Do you SUP? If you’re a fan of standup paddle boarding, do you wear a PFD when you’re on the water? Most paddle boarders don’t bother wearing a PFD, and that’s a mistake.
If you’re on the water and fall, you could be at the mercy of the tides and swell in the ocean or the current in the river. Wearing a PFD improves your safety, helping you mitigate the danger in hazardous situations.
Wearing a PFD makes sense if you’re doing any activity on the water. However, the cumbersome feel of a lifejacket is a downer on the SUP experience. Fortunately, top PFD brands offer dedicated SUP PFD designs to enhance your experience while remaining safe on the water.
This post unpacks the best PFD for SUP. We’ll look at the leading models and give you a buyer’s guide to help you with your decision.
Contents
Our Top Picks
- The Best Overall PFD for SUP – Onyx M16 Belt Pack PFD
- The Best Premium PFD for SUP – Mocotono Inflatable PFD
- The Best Budget PFD for SUP – Estink Inflatable PFD
The Best PFD for SUP Reviews
The Best Overall PFD for SUP – Onyx M16 Belt Pack PFD
When you’re surfing waves and paddling along the flats, the last thing you need is a PFD getting in the way. It’s not surprising that so many people choose to risk it on the water without their PFD. It’s uncomfortable to wear and feels cumbersome. This M16 SUP PFD from Onyx changes the game with SUP PFD.
The Onyx features a belt-wear design, allowing you to strap it around your waist like a fanny pack. Pull the oversized bright yellow tab on the right side of the PFD if you fall and need floatation support. The CO2 cartridge in the belt inflates a life jacket for 17-lbs of buoyancy.
- U.S. COAST GUARD APPROVED: This USCG-approved inflatable belt pack inflates manually by pulling the inflation handle. Approved for users 16 years or older, and over 80 lbs. The universal size fits up to a 52” waist
- MANUAL INFLATION: The 16 gram CO2 charge provides 17 pounds of buoyancy. This belt pack is equipped with back-up oral inflation to allow the wearer to provide additional buoyancy up to 26.5 pounds
- SAFETY & SECURITY: The inflation handle clips to the life jacket to prevent snag hazards. The adjustable body belt and front buckle closure allows for a secure fit of the vest. Features an attached D-ring for affixing accessories.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, LOW PROFILE: This ultra-sleek inflatable belt pack weighs less than 1 pound, making it ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, sailing, and recreational boating. It fits comfortably around your waist for unhindered paddling or casting. When not in use it stows conveniently and compactly
- REARMING KIT: Inflatable life jackets can be reused after each inflation. Always read your Owner's Manual for the proper way to initially arm your life jacket, and how to re-arm it after it has been inflated. Use Onyx Rearming Kit #1370 for this product. It is recommended to purchase an extra rearming kit to try out your inflatable life jacket and become familiar with its operation.
You also have a manual inflation tube allowing further inflation of the life vest to provide buoyancy up to 26.5-lbs. After inflation, place the life vest strap over your head, and you have a functional Class V PFD keeping you on the surface.
The Onyx M16 features design and construction with Ripstop nylon materials for durability, and you replace the 16-gram CO2 cartridge after each use. The PFD is easy to pack away after deployment and deflation and is a lightweight, user-friendly life jacket for SUP.
The low-profile design of the PFD belt makes it a great choice for SUP enthusiasts that want an unlimited range of motion in their experience. When you’re wearing the M16, you’ll barely feel like you’re wearing a PFD at all.
You get easy wearing, with quick-release buckles for fast setup and a D-ring for attaching your critical great, like your paddle leash. The M16 is easy to adjust to your waist size and comes in four color options.
What We Liked
- Slimline, low-profile form factor.
- Easy deployment and repacking.
- 16-gram CO2 operation.
- US Coast Guard-approved PFD.
- Available in four colors.
The Best Premium PFD for SUP – Mocotono Inflatable PFD
The issue with the Onyx PFD is it requires you to pull the strap over your head to keep you floating face-up in the water. In a moment of panic, you might struggle to achieve this task. The Mocotono inflatable PFD takes care of this problem. This inflatable life vest comes in a design setup to needs no adjustment after deployment.
- PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD) inflates automatically via replaceable CO2 cylinder (Comes with TWO CO2 cartridges,one is already in the life vest and one is for replacement.), when immersed in water. Or manually with a pull of the “jerk to inflate” cord. You can also use the backup oral inflation tube.
- The life jacket is very slim and does not restrict movement. We also equipped it with a quick-release buckle for easily putting on and taking off. Adjustable strap webbing provides a universal size, we can adjust it up to 73 inches.
- Buoyancy: 150 N. Uses a 33 grams CO2 cartridge. Inflate in approximately 3-5 seconds. Fit for universal adults under 330 lbs (150 kg).
- Our PFD is perfect for many recreational water sports and boating activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and sailing watercraft.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: CE Certificated. MOCOTONO is dedicated to addressing any product/service issues and is committed to delivering the best experience for all buyers.
You pull the inflation tab on the bottom right pontoon, and the 16-gram CO2 cartridge inflates the vest. You get more buoyancy out of this PFD than the Onyx, and better overall supp0ort in the water for your head and neck, keeping you floating face-up. This PFD provides floatation for people weighing up to 330-lbs.
It’s easy to set up. Just strap it on, and the lightweight, slimline design of the pontoons on the sides won’t get in your way. You get a full range of motion in your shoulders and arms, with the inflatable floats connecting with a quick-release buckle below your sternum on the front of the PFD.
The ergonomic strap system on the rear of the PFD allows for firm support of the life vest when inflated, keeping you in the right position. When inflated, the life vest is bright yellow, featuring a design and construction with durable nylon and TPU materials for puncture resistance. There’s an emergency whistle integrated into the vest and reflective strips to improve visibility on the water.
What We Liked
- US Coast Guard-approved PFD.
- The vest includes an emergency whistle and reflective strips.
- The low-profile design doesn’t inhibit movement.
- Easy to wear and lightweight.
The Best Budget PFD for SUP – Estink Inflatable PFD
The Estink has a great price tag and functional operation if you’re looking for an affordable belt-design PFD. This model comes with a slim-line belt-style design, with three color options for the cover. You get an easy setup with a nylon belt and adjustable quick-release buckle for customizing the fit around your waist.
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The PFD life vest deploys after pulling the inflation tag, with CO2-powered inflation for rapid filling in 5-seconds. The life vest inflates to a ring shape, with reflective strips on the top of the PFD and an emergency whistle integrated into the life vest.
The Estink is very affordable and half the price of the top competitors in its category. It might not have the same stylish looks as the top models, but it serves the same purpose. The only issue we have with the Estink is that it doesn’t offer floatation support for the neck and shoulders. Instead, you have a round tube design.
Overall, it’s a convenient, lightweight PFD that’s easy to wear and ideal for SUP. Considering the price tag, it’s a great choice for entry-level equipment for the beginner SUP enthusiast.
What We Liked
- Suitable for kids and adults.
- The life vest includes an emergency whistle and reflective strips.
- Lightweight and easy to wear.
Astral Airbelt PFD
The Astral Airbelt gives you another great option for a comfortable and functional SUP PFD. This model has a belt design and comfortable wear, featuring a durable ripstop nylon strap and a quick-release buckle for a customizable setup.
- Reflective logo for high visibility in low light conditions. Hip pocket with zipper closure and stretch mesh body to give you an easy access stash pocket for sunglasses, keys, etc. Tubular construction for low profile fit. Durable and comfortable high tenacity ripstop shell and smooth nylon liner.
- Intended use: SUP / Fishing / Canoeing. Entry: Front Buckle. Inflatable (manual by 16g C02 or breath). Shell Fabric: 200 x 400 Denier Ripstop Nylon. Webbing: PolyPro. Zipper: YKK Non-Corrosive Coil. Hardware: Heavy Duty Acetyl. Design Buoyancy: 19.5 lbs. Approval Type: USCG Type V.
The Astral Airbelt has a design and construction featuring a durable 400D Ripstop Nylon shell and 200D high-tenacity liner for the interior. The vest features a buoyancy rating of 22-lbs, with USCG Type V approval as a PFD. The main belt housing features Polypro webbing and heavy-duty hardware with a non-corrosive coil zipper on the onboard storage pocket.
The stretch mesh body design of the pocket makes it easy to store your sunglasses and other small personal items. When inflated, the life vest provides inflation in front of your chest, keeping you face-up in the water. Pull the support strap over your head and wait for rescue. You get an integrated emergency whistle built into the vest.
We don’t appreciate that the PFD only comes in black, and there are no options for high-visibility colors like bright orange or yellow. However, it’s a highly functional PRF and a great choice for professional-level gear.
What We Liked
- Fast inflation and excellent buoyancy.
- Innovative chest-float design.
- The life vest includes an emergency whistle.
- Type V PFD US Coast Guard-approved.
Drift Inflatable PFD
The Drift inflatable PFD brings you another belt-style CO2-powered PFD with a specific design for use in SUP. You get a lightweight life jacket that’s easy to wear, allowing for a full range of motion in the arms and shoulders without impairing movement in your hips.
- Inflatable Belt PFD is a unique design that keeps stand-up paddleboarders (SUP), anglers, boaters, and other paddlers safe without compromising movement
- Fully Sublimated Front Shell Panel and Soft Touch Neoprene Lined Back Panel | Dual D-Ring Looped Attachment Points | 6F Mini Inflator Mechanism
- 16g Cylinder / 16.5 Pounds Buoyancy when inflated with the CO2 cylinder and 29.5 Pounds of Buoyancy with secondary oral inflated. Includes spare CO2 Storage Pocket. CO2 included in Black pouch for transport
- Adult Universal – Fits 24” up to 52” waist.
- U.S. Coast Guard Approved for persons 16 years of age and older; and over 80 lbs.
The belt secures to your waist with an adjustable quick-release buckle and durable ripstop nylon belt materials. The exterior shell of the PFD features a soft-touch panel and soft-touch rear neoprene panel for comfortable wear and no abrasion on your skin.
This model has dual D-rings and looped attachment points for securing your gear and the paddle leash. The PFD gets its floatation from the 16-gram CO2 cylinder, offering fast inflation of the vest in just a few seconds.
When inflated, the life vest has a bright yellow color to improve visibility on the water. You get an emergency whistle integrated into the life vest, and the vest inflates in front of your chest, securing in place with a strap you pull over your head.
You get 16.5-lbs of buoyancy when inflated using the CO2 cylinder and 29.5-lbs with the oral inflation tube providing additional volume. You also have a secondary pouch for storing a backup CO2 cylinder. This model is somewhat expensive, but you get comfort and effective buoyancy, supporting people weighing up to 330-lbs.
What We Liked
- US Coast-Guard approved.
- Bright-colored life vest.
- Soft-touch neoprene waist bag.
- Limited warranty.
Ejoyous Inflatable PFD
This belt-design SUP PFD brings you another affordable option in three colors. You get a functional and compact PFD that’s ideal for SUP use. This model comes with a ripstop nylon belt and adjustable quick-release buckle for a custom fit.
You get the tab positioned on the left side of the belt, offering easy deployment of the 16-gram CO2 cartridge to inflate the vest. The CO2 cartridge provides rapid inflation, with a buoyancy rating of 16.5-lbs. You can also use the manual inflation tube to increase the buoyancy up to 25-lbs. It’s a USCG-approved Type V PFD and ideal for safe SUP adventuring.
When inflated, the yellow life vest forms a ring around your waist which rides up into the armpits to provide buoyancy and support in the water. Reflective strips are on the top of the life vest, and an emergency whistle to attract attention to your situation.
What We Liked
- Belt design for comfortable wear.
- Fast inflation with CO2.
- The life vest has reflective strips and an emergency whistle.
Onyx Fishing PFD
If you’re into fishing SUP, you need as much storage space as possible. Dedicated fishing SUPs come with rod holders and onboard storage, but some anglers find they need more space to stash their gear. The kayak fishing PFD is ideal for anglers looking to access equipment from their vest.
- Six adjustment straps to cinch vest up for a snug fit
- High foam back accommodates high back seats
- Pockets designed for your essential gear
- Breathable mesh lower back
- Comfortable neoprene shoulder pads
You get large drop-down pockets for your gear on the front right and left panels. Store a small tackle box and equipment within easy reach without upsetting your balance on the SUP. You get a comfortable vest with six adjustment straps to customize your PFD fitment.
You get two storage loops for your sunglasses and keys on the upper left side of the vest and another zippered storage pocket on the top right of the front panel. This highly functional vest offers you plenty of gear storage for your next fishing trip.
The Onyx fishing PDF features design and construction with high-back rear inflation panels that provide more support in your seat. You get excellent flotation, with the POFD providing up to 16.5-lbs of buoyancy. The lightweight synthetic material design of the vest dries quickly, and you get a breathable mesh back to keep your cool on the water.
What We Liked
- A dedicated fishing design.
- Plenty of storage pockets.
- Excellent buoyancy.
Other Best Selling Options
- U.S. COAST GUARD APPROVED: This USCG-approved inflatable belt pack inflates manually by pulling the inflation handle. Approved for users 16 years or older, and over 80 lbs. The universal size fits up to a 52” waist
- MANUAL INFLATION: The 16 gram CO2 charge provides 17 pounds of buoyancy. This belt pack is equipped with back-up oral inflation to allow the wearer to provide additional buoyancy up to 26.5 pounds
- SAFETY & SECURITY: The inflation handle clips to the life jacket to prevent snag hazards. The adjustable body belt and front buckle closure allows for a secure fit of the vest. Features an attached D-ring for affixing accessories.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, LOW PROFILE: This ultra-sleek inflatable belt pack weighs less than 1 pound, making it ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, sailing, and recreational boating. It fits comfortably around your waist for unhindered paddling or casting. When not in use it stows conveniently and compactly
- REARMING KIT: Inflatable life jackets can be reused after each inflation. Always read your Owner's Manual for the proper way to initially arm your life jacket, and how to re-arm it after it has been inflated. Use Onyx Rearming Kit #1370 for this product. It is recommended to purchase an extra rearming kit to try out your inflatable life jacket and become familiar with its operation.
- US COAST GUARD-APPROVED TYPE V PFD: This Type 5 manual only inflation flotation device is USCG approved with a Type 3 performance. Includes a CO2 cylinder shipped conveniently in a storage pocket inside the belt pack. Once the provided CO2 cylinder is installed into the manual inflation mechanism you're good to go. With a quick jerk of the “Jerk to Inflate” cord the vest will inflate in seconds.
- COMFORTABLE AND CONVENIENT: The minimalist design stays out of the way until activated. This life jacket keeps you cool and safe during the summer heat. D-Rings are a great way to clip on your accessories and keep them close.
- RELIABLE BUOYANCY: Pull the jerk cord and the pillow-style bladder inflates to provide 16.5 pounds of buoyancy (equivalent to a Type III foam PFD). Optional secondary inflation allows the bladder to be orally inflated up to 29 pounds of buoyancy.
- FULLY ADJUSTABLE: Designed to fit a wide array of shapes and sizes. Universal size fits 30-52 inch chests, or men and women small, medium, large, XL, and XXL sizes. Approved to fit persons 16 years of age and older, or those weighing over 80 pounds.
- THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED: Created with stand up paddle boarders, kayakers and canoers in mind. This belt pack comes in a wide variety of colors and safety features. Even anglers and general boaters can enjoy the comfort and security it provides.
- Soft, lightweight flotation foam
- Mesh in lower back fits high back seats
- Attached whistle for safety
- Strong, durable zipper closure
- SOLAS grade reflective material for visibility
PFDs for Paddle Boarding Buyers Guide
After reading through the buyer’s guide for the best PFD for SUP, it’s time to learn what you’re looking for when making a purchase. All the PFDs in our review are top-quality designs, and you can expect a safe SUP experience when wearing and using the gear. Let’s unpack what you need to know about PFD design for SUP.
Why Do I Need a PFD for SUP?
If you land in the water, it presents a drowning risk. The personal floatation device keeps you on the surface until help arrives. Without the PFD, you might have to spend hours treading water until help arrives. The PFD mitigates some of the danger involved with a fall in the water, reducing your drowning risk in all water conditions.
Belt-Style or Jacket-style SUP PFD?
When you’re choosing your PFD for SUP, you’ll find you have two options available. The first is the traditional kayaking PFD. This model fits like a life vest, with floatation panels on the sides, front and back to provide buoyancy.
These models work well and provide plenty of floatation. However, they have the problem of feeling constrictive to the SUP rider. The thickness of the vest may interfere with the range of motion in the arms in some designs.
The second is a belt-style PFD design. This model straps to your waist like a standard fanny pack. It has an inflatable life vest contained in a pouch. The inflatable life vest deploys when you pull on a tab that charges the CO2 canister hidden in the belt.
The canister pumps up the life vest, keeping you afloat. Belt-style PFDs are the preferred choice for most SUP disciplines. They offer you the best freedom of movement while providing the safety you need to stay floating at sea or on the lake.
The only SUP discipline that can benefit from the use of a traditional PFD over a belt-style model is fishing. Anglers will find the additional storage capacity offered by kayak PFDs the better choice for their activities.
What are the Features of a SUP PFD?
So, what are the top features of a SUP PFD? Ensure your PFD has the following traits at a minimum.
Comfortable Wear
The PFD should feel lightweight and comfortable to wear. Most belt-style models come with adjustable waist straps to customize the fit.
Easy Packing
The PFD should be easy to repack after inflating. Look for models offering easy deflation and fast setup with a new CO2 cartridge.
Good Buoyancy and Stability
The PFD should provide good stability in the water. We like the belt-style models with head straps allowing you to secure the PFD in place. The chest-facing floatation position is the best option for easy floating on the water.
Durable Materials
The exterior of the PFD should feature a design and construction with durable synthetic materials like ripstop nylon. The life vest should feature a design with high-density, durable plastic materials.
Onboard Storage
Anglers will benefit from traditional kayak PFDs with plenty of pockets. Make sure you get a model that doesn’t impair paddling.
Safety Features
Look for PFDs offering emergency whistles and reflective strips integrated into the life vest.
SUP PFDs for Kids and Dogs
USCG regulations state paddlers over 12-years must use “USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or appropriate Type V” life jackets. Riders over 12 don’t have to wear life jackets on the water. However, wearing the PFD is the smart thing to do. There are dedicated PFD models available for kids and dogs (See our full list of doggy life jackets here).
Ensure you protect your family on the water and give them the safety gear they need to survive any situation.
How Do I Maintain my SUP PFD?
To keep your SUP PFD in great shape for years to come, take care of it after each use. To maintain your PFD, rinse it in freshwater, especially after a session in the ocean. The saltwater is corrosive and will deteriorate the life vest, even though it’s made of fabric. Make sure you remove the CO2 canister if it’s spent, and store it away dry, not damp. Placing a damp PFD in storage may turn it moldy.
A Word on Traveling with CO2 Canisters
Some airport authorities view CO2 canisters as a travel risk. Don’t be surprised in the TSA people confiscate your canisters from your luggage. It doesn’t happen all the time, but if they find them, they may confiscate them and give you a warning, but no fine.
The Best PFD for SUP FAQ
Q: Does a SUP have a Hull ID Number (HIN) or registration number?
A: No, the USCG doesn’t require SUPs to have a HIN or registration number for the board. All states in the D11 region (CA, AZ, NV, UT) do not require registration of paddle crafts. However, some might so check with your local authorities.
Q: Should you rent or buy a SUP PFD?
A: We recommend owning your PFD rather than renting it. The rentals you get at SUP rental stores are horrendous. Many of them have perished panels, and it’s doubtful you’ll find a belt-style model. Instead, you’re likely to end up with a poorly-fitting life jacket you don’t want to wear. Buy your PFD online before your trip and leave the board at home. You’ll have a lightweight and comfortable PFD, and you won’t have to deal with shoddy rental equipment.
Q: What is the best SUP PFD?
A: It depends on what you want to do on the water. For fishing SUP adventures, it’s a good idea to go with a traditional kayaking PFD with plenty of storage pockets for your gear. However, all other SUP activities, from surfing to yoga and touring, will see more benefits from using a belt-style PFD for their SUP experience.
Q: Where can I buy the best PFD for SUP?
A: We recommend buying your SUP PFD from Amazon, the leading e-tailer for SUP sports equipment online. With Amazon, you get the best range and lowest prices on leading brands. If you’re a Prime member, you get fast, free shipping to your door and buyer protection on your order.
The Best PFD for SUP – The Verdict
After reading through our buyer’s guide and reviews, you should have an idea of the right PFD to suit your SUP adventures.
We understand it’s challenging to settle on one model with so many great choices in this review. If you’re on the fence with your decision, why not go with one of our top picks? We have a SUP PFD to suit any paddle boarding style and any budget.
- The Best Overall PFD for SUP – Onyx M16 Belt Pack PFD
- The Best Premium PFD for SUP – Mocotono Inflatable PFD
- The Best Budget PFD for SUP – Estink Inflatable PFD
