In this article, I will take a closer look at some really great personal flotation devices (PFD’s) that are great for kayak fishing. I will also tell you about some features that make a kayak fishing PFD a very safe and useful item to have on.

Check Out the Best Kayak Fishing PFD .

Summary: Kayak Fishing Personal Floatation Devices

Handy Kayak Fishing Buying Guide

Here are some of the key features to consider when shopping for a PFD to use while kayak fishing:

• Comfort/Fit

Most people who disdain wearing life vests of any sort while kayaking do so because they can be very uncomfortable to wear. That is no longer a problem because nowadays kayak fishing PFD’s are specially designed to be comfortable. Look for such features on a kayak fishing PFD as it being lightweight and having extra room in the underarm area to allow for unrestricted casting.

Make sure you size it right too when you go to buy or order your new personal flotation device. You want to order a PFD that is slightly bigger than what your actual chest size is.

• Convenient pockets

Experienced kayakers know that it’s certainly not easy to take a tackle box along with you on your kayak fishing trip. That is where a kayak fishing PFD that has a nice amount of storage pockets can come in very handy. Look for pockets you can safely put lures in, line, sinkers and other necessary fishing gear. It is just so much easier than reaching in a tackle box for the things you need when you are out fishing in your kayak.

• Durability

If you are going to be using fish hooks, scissors and knives around your personal flotation vest you certainly want it to be durable and abrasion resistant. That means it will have to be made out of a tough material that is also lightweight and will hold up well when it gets wet. Look for a PFD that is made out of a tough synthetic blend material such as polyester or nylon blends that will hold up well for a long period of time.

• Certified Safe

Your PFD should be certified by an authoritative body as to the fact it is an approved lifesaving device. Look for certifications such as US Coast Guard approval in order to know that device will keep you afloat if you end up in the water.

Kayak Fishing PFD Reviews

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B01K9DVUVA” locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/51DlA2B7XocL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”500″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9DVUVA” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]NRS Chinook Mesh Back Fishing PFD [/easyazon_link]

There is no better kayak fishing PFD’s than the ones that are specifically made for that purpose such as this one. This product has just about everything you want in a life vest that is made for kayak fishing.

It all starts with its comfortable design that allows plenty of free movement around the arms for paddling. It also features a mesh lower back piece for ventilation and 8 adjustment points so you can get it to fit comfortably and perfectly.

This kayaking PFD has 7 front pockets to store your required fishing gear and multiple attachment points and sturdy d-rings too. Its foam sections will nicely conform to your own body contours when it’s being worn and you also have three different color choices to choose from.

Pros:

• Ventilated mesh lower back section
• 7 front pockets
• 8 adjustment points
• Body conforming flotation foam
• Multiple d-rings and attachment points
• 3 colors to choose from

Cons:

• Can be a bit warm on hot days
• No reflective material stitched into it

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B01K9DVUVA” key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B01KVRAFS8″ locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/51l8NurNtL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”495″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KVRAFS8″ locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] ONYX Kayak Fishing Life Jacket [/easyazon_link]

Here is a kayak fishing PFD that is not only well-designed but it’s very stylish too. It will make fishing aboard your kayak a lot more enjoyable and you will be safer while doing it too. It features 4 large front pockets that are lined with flees to help warm your hands on colder fishing days.

This is a life vest that’s built for comfort too thanks to its 6 adjustment points and high back with several sewn in mesh panels.

Not only is there plenty of room for storage but it’s made of abrasion resistant polyester fabric too. It even has tabs where you can conveniently hook your knife sheath to or use it to attach other important fishing gear.

Pros:

• Zippered fleece lined pockets
• Knife holder
• 6 adjustment points
• High back w/breathable mesh panels
• 4 large front pocket design
• Stylish design

Cons:

• It has a plastic zipper
• Vest will feel a little bulky to some users

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B01KVRAFS8″ key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B00EVIP322″ locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/41GszMTNTOL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”500″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B00EVIP322″ locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] Coleman / Stearns Comfort Series Personal Floatation Device [/easyazon_link]

There are very few companies that design products for outdoor use as well as Coleman does and this PFD from them certainly does not disappoint. It’s a model flotation device that is designed especially for fishing but it’s very versatile so it can be used as a safety device for other water activities too.

This Coleman/Stearns flotation vest is also made to be comfortable. It has vented mesh back and shoulder material and also features oversized arm holes for easy paddling. Adding to its comfort are the several adjustable web panels that are built into it.

This is one tough personal flotation device too. It is made out of durable and abrasion resistant 200D nylon-oxford material. It’s a US Coast Guard approved flotation device that comes in a somewhat stylish green color with easy to see orange highlights.

Pros:

• US Coast Guard approved
• Vented mesh back and shoulders
• Large arm holes
• 200D nylon oxford shell
• Custom fit webbing adjustments
• 2 front storage pockets

Cons:

• Can feel warm and slightly bulky when hot
• Most people need to order a size up

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B00EVIP322″ key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B004060GPE” locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/512BzdgsMXoL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”492″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B004060GPE” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] Stohlquist Piseas Personal Floatation Device [/easyazon_link]

This is a very versatile personal flotation device that is great for any kayak angler too. There is much to like about its design. It’s made out of tough 420 denier nylon material and it has large open sides that make it very easy to paddle and fish when wearing this life vest.

Comfortable features are built everywhere into this PFD model. An example of this is the high position of the back panel float that you will not feel when sitting in most kayaks. It’s also available in both a neutral green color and a higher visibility mango color too.

One of its nicer features is its oversized draw bridge pockets. When lowered they double as a convenient flat working space. There is also built in loops and d-hooks for additional gear handling.

Pros:

• Oversized drawbridge front pockets
• Float sits high on back panel
• Open sides for ventilation and easy arm movement
• 420 denier shell
• Anchor points and d-rings
• Available in 2 color choices

Cons:

• No mesh panels anywhere
• A little to the warm side

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B004060GPE” key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B0050HDACS” locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/51ErHpROLpL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”486″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B0050HDACS” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] Stohlquist Fisherman Personal Floatation Device [/easyazon_link]

Here is another Stohlquist PFD that made our list of the top models. This one is different from item number 4 because it’s made specifically for kayak fishing. It has tons of storage that is specifically designed to hold useful fishing gear.

This personal flotation device is made of very tough and abrasion resistant 500 denier Cardura fabric. It also has comfort enhancing features such as the padded neoprene shoulders that are built into it. There are many d-rings, clips and loops built into it to help secure all you necessary fishing tools too.

One of the things that really set this product apart from other fishing PFD’s is its drawbridge style front pockets. Not only can they be used as a work surface when they are open but they can even accommodate small size plastic lure boxes.

Pros:

• Designed specifically for fishermen
• Large drawbridge front pockets
• 500 denier Cardura shell
• Neoprene padded shoulders
• Full of fishing tool mounting locations
• Front pockets fit small lure boxes

Cons:

• Material is very thick
• Takes time to adjust the fit

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B0050HDACS” key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

Conclusion

Which one would I choose out of all the ones that were reviewed? They are all very nice PFD products but the one that stands out to me is the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01K9DWWSU” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]NRS Chinook Mesh Back Fishing PFD[/easyazon_link].

What do I like so much about it? Well for starters it looks great and has a roomy front entry design. It also has more adjustment points than most life vests (8) and the foam flotation inserts tend to conform to your body when wearing it. The mesh lower back on it will also help you keep cool when paddling.

What really put this product over the top for me is its large drawbridge style front pockets that double as a flat working surface. This is definitely the type of fishing personal floating device that will make any kayak angler happy when they are wearing it.

More popular guides:

The post Best Kayak Fishing PFD [REVIEWS & GUIDE] 2019 appeared first on A Straight Arrow.

In this article, we will discuss the key factors to look at when buying shoes made for kayaking and also review several of the top kayaking shoes that are made.

Check Out the Best Kayak Shoes .

Summary: Top 5 Kayak Shoes

Kayaking Shoe Buying Guide

Here are the key considerations to look for when shopping for shoes to wear while kayaking: 

• Fit/Comfort

Kayaking is not something you will do for 15 minutes and then quit or done in a place where you will have access to different shoes so you can change them if the current pair you are wearing is not comfortable. That is why you better get the fit right on any pair of kayak shoes you buy because you will be wearing them for a while.

We always recommend that you follow any sizing charts that the manufacturer makes available either on the packaging or their online website. They know how their footwear fits better than anybody else.

• Tough/High traction sole material

Here are some important sole features to consider when buying any kayaking shoe:

• Puncture resistance

Kayaks are used on all different types of bodies of water so you never quite know what type of terrain you will have to cross to launch and then get into your kayak. So you want to be protected by a tough sole for sure.

Sole material that is made of rubber or a rubber blend is best because it will enable you to go across coral, gravel, pointy rocks and other somewhat sharp bottom material without it penetrating your shoe.

• Traction

Kayaks can be a slippery type boat to get in and out of especially if there is a little bit of water in the bottom of them. They are not really made for standing up in them but it’s hard to avoid when you are getting in and out of them. So a kayak shoe with a good griping sole material will help here.

You may also be going across mossy covered rocks, wet wooden docks or other moist surfaces that will tend to be slippery. Once again a rubber or rubber blended sole with a good tread design will work best under these conditions.

• Upper shoe material

This has more to do with the main use you have for your kayaking shoes. For instance, if you want to kayak in cooler weather you will want to keep your feet as dry as possible so they won’t get cold. A neoprene material with zipper entry will help keep water from going through the shoe to accomplish this.

Mesh materials and synthetic blends such as polyester will let water through to your foot easier but will also help keep your feet cool when kayaking in warm or hot weather.

Kayak Shoes Reviews

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B00TIXT3XK” locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/41vN3v59pSL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”500″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B00TIXT3XK” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] NRS Paddle Wetshoe – Men’s [/easyazon_link]

Here is a well-designed pair of water shoes that will work extremely well for anyone who likes kayaking. They are made of neoprene so they will fit snug and will also conform to the shape of your upper foot and ankle. NRS has also included a wide toe in these for increased comfort and a reinforced more protective ankle area.

These are a zippered type kayaking shoe that will keep your feet warm even after the boot itself has become saturated with water. That makes them a great shoe to wear when kayaking in cooler or colder weather.

They offer superior traction too thanks to the 3 mm thick all rubber sole that they have. This will also give you some nice puncture protection when going across coral, rocks and other sharp objects.

Pros:

• Tough 3 mm, soft neoprene fabric upper
• thick high traction rubber sole
• Gusset backed zipper for easy entry
• Reinforced ankle area
• Wide comfort shaped toe
• Superior fit

Cons:

• May be too warm for hot weather kayaking
• Hard to take off once wet

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B00TIXT3XK” key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”220″ identifier=”B002SEE07A” locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/41dpi0NAb2BL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”500″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B002SEE07A” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] Mares Equator 2mm Dive Boots [/easyazon_link]

These are a pair of kayaking boots that are very versatile and well-built. They can be used for a variety of other water sports too such as diving, snorkeling, paddle boarding and more. It is a boot that is even good just to wear around the pool.

One of the best things about them is the amount of traction their gridded rubber soles give you. Whether entering your kayak or simply walking around a pool deck, you will have more resistance to slipping when wearing these kayaking shoes. They are thick enough to keep sharp objects from penetrating through the bottom too.

They are a mid-high cut shoe that will slip on easily as you prepare for your time on the water kayaking. The stitching in them is nicely hidden and there is added protection in the heal area also.

Pros:

• High traction rubber soles
• 2 mm thick neoprene upper
• mid-high cut
• protective heal
• glued w/hidden stitching
• easy slip-on style

Cons:

• No ankle reinforcement
• Lack of color choices

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B002SEE07A” key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”450″ identifier=”B003HOPDG2″ locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/41t2Blwi8JbL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”450″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B003HOPDG2″ locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] Promate Beach Dog Water Sports Shoes [/easyazon_link]

Here is a really comfortable and affordable pair of water shoes to wear while kayaking or doing many other activities around water. They are well-designed and have a subtle style about them that will appeal to both men and women.

There 3 mm thick synthetic upper helps them fit snug yet remain flexible and comfortable. The padded ankle collar only adds to their comfort even more. It’s a shoe whose low cut style is perfect for those only looking for light foot protection while kayaking or enjoying any other activity around or in water.

These kayaking shoes also feature a true rubber sole with a pattern that helps to give them excellent traction on slippery surfaces. That is never a bad thing to have and you can enjoy any water related activity with more confidence as you go across slippery surfaces.

Pros:

• High traction rubber sole
• 3mm synthetic upper
• Low cut styling
• Versatile water shoe
• Padded ankle collar
• Unisex styling

Cons:

• Low height is not supportive enough for some users
• Will not work with closed heel swim fins

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B003HOPDG2″ key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”390″ identifier=”B000V9P73U” locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/41I1mv2BykL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”500″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B000V9P73U” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] NeoSport Wetsuits Premium Hi Top Zipper Boot [/easyazon_link]

NeoSport has designed a really nice shoe here for all different types of water activities including kayaking. It has the perfect combination of slippery surface traction, lightweight feel and subtle styling that will make anyone glad they bought a pair.

This kayaking shoe uses a heavy dose of soft and durable neoprene in its construction. When combined with its rugged zipper it forms a water barrier that will help keep your fett warmer when kayaking in cooler weather.

It’s kayaking footwear that also has a well-designed rubber sole. Built into it is a puncture resistant insert that will help protect you when crossing over coral, sharp stones or other pointed objects as you launch your kayak. This sole also provides very good traction even on wet surfaces.

Pros:

• High top style
• Superior Foot Warmth
• Heavy duty zipper
• 3 mm neoprene material forms water barrier
• Puncture resistant/high traction sole
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• May be too warm on hot/sunny days
• Somewhat tight on some users

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B000V9P73U” key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”265″ identifier=”B00L1R715I” locale=”US” src=”https://nqo.psw.mybluehost.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/41aE2TvqcNL.jpg” tag=”astraightar0d-20″ width=”500″]

 [easyazon_link identifier=”B00L1R715I” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″] Adidas Outdoor Men’s Climacool Jawpaw Slip on Shoes [/easyazon_link]

Adidas is a trusted name in footwear and innovative shoe designs like this one are the reason why. This is a versatile pair of easy to slip on water shoes that will work well for kayaking or a variety of other water related activities.

These are just about the most comfortable water shoes you can buy. They have a breathable mesh upper that helps keep your feet cool even on the hottest of days and their low-cut design gives your feet the total movement of freedom they love when kayaking.

The nylon mesh upper is abrasion resistant and very durable. These nice kayaking shoes also have a true rubber sole that helps protect sharp objects from contacting your feet and will give you some added traction when walking on wet surfaces.

Pros:

• Easy to slip on
• Innovative mid-sole drainage
• Strong nylon mesh upper material
• True rubber sole
• Comfortable low-top design
• Great air flow through them

Cons:

• No foot support
• Will not keep your feet warm when kayaking in cooler weather

[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B00L1R715I” key=”wide-light” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]

Conclusion

These are all fairly well-designed water shoes that will work very well for any kayaker so it’s hard to choose which one we like best. Some work better in different scenarios than others too. If we had to pick what we thought was the best all-around kayaking shoe among the ones we reviewed it would have to be the [easyazon_link identifier=”B000V9JSHQ” locale=”US” tag=”astraightar0d-20″]NeoSport Wetsuits Premium Hi Top Zipper Boot[/easyazon_link].

We just like the overall combination of attributes they give you when you wear them when kayaking. They have a tough, puncture resistant rubber sole that will also provide you with some decent traction on wet surfaces. Their neoprene construction makes them comfortable and will also help keep your feet warm when kayaking in cooler weather too.

When you factor in they are a unisex type shoe that has a very reasonable price point, then we definitely feel you should strongly consider them when shopping for your next pair of kayaking shoes.

More popular guides: Progressive Reloading Press / Red Dot Sights for Pistols

The post Best Kayak Shoes [REVIEWS & GUIDE] 2019 appeared first on A Straight Arrow.