I’ve been working as a whitewater professional for decades working as far north as Alaska and as far south as Ecuador, where I teach whitewater rescue to local guides. But during the summers in Central Oregon, I spend a lot of time in my kayak, and the Stohlquist Descent PFD is a great all-around choice for those who are often in situations that may require some river rescue.
The shoulder protection is great for hiking a few yards or a few miles with your kayak on your shoulder and it has all the features you would expect with a rescue vest including tons of pockets, a D-ring and a huge main pocket for your camera or rescue ropes. And of course there is a quick releasing rescue harness, a must have if you helping swimmers or gathering up gear.
