NRS Vapor PFD

I've had this PFD since the beginning of the 2020 season. So far this year we've been out 2-3 times a week, primarily with touring kayaks. I purchased mine new from Outdoor Gear Exchange for $56. The construction is excellent, and the materials are also high quality. As another review stated, if you have a short torso it tends to ride up or down pretty easily. It's not terrible, but I do find myself adjusting the PFD back down occasionally while paddling. Otherwise it is very comfortable. Actual in the water performance. I've had to make 3 emergency wet exits this year. Two while wearing this PFD (wet exit number one is why I got it in the first place). In both cases the XX sized PFD supported my 220lb frame with out much effort on my part. I'm PADI advanced open water certified. And I didn't notice myself needing to make any extra effort to maintain buoyancy at the surface while wearing the PFD. The most recent wet exit was this past weekend. I was overturned in a current eddy under a railroad bridge and wasn't able to make a return roll or self rescue. I was stuck in the current flow like a merry-go-round for about 3 minutes. The Vapor provided enough buoyancy for me to right the 18ft kayak (with about 150lbs of gear and water in in it) while I was waiting to get in a position where I could swim out of the current. The PFD kept me above water the hole time despite a noticeable undertoe. Most importantly I didn't waste a lot of energy keeping my head and arms above water. To me a PFD is measured by comfort and how well it preforms in the worst type of situation. The NRS Vapor does great on both. If it weren't for the slight tendency to ride up while paddling, this would be a 5 star review.

I've had my Vapor PFD for about two years now and really like it, so much so I figured I should submit a review. It is very comfortable and feels well made. The adjustments are simple but allow for a really nice custom fit. I am doing kayak touring so I wanted a simple PFD with a clean profile to make it easier to self rescue back into the kayak, and Vapor is exactly that. It does, however, have one zippered pocket and hand pockets so it does offer some convenience storage for several small items, but the pockets aren't bulky so they don't add extra external bulk to catch on anything while trying to reenter a kayak. I am 5'10" and of slim build and the small/medium is a great fit. Great PFD at a great price so I gave it a 10!