Any experience using the Vaikobi pfd's?
They have 3 different model options,wondering what the recommended choice is?
Thanks

I'd recommend the V3 version because most others sit very high under the arms and are short in the body because they are designed for sitting in a boat/ kayak or canoe..

I'd also recommend getting one size bigger so it sits looser and lower giving better arm movement and I also lengthen the shoulder straps to help this even more..

It's a personal thing and it may change for different body shapes so if you can 'try before you buy'

I recommend the v3 as well for SUP or OC1. It has a narrow enough profile that it does not chafe the inside of the arms as you reach over to paddle. The VXP sits too high and is too wide and will cause chafing. The VXP is great for ocean ski's but not the best for SUP and OC1.

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Repco said..
I recommend the v3 as well for SUP or OC1. It has a narrow enough profile that it does not chafe the inside of the arms as you reach over to paddle. The VXP sits too high and is too wide and will cause chafing. The VXP is great for ocean ski's but not the best for SUP and OC1.

Thanks Repco. The choice had come down to the V3 and the VXP. I spoke to the staff at Vaikobi and they recommended either the V3 or VXP. I was told they were basically the same except the V3 had a front zipper which reduced the size of the pocket(s) storeage area, to the point that getting a iphone in and out of was difficult.
The VXP had no front zip, which allowed for a larger front storeage area. It is apparently a bit more fiddly to get in and out of.
Your feedback would suggest that is not the case in regards to fit and function.

I have the V3 and agree with all previous comments . The pockets in the front are small and you won't get your smartphone in its waterproof case in them . I put mine down the back where you can put your drinking bladder . The Vaikobi bladder is custom made for it and works great . For size I annoyingly fit between M and L . As DJ mentioned if in doubt go up a size .

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DaveL1963 said..

Repco said..
I recommend the v3 as well for SUP or OC1. It has a narrow enough profile that it does not chafe the inside of the arms as you reach over to paddle. The VXP sits too high and is too wide and will cause chafing. The VXP is great for ocean ski's but not the best for SUP and OC1.

Thanks Repco. The choice had come down to the V3 and the VXP. I spoke to the staff at Vaikobi and they recommended either the V3 or VXP. I was told they were basically the same except the V3 had a front zipper which reduced the size of the pocket(s) storeage area, to the point that getting a iphone in and out of was difficult.
The VXP had no front zip, which allowed for a larger front storeage area. It is apparently a bit more fiddly to get in and out of.
Your feedback would suggest that is not the case in regards to fit and function.

What you say is correct but if the VXP chaffs your arms then you won't be comfortable and won't want to wear it. Additionally, if you put lots of stuff in the front pocket of the VXP then it will be very bulky in front that will hinder your ability to get back on your board or canoe easily. The best was is to get onto a vaikobi rep and get each to demo. As I said before, the VXP is perfect and preferred for ocean ski's but not so for sup or OC1.