Summer is the perfect time to get outside and explore nature—and what better way to do that than by paddling your way down a river or across a lake? Stand-up paddle boarding is a great way to get some exercise while taking in the sights and sounds of your surroundings. And, of course, safety should always be your top priority when engaging in any water-related activities. That\’s why we\’ve put together a list of the best paddle board life jackets for your next adventure.
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Who has to Have a Paddle Board Life Jacket?
If you\’re thinking about trying paddle boarding, you might be wondering if you need to wear a life jacket. The answer depends on a few things. If the water is calm and you\’re a strong swimmer, then you probably don\’t need a life jacket. However, if the water is rough or if you\’re not a strong swimmer, it\’s a good idea to wear one.
The US Coast Guard classifies paddle boards as vessels, so the same life jacket rules for boats apply to paddle boarders. It varies from state to state, but most of the time, adults have to have a life jacket on board and children have to be actively wearing them unless you are in a swim, surfing, or bathing area.
Why Wear a Paddle Board Life Jacket?
There are a few reasons why you might want to wear a life jacket when paddle boarding. First, if you fall off your paddle board, a life jacket will help keep you afloat until you can get back on your board or swim to shore. Second, if you\’re paddling in rough waters, a life jacket can help keep you from getting swept away by the current. Finally, wearing a life jacket is always a good idea if you\’re not a strong swimmer.
How to Choose the Right Paddle Board Life Jacket
Now that you know why you might need to wear a paddle board life jacket, let\’s talk about how to choose the right one. First, make sure that the life jacket is US Coast Guard-approved. Second, make sure that the life jacket fits snugly but isn\’t too tight. You should be able to move freely in it but it shouldn\’t be so loose that it slips off easily. Third, make sure that the life jacket is comfortable. You don\’t want to be distracted by an uncomfortable life jacket while you\’re trying to enjoy your time on the water.
Different Types of Paddle Board Life Jackets
Type III PFDs: Best for General Use
If you\’re going to be doing a lot of paddling in different conditions, a Type III PFD is probably your best bet. Type III PFDs are best for general use and are most often used by boaters, paddlers, and fishermen. They\’re comfortable to wear and won\’t interfere with your movements too much. Plus, they provide ample flotation and will keep your head above water even if you\’re unconscious.
There are two drawbacks to Type III PFDs, however. First, they\’re not as comfortable to wear in hot weather as some of the other options on this list. Second, they don\’t have as much storage as some of the others—so if you\’re planning on bringing along a lot of gear, you might want to consider one of the other options.
Type V PFDs: Best for Specialized Use
Type V PFDs are designed for specific activities or water conditions. For example, there are Type V PFDs that are explicitly designed for kayaking, SUPing (stand-up paddleboarding), canoeing, rafting, and even wakeboarding. If you know exactly what you\’ll be using your PFD for, then a Type V is probably the way to go.
The biggest downside to Type V PFDs is that they\’re not as versatile as some of the other options on this list. If you think you might want to do more than one activity while wearing your PFD—or if you want to be able to paddle in different conditions—you might want to consider another option.
The Best Paddle Board Life Jackets You Need to Know About
These are our top picks for the best paddle board life jackets on the market.
O\’Brien Women\’s Impulse Neo Life Vest, Purple
This is more of a traditional life vest for all-purpose water sports. We love the multiple hinge points and the neoprene outer shell. The BioLite outer material is light, breathable, and adds to the overall comfort of the jacket. The segmented panels and large armholes provide for greater range of motion while also keeping you safe on the water with a front zipper and two adjustable belts.
Onyx Unisex Belt Pack Manual Inflatable Life Jacket (PFD)
If you need to wear a paddle board life jacket, but not look like you\’re wearing a life jacket, this is a unique option. It looks like a belt! It is USCG-approved. It uses a CO2 canister to inflate. The drawback is that if you pull the handle to inflate the life vest, you have to order a new CO2 cartridge.
O\’Neill Men\’s Reactor USCG Life Vest
This is another traditional life jacket option that\’s good for all-purpose water sports. The segmented core and flex points allow you to move easier. The soft neoprene and polyester make it comfortable to wear.
Airhead WICKED Kwik-Dry Neolite Flex Life Vest | Child and Infant Sizes Available
If your kid is paddle boarding, this is a good all-around life jacket they can use for all their water activities. The quick-drying super soft fabric will keep them comfortable all day long!
Yukon Epic Paddle Life Vest | Multiple Colors Available
This life jacket is perfect if you need one specifically for paddle boarding! It\’s an incredible, lightweight performance paddle vest that will provide users with great support. Reflective stripes are included on the front of the jacket to ensure safety while paddling at night and drainage vents help shed water if you accidentally flip or rollover.
Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports CGA Life Vest
The Onyx MoveVent Dynamic vest is worn with a base layer and has a sculpted, flexible foam design that conforms to your body while you swim. This Coast Guard-approved vest is composed of substantial-duty nylon for tear and puncture resistance and dual sizing to fit all shapes and sizes. The front of the vest includes mesh ventilation patches, while the lower back keeps you cool by allowing air passage and SOLAS grade reflecting material for visibility. There\’s an expandable zippered pocket on the vest, as well as a lash tab for tiny objects. It is specifically designed for paddle sports.
The Last Thing You Need to Know About A Paddle Board Life Jacket
Paddle boarding is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. If you\’re thinking about giving it a try, you might be wondering if you need to wear a life jacket. The answer is: it depends. If you\’re paddling in calm waters and you\’re a strong swimmer, chances are you don\’t need a life jacket but you should always be sure to have one on board to comply with US Coast Guard regulations. If you\’re going to be paddling in rough waters or if you\’re not a strong swimmer, wearing a life jacket is definitely a good idea. When choosing a paddle board life jacket, make sure that it is US Coast Guard-approved, that it fits snugly but isn\’t too tight, and that it is comfortable. With the right paddle board life jacket, you\’ll be able to enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind knowing that you\’re safe and protected.