Choosing a life jacket, or personal flotation device (PFD), that fits well for all-day wearing comfort is one of the most important water safety decisions you make. In this video we show you how to fit a life jacket and tighten the straps to ensure it won’t ride up when you’re in the water. When deciding on a life jacket, wear it around the shop for a while to be sure it’s all-day comfortable. There’s a wide variety of life jackets available to boaters today, so you’re sure to find the right one for you. Then, be sure to always wear it when you’re on the water!
Sep 22 | How to Fit a Life Jacket
by NRS Staff
I’d like to see some suggestions for fitting PFDs for us fat guys. Yes, we enjoy paddling, too.
The standard life vests right up over my paunch into my throat. Very frustrating. I’m constantly having to stop paddling and readjust the PFD. For that reason, I’ve had to resort to an inflatable life vest. They don’t get in the way.
Yes, I understand I should lose weight but that’s not always medically possible.
Any suggestions? I’d love to hear of them.
Great feedback. As the video says, a great way to prevent ride up is to anchor the bottom strap under the rib cage. If that’s not possible, another solution is to use leg straps. Two of our life jackets, the Big Water V and Big Water Guide, have webbing loops sewn into the bottom of the jacket. We also carry leg straps, with side-pinch release buckles, that can be threaded through the loops. This type of system really works well to stop jacket ride up.
What suggestions or name of PFD would you suggest for larger busted women??
Hi Dee,
Several women here at NRS give high marks to the Astral Linda life jacket. We carry it and you can also consult with our dealers near you to see if they have them in stock – http://www.nrsweb.com/services/dealerlocator.asp?tn=281
We have a great returns policy if you need to order directly from us.
Boat Safe,
-Clyde