A good PFD is essential to a safe and fun canoeing trip. The problem is that there are so many PFDs out there to choose from, making it difficult to decide. In this article, I list our top picks for the best canoeing PFDs, including all their features and specs.
These PFDs are the best available in terms of features and value. We picked them from the many options available based on a number of factors, including:
Category or type of PFD needed (Currently, there are 5 categories)
Type of activity
Size and fit
Level of comfort
Buoyancy
Other features and specs
Read on to learn more about the best PFDs for canoeing, including the features and specs for each.
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Also, for an excellent Personal Floating Device (PFD), take a look at our top pick, the Stohlquist Men’s Drifter Lifejacket:
The priority of an effective PFD is that it can keep an unconscious person afloat. After that, you need to take into consideration the proper sizing and fit. A PFD needs to stay on securely and comfortably while being able to be easily removed.
It’s also important to factor in the activity you’re buying it for. There are different PFDs for different activities, so it’s important to get one that is best for canoeing or other similar activities, such as kayaking.
1. Stohlquist DRIFTer
If you are looking for a personal floatation device that’s comfortable, functional, and secure while canoeing, the Stohlquist DRIFTer is an excellent choice.
It features what the manufacturer calls “Wrapture” body wrapping that hugs the torso just right. This comfortable fit makes sure it stays on just right through your whole canoe trip.
Its Rugged Cordura® outer material makes sure it can be reused many times over in the future.
The Stohlquist DRIFTer also has two large zippered pockets to store your accessories in as well as a built-in pocket to warm your hands in.
It has ventilated shoulder and lumbar pads for added comfort, along with adjustable shoulder straps and wider armholes for freedom of movement.
2. Stohlquist Rocker
The Stohlquist Rockeris another excellent canoeing PFD from Stohlquist. Thanks to its cross-chest cinch harness, it is a perfect vest for whitewater rafting, fishing, touring, or other recreational water activities.
With the Rocker’s Gripp-Loc interior non-slip panel, ride-ups are avoidable. Its contoured and padded shoulder straps provide added comfort. Speaking of the shoulder straps, they are designed to be free-floating suspended, so they stretch as you move to allow more freedom.
Other functional features include a D-ring to park your whistle, keys, or chapstick, as well as a hands-free expandable mesh beverage pocket. The Stohlquist Rocker also has reflective accents that are highly visible for safety.
3. Astral Ronny
Encased in a 200 deniers high tenacity nylon shell material, the Astral Ronny promotes the utmost comfort when canoeing.
The comfort ad breathability from this PFD is especially useful when canoeing in the summer. Its Thin Vent Technology will not suffocate the body even in extreme temperatures.
The Astral Ronny also ensures high buoyancy because of its PE foam inserts and security owing to its self-locking Vislon teeth. Lastly, the Astral Ronny is 100% toxic-free, made completely free of harmful PVC components that are potentially hazardous to the environment.
4. Stohlquist Edge
Made with extra soft premium Wrapture foam and packed within a mini-ripstop nylon shell, the Stohlquist Edge is built to provide you with superior comfort and freedom of movement.
The contour padded shoulder straps are designed not to rub against the neck. And the extra-wide arm opening will stay comfortable all day, perfect for extended canoeing expeditions, unrestricted whitewater, and SUP paddling.
It’s armed with fully adjustable shoulders, a front waist buckle closure, and 4 side pulls for the best fit and added security. The Stohlquist Edge also has reflective accents and a roomy front pocket for all your essentials.
5. NRS Ion
Designed with the wearer’s ease of use in mind, the NRS Ion is also versatile so that it can be worn on any boating activity – canoeing, kayaking, sailing, etc.
The ultra-soft foam ensures the most relaxed fit. Along the spine, there are ventilation panels to keep air circulation flowing for maximum comfort, especially when the weather is hot and humid.
The NRS Ion has a built-in front pocket and dual entry zip pockets that make loading easy and convenient. The dual entry pockets are large enough to hold tools, accessories, and safety gear.
The padded shoulder straps are easily adjustable, and the fleece-lined hand warmer is useful for chilly weather. The NRS Ion ripstop nylon is light, and the reflective accents make sure you’re highly visible regardless of the weather or lighting condition.
There you have it – these are the five options for the best PFD for canoeing. You can’t go wrong with any of these PFDs.
We hope you find this article useful in bringing you the best and latest PFDs to choose from to take out with you on your next adventure. With the right PFD, you can be sure to enjoy your adventures safely.
Caring for Your PFD
You need to be able to care for your PFD just as it keeps you safe. Once your canoeing adventure is done, make sure you wash your personal flotation device in water with a little bit of mild detergent. Use an old toothbrush or soft sponge to pry off dirt and other stains.
Make sure to read the instructions attached to your PFD so you can properly care for it and enjoy the longevity of use. Always air your PFDs out to dry. Putting them in the dryer might damage and batter the material, leading to early deterioration.
As much as possible, clean and airdry your PFD after each use before you put it in storage. If you don’t, your PFD might end up getting discolored or, worse, mildewed.
Again, make sure to read your PFD’s care instructions and be sure to maintain it after every time you take it out so you’ll get good use out of it for a long time to come.
Conclusion – Best PFD for Canoeing
To recap, what is the best PFD for canoeing? Here’s a rundown of our top 5 choices:
There are, of course, cheaper life jackets and personal flotation devices out there. There may even be copycats of the PFDs listed here, but you should never scrimp on quality, especially if you’re looking for safety gear.
Other cheaper, no-name brand alternatives may be manufactured using materials that may not last as long or be comfortable for long canoe or kayak trips.
You might as well buy the real thing when you’re thinking of getting a PFD. The five options listed in this article are all built to provide safety and protection for many years to come.
They were designed with special consideration for the user’s needs and weather conditions, and other factors that may affect its performance.
Enjoy the adventure and once it’s over, make sure to give your PFD the care it deserves. This will help ensure that your PFD will be around to keep you safe in your adventures and explorations for a long time.
