Welcome to my best picks for PFDs for women Kayakers for 2023!
My team spent countless hours in each PFD to bring you this review. We’ve ranked each product based on comfort, price, and any extra features that each company offered, such as large pockets. These are the top five out of all that we tested.
Men’s PFDs are often too big and bulky, making them uncomfortable and difficult to wear, and I am glad that there are more options available for women whitewater rafters!
Now, let me preface this article by stating that I am a guy writing about what you, as a woman, should buy. First, I’m drawing from the personal experiences of a wife, daughter, and the female whitewater rafting guides I’ve enjoyed working with.
I remember them all explaining to me how uncomfortable Unisex kayak PFDs were to wear. Also, it was important to have a USCG-approved life jacket designed for a woman’s body.
So, here is the information I gleaned from them and came up with the five best PFDs for Women Kayakers!
Spoiler Alert: Top Choice for a Women’s PFD!
Astrals are regarded as being long-lasting, and this women’s PFD is no different. The Astral was designed specifically for women. It has hinged princess seams, inner cups, adjustable shoulder straps, and super soft organic kapok.
What to consider when buying a PFD
Now more than ever, women are participating in water-based sports and doing a great job proving that they’re at least as good as most men. One of my dearest friends, and former river guide, was phenomenal on the river and with clients. It was always disappointing to see younger male river guides misjudge her abilities. However, she had no problem setting them straight and showing she belonged.
Some top manufacturers have now recognized the need for more flexible women’s PFDs, and some of today’s women’s PFDs include all of the capabilities of their male counterparts. Best Whitewater kayak life vests are made with high-quality materials, offering added durability, and plenty of adjustable straps to serve all types of body shapes.
What we looked for in the five best PFDs for Women kayakers in 2023
This article will review the Coast Guard-approved Type III Life Jacket. Each life jackets are white water rafting life jacket and touring kayak, and we focused on life jackets with added comfort in mind. Some life vests have a mesh back panel, which helps you stay cool; others offer a higher buoyancy rating.
However, it is important to go and try them on before you buy. I would wear the clothing you typically kayak in and ensure the PFD does not constrain you. Much of this depends on your preference and what works for you on your paddling adventures! I have more information regarding PFDs in general in this article: Is White water rafting dangerous?
However, let us help narrow your search by providing our five best PFDs for women kayakers!
Also read : What is the Best Inflatable Kayak to buy?
NRS Zoya
The NRS Zoya PFD is a type III PFD and is the best life jacket option for women kayakers. It’s designed to be slim and comfortable, with plenty of room to move around.
The NRS Zoya PFD is a type III PFD and is one of the best life jacket options for women kayakers. It’s designed to be slim and comfortable, with plenty of room to move around.
I have a couple of river guide friends that use this women’s PFD and swear by it. This Life Vest doesn’t have the half-cool mesh others have but is cut away in the back to provide plenty of airflow.
The Zoya has adjustable shoulder straps that help with a comfortable fit in both the front and the back. It also has two front zipper pockets that work great for storing a small snack, car keys, or some safety gear.
I have a couple of river guide friends that use this life vest and swear by it. This life jacket is comfortable, lightweight, and has all the storage space they need! This life vest makes a great kayaking PFD.
Price: $127
Stohlquist Cruiser
The Stohlquist Cruiser Women’s PFD was designed specifically for women and aimed to be especially pleasant while providing a snug fit. This low-profile life jacket features supportive inner cups and an ergonomic form, as well as a smaller cut than other similar women’s PFDs.
The zippered pockets and a rear lash tab keep your stuff safe, while the open sides and mesh back can keep you cool in the warm sun.
It is a little light on floatation, at 16.4 oz. But is a comfortable fit. I offer this life vest to young adults and teenage women who want to run inflatable kayaks on our trips, as this is the best inflatable life jacket. The life vest provides high back flotation making it great for paddle sports.
Price: $119.95
NRS Siren
The NRS Women’s Siren PFD sports a six-panel soft foam design to wrap the torso. This provides ultra-comfortable protection while also providing an athletic fit for paddling comfortably. You shouldn’t experience any chafing issues or the PFD riding up. The large arm holes make it easy to paddle as well. I wish it had more pockets, but it is a great life jacket if you do not need to carry much gear! This is another great kayaking PFD.
I have a few of these in my inventory because it seems to be a popular choice for all shapes and sizes. Many of my customers also like the look and style of this life jacket.
Price: $118.00
Astral Layla
Astrals are regarded as being long-lasting, and this women’s PFD is no different. The Astral was designed specifically for women. It has hinged princess seams, inner cups, adjustable shoulder straps, and super soft organic kapok.
My wife has an Astral Layla women’s PFD from previous years and likes its comfort. She can go on lengthy excursions without getting chafed or having to adjust her life vest around her torso. She’s owned it for a long time, and I doubt we’ll need another one! This is the best PFD for paddling, in my wife’s opinion.
Astrals are regarded as being long-lasting, and this women’s PFD is no different. The Astral was designed specifically for women. It has hinged princess seams, inner cups, adjustable shoulder straps, and super soft organic kapok.
Price: $169.00
Stohlquist Flo
The Flo PFD is a great option for women kayakers and rafters alike. The Stohlquist Flo has a vented back, which helps you stay cool on those Summer days! The PFD’s built-in inner cups result in a better overall fit.
There are additional cross-chest cinch straps for a more solid fit around your torso. These chest straps are made to keep the life jacket from riding up, allowing it to sit lower on your body.
I have heard that they are not as comfortable for all body types as the Astral or NRS options.
Price: $ 99.95
Conclusion: PFDs for Women kayakers in 2023
Women’s PFDs are designed specifically for women to provide a better fit and offer more comfort while out on the water. We’ll go out on a limb and say that women have different physique shapes than males. Therefore, it is logical that these personal flotation devices are tailored to fit a woman’s body differently.
The best five PFDs for women kayakers we reviewed provide good value, and will perform well on all your paddling adventures. All of these kayak life vests are made from durable material and offer a secure fit, US Coast Guard-approved. You would have made a great choice no matter which one you choose for your water sports. The right life jacket for you is the one that fits you the best!
Also read : Star Raven Inflatable Kayak Review (2023)
