NRS Ninja PFD

The lightest PFD with best best freedom of movement available.

I got this life jacket from my employer at Pocono Whitewater, Jim Thorpe, Pa. I previously was guiding with a Stohlquist Wedge-E, which — once broken in — was a fantastic jacket.

I have to say though, the NRS Ninja is a prime piece of equipment. The design is simple, buckles and straps keep their position, but are adjusted easily. My favorite part is how light it is. Even when it's wet, you barely realize that you're wearing it.

I've only had it for half of one season, but guiding out of it I was never able to screw it up, heavy denier cordura really hols up against getting your salad tossed in the rocks. I would recomend this to the play boater who isn't in need of a Type V rescue vest.

Bottomline: The most minimalist Type III you can get.