I have an OT Cayuga 160 and my existing PFD rides up my back because of the cockpit/seat profile. What is the most comfortable PFD for a touring kayak like the OT Cayuga?
If the seat back is interfering with your PFD, it’s a strong indication that the seat back is the problem. Consider installing a low profile backband instead.
What model PFD are you wearing now? Is it a paddling vest? Astral is known for well-made life jackets which are light weight and comfortable. https://www.astraldesigns.com/shop/life-jackets. Naturally, you’d have to try them on - and if you could bring your kayak with you, that would be even better.
Looked at a photo of your boat. Appears the seat back extends well above the cockpit rim. Sparky’s suggestion is a good one as a lower backband might be more comfortable for you. Also makes it easier to get back in your boat.
Third on the above.That seat back really sticks above the cockpit, enough that even a better fitting PFD with a shorter back is going to hit it. Also, you really should not be aware of the back of the cockpit when paddling, if you are physically aware of it you are leaning back rather than in an effective paddling position.
Best bet is to reconsider the seat situation then decide about the PFD.
Astral V-8 . Light and cool for a PFD and will not interfere with your seat back.
In the 160, the seat back with flush with the cockpit lip so its really not a seat issue but rather a matter of the PFD which has padding below the top of the back- I think the Astral V-8 solves the problem. Thanks all!
I have to try a V-8 soon.
Astral Blue jacket love the pocket layout
I got the V-8 because I paddle SOT that typically have high seat backs. Less expensive than changing seat backs.
As stated above, the Astral V-8 is cooler which is a big advantage when paddling in Florida during the summer. Also, with the back cut high, doesn’t interfere with a roll.
Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJh9XetTJ7c
Purchase: ACK ($89.96 + free shipping)
Look into this type too…
@Doug Gilliland said:
As stated above, the Astral V-8 is cooler which is a big advantage when paddling in Florida during the summer. Also, with the back cut high, doesn’t interfere with a roll.
Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJh9XetTJ7c
Purchase: ACK ($89.96 + free shipping)
That is a good price.
I’ve been wearing the MTI Orleans for probably a decade and it works relatively well with high seat backs because the lower half of the back is mesh. It’s been many years since I actually paddled it with a high backed seat.
Murphy’s Law no thanks
Not sure what Murphy has to do with this PFD but it’s a manual inflate so nothing happens until you pull the cord. Instant inflate doesn’t work for kayaks unless you have the swimming skill of a large rock.
When I look at a PFD with built in flotation I know it will work. My luck that PFD would not.
Sure it would. Your poor little dog needs you.
Have a heart attack and see what you can blow up I am guessing.
I use an Astral V-8
Another vote for the Astral V-8. I like Astrals in general and have 3 models, a Camino for colder weather and open water (a bit more buoyancy and insulation), the V-8 for warm weather and an Abba, a model with encapsulated kapok flotation that is softer than most foams and very comfortable but it has a full back. The V-8 with the half mesh back and vented front panels and low front neckline is the most comfortable of the lot. I actually forget I am wearing it, even on hot days, so much so that I often climb into the seat of my car after loading at the takeout and realize I still have the PFD on. That is a great price but Astral often has special deals when they change their models slightly. They have improved the pockets on the V-8 (my 7 year old model has skimpy pockets but I still like it.)