Choosing the correct personal floatation device for you

What is a personal floatation device?

A personal floatation device or PFD is also known as a buoyancy aid. They are designed to help you keep afloat in the water.

Depending on the type of water activity you are looking at doing and the type of water you will be in, changes the type of PFD you will need.

The foam used in buoyancy aids is evenly distributed, providing freedom of movement, and allowing you to enjoy your activity and swim freely.

What is the difference between a buoyancy aid and a life jacket?

A life jacket works by floating you on your back and is designed to keep your head above the surface of the water whether or not you are conscious.

While a buoyancy aid is designed to keep you afloat in the water long enough for you to swim back to your kayak. 

Choosing the correct personal floatation device for your activity

PFDs are rated to specific European standards and are split into four different CE categories;

• 275N – Used for yachting, Sportboats, and powerboats
• 150N – Used for yachting, Sportboats, and powerboats
• 100N – Used for dinghy sailing, Sportboats, and powerboats
• 50N – Used for active surface watersports, including dinghy sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and kite surfing.

It is also worth noting that any PFD with a CE rating in between those shown above is automatically in the lower group. So, for instance, an 80N buoyancy aid would still be classed as a 50N buoyancy aid.

Make sure your personal floatation device fits well

If your PFD or buoyancy aid fits well, it will likely keep you afloat in the water.

Too big, and it will ride up towards your face, and too small and won’t keep you afloat.

Keep these tips in mind when you are buying a buoyancy aid;

• It’s best to always try on a PFD to find the right fit.
• Check it’s the correct size for your height and weight.
• Make sure the fastening is working correctly.
• Try one on, put your hands above your head and get someone to pull gently upwards to ensure it doesn’t ride over your face.

But I can swim; do I need a buoyancy aid?

Yes.

We can’t stress this enough, even in calm waters, you should still be wearing the correct PFD equipment.

Personal floatation devices are intended to be used as a swimming aid for people who can swim and NOT as a life jacket for those who can’t.

And last but not least, make sure any personal floatation device or buoyancy aid you buy is working correctly before you set out to sail.