In this SUPboarder PRO head to head test we put 20 buoyancy aid (BA) models from 15 brands up against each other head to head to find to what works and what doesn't! Priced between £49.95 and £139.95 we look at fit, adjustability and on water/in water comfort and performance. This test is designed to help you choose the right BA for YOU!
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dew
10 months ago
Great test!! Is there any slim pfd that have a quick release for leash? I only find bulky white water pfd with quick release.
As always, another fantastic and informative test. I’m considering the Palm Meander, as it seems to be the cheapest Palm with a front zip for easy entry/exit with an added zip pocket (it’s a real shame that the pocket is not waterproof). Also I can get to a shop to try it on.
Hey Rich look at the Neo ones. I believe Gav said he like the Wip ones and would be the BA of choice for Winging and will work for SUPing too.
sc2071
8 months ago
Missing from the test was the Vaikobi VXP Race PFD. I like the look of it as I’d worry less about scratching up my hardboard getting back on from the water. Anybody familiar with that and how it compares to the V3 Ocean Racing PDF? Thanks!
Yes – we tried to encourage brands to submit just one product to make the test manageable – as you can see some ignored that!!! The VXP Race looks good, i imagine it will not be as easy to get into as the V3 as a common theme was side entry is a little harder, but I would hope that the same design focus has gone into to as clearly went into the V3, which hopefully makes the VXP Race a good product. Hopefully we can get hold of one for a comparison against the V3! Cheers, Will
Thanks Will! Do you think my concerns about scratching up the side rails with the zippers of the V3 Ocean Racing PFD are unfounded? This assuming I’ve fallen in the water and have to pull myself back up over the side.
Its not something any of our large group of testers ( or myself) highlighted to be an issue when testing in the water – I would say all the buckles and zippers are pretty low profile and you don’t really notice them rubbing on a board as you climb in from the water.
Hi sc2071, Please see the link to this video about the VXP where we talk about the features of this PFD. This style now has adjustable shoulder straps which makes it even easier to get the fit right. You can view this video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLNaTIOpK5E
Well I’ve watched the video a few times now Rueben and I’ve got to say I really like the idea of that palm solo slimline idea. Awfully hard to find here in Canada though. I’m not sure if there are any brands here that have quite that style. I agree with Johnny in that I wish it had a hydro pack option. Great review guys. Cheers
Thanks for the comment. Glad you enjoyed the video. NRS might be one to look at in the USA.
Andreas Ruf
4 months ago
I’m a swiss living in Germany and probabely don’ t have to tell cornish people that the brand GUL also offers excellent PFDs. The GARDA for instance has a very simple but clever design. You can take out the PE foam foil and cut it a little bit if neccessary. By doing this you can achieve a perfect fit without affecting buoyancy significantely. In case of a doubt I appreciate your test as always.
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Great test!! Is there any slim pfd that have a quick release for leash? I only find bulky white water pfd with quick release.
Thanks for your feedback. No, Not seen anything yet which offers QR on a slimline – perhaps we will see it in Tim though – Cheers, Will – SUPboarder
Hi, could you tell me please, the first two BA’s on the rail at the front what make are they?
TIA
Hi Jason that is the https://supboardermag.com/eqplus_guide/aztron-n-sv-2-0-2023/
As always, another fantastic and informative test. I’m considering the Palm Meander, as it seems to be the cheapest Palm with a front zip for easy entry/exit with an added zip pocket (it’s a real shame that the pocket is not waterproof). Also I can get to a shop to try it on.
Hey Mark, TBH all the Palm gear is good Stuff. If you can try it also perfect. Thanks for the comment
Hi,
I’ve just started wing foiling for the days it’s to windy/wet for SUP. Is there a PFD which would be suitable for both sports?
Hey Rich look at the Neo ones.
I believe Gav said he like the Wip ones and would be the BA of choice for Winging and will work for SUPing too.
Missing from the test was the Vaikobi VXP Race PFD. I like the look of it as I’d worry less about scratching up my hardboard getting back on from the water. Anybody familiar with that and how it compares to the V3 Ocean Racing PDF? Thanks!
Yes – we tried to encourage brands to submit just one product to make the test manageable – as you can see some ignored that!!! The VXP Race looks good, i imagine it will not be as easy to get into as the V3 as a common theme was side entry is a little harder, but I would hope that the same design focus has gone into to as clearly went into the V3, which hopefully makes the VXP Race a good product. Hopefully we can get hold of one for a comparison against the V3! Cheers, Will
Thanks Will! Do you think my concerns about scratching up the side rails with the zippers of the V3 Ocean Racing PFD are unfounded? This assuming I’ve fallen in the water and have to pull myself back up over the side.
Its not something any of our large group of testers ( or myself) highlighted to be an issue when testing in the water – I would say all the buckles and zippers are pretty low profile and you don’t really notice them rubbing on a board as you climb in from the water.
Hi sc2071, Please see the link to this video about the VXP where we talk about the features of this PFD. This style now has adjustable shoulder straps which makes it even easier to get the fit right. You can view this video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLNaTIOpK5E
Also if you would like to review the V3 Ocean Racing PFD product video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5RZ99dazgc
Well I’ve watched the video a few times now Rueben and I’ve got to say I really like the idea of that palm solo slimline idea. Awfully hard to find here in Canada though. I’m not sure if there are any brands here that have quite that style. I agree with Johnny in that I wish it had a hydro pack option. Great review guys. Cheers
Thanks for the comment. Glad you enjoyed the video. NRS might be one to look at in the USA.
I’m a swiss living in Germany and probabely don’ t have to tell cornish people that the brand GUL also offers excellent PFDs.
The GARDA for instance has a very simple but clever design. You can take out the PE foam foil and cut it a little bit if neccessary. By doing this you can achieve a perfect fit without affecting buoyancy significantely.
In case of a doubt I appreciate your test as always.