What Should I Have On My PFD or BA? 8 Essentials For A Whitewater PFD

Whats should I have on my PFD? This is always a topic worthy of some debate. For a recreational paddler and guide here’s the minimum equipment I have on me at all times. Remember these are the minimum items you should have on your PFD/BA. Let me know in the comments below if there’s anything else you think should be on this list. 

Key terms:

Personal Flotation Device – PFD (most of the world)

Buoyancy Aid – BA (UK version)

In short:

1 Carabiners

What kind?

Some form of locking carabiner is essential. I believe non-locking are most dangerous when in a raft. There’s a high risk a non-locking carabiner might catch or snag on objects such as the outside line (a rope that runs around the outside of the raft). I’ve seen this happen to people getting back in a raft, but what if this happens when the raft is upside-down, might not be a good day. 

Where? 

For the first reason mentioned in “what kind” I only attach carabiners to a quick-release mechanism, as shown in the picture where it is attached to a quick-release harness I always have one attached on the outside for a speedy use the rest in the inside pockets. 

Gravity load when possible 

There are many vibrations and constant nocks on the river so gravity loading Carabiners when possible helps to ensure they can’t open accidentally. To do this simply face the gate so that when you screw it closed you screw towards the pull of gravity. 

One of the best options for carabiners is the DMM Revolver Locking Carabiner. With a built in pulley this greatly reduces friction. Support the Journal with this Associated link. 

2. Prusik

What kind?

5mm or over for width. It needs to bite whatever size of throw rope you’re using so I would recommend 2mm smaller than your rope width ( I use 8mm rope). These can be used. 

Where? 

Inside a pocket. They are simply too much of an entrapment hazard on the outside of a PFD. I keep mine at the bottom as it’s most likely going to be one of the last things I need in an emergency. 

Use

These can be used to create a mechanical advantage, vector pull, create anchors, or repairs.

3. Sling

What kind?

I prefer a 2-inch tubular webbing. Brightly coloured so it’s easy to see in the water.  

Where? 

Inside if kayaking or around the waist if raft guiding. 

Use 

Building anchors, vector pulls, flip line, strong-arm pull, in boat mechanical advantages, towing other boats. 

4. Knife 

What kind?

Blunt tip- Any knife I use on the river will have a blunt end. Using a pointed blade comes to too many unnecessary dangers. 

Quick Release – a quick release is essential for as I know when I need a knife it will be when time counts. As important is a strong quick release as if the mechanism for the release is weak you’ll lose that knife before you can use it. 

Where?

Although I’ve been on the fence in the past about having it inside or outside my preference is outside, but take care with its placement.  It’s very common for a raft guide to lose their knife when climbing back in the raft as they tend to catch on anything available. With this in mind, there’s only one place I’ll put mine and that’s on my left shoulder strap. This means I can reach for it with one hand, as I’m right-handed this gives me the best chance of a smooth release.  I attach mine with cable ties but you could also use paracord.

Use

It’s mainly there for an emergency, such as cutting a tangled rope or opening a raft if someone’s pinned underneath. However, they do come in handy for daily river life and repairs; if you do use it for such things keep it sharp.

5. Whistle

What kind? 

A loud whistle with no moving parts such, as a fox 40 is ideal. when whistles with moving parts get wet they tend to be less effective. 

Where?

Within easy reach of your mouth. Keeping it so you can move your head with it in your mouth is always a bonus too.

Use

Communication on the river in the event of an emergency.

6. Pulley

Where? 

Inside. I have seen people wear them on the outside and this causes considerable wear and tear. 

What Kind?

Small, but still able to use a 10mm rope. Make sure they’re rated because if you have to use it they’ll likely be under large forces. The problem with pulleys is you start to rack up weight at this point so I carry one because I still want to float.  

Use

Change of direction or Mechanical advantage; it will make both of these more effective by reducing friction. Other less common uses include tension diagonals and high-lines.

7. Cows tail 

What kind?

Keep it simple, rated and short enough for purpose (i.e. if you’re not a sea kayak guide you don’t need a 6m tail). Minimize loops and knots and make sure there’s a locking carabiner on the end. 

Where?

Attached to the quick release harness (using an O ring), if you don’t have a quick release, don’t use a cows tail. 

Use 

 Rescuing another boat, towing, tension-diagonals, or live bait. 

8. Cable ties- 

Where?

Inside a pocket.

Use

I keep several in my PFD. I’ve ended up using then constantly, sometimes for a simple task like attaching a GoPro for a customer or a little more complex task repairing kayak outfitting.    

 In Summation: 

This is the absolute minimum I keep on me. I usually have a lot more on me depending on the type of trip I’m on. Is there anything you think should be on this list? Comment and let me know your thoughts. 

Help support the Journal with Associated links: 

Having different size zip ties always useful. Here’s a good set: 500 Pieces Zip Ties

https://amzn.to/2KuCvAF