Kayak Life Jackets & PFDs

Every paddler remembers their first swim. Maybe it was a missed brace, a surprise eddyline, or a botched roll. Either way, it happens, and when it does your life jacket better be ready. We’ve built this collection for paddlers at every level, Beginners taking their first strokes, multisport athletes racing the Coast to Coast, and whitewater paddlers running serious lines. Each kayak life jacket here is hand-picked by our coaching team for a reason. They fit well, move with you, and do the job when it matters most.

For racing, the Rasdex Multisporter is a go-to: clean design, fast entry and exit, and a smart hydration mounting system that stays accessible even with a race bib over your PFD. If you need a new whitewater rescue PFD, the Palm Nevis is hard to beat. Loaded with safety features like a quick-release harness and tonnes of storage. And for newer paddlers, we offer a range of comfortable, reliable PFDs that don’t compromise on safety.

Fit matters, and not just for comfort. A good fit keeps your PFD in place when you swim, keeps chafing to a minimum, and keeps your mind on the river. Every jacket includes a full sizing guide and we offer easy exchanges if you don’t nail it first try.

If your current vest is a few years old, check the foam. Buoyancy fades, UV and salt wear down fabric, and trust in your gear is too important to risk. Whether you’re upgrading, replacing, or buying your first, you’ll find the best kayak life jackets NZ has to offer right here. Expert-selected, race-legal, river-tested, and priced right.