I have the Ungava and like it. I think it really depends upon your particular body shape.  In normal times, I would want to try it on.
I don't wear it portaging --haven't tried.  I just hang it on the back of my pack.

rgcmce wrote:

I have the Ungava and like it. I think it really depends upon your particular body shape.  In normal times, I would want to try it on.
I don't wear it portaging --haven't tried.  I just hang it on the back of my pack.

Which body shape would you recommend it for? I'm about 5'7 fit/slim. I agree normally I would like to try some on, but realistically I'd make this purchase blind and hope for the best. It depends what else I'm carrying but sometimes I'll clip it onto my pack as well, but I like at least having the option to wear it while portaging.

MartinG wrote:

Just throwing in my 2 cents. I use a Guide PFD. It's all about the pockets for me.

In my PFD I carry a rescue knife; fishing license; ID with $50 cash and permit; 3 or 4 snacks; InReach; Forceps; Stringer; small line clippers; whistle; sunscreen; lip balm; bug spray; camera.

If you up you budget this is a great deal https://www.mec.ca/en/product/5034-115/Fulcrum-Guide-PFD

I have a tiny daypack maybe 8L that I fill with similar items... duct tape, bugspray, sunscreen, GoPro, a few snacks, mini first aid kit, and a micro pelican case with my ID, permit, and InReach. I don't think the pockets on a PFD would work as an alternative, especially given the length of the GoPro attachment I use.

I have a bad habit of not wearing my PFD that often which is the main reason I want something light and compact, it will make it easier for me to change my habit.

I'd consider stretching closer to $150 for something like what you recommended though, is just seems like the pockets are wasted space / unnecessary bulk if I won't be using them?

MartinG wrote:

...I always find it convenient to have a variety of things on my person. My PFD fits well and it is very comfortable. As a result, it is on 100% of the time....

The daypack I mentioned never leaves my side. Even when I'm solo and double-carrying, I usually take it with me for both carries. It's really tiny and even when full is only 10lbs max, but with my InReach and first aid kit, I want it with me 100% of the time.

MartinG wrote:

....I don't know that the weight or compactness of a PFD is going to change how often you wear it....

I have a cheap wal-mart one right now and I hate wearing it because it's just so bulky and I don't have good range of motion while wearing it. So I was hoping that something less cumbersome would change my attitude.

Definitely not going to rule out MEC though, will keep looking at their options. Thanks for the suggestion.

NRS makes a nice vest, at least I think so, that's what I use, but they run small, and remember in Spring and Fall you sometimes need to wear more than a t-shirt.  Mine is size "fat".  I think it is "X-Large to XX-Large".  I'm 200 pounds, 5' 9", so....I admit to have a more roundish shape than ideal.  

Thanks for the suggestions everyone. The NRS Ninja and Kokatat Orbit look perfect (although a bit more than I wanted to spend) but I can't seem to find them online anywhere.

ShawnD wrote:

trippythings wrote:

Thanks for the suggestions everyone. The NRS Ninja and Kokatat Orbit look perfect (although a bit more than I wanted to spend) but I can't seem to find them online anywhere.

hmm looks like the orbit might have been replaced with the hustle..

https://www.mec.ca/en/product/6008-535/Hustle-PFD

Hmm... so should I double my budget? lol

ShawnD wrote:

Ya not cheap.

How about the Salus tango ? That might meet your specs.

https://www.trailheadpaddleshack.ca/salus-trailhead-pfd-tango.html

That does look like a good option. Trying to find somewhere local in case I buy it and decide it's no good and want to return... seems like every shop that sells them are in Ottawa

The MEC Fulcrum looks like a great option as well if there wasn't a buckle on the shoulder strap which will get in the way while portaging.

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