As you would expect, we have tried many Personal Flotation Devices over the years and sell the two makes that we think are the best. We want

  • Safety - ISO 12402-5 (Level 50) certified 
  • Comfort - Easy to slip on and off, and to be able to paddle without knowing you are wearing it, fitted to your own shape
  • Visibility - be seen, be safe 
  • Pockets - enough for the hydration pouch and a phone, but not weighted down - you need to be able to remount. 

A PFD that has a carrying capacity of 50 Newtons is classified as a buoyancy aid. A 50N buoyancy aid keeps you afloat by a good margin but lacks a collar to support your head. It has the buoyancy force more evenly distributed between the front and back and therefore does not guarantee to turn an unconscious person to a supine position.

PFDs are not life jackets - life jackets are designed to help the user turn right and keep their head up so that the airways are above the water surface. All vests with solid floating material that have been tested and approved as life jackets are tested to the 100N standard.

Baltic

Baltic PFD are the cheaper option but no less effective. The crotch strap must be fitted.

  • One size fits all
  • Easy to fit and remove
  • Designed in Sweden
  • Made in Europe
  • CE-approved

Vaikobi

Vaikobi paddle and kayak PFDs are designed to keep paddlers of all sizes safe and visible on the water. With a 50KN buoyancy rating, adjustable straps, storage pockets and a range of bright colours women, men and kids can stay safe and comfortable while surf ski paddling, kayaking, canoeing, dragon boating. Vaikobi have innovated to create slimline, lightweight buoyancy aids that you will be happy to wear. All styles have a rear pocket for the Vaikobi hydration system (water pouch). 

  • Body Contoured Design
  • Action-focused cut with low profile and minimal bulk
  • Large sculpted arm and neck openings allow for full range of motion and movement
  • Available in Fluro Yellow, Fluro Orange, Pink and Cyan Blue
  • Top quality, comfortable foam with high bubble count provides maximum buoyancy for less bulk

 V3 

  • Front centre zip for ease of putting on
  • Super lightweight design
  • No side panels for maximum breathability
  • Form fitting super soft foam
  • Fully adjustable shoulders with padding
  • Adjustable waist area for correct fit
  • Large hydration pocket on back holds a bladder up to 1.5L
  • Hydration tube guides position the mouthpiece for hands-free use
  • Hi Vis Fluro colour options for maximum visibility
  • Two secure closable mesh pockets with internal secure lanyard
  • ISO 12402-5 (Level 50) certified

VXP

  • Side entry with sleek low profile design for performance paddling
  • Super soft foam for ultimate comfort
  • Adjustable shoulder with neoprene for extra comfort
  • No side panels for maximum breathability, so it's not bulky
  • Large capacity front pocket, with drainage mesh, to hold large items including water bottles, cell phones etc
  • Large hydration pocket on back holds a bladder up to 1.5L
  • Hi vis colour ways for maximum visibility on the water
  • Reflective detailing for safety in low light
  • ISO 12402-5 certified
  • Worn high on the mid section for maximum arm movement and breathability