Determining the best PFD for you will rely on what kind of adventures you have planned. The US Coast Guard has established five PFD designation types to help boaters understand the level of PFD protection they need to be safe on the water.
Type III and Type V PFDs are best for private Whitewater and River users.
US Coast Guard PFD Designations
Type III
A Type III PFD is generally a panel-construction vest that wraps flotation around all parts of the user's core. There is no head-support float on most Type III PFDs, as it would get in the way during some aggressive swimming positions.
Type III’s intended for whitewater have a high level of buoyancy to keep you floating in aerated [rough] water.
Our favorite Type III PFDs are
Type V
Type V PFDs have a quick-release rescue belt that is integrated into the vest. This is a feature used in rescue situations as well as in pin extractions.
The rescue belt allows the person wearing it to be tethered to another rescuer on shore with a rope, it also allows the PFD wearer to safely release from that rope if needed.
If it weren’t for the rescue belt, a Type V PFD would become a Type III. Rescue Vests also tend to be burlier and have more storage/pockets.
Our favorite Type V PFDs are
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NRS Zen Rescue PFD |
Astral Green Jacket Rescue PFD |
CKS Online Pro Tip: Certain Type III’s, like the Astral Bluejacket, can be converted to a Type V by adding the optional accessory rescue belt.
Ultimately the best PFD for you is going to come down to comfort and preference. CKS Online sells a variety of PFDs, including lifejackets for youth, canines and for flatwater SUPers.
