PFD’s - What to look for and Why it's Important
Did you know there are new PFD Rules?
“PFDs: Less hassle than treading water for two hours and way cooler than a Coast Guard lecture.”
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) isn't the new kid on the block anymore, it's taken over lakes, rivers, and the occasional bay where dolphins judge your balance skills. Whether you’re stepping onto a board for the first time or have the paddle calluses to prove you’re a regular, let’s talk about something every paddler needs but no one brags about: the Personal Flotation Device (PFD).
Why You Need a PFD
Here’s the truth: no matter how strong you swim, water doesn’t play favorites. Wind, waves, sneaky currents, even just a slip, your board can drift off while you’re wondering what just happened. A PFD is your insurance plan for unexpected wipeouts. And for the record, not only is it smart, it’s required on most waterways all over the country. Might as well wear one you actually like.
2025’s Fresh PFD Rules: Finally, It's All Making Sense
Here’s what’s new: As of December 6, 2024, the U.S. Coast Guard gave the old “Type I, II, III, V” system the boot in favor of the global UL 12402 standard. Canada’s using this too, so cross-border paddling just got easier on your brain. Click here for The Water Safety Foundation details, but below is a quick overview.
image courtesy of boatlinesanddockties.com
New Simple Labels: Now you’ll shop by “Level.” Level 50, 70, or 100+. The higher the number, the more float-power you get.
Level 50/70: Perfect for flat water, close-to-shore adventures, confident swimmers.
Level 100+: When things get wild—cold water, heavy chop, or you just want max float.
One Rule for the U.S. and Canada: Buy a new jacket, take it anywhere in North America, and paddle happy.
More Comfy Choices: Low-profile cuts, sleek belts, and real colors that aren’t “prison orange.”
Got an old trusty Type III vest? You don’t need to retire it yet, just make sure it’s in good shape and still approved but upgrade to the new system when you need a new one.
PFDs for Every Paddler: Choose Your Flavor
Let’s keep it real: What is the best type of PFD for the average stand up paddler? The one you will actually wear on the water. You can’t go wrong if you have a PFD that fits, floats, you wear, and matches your board. Here’s the some recommendations that may help you pick the right one:
Warm/Calm/Flat Water
NRS Zephyr Inflatable - go-to choice for flatwater and near‑shore SUP when you want minimal bulk, maximum mobility
Bombora Inflatable Belt - flatwater paddlers barely-there comfort and unmatched arm freedom.
NRS Vapor - for budget-minded paddlers, a supremely comfortable, ultralight, low-profile for those that may not feel like strong swimmers.
Rivers and Currents (non-whitewater)
Astral EV-Eight PFD - delivers exceptional comfort and ventilation with lightweight mesh-back and ergonomic foam.
NRS Ion PFD - combines plush, flexible foam and ventilated mesh in a low-profile design
Astral Layla (Women’s fit) - shaped for curvy bodies, offering sculpted support and side‑entry comfort
Cold Water/Weather or Whitewater or Ocean
NRS Ninja - delivers super-low profile, athletic fit and elite paddling mobility with a comfortable pockets
Astral YTV 2.0 - ideal for the minimalist, a low‑profile flotation with unrestricted mobility and responsibly sourced recycled materials
Children’s PFD’s
NRS Vista Youth PFD - durable and engineered for kids 50–90 lb—offering flexible comfort, easy front‑zip fit, and a fun snack pocket so they might actually leave it on
Tips for Buying and Wearing a PFD (So You’ll Forget It’s On)
Fit matters: Should be snug, not tight. If you pull it upwards and it tries to slip up over your head, adjust the straps.
Visibility helps: Brighter means your group can see you, and so can the rescue team if you ever need them.
Most States require an emergency whistle, so be sure to tie on to the outside of your PFD.
Condition counts: Moldy, ripped, or faded? Time for an upgrade.
Match your PFD to the water conditions: Calm lake day? Inflatable belt should do the trick. Big and/or fast water, cold temps (Rule of 120º), or lots of boats traffic? Level 70-100 for sure.
Honestly, They Look Cool Now (Yes, Really)
The orange eyesores of summer camp are long gone. Modern PFDs show up with neon accents, reflective bits, pockets, even secret snacks compartments (well, almost). You’ll get spotted by friends, and by rescue boats, which is the real win.
The Law is Watching
Most states, say you need a Coast Guard-approved PFD for every paddler, and if you’re under 13, you gotta wear it, period. Forgetting yours isn’t just uncool, it could get you fined or worse, caught in a real emergency unprepared. Don’t be that person, safety first and second.
Paddle Smart
When you paddle, we understand that you want freedom, but letting the good time roll, also means being safe. This new 2025 PFD updates, should provide more comfortable, stylish choices than ever, and the rules finally make sense for everyone (especially if you are headed back and forth to Canada). So, do the right thing get the right PFD for your paddling situation, and support your favorite paddle shop if you can.
Remember, the best PFD is the one you are going to wear
Safety first, stories later. Go enjoy your paddle.
