Astral Women's Layla Life Jacket PFD for Whitewater, Sea, Touring Kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, and Fishing

If you are reading this, you understand the struggle. This PFD in L/XL actually fits--comfortably--a 40K bust.Yes, you can paddle in it. Your arms have excellent freedom of motion with no rubbing or chafing in the pits or upper arms when paddling a canoe or a kayak. But yes, it makes you look huge in the front. Ah well, can't win on everything. Just so happy to have found a PFD that *actually* fits comfortably!Shoulder and side adjusters help to get a personalized fit. Pockets are moderately useful for keys and a small cell phone, but not a game changer. Seems nice and durable with well sewn seams and high quality materials, but I've only had it for a month, so time will tell. The embroidered flower on the back is a nice touch.

Perfect PFD. First women specific I’ve ever owned and I ordered a second one while they are in stock. I took a very dangerous swim in a class V rapid that could have easily had a different outcome. By the time I self rescued, I was spent and had to be completely dead hauled into the boat by my straps. The floatation was standard for this level vest, if you can’t self rescue buy something else, as it doesn’t auto face up. But I didn’t doubt the buoyancy in the slightest as I did have to swim a hole and didn’t question it before I took the plunge. But for getting my butt completely lifted by the straps it was so comfortable and none of the slippage you get with a gender neutral vest. Wish the front pocket was a bit larger, but I can fit a small fry bag in it. Nice fit with the astral rescue belt.

Great color & comfortable.

Had my eye on this jacket for over a year before I finally purchased it. Every time I saw a woman on the river with it on, I was reminded how much I wanted it. I bought it and am NOT disappointed.I am 5'2" ~145 lbs and originally ordered a Medium/Large I was able to fit in it but had it tightened all of the way down so I returned and got a Small/Medium and it fits great.

I bought my first one from REI as a result of a great conversation with one of their employees - she used to crew. I bought a second one so I don't have to put on a wet vest on day 2 of trips. I am 6' tall, wear a size 12, moderately chesty and this vest is so comfy after 17 miles of Kayaking. No under arm rub. I get out for a break and forget I am wearing it. It has a couple of nicely placed pockets. And it is pretty. I have the purple and the teal/blue one. I am really happy with these life jackets.

Doesn’t keep your head out of the water…. Don’t lose consciousness when wearing this…. I didn’t pay enough attention when reading the description.

If you were a fan of the Lotus Designs Lola pfd (original model), you will not be disappointed with this pfd! I knew the instant I tried it on in my living room that I'd found the perfect replacement for my 15 year old Lotus (the fact that this was designed by the same owners, probably helps). In fact, I think I might like this one more. I tried a cheaper replacement first, which had nylon webbing that rubbed and chaffed my neck and was so bulky it interfered with my paddling. This model cinches down enough so there's no rubbing at all...the materials all seem pretty soft, so even if there was contact, it wouldn't chaff.I used my Lotus on many long haul paddles in my sea kayak, I can already tell this low profile design will provide the same comfort and hope the durability is the same.

I have not had this on in the water yet, but it is a first class life jacket. Fits very well, lots of straps to adjust the fit. Fits right at the waist, roomy armholes. Very pleased!