If you are just starting out, I recommend buying your PFD first. Then, buy good paddles and invest what is left in your boat. The kind of paddling you plan to do will dictate the type of PFD you buy.

Any PFD must be USCG approved. This means that it has passed a number of safety tests from the United States Coast Guard, the service tasked with ensuring boater safety in the US.

Typically, paddlers choose Type III vests, which are designed for continuous wear, and are typically more comfortable than pure “rescue” vests.

First, try on several models. Make sure all buckles, ties, and zippers function correctly, and that the vest cinches tightly to your form. Sit with the vest on and make sure it doesn’t ride up into your chin or rub against the seat. If the boat you typically use is available, try the vest in it. Try working your arms in typical paddling fashion to ensure it doesn’t bind.

If someone else is available, have them grasp the vest at the shoulders and try to yank it up. This check ensures the vest won’t ride up in the water, allowing the wearer to slip lower. If no one else is there, try this yourself.

Finally, the final step for a PFD is to wear it. Don’t assume that your swimming abilities will save you. PFDs come into play when something unexpected happens. That unexpected event may also render you unconscious or unable to fend for yourself. Not wearing your vest isn’t considered macho, most paddlers will just consider it stupid.