As I have said many times on this website (and I tell everyone who will listen), safety always comes first. That is why I’m writing another article about safety, this time about the best Stand Up Paddle PFD’s.
Water and weather are unstable and circumstances might change in just an instant. In case this happens and you end up in wilder water it is important that you are prepared.
To shortly remind you of my other blog article you might have read, 7 Tips So You Can Always Paddle Safety
- Make sure you can swim well
- Always wear a life jacket
- Use an ankle cord
- Be well prepared
- Aware of the environment
- Aware of the weather conditions
- Take sunset into account
And also always make sure to take the right gear for the current weather conditions, as you can read back on Paddle Board Gear Checklist for All Weather Conditions
Now as we have discussed the general safety points once again, let us continue with the topic of this article: the very best Stand Up Paddle PFD Devices.
What is a Stand Up Paddle PFD?
The PFD in “Stand Up Paddle PFD” stands for Personal Flotation Device.
A Stand Up Paddle PFD, is an accessory in the shape of a life vest, belt, jacket or even a small package that you can wear out on the water and which will help you stay safe and above water in case you fall in the water. As Stand Up Paddling becomes increasingly popular and more different types or waters are being used it is important to stay safe wherever you go.
As said they come in many shapes and sizes so it can always suit your wishes and activities. When you’re just sitting in a boat a life vest might work perfect for you, but on a paddle board this will be restricting for your movement.
These Stand Up Paddle PFD devices are often made out of neoprene or a nylon fabric, because this keeps out the water and makes sure the product is durable.
And what about when you’re swimming, is there even an option? That is why I will discuss the most important different types of Stand Up Paddle PFD devices below, so you know no matter what, there is always a good safety option for you.
I have already written about the Restube, my personal favorite Stand Up Paddle PFD Device, exentensively and I will discuss this as the first PFD Device on this list too.
So enough introduction, let’s get started with a recap of the Restube PFD.
1. Restube
The Restube is in inflatable PFD Device, not only for Stand Up Paddling but for all water sports. The great thing about the Restube that this life buoy is extremely tiny and can be clipped to your swimming outfit. When needed you can pull the cord and the Restube will inflate in a matter of seconds, so you can be sure to always come to surface.
Personally I do not like wearing a big life vest because it restricts my arms when paddling and on warm days it feels way to hot to have a piece of PVC covering your body. This is why I love the Restube. The small package only weighs about 200 – 270 grams, depending on the version you pick.
Here is a video of me testing the Restube Basic.
When needed you full the cord on your Restube, which will inflate this life bar which you can grab on to so you will always stay above water. The best thing about the Restube is the small size, which makes it the only PFD device on this list that is also suitable for swimmers / triathletes that want to stay safe but can still maintain their swimming speed.
So it is very easy to carry along and you can pick the version (4 different options) that suits you needs best. Whether you are a (kite)surfer, paddle boarder, swimmer of triathlete, this device can suit everyone perfectly.
Another reason I love this device is that compared to all the other PFD devices you can easily throw this PFD device to someone in an emergency, so it does not only help to keep you safe but also others around you.
Be sure to check the Restube Stand Up Paddle PFD to make sure you stay safe on the water without having to carry a big life vest! As you will also see in the next two types of PFD Devices the Restube can be used again after replacing the CO2 cartridge.
2. PFD Belts
Another very handy PFD device for Stand Up Paddling is the PFD Belt. Like the name says you can wear this handy belt around your waist and inflate it when you’re in trouble. Because it is around your waist it is just as easy to carry as the previously mentioned Restube it does not restrict your movement which makes it perfectly suited as a Stand Up Paddle PFD.
The nice thing about these PFD devices that have the look of a fanny pack is that they sometimes also have some storage space in them, so they can replace your waterproof fanny pack. Once the cord is pulled on these PFD belts they inflate and you can secure them around your neck.
The two Onyx PFD Belts below are very popular models and get used by loads of Stand Up Paddle Boarders. As you can see the left version, the M-16, is a bit slimmer but also offers less storage space. The Onyx M-24 on the right offers more storage space but will also be more visible. It also has some padding on the back for extra comfort when wearing it for a long time.
