Life Jacket For Paddle Boarding
Paddling can be a very relaxing and enjoyable hobby but it is important to consider safety. Life jackets (also known as Personal Flotation Devices) are a vital piece of equipment for all paddlers and should be worn at all times unless otherwise instructed. It is very easy to overlook the dangers of the water and even a short trip can be dangerous without a life jacket. 85% of people who drown on boats were not wearing one.
The best choice of PFD for a paddler depends on their experience, comfort and mobility. Beginners or those who are not confident swimmers should use a Type III foam life jacket which is light, low profile and designed specifically for stand up Paddle board. Experienced paddlers who are good swimmers might prefer the added buoyancy and comfort of a hybrid or inflatable life vest.
These jackets have a polyurethane coating and automatically inflate within four seconds of contact with the water. They also have a mouth tube for oral air topping up, a whistle and lifting loop. They are fitted with nylon tapes and a buckle for attachment to the wearer’s body. Because of their design, racing paddleboards are less stable than other types and are best suited for experienced paddlers who have mastered the balance and technique required to ride them.
Throwable inflatables such as the rings, cushions and buoys you might find handing out at public swimming pools or on cruise ships are not USCG-approved for paddlers and have no buoyancy requirements. They are meant to be thrown to a conscious person who has fallen in the water unexpectedly.
Do You Need a Life Jacket For Paddle Boarding?
When choosing a PFD make sure the labeling is specific to your size and weight and that the jacket fits correctly. A life jacket that is too large can slip off the wearer and a life jacket that is too small may not offer sufficient buoyancy. Look for any rips, tears or other signs of wear that might reduce the performance and buoyancy of the jacket.
Make sure the jacket you choose meets US Coast Guard safety standards and that the registration decals are visible on the front of the jacket. The life jacket should be easily accessible, not stowed away in a bag or buried under clothing and it should be easily and quickly adjusted to fit the wearer.
Be aware of tidal currents, wind and other weather and water conditions and plan your paddling around them. Always carry a map and navigation tools. Check the weather forecast and tide times before you head out and tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back.
Be aware of other boaters and keep a sharp eye out for traffic, especially in busy harbors and other congested bodies of water. If you are paddling between moored vessels, try to move slowly and give other boaters plenty of time to see you before passing. Also consider using a whistle to signal for help or to communicate with other paddlers. The sound of a loud, sharp whistle can travel much further than the sound of a voice. It can also help attract the attention of rescuers if you are unconscious.