If you're looking to buy a buoyancy aid, it's probably because you'll be active on the water and anticipate getting wet. Considered an essential piece of PFD (personal flotation device), buoyancy aids will keep you afloat when swimming back into your kayak, board or capsized dinghy. The built-in foam buoyancy will support you so you don't expend unnecessary energy, become exhausted, and perhaps get into trouble.
The most important thing to understand about this flotation aid is that, as its name suggests, it will help you stay afloat in the water. It won't roll you over if you're face down in the water, like a life jacket would to keep your airway clear of water. This means you should only wear a buoyancy device if you're a skilled swimmer swimming in protected waters.
A buoyancy vest is a device designed to help you float. A lifejacket, on the other hand, is designed to keep you afloat and turn you in the correct direction so that water doesn't get in your airway.
A buoyancy vest is far less restricting than a life jacket because of its more compact shape, which makes it ideal for activities requiring a lot of upper body movement or situations requiring agility in a small area. Because a buoyancy aid's flotation is independent of the device's inflation, using one is far more practical for activities like kayaking and dinghy sailing, where the user may spend a lot of time in the water.
As buoyancy vests don't require re-arming, they're always ready to use. It will continue to function even if you get it soaking wet.
There are several kinds of buoyancy vests available, each made with a specific purpose in mind. While they're all going to perform the vital and basic function of keeping you floating if you fall into the water, some of them are made to provide supplementary capabilities that are frequently tailored to particular situations and specific activities. Let's explore some of the available buoyancy aids and the situations in which they work best.
This is the type of PFD you should get when you only need to be safe on the water, without any additional bells or whistles. It is a good option for general leisure paddling.
The front-entry zip featured on the majority of recreational vests makes putting them on and taking them off pretty simple. Some models may feature a pull-over entrance. These are the easiest to put on and take off. The shoulder and waist straps are also adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit. A little pouch for little necessities is another characteristic of certain buoyancy vests for recreational use.
Anyone who plans to spend a significant amount of time on the water, paddling a certain distance, is said to be touring. This could be a leisurely day journey either inland or by the seaside, or a multi-day adventure under more difficult circumstances! When you're paddling thousands of strokes on a journey, the last thing you want is something getting in your way.
For increased comfort and extra features, touring buoyancy vests are a wonderful option. This type of buoyancy assistance is ideal for sea kayakers and sit-inside tourers, as well as paddlers of sit-on-tops, canoes, inflatables, and other vessels.
Touring PFDs typically have a front-zip entry, while some styles have pullover designs. A solid fit is ensured by many adjustment straps, which is crucial for sea kayakers who frequently paddle in rough sea conditions. Compared to other types of flotation vests, touring vests often employ softer, higher-quality foam. Better foam will hug the body better for a snug and comfortable fit and have a greater buoyancy rating for a given volume.
The pockets found in certain models serve to carry a mobile phone, PLB, VHF radio, and other critical safety gear. Accessory clip hooks can be found in most touring vans for attaching safety knives and navigation lights. For the frequent paddler who wants a little additional comfort and assurance from their buoyancy aid, or for those who paddle for hours on end, these are the ideal options.
These PFDs are intended for use on whitewater rivers and in the surf, whether it's for river running, playboating, surfing, or coaching in general. These PFDs' thicker foam provides better support for swimming in aerated waters and violent rapids and superior protection for the paddler from rocks and other irregularities.
Whitewater buoyancy vests are generally pullover or side-entry styles to provide a more snug fit. The majority include a sizable front pocket that makes it simple to access and store a rescue knife and safety sling. For emergencies, a built-in quick-release chest harness is available on some models. Whether using a kayak or canoe, these buoyancy devices are ideal for any whitewater application.
Each buoyancy vest undergoes testing and rating. The N (Newton) value, that is shown on the vest indicates how much uplift it generates. The bigger the number, the better the floating capability.
The majority of adult buoyancy vests fall between 50N and 70N, depending on the size and purpose. For dinghy sailing, a 50N buoyancy vest should be enough. For heading further out to the sea, consider a vest with at least 100N.
Just as with the right type, choosing the proper fit is also important. Consider trying on different sizes or using the size chat to see which suits you best.
When trying on the vest, loosen all of the buckles and undo all of the straps. It is easier to tighten the straps uniformly if you loosen them all at once. Put on your flotation device and secure the buckles or zips. Adjust the straps and zippers, beginning at the bottom and working your way up, ensuring that the shoulder straps are fastened last. After completing this, make sure your buoyancy aid is securely fastened beneath your ribs and cannot be raised over your head.
If you're a kayaker, you'll want to sit down with your vest on to test out the fit. After all, you'll be spending most of your time on the water in this position.
If you are unable to visit a store to test on several models and sizes, select your buoyancy aid according to your size rather than your weight. Because some vests have higher flotation than ISO norms, a correct fit is crucial.
