3 BIGGEST Mistakes when choosing a LIFE VEST / PFD

[@MooMooOutdoors]

Good advise. I agree with you about the inflatable. Didn't happened to me but I've seen it not inflating and inflating when not in the water. I also like to add practice self rescue. Go out to the calm water without any gear and flip your kayak then practice climbing back in. Practice until you can climb back in 10 out of 10 tries. When you fall in when there is strong current or rough surf, it going to be much harder. Master the self rescue skill. 👍😀👍

[@andys4971]

I’ve done the same self rescue with my sailboat, it’s a good thing to do

[@brucegoose6717]

Change out co2 cartridge every 3 yrs. Check green indicator every use. I use a hobie inflatable & love it. Not cheap either at $135.00

[@MtKayak1]

Thank you Jack for talking about PFDs. When I bought my Ride 135, I considered an inflatable but if it ever inflates you will not be able to enter your kayak when inflated. Thanks again. Wear that PFD. It is made to save your life. Mike in North GA.

[@stevenbrown7042]

I'd also recommend a bright color top. It doesn't hurt to be seen. I'm in construction and have a lot of experience wearing High visibility clothing. It's one extra safety step you can wear. Plus the high visibility shirts provide some sun protection. Most modern hi vis shirts are moisture wicking too. Don't go cheap but buy decent ones.

[@joshchampion6311]

Steven Brown I just bought an NRS cVest and it’s the most eye burning lime green color you’ve ever seen. I had to remove the “cool factor” and keep reminding myself that I was buying it for the worst day of my life, not all the other days. That “ocean camo” color I’ve seen from some manufacturers looks tempting, but I know that’s not what I’d want to be wearing if the USCG was searching for me. I keep a few basic survival items in it at all times, including a waterproof VHF radio, and the Glock field knife. It is my humble opinion that offshore kayak fishing is an extreme sport, and if you’re going to do it, you should be prepared to give yourself a legitimate shot at survival should you go overboard with only the things strapped to your person.

[@philipjones5364]

Thank you I just left Bass Pro Shop, I was about to buy an self inflatable life vest and decided not to I was thinking what this vest doesn’t inflate. I went back to my car and just happened to watch your video on KZbin. Thank you I admit I’m a non swimmer and fish from the shore, but on Mother’s Day I hired a guide to take my wife and I fishing on his pontoon boat. Thank you....

[@lnomolas3427]

Good advice - buy a good one and wear it. During Navy Aviation Water Survival we always trained with an deflated survival vest. Not fun. Blowing it up manually while treading water also not fun. A lot of things can happen out on the water and many of them are bad.

[@retnav92]

We used to post signs around the ship near the life jacket racks that stated "How long can you tread water?" In regards to the auto-inflate, they fail, and with the manual inflate type (blowing into a tube), you can't do that if you're unconscious, injured, etc. I also, recommend wearing quick-drying, moisture wicking clothing. Cotton is too hot, and when soaking wet, it gets heavier....especially if you're not wearing a pfd and treading water. I bought a NRS Chinook, and it's probably the most comfortable pfd I've ever worn.

[@maineiacoutdoors689]

I was wondering how "knocked unconscious while flipping the boat" got omitted in Yak's vid. I would add "will turn me face up when unconscious" to the features to look for. Funny you should mention the NRS. I just saved it to my List at amazon. They look like a comfy vest too.

[@barrysargent1213]

What on earth makes you think that the chinook will save your life if you are knocked unconscious? That paddler jacket won't flip you on your back! Next time you are on the water, test it! That thing at best is a buoyancy aid! If you truly want to save your unconscious life, do more research! There are plenty of video's out there at will change your mind.

[@Vermonstered]

@@barrysargent1213 From what I'm gathering it seems like Type II (not really) and Type I are the only vests that have a chance of actually flipping you to your back if unconscious and on your side or front. Unfortunately this is done by having all the buoyancy device sitting on the chest and not relying upon the back for flotation along with seemingly a higher floatation rating (22lbs) with most of these paddling vests Type III ratings of only 15lbs or so and splitting up the buoyancy to the front and back to give a better range of motion. Though that said, aren't the inflatables actually better in this regard? As it seems like they have much higher buoyancy ratings (22lbs I've seen normally) and have the 6" air bags that deploy around your head and chest so they seem (I'm new to this) to be the best in terms of mobility while not deployed and unconscious safety. Just incredibly difficult to re enter any non stabilized craft where you need to drag your weight over.

[@amack32]

Excellent points but the life jackets you speak about do not turn you over if you should fall face down unconsciously in the water. The CO2 inflators will keep you upright every time when they deploy. it really comes down to preference and how much maintenance you want to get involved with. If you follow the maintenance guidelines for the CO2's you really can't go wrong but having said that, reading some of the comments definitely has swayed me to consider the standard life jackets

[@cheifreal]

I'm an avid sailor and kayaker so practically live in my pfd. I started out using inflatable for freedom of movement till I did a check on a fellow sailing club members and the co2 canister had rusted through. Now I use the stohlquist edge. I love it. Comfortable, stays in place when adjusted correct, very durable, good freedom of movement for sailing and paddlesports. Haven't used inflatables in five years. A good pfd is prob one of the best investments for safety on the water. As a skipper my first and most important job is safety for all under my command. Don't skimp on safety.

[@oBseSsIoNPC]

5:55 and on a side note, practice getting onto your Kayak from deep water. Totally sketchy when you rely on the vest and you can't even get on the biggest flotation device near you....I am going practicing this weekend again, with and without vest...JUST IN CASE

[@skiplovestofish6992]

I have an inflatable and I've been thinking of getting a Kayak specific PFD. Thank you, for helping me make up my mind. That was a wake up video.

[@monti409]

You know your so right, i own an inflatable $140.00 never had to use but come to think of it after reviewing this video i could run into the very same situation. I guess i will buy me a Stohlquist or one similar. There is no price when your life depends on it. Thx for the vid

[@JustinSchnadelbach]

I wouldn't want to take the risk of whether the PFD will inflate or not. I stick with a normal vest that will work when I need it to.

[@curtisf1276]

Got the same PDF as you in yellow, it's not too bad in hot weather. One other point, IF/WHEN you flip your kayak, if that rail comes down on top of your head and you are knocked unconscious you are finished if you are not wearing a PFD...and if it's a manual pull PFD you are still dead.

[@jbaccanalia]

Thanks you answered my question. No to the pull cord.

[@tiaxanderson9725]

OK, I had a whole thousand word essay (I didn't count) after about 2:47 but really it comes down to 2 things 1) Don't skim on PFD, if you buy a $5 one, you're going to get a $5 one. 2) Learn about the different types of PFD; there are 5 types (type I, II, III, IV, and V). You probably need a type III Because you're talking about freedom of movement, and how big some get, and how they keep you upright. My man, that's a type 1. You're not supposed to swim in that, help is supposed to come to you! Edit: So I thought it was already point three since you're a little long winded (I have that too, it's OK ;P ). But yeah, point 3, especially the "unless you've pulled that cord in the last 3 months" is a good one. In fact, it's one that's valid for *ALL* PFDs out there. While the degree may differ, _all degrade with time_ (and use). Edit 2: The problem is, the English language forgot to give them different names. No like seriously, I did a quick search; "PFD, life jacket, life preserver, life saver, life vest, life belt, Mae West, and cork jacket" can all be used interchangeably.

[@hummer4u2nv11]

Good advice and safety subject Jack. I understand what you are saying about the inflatables but not convinced for or against either way. Here is my observation and experience...1) They don't all immediately inflate just because in the water, some of them have a tablet that needs to dissolve before it inflates, so we need to pull the manual cord. Also during regular maintenance (we all do this perfect routine right) there is an experation date to consider for the CO2 cartridges, etc... 2) You buddy who fell into the water didn't pull the cord for immediate inflation. But I agree with your overall point whatever style someone wants to use then at least research and learn how each type is designed to work. Like most anything in life, there are many factors to consider when choosing.....like what if my body is the size of a manatee and I end up falling into the water while using a smaller kayak instead of my Jackson Big Tuna :-) ha! will there be somebody else there to help make up for my decisions? I'm just pickin at cha :-) Good job and thanks for covering the subject.

[@musicaflowerchild5540]

I am a new kayaker who hasn't found a buddy to go out with. I'm not a super strong swimmer. I have a fairly good PFD from the sporting goods store. But the problem is, they put the chafing kind of PFD's with the kayaks. So I bought the wrong one, thinking that they knew what they were doing. I'm a big girl. So I've been looking into getting a new PFD and came across the inflatables. I was a bit skeptical about buying one. But again, I thought maybe these people know more than I do. THEN I CAME ACROSS YOUR VIDEO HERE. I'm not going to buy one.

[@HendersonHookin]

I never used to wear my PFD because I seldom am very far from shore. After this I started wearing it. I was with a friend a couple weeks ago and because of me telling him that the water we were going to be in is over 100 feet deep and even if you could get to shore it would be tough to climb out of the lake where we were, he reluctantly put his vest on. Well all was good until the guy in the pontoon boat decided to blast up on us and he ended up in the drink. Because of you he had his vest on.

[@lawsiesteve1649]

I have always used inflatables, auto and manual. Never had a problem. It is important that you follow the servicing requirements of the vest. This includes replacing the gas cylinder every 12 months and in some auto vests a dissolvable tablet.

[@smzslider]

i'd probably forget all those maintenance stuff, ya no flatables for me

[@ZteveW]

In all of the Kayak videos I've seen, they make it look so easy to get back into a rolled Kayak. This is what it looks like in the real world.

[@ShaneJMcNair]

Jack I'm glad you did this video, because I had the same question. I was searching for life vest reviews, because I need one now. I have a new pond hopper & I'm fishing as a "No Boater" & Co-Angler this year in tournaments.

[@ShaneJMcNair]

Jack, I used my Stohlquist Mens Drifter in my first Tournament and it was perfect. It has 2 front pockets to keep warm your hands, a USCG Rating of 70. I didn't need all the additional pockets featured on the Fishing version you have. It is very light & allows you to sit comfortably in a boat seat for all day use...

[@mikewalters1224]

Thanks for all the vids that you’ve put out there. I’ve learned very much from your channel. I’ve only been kayaking/kayak fishing for about a year now and I owe much to you for what I know. I took a single day kayaking course with a certified instructor who says the same things about the PFD. I always wear mine.

[@cricoteo]

If you where not there it could be a different story. Self rescue is a must in a kayak. I have a whistle and those little air horns and sometimes strap the kayak to my ankle that way if the kayak is push by the current you can stay close and keep a little xtra paddle inside my compartment just in case.

[@ChristelVinot]

I got a cheap Onyx one from Academy when I first started kayaking this summer. I immediately noticed how hot it was. I'm getting ready to buy an NRS cvest mesh back now.

[@glennrobbins2372]

My vest is a Lixada Fishing PFD. It's adjustable and has loads of pockets where I keep things like pliers, knife, scale, fish grips and a whistle.

[@davidstout4022]

Thanks for saving me from wasting money and time on an inflatable pfd. Ordered a Stohlquist, but not the same one.

[@markhamze154]

Being in marine rescue. I would strongly recommend buying pfd with no collars. We find plenty of people who fell off boats and the back collars broke the individuals neck. Also i would recommend the sides be empty for easy movement. In the rescue crew i'm in. we have pfd's that self inflate. i don't like that as sometimes you find your self under a boat. You get stuck under the boat.

[@pernamore4224]

Very good points. Thanks for the video.

[@ratherbfishing455]

My father taught boating and sail classes. He stated to wear a PFD in one foot of water. That one never knows when they are going to have a heart attack.

[@danielsebastianrode421]

Rather B Fishing yes or getting knocked down by the rig in strong wind...when in harbour....

[@MagnusSentDooM]

I was looking at inflatables and how they change the cartridge. In the back of my mind I started thinking "do I not twist it all the way down, not to puncture it and if I do how long would it take to slowly leak out?". Would get expensive having to replace the cartridge every fishing trip.

[@chickenguru4]

Yup same here in Canada now add cold water. Recipe for disaster. Great video

[@wadehargis9932]

For now I have a standard bass pro mesh pfd. But the wife and I are in the market for a much better one. Thanks for posting this. I showed it to my father, he wanted an inflatable pfd. I have said time and time again that they could fail and if your knocked off your vessel and unconscious that you need reliability. Thanks again!!!!

[@rodneyhanbaum697]

Absolutely EXCELLENT ADVISE!!! I got ur Six on this one Capt.

[@frigidtsunami]

just got a Westmarine adventure and a medalist, 40% sale. Will likely save up for a Stohlquist or wait till I see a sale.

[@SuperVidtech]

Excellent advice.. Also simplify your layout. Load just what you need on your kayak for your day of fishing.. Always keep your deck as clear as possible should the worst happen and you need to get back on the kayak.. Clutter can kill...

[@ShinyKnife]

I have one like your wore out yellow one. And it sucks. But I do wear it if I’m in deep water

[@joesalemi2414]

Great. So which ones can you swim with? Which ones don’t? I own that Stolquist you are showing and it is very comfortable and I don’t mind wearing it at all to paddle. But you CANNOT SWIM IN IT SO I can’t use it to sail my sunfish which capsizes often and that big PFD does not allow easy entry from the water.

[@Hadassah7000]

Thank you man. I just bought a vest for 30$ at Canadian Tire. It is pretty bulky, don't think it will be easy to paddleboard with it on. You make very good points. Its the extra yellow vest that all wise people have, lol!

[@patrickbridges5359]

Funny story about the inflatable life vest. A buddy of mine had gotten out of his kayak in less than knee deep water. He bent over to pick up something out of the water and the device that triggers the auto inflate on his vest barely touched the water. Next thing you know, this dude looks like the michelan man and CO2 gas is flying everywhere. It was hilarious.

[@stephenmcfarlane7083]

Thank you for the video.. I sent it to my girlfriend she just bought an inflatable paddleboard… and she wants to buy a cheap life jacket off Amazon.. do you want to make sure it fits and it’s comfortable so you wear it The life jacket that I bought is the Mustang Khimera It’s a super thin life jacket that you still have good points, but it also has the cartridge if you need it I’m only doing small lakes on my inflatable paddleboard. I wear it all the time it’s very comfortable.

[@soupbonep]

Great advice. I decided against buying the inflatable because I don't want to worry about the co2 cartridge being expired or failing. Plus, knowing myself, I would probably get the pull cord caught on something and pull it by accident while gearing up to go out! :-) I'm having trouble deciding what vest to purchase though. I like the looks of the Astral V-8 because of it's vents and air flow design, but I want a few more pockets on it like yours. I want to wear the jacket all the time but don't want to get hot and sweaty.

[@ralphkeith501]

I wear an inflatable waist PFD, and a leash, only when I'm on my paddleboard. I test and switch the Co2 cartridge every summer. In the kayak, I only wear a life vest. I prefer the adventure racing type. It floats me well, but allows for easy paddling and swimming. I also think it's good to periodically practice getting back into the kayak.

[@fastgolfr32]

Why did your friends inflatable not inflate? There are inflatables out there that don't self-inflate, they should be illegal. Elderly neighbors bought a few, made them return them. I have been in the Coast Guard for 28 years and we maintain and check ours prior to each use. Is the cartridge inserted properly, is the dissolve pill present, is the tube accessible, do the bladders hold air, is the pull cord accessible and not tangled? Also,, when they do inflate, good luck getting back in/on that kayak with those two big air pillows now on your chest.

[@stuartpeddle3239]

Trying to get back in the kayak from the side is not the best practice. Go from the front and pull yourself up along the top, bow first. Once your hips are close to the seat you can rotate them and end up sitting in the right spot. The reason is, the kayak is much more stable lengthwise. It'll just roll under you if you go side-to-side.

[@horacehaynes4540]

Good job you are right on I have had the same problem

[@CMonsta]

I’ve been going through the great PFD selection process. Thanks for your thoughts on this

[@javiermarante5344]

I actually really considered the inflatable one just bc of how low pro it is and it won’t get as hot but I got a regular kayaking vest and glad I did

[@thomasmoorman5328]

My wife and I both use NRS Chinook Fishing PFD's. Cool in the summer heat and comfortable. They make it in both a mens and womans version. I agree about inflatables for kayaks or canoes. We are usually in the rivers and its not uncommon to flip over on a rock or in rapids. If we were to use inflatables we would be rearming the vest often. Thats if we were lucky and it worked the first time. Good advice Brother. Thanks for the video.

[@Bait2Bend]

Good INFO! I know this is an old video but..... Boats on a lift, prop is out of the water. Rope is caught on propeller, happens all the time, I get it off by jumping into a big tube the kids tube on. I missed the tube one time, almost smoked my head on the dock but didn't (thank GOD)and that inflatable did NOT go off. Never wear it again... Like my ONXY MoveVent. Thanks for the video YAK! Have an awesome day! -Scott

[@PlanetBlake]

Never worry about "taking heat" for those comments bro. No doubt you already have, or will, save some folks from getting hurt or even killed, with the advice you gave to someone - especially the inexperienced ones, but even the experienced. I can not swim, so I would NEVER let my life depend solely on an inflatable. But even if I could swim, I still wouldn't take the risk. Anything can happen on the water, and you might be injured or unconscious after it does happen. Best to err on the side of caution, rather than depending on the manufacture of that inflatable alone. Kind of like if you skydive, you also have a backup chute in case.

[@insider2185]

Getting back on/in your yak is all about technique! I've put 300 lb + people back in their boats, and I'm a skinny guy. It's all about kicking your legs close to the surface of the water, which allows you to get on so much easier!! Practice helps!

[@getbounced_8702]

An inflatable life jacket should never be warn in paddlesports. For one, auto inflation can pin you in your kayak if you have a sit in kayak making it very hard to roll or get out. Also once its inflated you either have to deflate it or take it off out on the water to be able to do anything again meaning your not protected or keep it on and loose mobility and making it harder to paddle

[@themiwoodsman7222]

Thank you for your honest opinion and life-saving advice! I was just looking at self-inflatables and after this video I am not buying one , all through my friend I canoe with has two seat cushions PFD and i had a couple close calls i flipped out a couple times and i weigh 260 pounds and guess what that cushion was useless i had not time to even think about grabing it so i will take your advice and get a good vest style with maybe a couple of small pockets for fishing , thanks again you got one more subscriber and I rang the bell ! atb john

[@TarikVann]

Advise starts at 1:25

[@nathanvanprooyen2312]

I picked up a semi cheap PFD from Academy. It's not too bad. Has a mesh back and sides, plus some pockets on the front. Think I paid $40 for it. While I'm sure I could get something a little bit more comfortable spending twice as much (or more) works pretty well in my opinion. Did "splurge" on a good whistle though. Last thing I need is not being able to get someone's attention because I spent $2 on a complete piece of s***.

[@dog9970]

Great vest choice, I use it. Wife uses same make of vest made for women obviously.

[@chinooky5625]

I have that same stolquist you have in the video! Great video man I believe you got the point across!

[@skyhawk41]

Good video, 2 of the life vests you say not to get. The inflatable and the uncomfortable ones. Guess will go get a comfortable one that will save my life.

[@Maxroadster]

Good stuff! Even experienced folks can get rattled and forget which cord to pull!

[@stansova3138]

If you buy an inflatable make sure you also have a mouth inflator stem on it., that way if your CO2 cart don't work you can blow it up with your mouth.

[@ShaneJMcNair]

Hard to do when you're unconscious in the water. I have worked on river boats and seen things happen unimaginable, but it can happen. Talk to a rescue diver... we all have taken chances in life, but know the risk before you take it.

[@thealaskan69]

New to kayaking, my son bought me a life vest for father’s day, but I traded it back for the new small Hobie inflatable. Some days I want to wear my fly fishing vest and this fits nicely under. It is hot weather mostly kayaking, good point Motley, and I’m not used to it completely [spent a couple decades in Alaska], so I’ll wear it, that’s the bigger thing. Hardly know I have it on except for the gadgets & things, stuff I have clipped to it. The new Hobie branded (made by stohlquist I think) Short version of the manual inflatable I’m finding very, mmm, I want to wear it. I’ll keep looking I’m sure but this one is a keeper.

[@jimking2299]

I'm trying to picture what happens if your PFD inflates under your fly fishing vest. Does the vest explode, shooting streamers, nymphs, and tools all over the river? Or does the bladder burst, shooting you around like a deflating balloon?

[@natehuff8257]

Got the same green Sthoelquist (sp?) PDF. Couldnt agree with you more on your advice.

[@gotafarmyet4691]

Inflatables come in 3 types and all require yearly maintenance at a minimum. You have to manually inflate them to make sure they hold for 24 hours check the firing system and the C02 cartridge. Unless you need the flexibility like working in a tight area on your sail boat probably not the best choice. That said I do like the jacket versions as they are warm to be in

[@2dthoughts]

And make sure you don’t require help to get back in kayak if you’re going to be in the ocean

[@OliviaAlexandra27]

Right!!!!

[@soupbonep]

How cool is that vest on hot days?

[@Valmontst]

First time to have stumbled upon your great video, but you can’t leave me hanging about the catfish story! Do you have a video about what happened??

[@mlangfordoutdoor]

Thank you I never knew so I will be replacing my inflatable before the next trip, never did I think about the failure or the thickness issue. Yep I am a new kayaker

[@chrisweeks2495]

But I do use an inflatable and I do change my cartridges and check my vest every 3 months

[@Hellathome]

I’m new to kayaking. Can you make a video on pfd accessories and where to find them? Thanks keep up the good work.

[@alanmycheong]

auto inflatables should have manual inflate in case of failure. that said, the gas cylinder + sensor needs to be serviced and checked before hitting the water. "normal" PFDs, tho bulkier, not as comfy as inflatables, still function should one be unconscious in the water. touch on PFD care as well - many use em as pillows, cushion seats, throw em around after using, then wonder/panic why they sink or sink faster than expected - IF they're worn.

[@bonniehedden5579]

Thanks for sharing real good advice , I’m going to being getting one for out

[@bonniehedden5579]

Our new kayak, I have one for out boat but want one my easy to paddle with🚣🏼‍♀️👍😊🏖

[@ratherbfishing455]

I have the Stohlquest Fisherman and the NRS Chinook. The pockets in the Stohlquest are bulky. I know a lot of people who wear Walmart PFDs.

[@zakkrick]

My friend aways takes his life jacket off when we’re out fishing on the boat, but on the day he fell off the boat he had his life jacket on. Lol he didn’t know how to swim too. He was lucky to had put his damn life jacket on.

[@IamtheWV17]

people who can't swim go on boats? that's terrifying.

[@SmartHerSparty]

Why the hell would he take it off in the first place if he couldn't swim?!

[@outdoororiginal4364]

Great advice ! I totally agree about the inflatable life vest. Thanks for sharing.

[@HongNguyen-rz2uv]

Great video. Thanks. How much did you pay for the olive one, which has zipper pockets? Please

[@lastlight05]

I bought the same Stohlquist after seeing your review. Fits great and feels great.

[@backtofishingdogheart8841]

I have found all your vids to be helpful an interesting. Ty for taking the time to separate the hype from whats really a good buy in the fishing kayaking market. Depending on everyone needs. Can be hard to tell whats marketing an what is practical an works well out on the water. I find your reviews to be fair an unbiased.

[@jasminesdad0401]

I was about to ask for an inflatable for my birthday. NOPE! Gonna ask for some expensive lures instead. Thanks for sharing that video.

[@johnboyer8986]

I have both an inflatable and a non inflatable. The inflatable I use in shallow water lakes now (8 ft or less). I was dumped by a storm (30+ fow) and the inflatable worked correctly, only problem is that all of the flotation is at your chest. It's even harder to get back onto a PA-14 with 4-6 extra inches on your chest.

[@JeepJeep234]

I always use the NRS Chinook. And for the inflatable life vest, I don't use it simply because it's unreliable like you said.

[@Jetski270]

Good Video and I'm glad I came across your video before I purchased two Mustang 100 inflatables hahahahaha. But your thoughts about inflatables are right on point with mine. There is no guarantee an inflatable will deploy when you hit the water. Thanks again and by the way you resemble Derek Jetter LOL

[@CAPS_AMERICA]

I vote for standard vest, not inflatable. Bought one and fits perfectly even under my regular sweatshirt so it's not dork looking. I won't entrust my life in an inflatable that might fail.

[@JujuPig-vz5mq]

Nice, I'm from Miami FL & this guy flipped his kayak in shark Disney World waters.

[@zedrad1]

Something else about the inflatables... The only work once until you reset them. Chances are once your back on your boat your going to want to deflate it, not thinking and you may need it again. I would also worry about a tear in the plastic trying to get back in the yak. If that happens your SOL. I would bet that if your friend had inflated the vest, it would have popped with him trying to get back in.

[@gabrielbarboza5620]

Thank you for that information..im thinking about taking on the sport..pfd's are the most important equipment we have as boaters..

[@sharpuslf]

Good advice on the PFDs....but it was pretty clear neither you or your friend have been trained in kayak rescue techniques. Everyone should take a class on this especially if you are paddling at night.

[@mattnguyen1672]

What color pfd do you guys recommend? Safety orange?

[@darkhelmet4279]

Great advice!

[@icevencedora8700]

I never had a life jacket but was shopping for one recently. Inflatable was the last thing on my mind. One snag or tear and your screwed. Pro swimmer or not you can still have a accident and inflatable jacket simply isn’t promising

[@anddontcallmeshirley-]

If you can't confidently get back onto your kayak unassisted, you really shouldn't be out in it at all. Especially in open water and at night. If you become separated from your buddy you could be in serious trouble.

[@antcri730]

Some people seem to have the elitist attitude that if you didn't spend as much as me then your stuff is junk. All PDF's have to meet the same USCG standards for type no matter the price. I'm not against spending more to get a few extras like pockets and better looks but I don't think you are doing anybody any favors by trying to convince them they need the $150 one when the $10 will work just as good. I have a $25 PDF that I have been using for nearly 5 years. When it becomes unserviceable Ill go get another one. I do agree with you about the inflatable, I'm a very weak swimmer and had one fail to function, luckily the water was fairly calm and only about chest deep. Keep up the good work just because I might take issue with a point or two doesn't mean I don't appreciate your advice.

[@danielheyboer]

I was at Cabela’s today looking at PDF’s because I don’t have my first kayak yet and I’m getting everything planned out ahead of time. I was comparing the NRS Chinooks to the inflatable and you just set me straight on this. Thank you very much. P.S. my 1st kayak will be the Wilderness Systems ATAK 140 and I can’t wait.

[@benahrens5163]

I spent the extra money and have the same PFD as yours. I’ve had it for the last 3 seasons and going to keep using it. 👍🏻🎣😎💯

[@freddyquiles6415]

thank you for your "INFO" it will help me choose the right LIFE VEST... thank's again...

[@cnkilts]

Great video.

[@phillipjacobson4498]

In cold weather should up put a coat on (over) or (under ) your pfd?

[@rickrick7895]

If his life jacket had inflated it looked like he probably wouldn't have been able to get back in his kayak with it on, or with a bulky life jacket on. Not that I know what I'm talking about, I just ordered my first kayak last week.

[@markhamze154]

I also recommend practicing climbing into a Kayak in the water. always climb back in from the back. Not the side! The fact is the Kayak can float.

[@jimking2299]

If you have a fishing SOT, the back may well contain some or all of these obstacles: a crate, a cooler, a flag pole, camera mounts, and 4 to 6 fishing rods in various types of holders. You have to get in from the side.

[@norcaloutdoor5462]

They should make the pfd with extra add on foam just in case I want to add more

[@vinniesdayoff3968]

That chap in the water could do with a paddle float