According to USCG regulations, a paddle board is defined as a vessel, and there’s a rule for wearing a paddle board life jacket.

The USCG regulations state that children under 12 must always wear a paddle board life jacket, whether they are staying or riding the board. The stand-up paddle board life vest must be USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or appropriate Type V.

Meanwhile, riders above 12 are not required to wear a paddle boarding life jacket but must carry one on board. However, it’s always better to have a paddle board vest on your body for maximum safety.

iROCKER’s collection of paddle board life jackets is a must-have for SUP enthusiasts. These life vests and waist belts are designed for all skill levels and provide the necessary comfort and safety. Users can feel free with their movements and enjoy the moments without sacrificing safety. Besides, we offer a dog life vest for your furry friend.

What Types of Life Jacket for Paddle Boarding

There are 6 types of life jackets for paddle boarding, including:

• Type I PFDs: This type is bulky but specially designed for stormy situations. It provides top buoyancy and allows the unconscious person to face up.
• Type II PFDs: This life jacket for paddle board is lighter, buoyant, and optimal for close-to-shore sports. However, it may not turn an unconscious wearer face up.
• Type II Inflatable PFDs: This is another paddle board life vest type ideal for near-shore activities. However, it’s unsuitable for non-swimmers or children under 16, and you must manually inflate it.
• Type III PFDs: This type is the best paddle board life vest preferred by many paddle boarders. It combines comfort and buoyancy, making it suitable for different sports activities. However, it can’t let the unconscious wearers face up.
• Type III Inflatable PFDs: It’s ideal for calm water and requires manual inflation.
• Type V PFDs: They are designed for particular activities. According to Coast Guard regulations, users must wear them all the time.

How Can You Choose a Suitable Type of Life Jacket?

Before buying a life vest for stand up paddle board, you should consider:

• Comfortable size: To ensure proper use of a PFD, it must fit well, allowing for free movement of arms and comfortable paddling. Sizing can vary between brands, so ensure you measure your body accurately and consider the situation when you need to wear your paddle board PFD over clothing.
• Suitable style: Paddle board life vests come in numerous style options, making it easy to find the one that suits your tastes. Popular PDF brands are Astral Designs, Marine Technologies International, Northwest River Supplies, Onyx, and Stohlquist WaterWare.
• Paddling experience: The best PFD for paddle boarding is the one that will not affect your experience. It should not create any difficulty paddling and climbing back on your board. Otherwise, it may not be the proper fit for your needs.
• Things to wear under your PDF: Consider your clothing when selecting a paddle boarding PFD, as it can influence the size and style. Ensure it fits comfortably over your paddling attire and allows you to access your pocket.
• Cost: PFD prices significantly vary based on additional features, so you should consider usage frequency and desired features before investing in a stand up paddle board life jacket.

Enjoy Your Moments With the Best Life Jackets for Paddle Boarding

A paddle board life jacket will ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for sports lovers. When choosing a stand up paddle board PFD, remember to consider the size, type, style, and budget to find a suitable one.

Visit iROCKER for a variety of stand up paddle board life jackets. We also boast our paddle board collection, offering durable and versatile options for an unforgettable on-the-water experience. Contact us right now for the best deal!

References:

U.S. Coast Guard. (n.d.). Vessel determinations. U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Retrieved June 18, 2024, from https://www.uscgboating.org/regulations/vessel-determinations.php