A PFD (Personal Floatation Device) is a mandatory requirement when kayaking in most waters around Australia - there are some states where the legislation does not mandate it but we recommend you always paddle with a PFD. The PFD you choose to wear can be a type 1, 2 or 3.
Studies show that wearing a PFD can increase your chances of survival greatly. The PFD alone is not going to save your life. A great understanding of weather interpretation, wearing the correct clothing, a good understanding of the basic essential strokes, self and assisted rescues is the key to enjoying water sports safely.
Level 100+ (formerly PFD Type 1) - This is a recognised ‘life jacket’. A PFD type 1 will provide a high level of buoyancy and keeps the wearer in a safe floating position through the use of buoyancy behind the head. They are made in high visibility colours with reflective patches.
Level 50 (PFD Type 2) - This is a buoyancy vest–not a life jacket. It will provide less buoyancy than a PFD type 1 but is sufficient to keep your head above water. Like a PFD type 1 they are manufactured in high visibility colours such as yellow and red.
Level 50S (PFD Type 3) - This is a buoyancy garment – not a life jacket. They have similar buoyancy to a PFD type 2 but are manufactured in a wide variety of colours and are shaped or equipped for particular activities.
We recommend a PFD Type 2 for the best combination of comfort, visibility and buoyancy on the water.
Additional safety equipment we recommended to attach to your PFD:
Check out our Blog and view our YouTube video for more information:
We are sometimes asked to compare PFD's for size & lightness. Here is a list so far - these are more intended for short paddles, recreational or ski paddling or packrafting rather than touring when you want to carry more safety gear in your PFD.
Weight g | Length cm | Width cm | |
Vaikobi VXP (M) | 630 | 39 | 40 |
Vaikobi V3 (M) | 660 | 46 | 37 |
Palm Equipment Meander (ML) | 545 | 41 | 36 |
Palm Equipment Hydro (ML) | 850 | 40 | 38 |
Sea to Summit Fishing (multifit) | 880 | 43 | 42 |