How much gear can a PFD fit?

Your PFD is more than just a flotation device. It also provides storage for safety and rescue gear. Having essential equipment on you at all times can make a big difference should you need to use it.

To help you assess different PFDs, we have loaded up our top-selling sea kayak & whitewater buoyancy aids with the gear you would typically carry. Take a look at the photos below to see just what gear you could fit into each model.

Palm Hydro
Sea Kayak PFD

The Palm Hydro PFD has two easy to access front pockets that will fit mid-sized items.

• A hydration pocket is fitted on the back allowing you to carry a drink bladder.
• Two tie in ‘D’s in pockets
• two key clips in pockets

Kokatat Neptune
Sea Kayak PFD

The pocket layout on the Kokatat Neptune PFD has been well thought out, giving you the ability to easily organise your gear.

• A hydration pocket is fitted on the back allowing you to carry a drink bladder.
• Tie in ‘D’ in each main pcket
• Small cord loop above front pocket

Palm Kaikoura
Sea Kayak PFD

The Palm Kaikoura has pocket space for pretty much anything you may wish to carry. Not only are there numerous pockets, but there are also several tie-in points so you can easily tether your gear.

• A hydration pocket is fitted on the back allowing you to carry a drink bladder.
• A divider sleeve in each main pocket
• A tie in loop in each main pocket

Palm FXr
WhitewaterPFD

• Two divider sleeve in side the front pocket
• Daisy chain loops in front pocket

Kokatat HussleR
Whitewater PFD

• Zipped divider in main pocket
• Two divider sleeves in main pocket
• Sleeve behind the pocket for Kokatat’s river tether system (also ideal storage for a saw)

All the PFDs shown are in the middle of the manufacturer’s size range (typically a medium size). Some PFDs will have pocket sizes that vary according to the PFD size.

The safety and rescue equipment shown in the photos is not necessarily a true representation of what should be carried on the water. Please seek professional advice if you are unsure of what is suitable for the kayaking you do.