Inflatable PFD Review

What To Look For

Inflatable personal flotation devices (PFDs) can be divided into two major categories: those that are manually-inflated only (by blowing into them), and those that have a cartridge of carbon dioxide or compressed air for inflation. If what you want is a PFD for emergency use, get the compressed gas-filled variety. A crisis is no time to have to puff into a PFD's inflation nozzle, and some even auto-inflate upon hitting the water. On the other hand, if you want a PFD for recreational use (such as a snorkel vest or children's swimming aid), manual-inflation is the way to go.

Common Pitfalls

Inflatable PFDs are not especially durable. They are vulnerable to punctures compared to foam vests, especially after inflation. This makes them a bad choice for any kind of rugged water sport, like whitewater rafting or kayaking. Also, do not get a cheap PFD if you want it to last. This is probably not a problem for a child's swimming aid, but it might be for a snorkel vest or something else more serious. Repeated inflating and deflating will eventually open the seals on a cheap inflatable PFD.

Where To Buy

Sizes for PFDs are very general, and getting a good fit is not really an issue. So, whether they be recreational or emergency in nature, these are items where you are better off shopping online and making full use of the Internet's bargain hunting and comparing power.

Cost

In 2009, an emergency, inflatable PFD costs between $100 and $260. "Re-arming" kits with new cartridges were usually between $15 and $30. Snorkel vests ran between $30 and $80. Inflatable swimming aid PFDs were between $10 and $30.

Accessories

A useful feature for an inflatable, emergency PFD is a manual inflation valve. This allows the wearer to fill the PFD up at their own discretion and without having to use up a cartridge.