Choosing a personal flotation device (PFD)

There are three types of PFDs specified by Australian Standards Regulations. Type PFD1 encompasses those that are commonly known as "life jackets". They must be safety orange or safety yellow in colour and have a buoyant collar behind the neck and flotation material in front of the chest. This is so that if the wearer is in the water, they will float on their back with their nose and mouth clear. Types PFD2 & PFD3 can be described as vests. The only difference between these two types is PFD2 must be predominantly orange, yellow or red. PFD3 can be any colour. For more information about the regulations covering the wearing of PFDs check out the lifejackets advice from NSW Maritime.

The majority of people using kayaks and canoes go for type PFD2. This is because the bulkiness of PFD1 jackets mean that they get in the way of paddling, and the colours of PFD3 jackets mean that you may not be spotted easily in an emergency. Having said that, there are no regulations preventing you from wearing a PFD1 or PFD3 if you want.

Whilst it is not always compulsory to wear a PFD, there is no good reason not to wear one whenever you are on the water, particularly if it is comfortable. Look for low profile designs that provide maximum buoyancy over a small area. Flexible shoulder and waist adjustments are important for a good fit. Also, soft flexible foam helps with contouring the jacket to the shape of your body. Finally, it should be noted that a PFD2 or PFD3 will not automatically be comfortable. Some are manufactured for a completely different purpose, like waterskiing, and may not leave enough room under your arms. Others have long bodies that can get caught on your spraydeck or backrest.