for water sports. Suitable for kayaking in placid waters and close to shore where rescue is not far away. This PFD will not turn the face up.
Type IV: Throwable Life Ring – A mandatory device on boats over a certain length. Not required as a boating accessory for kayaking.
Type V: Special PFDs – This category includes life suits, windsurfing vests and jackets for water skiing and some kayaking activities.