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I SUP and my previous life jacket rubbed my arms with each stroke. This had large arm holes and fits well. I can paddle unencumbered. I actually wear this jacket when I paddle alone.
Reviewed in the United States on December 21, 2019
Verified Purchase
Great PFD, so far. The aspect I don't like is the adjusters. Had one snap second time in use, not so bad as to be a total failure, but enough that I ended up tying the excess strap around the adjuster to keep it from loosening on me. Haven't 'needed' the floatation aspect as yet, and that slipping adjuster could be a problem if I do, so when I returned from that trip, I sewed a loop at that point so that this one side is now fixed in place. The other three still slide so I can adjust as needed around my clothing/wetsuit/drysuit/whatever.
Reviewed in the United States on September 8, 2016
Verified Purchase
I noticed our water rafting guides wearing a NRS PFD. We recently bought kayaks and I was looking for something with pockets for additional storage, light weight and not bulky. I researched several types and based on my need/use for this vest, this appeared to meet my needs, which it did. At times it can get warm. The hand warmers/pocket is very useful because I just like pockets anyway. I don't feel overloaded or compacted in my 8' kayak. It does slip over the head, which is okay...it's different but the buckles on the side allow for easy access. I wish I bought and one for my daughter/other kayaker, but I bought another brand.
I have not yet tried this in the water, but the overall fit and comfort of this PFD is great. The one big zipper pocket and "hand warmer" area on the front are good. It doesn't seem to ride up or move that much as I paddle. The thickness of the padding is a little more than I expected, but it forms around a size 40 C cup chest really well. The one complaint I have is how much extra strap there is left over, I have used a hair tie to bunch up the extra strap to keep it out of the way. But overall for the price and quality I absolutely recommend this for someone who wants to kayak or paddle board but doesn't want to spend over $100 on a quality pfd.
4.0 out of 5 stars
Quality product.
By Zak G on May 28, 2020
I have not yet tried this in the water, but the overall fit and comfort of this PFD is great. The one big zipper pocket and "hand warmer" area on the front are good. It doesn't seem to ride up or move that much as I paddle. The thickness of the padding is a little more than I expected, but it forms around a size 40 C cup chest really well. The one complaint I have is how much extra strap there is left over, I have used a hair tie to bunch up the extra strap to keep it out of the way. But overall for the price and quality I absolutely recommend this for someone who wants to kayak or paddle board but doesn't want to spend over $100 on a quality pfd.
it was time to replace some life jackets and these NRS Vapor were high on our list as we had used them with friends before. So, ordered an Small for my Wife and a Large for myself. These are excellent jackets for use on our paddleboards when we are paddling more than flat water and our belts aren't enough.
I have used this vest many times since receiving it and have to say I love it. The front zip pocket is a great fit for my iPhone (in a waterproof case) and I've not yet used the hand warming pocket area but will be soon as the weather cools. I love the custom fit and unlike others have stated I like the color. Overall I'm extremely pleased.
Reviewed in the United States on September 20, 2016
Verified Purchase
Much more comfortable than my old fashioned vest. Very adjustable for proper fit. Doesn't push up to my neck and ears like the old one. Small fits 10-12 very easily. Allows room for comfortable paddling.
Reviewed in the United States on February 13, 2020
Verified Purchase
Side entry is unique and once I get used to putting it on that way, this thing will be worn, unlike previous PFDs that lay in the bottom of my canoe all week long in the BWCA. I don't expect the usual interference or discomfort issues - it seems very comfy