Which Life Jacket Is For Kayaking?

A life jacket, also called a personal flotation device or life vest, is an essential tool for all forms of water sports. Several types of life jackets are available, each specifically designed to address the needs of a given sport, including kayaking. Kayaking life jackets provide the mobility and range of motion needed for paddling and for comfort when sitting in a kayak for an extended period of time.

Classification

Unlike traditional life jackets, which are typically rated as Class I or II flotation devices that can keep a person afloat for extended periods of time, the United States Coast Guard rates kayaking life jackets as Class III devices. This classification establishes a kayaking life jacket only as a flotation aid and should be used only in inshore or inland waters where the likelihood of immediate rescue is good.

Design

Kayaking life jackets are specifically designed to meet the position and movement of the kayaker. While many traditional life jackets, such as those for boating or water skiing, have longer torsos, kayak life jackets have a shorter torso for better comfort when seated in a kayak. Kayaking life jackets also have a deeper "V" in the chest and more strap-like shoulders that provide a greater amount of movement for the arms and shoulders while paddling. Unlike bulky traditional life jackets, the padding in the lower back of a kayaking life jacket is thinner to accommodate the seat.

Fit

Because a kayaking life jacket is less substantial than a traditional life jacket, it should fit snugly to provide both comfort and optimal safety. Adjustable shoulder and side straps make the jacket easier to fit for both the standing and seated positions or when in the water. Other life jackets often have limited adjustability and can hamper mobility and comfort due to a looser fit.

Pockets

Unlike traditional life jackets, most kayaking life jackets are fitted with pockets for storing things that need to be readily available to the kayaker, such as compasses, maps, GPS devices and phones. These pockets provide convenient access without the need to get out of the kayak entirely to dig in storage compartments to retrieve items.