pfd reco

jcohenx · Since 28 Aug 2007 250 Posts Portland Obsessed

Can someone recommend a decent pfd? I'd prefer something that could be a good cross-over for white water rafting as well but I'd expect to use it kiteboarding >90% of the time. I'd also prefer to keep it under $100.

thanks,

undertow · Since 15 Feb 2008 371 Posts BeaversBurg Obsessed

Check out Promotion in HR, They are local and make great stuff

jsj · Since 11 Sep 2006 83 Posts Hood River

If you insist on wearing a pfd you are best off with a low-profile impact vest (e.g. Dakine, Neil Pryde below).

Whitewater vests have too great a snag hazard in general, and the relatively low-pro products like a good kayak vest have bulk in the wrong place for kiting (belly, interferes with hook, unsafe for kiting).

(edit) PFD's keep you afloat. The hazard in kiting is rarely drowning. Mostly, you run into something and damage something critical.... helmet is probably more important than flotation, really.

Nak · Sun Jul 12, 09 7:20 pm

I use the Liquid Force impact vests. Not officially a PFD, but lots of flotation. The ones with the side zipper work great for kiting. There's no strap, just the zipper. I don't even notice I'm wearing it, except when I'm floating. Very Happy

I'd use something with more flotation for kayaking though.

DROCK999 · Since 31 May 2007 852 Posts Left Coast Opinionated

there's the neil pryde vest which is coast guard approved and are made to wear with a harness. I've seen them at The Gorge Surf Shop

jcohenx · Since 28 Aug 2007 250 Posts Portland Obsessed

thanks for the 411 guys. Kayaking will not be a factor. I do whitewater in a 4- to 6-man raft not a kayak, so I just need basic flotation.

jc

Blue · Since 03 Jul 2007 469 Posts I used to be Obsessed

Some more info here.

pdxmonkeyboy · Mon Jul 13, 09 11:47 am

I've got this model and absolutely love it. Very light and flexible; good coverage and no zippers, belts, clips or other hokey shit to get in the way. more than enough flotation unless you are wearing ankle weights.

http://www.evogear.com/wakeboard-vests/hyperlite-jd-webb-pull-over-vest-2008.aspx

C Johnson · Since 17 Apr 2009 854 Posts Seattle Opinionated

I occasionally wear a kayaking PFD. I think the brand is Outdoor adventures or maybe it was Ocean adventures. its side entry. has one flush pocket on the front that I keep a few flares in.

worked great. never got in the way. sat high enough on my body that it didn't interfere with a waist harness and it had a nice side entry zip with one strap for a clean snag free design.

I would suggest getting something with adjustable shoulder straps so you can cinch them down to keep the PFD riding high on your body and clear of the harness.