PFD - What to look for and Why it's Important
As many of us have paddled around the state we are seeing that Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is growing in popularity in recent years. Mostly because It is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and explore the waters around you. However, it is important to remember that safety should always be your top priority when participating in any water sport. One of the most important safety measures that you should take when Stand Up Paddleboarding is to always wear a personal flotation device (PFD). Additionally, many local waterways require you to have your PFD on board.
A PFD, sometimes referred to as a life jacket (but read more about this discussion here), is designed to keep you afloat in the water in the event of an emergency. This is especially important when Stand Up Paddleboarding, as the sport can take place on open water or in rapids, both of which can be unpredictable and dangerous. Even if you are a strong swimmer, a PFD can provide an extra level of protection in case of an accident or unexpected situation. While your board is technically a flotation device, if you were to fall off your board and wind or current were to separate you from your board, your main form of safety would not be near you (another reason to wear your leash).
Types of PFDs
There are many different types of PFDs available, but they can be broken down into 2 main categories, inflatable, and foam-based designs. Inflatable PFDs are lightweight and easy to wear, making them a great option for Stand Up Paddleboarding. The belt-style inflatable PFDs are particularly nice for SUP in calm warm waters because they are low profile and only will inflate if you pull the cord. There are a few on the market that are popular, such as the Onyx M16 Inflatable from iRocker or the NRS Zephyr Inflatable PFD. If you are looking for a bigger splash of color be sure to check out the Bombora Inflatable Belt available here on Amazon They have a huge selection of color options to help you stand out on the water.
The simple and inexpensive orange foam-based PFDs are also a good option if you are always on flat calm water during the day and you are not far from shore. This type of PFD is good for someone who always uses their leash, the water is not cold or choppy, and they going to put the PFD on their board. There are a ton of other foam-based PFDs on the market that are designed for other situations like windy, choppy, areas with boat traffic, and/or whitewater. Stohlquist has a good quality selection of PFDs for kids and adults for all water situations. Additionally, NRS is a leader in the paddlesports market and has a huge selection of comfortable and functional PFDs. Personally, in addition to my inflatable belt, I have the NRS Ninja PFD; which I find to be multi-functional for different water sports. Its’ low profile design does not impact my paddling in choppy or whitewater conditions, it transitions to being comfortable while sitting in my kayak and has features such as a front pocket and handwarmer pockets to help out on cold days. Both types of PFDs are designed to keep you afloat, and they are available in a variety of sizes to fit all body types. The best kind of PFD is the one you will wear and use regularly, so make sure you are taking this life-saving purchase seriously.
They are Good Looking
Another important reason to wear a PFD when Stand Up Paddleboarding is that it can greatly increase your visibility in the water. Many PFDs come with reflective tape or bright colors, which can make it easier for other boaters or water rescue personnel to see you in an emergency. This is especially important in open water areas such as the Chesapeake Bay and when the water is choppy or visibility is poor.
Legal Reasons
Finally, it is important to remember that wearing a PFD is not just a good idea, it is also the law on many Maryland waterways. Many states, including Maryland, have laws that require watercraft, including Stand Up Paddleboards, to carry PFDs on board and for individuals to wear them while on the water.
Since we all know that Stand Up Paddleboarding is a fun and exciting sport, it is important always to prioritize your safety. Always wearing a PFD when Stand Up Paddleboarding is one of the most important safety measures you can take to protect yourself while on the water. With a wide range of PFD options available, it is easy to find one that fits your needs and style.
Remember, wearing a PFD is not just a good idea, it's the law. So, stay safe, have fun, and see you on the water!
Disclaimer - this post contains affiliate links that help support this blog at no cost to you. Additionally, this entire article is based on the understanding that you have basic Stand Up Paddling safety knowledge and awareness; always wear your PFD and leash, and paddle with a friend and within your limits.
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