Rafting Life Jackets

Although the basic pattern of MTI's Canyon type 5 rafting life jackets have not changed, many cosmetic and durability details have been addressed compared to the older versions of these lifejackets. For one thing, all the exterior nylon has been beefed up to a 400 denier ripstop fabric, and the areas most likely to stain have been changed to a black color. And all of the 2012's we're carrying will be a three-tone color. We have the small/medium size in both the orange/blue/black shown, and also in red/blue/black. We will only be carrying the red/blue version of the L/XL size. This color combo used to be extremely popular when America's Cup used to have it in the old Ultrafloat type rafting life jacket, so we went that way with most of the Canyons.

Soft Rafting Life Jackets

Very soft, high grade foam is used for the front and wrap-around side panels, with a somewhat stiffer foam in back. The logos are also now attractively woven onto the vests. The Canyon is a terrific compromise between the features of the old America's Cup Ultrafloat & Rogue models (America's Cup/Wellington is long out of business). A very important feature on the Canyons is the bottom-most of the four straps, running below the actual foam This allows you to snug it far more securely than almost any other type V rafting life jackets. The Canyon also incorporates split cells in the back panel, and front foam blocks that are slit horizontally 2/3 of the way up the chest. Both these features increase your ability to bend forward or backward when paddling & rowing.

Rafting Life Jackets Sizes

These rafting life jackets come in two adult sizes (plus the Youth size, which is listed separately in this section of our site). The chest sizing shown on the jacket interior for the small-medium is 30" to 40", but in actual testing here we have found this size will cinch as small as 29" with no problem, and it goes up to a full 43" on the chest if you loosen all three pairs of straps on both sides. So it and the large-xl overlap somewhat, which is good if your paddle crew droids come in varying body sizes. The small/medium has 25-1/2 pounds of buoyancy and the l/xl has about 26.5. One other thing to note is that the Canyon vest is perhaps the warmest type V we've ever checked out, which may or may not be a good thing depending where you boat. With the very secure bottom strap though, you can unbuckle the upper straps in the calm stretches to cool off. The Canyon rafting life jackets are one of the most comfortable type 5's and the best at staying where it belongs on your torso.

Description of Rafting Life Jackets, Canyon, by MTI

Built for both the commercial outfitter and private float parties, the Canyon V for adults and youth were designed with the help of Beth and Gary Harper of Man of Rubber. Their 30 years of experience with the punishing demands of serious river running have helped make the Canyon V Rafting Life Jackets serious performers. The 400D nylon ripstop shell is durable yet has a great feel to it. The large arm openings are very comfortable for all day wear. 4 webbing straps are attached with durability and security in mind. 6 points of adjustment for a secure hold down. High contact area around the neck is black to hide the inevitable stains. 2 adult sizes ensure a proper fit for all body types, and a wide waist tunnel with clip closure reduces ride-up. Colors: Orange/Black, Blue/Yellow/Black, Blue/Orange/Black, Blue/Red/Black USCG: Type III Recreational & Type V Commercial Minimum Buoyancy: 23 lbs Design Buoyancy: 25 lbs. 9 oz Sizes: S/M (30"-40") L/XL (41"-52")