Rafting Lifejackets
Overview
NRS Big Water Type V universal adult size rafting lifejackets, in the red/blue two tone shown, or a pretty, slightly "persimmony" shade of orange specify that color in the note area on your order). The 25 pound floatation on these rafting lifejackets are about the same as the MTI Canyon model, but this one has adjustable shoulders, which the Canyon lacks.
NRS makes a youth size Rafting Lifejackets too
Note that there is a youth size available in these rafting lifejackets, but since we already carry two very good ones from Safegard and MTI, we don't stock the youth version of the Big Water. We will be happy to order it if you wish, but you will need to phone us
.Rafting Lifejackets Details
The Big Water can theoretically go from 30" up to a 57" or 58" chest size but they are definitely tighter at the top end of the range than the Safegard Goliath. If you are in between 57" and 60" we cannot really recommend this pfd. For folks more along a 55" or 56" chest though, the Big Water rafting lifejackets are far more comfortable than the stiff and rather low-tech Safegard Goliath and Kivva models that we sell.
Reviews of Rafting Lifejackets by NRS
Reviews on these rafting lifejackets are rather mixed. Some outfitters seem to love them; others like one of our local friends who is still in the raft rental biz are a bit underwhelmed with how well it snugs down, as are we. There is no question that a Big Water will pull up more easily than the MTI Canyon model, even with some serious cinching of the lowest strap, but the Big Water does stay down better than the Safegard Kivva. The materials throughout these rafting lifejackets are very good though, and there are not many contenders for those with chests above 51".
Description of Rafting Lifejackets by Manufacturer
Type V: When you want to float serious water you need serious rafting lifejackets. The NRS Big Water V is a high flotation jacket with a universal fit that wraps easily around anyone's torso.
Four front buckles make entry, exit and adjustment simple and quick.
Universal Plus fits: 30" - 58" chest.
Six side adjustments and two shoulder adjustments hold the PFD securely in place.
Webbing loops for leg straps add extra security in big water. (Leg Straps sold separately).
Flotation collar helps keep your head above water while floating on your back.
Design Flotation: 25 lbs.
NRS Rafting Lifejackets Specs
Type & Profile: V, high profile
Design Flotation: 25 lbs
Entry System: Front entry with quick release buckles
Pockets: No
Lash Tabs: No
Adjustment Systems: 8 adjustment points
Fabric: 420-denier Nylon
Flotation collar
Universal Plus fit: 30" - 58" chest
Webbing loops for leg straps (sold separately)
