NRS Zen Type V Personal Flotation Device reviews and deals for sale

Solid vest

I have worn this on casual river floats all the way to big open water crossing and have been really pleased. It’s comfortable but feels very secure. I recently swamped a canoe out in the bay and this kept my head above as we worked on pumping out the canoe. The front pockets are great for a phone (dry case) and other essentials.

Ommmmmmmm

I started with the original version of this PFD about 6 years ago, and just recently upgraded to the newest version. I am THRILLED with the updates. The pocket is massive and easy to organize. Inside I keep a folding knife, a full pin kit, and Snickers bar. The ripstop fabric is lightweight, super durable and dries relatively quickly. Overall, this PFD is at least 30% lighter than… read more the earlier versions. The range of motion, and the comfort of the PFD is fantastic. There are a lot of adjustment points, so I can really get my preferred fit. The hand warmer pocket is the best addition to PFDs since flotation.

Fits shorter paddlers better.

I am short torsoed, so the original felt like it was choking me. The upper portion of the original, under the chin, was higher and thicker. The new one rides lower and the foam is more tapered. Much more comfortable, great redesign.

Updated Design

I have been using an NRS Zen pfd as my guide vest for a number of years now. While I really liked the previous version I am even more happy with the updates that NRS has come out with on this pfd. Now it is much more comfortable, has better storage and is a much sleeker profile in the front for getting in and out of the raft. I also am a huge fan of this vest due to the fact that… read more it has buckles for side entry or you can keep them buckled and slide it off. The clam shell design also work really well as a serving tray for snacks through flat water sections and with it zipped up just right is the perfect beverage cozy. The updated zipper pocket is also great for storing rescue systems like a z drag and now that is not a velcro pocket you don't have to worry about anything slipping out. It can also comfortably fit a sandwich or two cans of your choice without pushing into your chest. I also kayak with this jacket and the minimal shoulder straps are great for keeping the pfd out of the way during paddling. Overall I am really happy with the updated design and it will remain my pfd of choice for years to come. I am 6'2 175lb and the L/XL fits well without having an excess amount of strapping hanging off. If you have any questions hit me up.

Initial Impressions

First let me say that my first PFD was a NRS(VISTA) and still going strong today after 10 years. I was in need of an upgrade for guiding group trips and getting into rougher water. I tried the NRS C-Vest, NRS Ninja, and the Stolhquist Rocker. All of which didn’t function/fit to my liking or lacked some design features I wanted. I ended up finally picking up the ZEN and it has… read more met/exceeded my needs. The front pouch functions well and I especially like that it folds out like a tray. I am able to fit a gopro remote, sunscreen, chapstick and an iPhone 8 Plus inside with no issues. The hand warmer section is something I missed about the Ninja, which is great for resting/warming your hands as well as quick on the move storage. Moving further from there is the secondary zippered pouch which functions well for a quick tow line, webbing, etc. The fit is spot on for me and I think NRS has better size ranges than some other manufacturers. I’m 6 foot and 180lbs with a 41 inch chest. I fall right into a L/XL very nicely. No issues with the vest rising up and easily/quickly adjust as needed. Full range of motion as well. I don’t know if it is “bad” practice, but I have always preferred my knife on the left shoulder strap. Not sure why manufacturers won’t add a lash tab there. The only other thing I would change is to have the carabiner tether higher on the PFD. Again, just a preference, but it helps take the slack out of a tow tether. Overall I am very happy with my choice. I’m confident this will last for years to come!

Tried and True

This is a great no frills Type V PFD. I used it for 2 seasons of guiding on the New and Gauley in WV and have since used it as a kayak vest. If you are looking for a good vest for both rafting and kayaking I would say that this is one of the better ones out there. However, it feels better in the kayak than it does in the raft. Getting in and out of the raft it feels kind of like… read more having a turtle shell on your belly. In the kayak it is out of the way enough to not really notice it. Also the updated clam shell design is a great addition to this timeless vest. I am 6'2 175 and I picked up the L/XL and it fit well.

Digging it

I've always been a fan of the Astral Green Jacket, and while there may never be a better PFD than the Astral, this a close 2nd. It's comfy, fit's great, and has all of the features I want in a good PFD. If you're on a budget and want to save yourself $70, go with this guy and you won't be disappointed.