Are you looking for the best kayak life jacket for your next adventure? Kayaking is a fun recreational activity, but always wear your life jacket before you go out in the water.
It doesn’t matter if you know how to swim or not. Sometimes, shallow water can be dangerous too!
Kayak life vests are designed to save lives. There are different types and styles available for different activities and water conditions. Before purchasing your personal flotation device (PFD), check the label to ensure you’re using the right one.
If you are in a hurry, we have narrowed your choices. Check out these top picks.
Best Kayak PFD
Even paddling on calm water, you need to wear a life vest. If you are a beginner, a life jacket is especially important.
This article will discuss what to look for when you buy a life jacket and show you some of the best available options. With that, let’s get right to it.
#1 NRS Ion Kayak Lifejacket (PFD)
- 400 denier ripstop nylon ensures season-after-season durability.
- Six-panel design constructed with ultra soft foam for a flexible fit that...
- Side-entry with six adjustment points for a customizable fit. AirMesh inner panels...
- Features padded shoulder straps, strap garages and reflective accents for low-light...
- The Ion is a Type III, low-profile life jacket designed with 16.3 pounds of flotation...
Features:
- United States Coast Guard certified
- Flexible fit
- Type III PFD, 16.5 pounds of flotation
Review
Among the PFDs available in the market, the NRS Ion Kayak Lifejacket stands out from others on this list. The six-panel design is constructed with ultra-soft foam to move with you. The life jacket is durable and will last a long time.
While it may look bulky, the six-panel design is ultra-soft foam with padded shoulders, making it very comfy. Its single-entry design makes it easy to wear and allows you to move in any direction.
This jacket is also perfect for paddling on a hot summer day. Because of its AirMesh inner panels, ventilation throughout the jacket helps keep you cool. Its zipped pockets are also handy for your essentials.
PROS
Excellent flotation because it is a Type III PFD
The overall design provides comfort
Movement is not restricted
Reflective accents for low-light visibility
Available in a variety of colors
CONS
Rides a little high in the kayak
Bulky for the slim wearer
Summary
If you’re looking for excellent value for your money, the NRS Ion Kayak PFD is a great find. It’s a well-designed PFD, making it a top contender!
#2 Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Vest
- Mesh in lower back fits high back seats;
- Shoulder adjustments with neoprene comfort pads
- SOLAS grade reflective material for visibility
- Expandable zippered pockets with mesh drainage
- Heavy duty nylon fabric; soft, lightweight flotation foam
Features:
- Reflective material for visibility
- Heavy-duty nylon fabric
- USCG approved, Type III PFD
Review
The United States Coast Guard and Transport Canada approve this life jacket. That should provide you with some confidence. It’s made from SOLAS-grade reflective materials, making you visible even in a low-light area or open water. The jacket also has an integrated whistle that you can use for emergencies.
Design-wise, it’s comfortable to use, though it feels bulky in front. It has mesh lower back ventilation in front and back that keeps you cool. The high foam back is perfect for canoe and various kayak seats. The large arm holes allow you to move freely, though sometimes your arms rub on the sides.
The pockets on the front can be safe storage for your phone or other essentials. At the same time, the lash tabs can be used for tethered items. The pocket makes for a good fishing life vest since you can store a sleeve of lures and other gear.
The only thing that I didn’t like about this product is its sizing. The sizes tend to run big, so you may need to buy a smaller size.
PROS
The six adjustment straps ensure a snug fit
High foam back
Mesh keeps your back dry
SOLAS grade reflective materials make you visible even in low light.
CONS
It’s a tight fit with a sit-inside kayak
Size runs big
Summary
This is one of the best life jackets for kayaking because it is lightweight, durable, and helps keep you cool. If safety while in the water is your priority, this lifejacket is an excellent choice. You get a solid value, and the price is reasonable.
#3 ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx Inflatable Life Jacket
- Durable fabric resists tears and punctures
- Inflates with manual movement of T-cord or automatically upon immersion in water
- Lightweight, comfortable, slender design keeps you cool in warm weather
- Soft neoprene neckline for all day wearing comfort
- This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
Features:
- Lightweight, durable fabric
- Manually inflates
- Soft neoprene neckline
Review
This life jacket is a Type V with Type III performance, providing excellent flotation when inflated. Its design allows a wide range of motion and movement with less bulk. It is lightweight and sleek, so it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing a flotation device.
Its soft neoprene neckline makes it comfortable to wear all day. The design also prevents skin abrasion. It automatically inflates when immersed in water, like if you fall overboard. You can also manually inflate the jacket.
This sleek life jacket is not recommended for non-swimmers or weak swimmers.
PROS
It is lightweight
Movement is not restricted
Nylon material resists tears and punctures
Keeps you cool in warm weather
CONS
Not suitable for non-swimmer and weak swimmers
No pockets
Not designed for open water
Summary
This flotation device is excellent for warm summer days on the water. Onyx is a great kayak life vest because it’s comfortable, lightweight, and easy to operate. If replacing the CO2 canister bothers you, this PFD may not be your best choice.
#4 Stearns Adult Classic Series Vest
- US Coast Guard-approved adult life jacket
- Great for boating, tubing, swimming, and water sports
- Soft and durable nylon shell and lightweight PE flotation foam
- Open-sided design and 3 adjustable buckles for breathability
- Designed for adults weighing 90 pounds or more
Features:
- USCG Approved
- Soft and durable
- Universal size
- Designed for adults 90 pounds or more
Review
This simple but effective kayak life jacket is perfect for a day at the lake. The Stearns Classic vest is US Coast Guard-approved. The durable construction includes a 3-buckle design and a nylon shell.
This life jacket can fit a variety of users and is intended for adults weighing over 90 pounds. It is adjustable for 30-52 inch chest sizes.
The armholes are roomy and spacious yet snug enough to keep you afloat. The adjustable web straps make this one of the best life vests for kayaking.
The only negative is that this jacket can be a little bulky and cumbersome when you paddle. This is a viable option if you are looking for an inexpensive life jacket that will keep you afloat.
Many people will buy several of these life jackets when they take people kayaking.
PROS
Good for shorter kayak trips
Lightweight and comfortable
Affordable life jacket
3 buckle design for a snug fit
US Coast Guard approved
Universal size will fit different kayakers
CONS
Bulky for some users
No pockets
Summary
The Stearns Classic vest is an affordable option for kayak life jackets. You can be protected without breaking the bank. It’s not the most comfortable life jacket on the market, but it is easy to use at a minimal cost.
#5 Eyson Inflatable Life Jacket
- CE Certificated & SOLAS Approved 3M Reflectors
- Lightweight & durable fabric
- Adjustable belt fit for adult and youth
- Reusable, washable and easy to air dry
- The Buoyancy of Life Jacket is 150N, Fits for Universal Adults under 330 lbs (150kg)
Features:
- SOLAS approved 3M reflectors
- Lightweight and durable
- Universal fit under 330 pounds
Review
This life jacket manually inflates in 2-3 seconds when you pull the handle, giving you time to get your head above water. It also has a backup oral inflation tube, just in case.
Like other inflatable devices, it provides comfort through its lightweight and soft design. Its rescue strap is handy in an emergency. The rescue strap can help rescuers to pull you out of the water. Also, the reflective straps aid rescue efforts too.
The fabric is sewn together with the airbag is sewn together, so it’s easy to repack and reuse. The waterproof cover is puncture and tear-resistant. Eyson is an excellent jacket because it’s comfortable and easy to wear.
If you want a fishing life vest, look at options like the MoveVent.
PROS
Easy Adjustment
Movement is not restricted
Comes with a storage bag
Quick-release buckle
CONS
Not great for non-swimmers
Not USCG approved
Summary
The Eyson inflatable kayak life vest is another great option for an inexpensive inflatable device. It offers a great balance of durability, affordability, and comfort.
#6 NRS Zen Lifejacket (PFD)
- The NRS Zen is a Type V life jacket delivering 18 lbs 10 oz of flotation
- Low-profile rescue lifejacket with an unrestricted range of motion
- Floating front panel moves freely with your upper body
- Padded arm holes and sides provide crucial impact protection
- Multiple adjustment points for a customizable fit
Features:
- Reinforced shoulder straps
- Nylon with Cordura reinforcements
- Type V life jacket, 17.5 pounds of flotation
Review
This jacket is marketed as the most comfortable life jacket rescue vest. It was designed based on a close relative, the NRS Ninja PFD. This lifejacket has essential features for experienced paddlers in fast-water rescue situations.
As for its design, the big armholes allow full mobility. The low-profile life jacket moves freely with your upper body and prevents skin abrasion. Its compartmentalized clamshell front pocket is perfect for storing a small first aid kit or other rescue essentials.
There are six adjustment points for a customized fit, and this PFD carries US Coast Guard Certification. The outer shell is 400D ripstop reinforced with nylon and Cordura.
PROS
One front and two side pockets
Adjustable straps
Perfect for a rescue situation
CONS
The straps hang kind of low after you tighten it
More expensive than other options
Summary
By far, the best rescue PFD, if you don’t mind the extra bulk in front, then this kayak life jacket is a great option. You will need proper training for this life jacket.
#7 Eyson Slim Inflatable PFD
- CE certificated & SOLAS approved 3M reflectors
- Lightweight & soft neoprene neckline for all day wearing comfort
- Adjustable belt Fit for universal adult & slender design keeps you cool in warm...
- Reusable, washable & easy to air dry
- This life Jacket buoyancy is 150N, fits for universal adults under 330 lbs (150kg)
Features:
- Universal fit for adults under 330lb
- Soft neoprene neckline
- SOLAS approved 3M reflectors
Review
This life jacket inflates manually, so you need to pull the large handle before it inflates. If the handle doesn’t work, there’s a blow-up tube as a backup. This flotation device is helpful for many water activities like water sports, flat-water paddling, or recreational boating.
Like many other inflatable PFDs, this jacket is comfortable, lightweight, low profile design, and has a soft neoprene neckline. The airbag is made of Nylon and TPU and inflates in less than 3 seconds, which is excellent if you are in swift-moving water with your kayak.
Each life jacket is pressured tested for 24 hours twice. The large reflectors on the jacket significantly improve visibility in darkness.
PROS
Excellent visibility in the dark
Large pull cord
Lightweight
Easy to wear
Washable, easy to clean
CONS
Vertical back straps are not adjustable
Not USCG approved
Summary
This is the best life vest for kayaking because it is lightweight, has large reflectors, and is comfortable to wear. You can wear it on a sit-on-top kayak or a sit-in kayak with a sense of security. This is an excellent choice and offers a lot of value for the price.
#8 Stohlquist Edge Personal Flotation Device
- Ergonomic wrapture shaped torso
- Adjustable shoulders, 4 side pulls and front waist buckle closure
- Low cut, Offset front-zip entry makes easier re-entry for kayak or sup
- High visibility 3Mtm reflective accents
- Roomy, top loading front pocket for secure storage and easy accessibility
Features:
- Four side pulls for a snug fit
- 3M reflective material for high visibility
- Top load front pockets
- Type III PFD
- Front-zip entry
Review
The Stohlquist Edge PFD has a low-profile design that will not get in the way of your paddling stroke. The lightweight jacket is versatile and excellent for the next day on the water.
The life jacket is designed to contour the shape of your body and puts the foam where you need it. The larger jackets have more foam than the smaller ones, meaning a better individual fit. The jacket has adjustable shoulders and four side pulls for a comfortable fit.
This lightweight kayak life vest folds down small enough to fit in a medium-sized dry bag when not in use. Mesh sides provide plenty of ventilation. This is a great life jacket for sit-in or sit-on-top kayaks.
PROS
Does not impede your stroke
Comfortable, easy to wear
Extra-wide armholes
Lightweight
Good mobility
CONS
Sizes tend to run small
Summary
The Stohlquist Edge is one of the best kayak life jackets because of its innovative design, soft nylon shell, and easy-to-use features. This PFD will not get in the way of your paddling and is a fantastic option for beginners and advanced kayakers.
#9 Stohlquist Fit Youth Life Jacket
- THE ESSENTIALS OF COMFORT AND SAFETY - Made of super-soft low-profile buoyancy foam...
- ZIPPER UP - Take your personable items on the go with the zippered pocket. Use it to...
- FEEL THE MOVEMENT - Life vests can be irritating. That's why we've made sure to...
- DID WE MENTION THE ADJUSTABILITY? - Eight. That's right eight points of adjustability...
- BORN IN THE WATER - Stohlquist products are the result of a lifetime of hands-on...
Features
- Type III PFD
- USCG approved
- Easy to wear
Review
The three-buckle design has many advantages. It makes it easier to adjust, is comfortable in and out of the water, and prevents seat-back interference. It’s designed for better mobility and comfort.
The high-profile cut-away leaves more room for movement. The upper buckle will not ride up when paddling. There’s also a hang loop for easy drying and storage.
This multi-use flotation device is excellent for many different water sports. The life jacket is universal to fit a variety of users. The jacket is comfortable for rowing but lacks comfort when you sit low in the kayak.
PROS
Maximum mobility
USCG approved
Lightweight
Lightweight
Padding is not bulky
CONS
Not great for smaller framed people
Not comfortable for sit-in kayaks
Summary
If you’re on a budget but looking for a high-quality kayak life jacket, you might consider the Stohlquist Fit Life Jacket. It ensures your safety even if you’re a non-swimmer because it is Type III USCG-approved.
Why You Need a Kayak Life Vest
As I have mentioned, life jackets save lives in the water. It adds buoyancy and prevents you from drowning. There are many good reasons to always wear one.
You never know what may happen while in the water. The life jacket is designed for many purposes in different situations. For example, your body temperature drops when you are in the water for an extended period.
Many life jackets are made from insulated materials to help keep you warm. It also keeps your head above the water. With that said, it helps you stay dry and stabilizes your body temperature while waiting for rescue.
Some excellent swimmers refuse to wear their life jackets because they can tread well in the water. But sometimes, excellent swimmers can also drown. Here, this is where a life jacket saves you. Its buoyancy helps you stay afloat without the need to tread water.
The colorful designs of life jackets can aid in rescue efforts. Life jackets also minimize injuries as they can absorb some impact in case of a fall. Suppose an injury occurs and you lose consciousness. A life jacket can rotate you upward, allowing you to breathe even if you’re not awake.
Most people panic when unexpected things happen in the water; they might immediately jump overboard. In this case, a life jacket is handy. It gives the wearer some time to adjust to the situation.
Types of life jackets
Here’s a guide for different types of life jackets. Let’s look at their unique features, the buoyancy they provide, and their intended use.
Type I – Offshore life jackets
Buoyancy: 22 pounds of buoyancy (adult), 11 pounds of buoyancy (child)
This type of PFD is recommended for cruising, racing, fishing offshore, or when boating alone or in stormy conditions.
Because of its high buoyancy, it is the best life jacket for survival in rough or remote water. When rescue is slow to arrive, it keeps the wearer in a safe floating position and keeps the unconscious wearer face up.
The conscious wearer limits physical effort to tread in the water and help keep body heat while waiting for rescue. Its additional foam and fabric help the wearer maintain body heat while in the water.
It is also made of high visibility colors with reflective material and makes you easy to spot in open water. Though it provides the best protection, it is uncomfortable and bulky to use and limits activities. It also makes self and assisted rescues difficult.
There are also Type I inflatable floating devices. They are less bulky, but the Coast Guard does not recommend them.
Type II – Nearshore vests (inherently buoyant)
Buoyancy: 15.5 pounds of buoyancy (adult)
This flotation device is best for light boat activities, kayaking, white water, and surf ski paddling. Most kayakers use this life jacket. Foam types are bulky but less bulky than Type I life jackets.
It is more comfortable to use. It is less buoyant but can keep your head up in the water. Some Type II PFDs can keep the wearer’s face-up position, but not all. Unlike Type l life jackets, this PFD allows you to perform self or assisted rescues.
Type II – Inflatable
Buoyancy: 34 pounds of buoyancy (adult)
They have the same purpose as the inherently buoyant. The only difference is that this type is inflatable- manual or automatic. They are popular for kayakers because it features higher flotation. It is also comfortable to wear all the time.
Type II inflatable does not guarantee that it can keep the wearer in a face-up position. Therefore it is only intended to use where there’s a good chance for a quick rescue.
Type III – Flotation Aid
Buoyancy: 15.5 pounds of buoyancy (adult)
Type III is used for towed sports or paddling activities. Float coats, fishing life vests, and vests are examples of this life jacket. It does not guarantee a face-up position for the unconscious wearer.
This flotation device is also suitable for sailors with a chance of immediate rescue. It offers freedom of movement and the comfortable for the conscious wearer. To keep a face-up position, wearers should tilt their heads back. In this way, they can avoid being face down in the water.
Buoyancy: 22.5 pounds of buoyancy (adult)
The inflatable type features higher buoyancy but features one manual inflation mechanism only. They are ideal to use near the water shore and supervised activities.
Type IV – Throwable Device
Buoyancy: 16.5 pounds of buoyancy for the ring buoy and 18 pounds for the boat cushion.
This works as a supplementary device for buoyancy for people overboard. It is thrown in the water and not to be worn. It is used for calm and inland water where rescue is always available.
This device can be grasped and held by the user until rescue arrives. Examples are buoyant cushions, ring buoys, and horseshoe buoys attached to the deck. According to Coast Guard, any throwable device must be available immediately.
They should be at arm’s length to throw for an emergency. So, putting the life jacket under the cockpit is not advisable. Remember that any throwable device is not suitable for the unconscious, non-swimmers, and children.
Type V–Special use Device
Buoyancy: 15.5–22 pounds of buoyancy
These are flotation devices that are intended for specific water activities. Special-use life jackets are designed for sailboard harnesses, deck suits, paddling vests, commercial white water vests, or float coats.
Some automatic inflation models work, like Type II life jackets. It inflates automatically when submerged in the water. Some models feature a combination of C02 inflation and built-in foam. They provide enough buoyancy to keep the wearer afloat but do not guarantee it can keep a face-up position.
Type V- Hybrid Inflation and some special notes
Buoyancy: 7.5 pounds of built-in foam buoyancy (can be inflated up to 22 pounds)
This type is recommended to use where rescue is nearby. It is designed for light boat activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddling. Most Type 5 hybrid inflatable has harnesses or over-the-head entry foam.
Compared to Type II and Type l, this model is the most comfortable and least bulky to use. However, it doesn’t provide adequate buoyancy for the unconscious wearer.
As for its inflation mechanism, it releases gas to inflate the Type V device when activated. Both manual and automatic type V devices have blow tubes as a backup system for inflation.
Some Type V special use devices are labeled on their tags like Type ll or Type III. Its label also specifies the particular use design.
Kayak life jacket – what to look for
Comfort
Comfort and design are some features you need to consider. Remember that a comfortable vest should fit snugly but not too tight.
You won’t get in and out of your personal flotation device often, but you still need to choose which design is comfortable. Life jackets come in different styles; vest, pullover, and a mix of vest and pullover. Some can be placed over the head with adjustable straps.
Pockets and pouches may not be essential, but they are handy in some situations. They can store your essentials and emergency equipment. Some PFDs have D-rings; this allows you to attach items to the exterior.
Durability
When choosing a life jacket, ensure it will last for a reasonable period. Choose a life jacket made from nylon or neoprene. These materials are durable. It won’t wear down quickly if you come into contact with a hard surface or are exposed to too much saltwater. Refrain from buying cheap PFD as they are made from cheap materials.
How Well Does It Float?
All life jackets are buoyant, but some function differently. I highly recommend the life jacket that can keep you above water in an upright position. If an accident happens, this type will keep you safe even if you lose consciousness. But the preference is still up to you.
Visibility
Brightly colored life jackets increase your visibility in the water. In case an accident happens, rescuers can easily see you.
Does It Restrict Movement?
The best life jacket for kayaking needs to allow you to move your arms freely. Bulky life jackets limit movement; make sure you avoid this type.
You should choose the one with large armholes for you to move freely when paddling. You also need to keep in mind the clothing that you will be wearing while kayaking.
When looking for the best kayak life jacket, find one that will fit nicely over your clothes and still provide you with room to move comfortably.
Different Kayak Life Jackets
Inflatable
Inflatable life vests come in two inflation options: manual and automatic. For a manual inflatable vest, you must pull a string to activate the C02 before it inflates. The automatic vest inflates when submerged in the water.
Most kayakers prefer to use inflatable life vests during summer because of their design. It does not cover much of your body, which makes it ideal on hot days. It also provides flexibility and does not restrict your movement.
But there are disadvantages to using one; they do not guarantee your safety. The manual inflatable vest is not buoyant. It only offers buoyancy when inflated. As for maintenance, it requires regular maintenance, as you will need to replace carbon dioxide cartridges.
They are not a good fit for everyone and specific activities like whitewater kayaking. These are not suitable for non-swimmers and children.
Paddle Vest
Paddle vests are personal flotation devices (PFD). It is made from an insulating material and stuffed with foam. That is why it can provide buoyancy that helps the wearer face upward while in the water. The insulating material also keeps the body warm.
They are commonly used in kayaking and canoeing because they allow the wearer to move freely while paddling. However, some are bulky and limit movement.
Its design is also better than an inflatable vest because it has a few pockets. They are also perfect for keeping some tools and emergency gear that an inflatable vest doesn’t have.
Conclusion
You never know what can happen while you’re in the water. There are situations where swimming ability doesn’t matter. To prevent any mishap, pick the right life jacket.
It’s hard to choose with so many designs and models available. You can use this as a guide to help you decide what to buy.
It is essential to consider a life jacket’s design, comfort, and quality. Choose the one that fits your body type perfectly and allows you to move freely.
Before engaging in any water activity, ensure your life jacket is fastened and well-adjusted.
Remember that a life jacket is not an accessory but is meant to save your life.
If you have questions, please feel free to reach out.
References
https://www.boatus.org/life-jackets/types/
https://www.uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/life-jacket-wear-wearing-your-life-jacket.php
Featured Image Credit: ©[emholk] via Canva.com
Steve Morrow owns Paddle About, an outdoor recreation and travel blog. Steve loves to travel, kayak, paddle board, camp, hike, and spend time outdoors with his wife and two kids. When he's not exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. He has a lot of interesting stories to share, and he's always happy to help others get more out of life.