Which is the Best Rescue PFD in 2025?

Hey there, Simon and Tom here from AQ Outdoors. Today, we're breaking down some of the top whitewater rescue PFDs on the market. Between the two of us, we've put these vests to the test, so we’ll be sharing not just the features and benefits but also our personal experiences using them on the water.

Astral Green Jacket –
The Gold Standard for Creek Boaters

Tom's verdict...

The Astral Green Jacket has long been the go-to choice for paddlers tackling Class V whitewater. It offers excellent protection with supportive side panels and a unique pocket system on the front. One of the standout features is how Astral distributes the buoyancy into two separate panels—a lower belt that holds most of the flotation and an upper panel where the pocket sits. This design provides a great range of motion and comfort.

The only downside? The shoulder straps aren’t super adjustable. For paddlers with shorter torsos, like myself (Tom), it can sit a bit high on the chest, which might not be ideal for everyone.

NRS Vector PFD –
Durability and Functionality Combined

Simon's Verdict...

The NRS Vector is my personal choice. It offers mid-range buoyancy—higher than the Green Jacket but not as much as the Astral Indus. This is a full-protection, fully-featured PFD, designed for instructors and those paddling harder whitewater.

Some of the key features include metal buckles for durability, a hidden knife sleeve under the clamshell pocket, and breakaway tabs for your quick-release harness. It’s a comfortable, well-thought-out design. Honestly, I don’t have any major complaints. However, if you’re not paddling aggressive whitewater, it might feel a bit bulky compared to other options.

Kokatat Hustler PFD –
Supreme Comfort with a Low-Profile Fit

Tom's Verdict...

The Kokatat Hustler stands out for its pre-curved foam, making it feel broken in right from the start. It’s one of the most comfortable rescue PFDs out there and sits lower on the chest, similar to older playboating PFDs. If comfort is your priority, this is a strong contender.

The Hustler also features a durable Cordura fabric construction and a small but clever knife pocket that keeps your blade tucked away securely. The only minor drawback is the over-the-head design. Without a side buckle, it can be a little finicky to put on, as the front panel sometimes flips inside out while sliding it down.

Astral Indus PFD –
Maximum Buoyancy for Big Water Confidence

Tom's Verdict...

The Astral Indus is the latest addition to Astral’s rescue PFD lineup and brings something different to the table—30% more buoyancy than the Green Jacket, coming in at 22 pounds of flotation. It’s edging into the high-volume territory usually reserved for raft guides or big-water paddlers.

Despite the extra buoyancy, the Indus fits really well. It sits lower and feels less bulky than the Green Jacket, largely because it ditches the large front clamshell pocket in favor of a smaller zip pocket. This makes it a great choice for paddlers who want extra flotation without the extra bulk.

NRS Ninja Pro PFD –
Low-Profile Design with Rescue Capability

Simon's Verdict...

The Ninja Pro is a lower-profile rescue PFD with less flotation than the NRS Vector. It has similar features, including metal buckles, a hideaway knife pocket, and a large clamshell pocket. However, unlike the Vector, it doesn’t have full wrap-around flotation and side protection.

For me, the Ninja Pro feels more like a playboating or river-running PFD with a built-in rescue harness. That makes it a great choice for club paddlers, trip leaders, or anyone who wants a lower-profile option while still having essential safety features.

So, which rescue pfd should you choose in 2025

Each of these PFDs is designed for different needs, body types, and paddling styles. If you’re looking for maximum flotation, the Astral Indus is a great option. For overall comfort, the Kokatat Hustler is hard to beat. The NRS Vector and Green Jacket remain solid choices for those who want full-featured protection, while the Ninja Pro offers a more low-profile alternative.

If you’re unsure which one is right for you, come chat with us and try on some of your options in our Calgary or Edmonton store locations.