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How Does a PFD Work? Everything You Need to Know
For watersport athletes and enthusiasts, safety is always the top priority. Sports like kayaking, downwind paddling and sailing carry real risk due to prolonged exposure to unpredictable conditions. Wearing a PFD is the most effective way to reduce the chances of drowning or serious injury. But how do they actually work?
How does a PFD work?
PFDs use buoyancy to keep you afloat without assistance. Buoyant material traps air and makes the wearer less dense than the water, causing an upward force. A well-fitted PFD distributes your body weight more evenly across the water's surface. Some designs concentrate buoyancy around the head to keep the wearer face-up and protect the airway.
Inflatable vs foam PFDs
The two most common types are foam and inflatable. Foam PFDs are preferred by athletes and inshore watersport enthusiasts. Inflatable PFDs are more commonly worn by boaters and offshore sailors, and require a trigger - either manual or automatic on water contact. Buoyancy is measured in newtons (N).
50N
A Level 50 PFD is the right choice for performance watersports within two nautical miles of shore. Lightweight and non-restrictive, they are designed for active exercise with some neck support but without a bulky collar. Ideal for paddling, sailing and water skiing where mobility is essential. All Vaikobi PFDs are ISO 12402-5 Level 50 certified and worn high on the chest for effective upper body flotation.
100N
A 100N PFD offers higher buoyancy for calm water use where the wearer may need to wait for rescue. A collar assists in rolling an unconscious person face-up. Not suitable for sports requiring freedom of movement.
150N
Designed for all weather conditions including rough seas. Most commonly used by boaters who experience a range of inshore and offshore conditions. A robust collar keeps the wearer face-up if unconscious.
275N
The highest buoyancy level available for regular boaters. Designed for high-risk offshore activities in rough seas, with extra buoyancy to counteract heavy clothing and carried items.
How long does a PFD last?
For paddlers or sailors who wear their PFD weekly, foam life jackets should be replaced after approximately 12-24 months or when showing significant wear. PFDs stored or used less frequently on larger vessels don't need replacing as often. Inflatable PFDs should be serviced annually to check the bladder, CO2 cylinder, reflective tapes, buckles and straps.
How to test a foam PFD
Step 1 - Check for visible wear or damage. Look for tears, mould, significant discolouration or weak stitching. If present, replace your PFD.
Step 2 - Find a low-risk testing area such as waist-deep water at a pool or calm beach. Put on the PFD and secure it firmly.
Step 3 - Slowly submerge yourself and lift your feet off the bottom. If you need to actively tread water to stay afloat, the foam has degraded and the PFD needs replacing.
Inflatable PFDs are best checked and serviced by a professional.
