Getting the right fit for a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) isn’t just about comfort, it is a critical safety requirement. Whether you are fitting a low-profile Salus jacket for touring or adjusting an NRS rescue vest, use the guidelines below to find the perfect fit before ordering.

How to Size an Adult PFD

Unlike standard clothing, adult lifejackets and PFDs are sized entirely by chest circumference, not your weight or standard t-shirt size.

How to measure your chest:

Using a soft measuring tape, measure around the broadest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Take this measurement while wearing the layers you would normally paddle in (e.g., a rashguard, a neoprene top, or a light fleece).

  • Salus Marine (Canadian Fit): Salus PFDs (like the Eddy or Jazz) are designed for a high-mobility, low-profile fit. If your chest measurement falls exactly on the border between two sizes, Salus recommends sizing up for comfort, as their side-straps allow you to cinch the jacket down tight without restricting your breathing.

  • NRS (Adjustability): NRS jackets (like the Ninja or Chinook) feature highly adjustable shoulder and side straps. Always loosen every single strap completely before putting the NRS jacket on. Zip it up, then tighten from the bottom (waist) up to the shoulders. If the jacket touches your earlobes when you sit down, it is too large or not tightened correctly at the ribs.

Sizing Kids & Youth PFDs (Transport Canada Rules)

While adult PFDs are sized by chest circumference, Transport Canada dictates that children’s lifejackets are sized strictly by weight capacity to ensure proper buoyancy in the water.

Standard Salus & NRS Youth Weight Brackets:

  • Infant: 9 to 25 lbs (9 – 14 kg) – Must feature a head collar and crotch strap.
  • Child: 30 to 60 lbs (14 – 27 kg)
  • Youth: 60 to 90 lbs (27 – 41 kg)

(Once a youth exceeds 90 lbs, they transition into an Adult Extra-Small based on chest size).