Best Life Jackets For 2026

Personal flotation devices are the most crucial safety gear on the water. Each year, close to 200 paddlers die in the United States, and according to the U.S. Coast Guard, and in more than 80 percent of fatal boating accidents, victims were not wearing PFDs. Whether you prefer a PFD built out with fancy features or streamlined and low profile, the best life jacket is the one you will wear.

Technically, a life jacket is a flotation device designed to turn an unconscious swimmer face-up. However, when most people refer to “life jackets” for paddling, they usually mean personal flotation devices (PFDs), which don’t guarantee face-up flotation for an unconscious paddler. Terms like life jacket, life vest and PFD are sometimes used interchangeably when discussing paddling gear. While calling a PFD a life jacket isn’t technically correct, everyone will understand what you mean.

After testing 39 PFDs, I’ve highlighted the best life jackets based on comfort, features, fit and function. Of course, the feel and fit of a PFD varies by individual body shape, so it’s always best to try on a few PFDs at your local paddling shop to find the most comfortable model for you. If it’s comfortable enough to wear paddling all day, you’ll be sure to be wearing it when your life depends on it.

Best life jackets: Our top picks

• Best overall: NRS Ninja
• Best budget: Onyx MoveVent Dynamic
• Best kayaking: Astral V-Eight
• Best whitewater: Kokatat HustleR
• Best canoeing: Salus Eddy-Flex
• Best for kids: Mustang Survival Lil Legends
• Best for anglers: Stohlquist Keeper

Best overall

NRS Ninja

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NRS AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY REI

Why I love it

The NRS Ninja became a fast favorite during initial testing on a four-day backcountry canoe trip two years ago and it’s maintained that position through many trips since. It retains the same low profile and minimalist feel of the original best-selling design, while the 2024 redesign incorporates NRS’s Orbit Fit System. This redesign of the chassis layers lightweight Ethafoam pieces that have been precision cut into flexible, pre-curved shapes to conform to the body to provide a snug fit. Combined with concentrating flotation into comparatively small surface areas on the front and back panels, the Ninja ensures comfort and maximum range of motion with its wide-open shoulder design. The Ninja was originally designed with freestyle kayakers in mind, though its athletic design is equally suited to tripping and recreational paddling.

Responding to user feedback, NRS moved the knife placement from the center of the clamshell pocket to underneath it, where it has less snag potential. The Ninja’s large clamshell pocket packs surprising capacity—toss in your smartphone, snacks, gear essentials and lots more. Inside, it’s equipped with smaller pockets, lash tabs, drainage holes and sides that prevent spillage when open. Strap garages, cozy hand warmer pockets and a grabby band that keeps the vest from riding up are nice extras.

Bottom line

Top-notch performance and minimalist comfort at a competitive price raise the Ninja to the top of the pack. It’s been my go-to for many paddling adventures for the last two years.

Best life jacket for kayaking

Astral V-Eight 4.0

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ASTRAL AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY REI

Why I love it

The Astral V-Eight one of the most breathable foam PFDs I have ever tested. At 1.2 pounds, it’s also the second lightest foam life jacket in this lineup. Much of its airy comfort is thanks to an extra-high mesh back that maximizes ventilation and pairs well with the high seat backs popular on many modern rec and fishing kayaks. Astral’s Airescape system uses a combination of mesh fabric, contoured foam and vent ports to allow heat and moisture to escape, making this a hot weather favorite.

The fourth generation V-Eight has improved on one of our longtime favorite designs by adding larger mesh pockets with smaller internal pockets to add storage without increasing weight or bulk (in previous iterations, the pockets were quite small). The included safety whistle that tucks into a small pocket near the shoulder strap is a nice touch.

With seven adjustment points, the V-Eight can accommodate most body shapes, so it’s a PFD I loan out to friends and family often. Bonus: the V-Eight is made from 100-percent post-consumer recycled polyester ripstop, so you can feel good about your eco-friendly choice while paddling.

Bottom line

A great, general-purpose life jacket ideal for the average recreational paddler who wants one PFD that works well for many applications.

Best for touring

Kokatat Neptune

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KOKATAT AMAZON

Why I love it

Since Kokatat discontinued the Guide, a longtime favorite sea kayaking PFD, I’ve been looking for a replacement. After extensive editor testing, including a two-week of coastal trip, the Neptune is a new favorite. It’s got all-day comfort and easy mobility, with the storage and technical features touring paddlers need.

This front-zip vest has five pockets, including stretchy outer pockets that swallow gear. There’s dedicated storage for a VHF radio and hydration bladder, plus attachment points for a strobe light, knife, and whistle. Reflective shoulder details round out its features. The Neptune is compatible with Kokatat’s Poseidon Quick Release Belt, sold separately.

The front-and-center adjustment straps make fit easy to adjust fit on the fly, but also leave a bit of excess webbing hanging around, particularly if you’re at the smaller end of the size range. I’d love to see webbing keepers on this well-designed touring PFD.

Bottom line

If you need a PFD that balances high performance with day-after-day comfort, the Kokatat Neptune is hard to beat.

Best PFD for kayak fishing

Stohlquist Keeper

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STOHLQUIST AMAZON

Why I love it

A favorite among the anglers on the Paddling Magazine team, the Stohlquist Keeper PFD is packed with fishy features fishing fanatics will love. First, the soft, thin back panel easily pairs with the tall seats on modern fishing kayaks, providing just a bit of extra cushion without interfering with paddling or casting.

Second, Stohlquist’s Graded Sizing system adjusts the PFD’s foam panel size, thickness and overall vest length to create proportional PFDs. Our large Keeper sent for testing offered a more comfortable fit on four big and tall testers than the other fishing PFDs we tested, including the NRS Chinook, which was a close second and well-loved in this category. The Keeper’s eight adjustment points include Stohlquist’s cross-chest cinch harness, which helps the vest stay in place without riding up when paddling, casting or swimming, and even over bigger bellies.

Storage is another win with the Keeper. The six pockets—four with zippers—are great for holding everything from tackle to snacks. The little neoprene pockets keep small accessories close at hand, and the handwarmer pockets behind the gear pockets are perfect for chilly mornings. I like this layered pocket design for keeping everything organized without getting too overloaded and bulky.

For paddling on hot days, ventilated mesh on the shoulder, back and chest panels kept our testers cool. Add multiple mounting points for tools, and the Keeper checks all the boxes and more for a comfortable and functional fishing life jacket.

Bottom line

For avid anglers, this one is a keeper.

Ultimate whitewater PFD

Astral GreenJacket

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ASTRAL AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY

Why we love it

A PFD that needs no introduction. The legendary GreenJacket from Astral Designs is a staple on rivers worldwide and one of the most popular PFDs amongst river guides, as well as many recreational whitewater paddlers. As a feature-laden rescue vest, it packs all the essentials into a sleek package.

What has made it such an enduring design? In part, Astral’s Foam Tectonics tech is to thank, which features a separate upper front plate that moves freely, allowing your upper body to twist and extend unencumbered, all while maintaining a secure fit. Adjustment straps and buckles are placed towards the lower half of the life jacket, so no worries about any loose strap ends near your face. And then there’s the GreenJacket’s storage, too—which it boasts more of than any other vest we tested. Up front is the clamshell pocket with internal organizers, either side of the PFD has a zippered pouch, and additional storage is also behind the upper plate. Perfect for folks who want their whole kit in their PFD. This Type V rescue-ready vest all features full coverage protection for the paddler.

In 2024, Astral released the Indus PFD, which is based on the GreenJacket. The Indus offers 21 pounds of flotation, 33 percent more than the GreenJacket, for paddlers on the world’s biggest-volume whitewater.

Bottom line

The Astral GreenJacket has been tried, tested and found true by river guides worldwide for more than 15 years.

Best low profile rescue PFD

Kokatat HustleR

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KOKATAT AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY REI

Why I love it

Designed with creeking and expedition whitewater paddling in mind, the Kokatat HustleR stands out as the most comfortable rescue PFD we tested. Its ultra-contoured Gaia foam paneling snugly hugs the body, providing a secure and familiar-feeling fit straight out of the box. Overall, the HustleR feels considerably lower profile in the front than the Astral Greenjacket (above).

Released in 2020, the HustleR features a quick-release chest harness, breakaway D-ring attachment, and a covered front lash tab for river knives. The protective knife garage and placement have received a lot of positive feedback, especially with raft guides, as it helps prevent snagging on perimeter lines.

The deep clamshell front pocket with a two-way zipper includes internal organization. Padded shoulders ease portages and neoprene sections on the interior of the vest make the PFD feel extra warm on chilled hands.

A rescue vest’s specialized features require training and practice to use safely. The HustleR is also available in the Hustle model, without the rescue bells and whistles. The Hustle features a similar shape but with side entry. And thanks in part to lighter-weight materials, including 210-denier Cordura instead of 500-denier, it’s substantially lighter, and about half the price too.

Bottom line

Pairing rescue-ready features with a low-profile fit, the Kokatat HustleR offers comfort for paddlers hustling hard in challenging conditions.

Best budget life jacket

Onyx MoveVent Dynamic

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ONYX OUTDOOR AMAZON PUBLIC LANDS SCHEELS

Why I love it

The MoveVent Dynamic from Onyx offers solid durability and comfort for around $100, which makes it a standout choice for budget-conscious recreational paddlers. Yes, there are cheaper PFDs out there—at your local superstore, for example—but they’re typically bulkier, sweatier, stiffer and flimsier, restricting movement and ultimately making paddling less enjoyable, and perhaps discouraging you from wearing a PFD altogether.

With the MoveVent’s budget price tag, paddlers can expect straightforward functionality without frills. Our team has had this PFD in the gear closet for about seven years. It is still going strong and shows little wear, even though it is in heavy rotation as a loaner among friends and family. I find the MoveVent’s flotation panels a little chunky up front, but its fit is comfortable for day tripping. Vented mesh channels in the foam promote great airflow and keep cool on hot days.

When it comes to features, the MoveVent keeps it simple with a single pocket housing a tethered whistle. The pocket will suit a minimalist paddler who wants to stash a set of keys and not much else. For those looking for a bit more room up top, there’s also the MoveVent Curve model for busty paddlers. Watch for sales, as you can often find this PFD 20 to 30 percent off.

Bottom line

The Onyx MoveVent Dynamic is a great value PFD that offers essential comfort, ideal for recreational paddlers seeking just the basics.

Canoeing PFD top pick

Salus Eddy-Flex

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SALUS MARINE

Why I love it

The bestselling Eddy-Flex from Salus has long been a favorite for Canadian canoe trippers—spend a day on the portage trails in Ontario’s Algonquin Park and you’ll be sure to see more than a handful paraded past.

Putting on the Eddy-Flex, it’s easy to see why it’s a bestseller. Right out of the box, the soft foam felt just about as comfortable as an old sweatshirt. Made in Kitchener, Ontario, this simplicity-focused PFD fulfills all the essentials for a reliable, comfortable canoeing vest. The contoured back foam and tapered shoulders provide a snug fit without restricting movement, while the Dry-Lex back lining kept it breathable on hot summer days.

One key element some paddlers look for in a canoeing PFD is a front zip entry, so it’s easy to slip off and fasten around the canoe seat during portages. Even better, when I do this, the Eddy-Flex’s 1.4 pounds are light enough not to mess with weight distribution when portaging the canoe.

The unisex design is available in five sizes, and when combined with the six-point adjustment system with pull-forward webbing, it provides an easy-to-customize fit for most body shapes. The Eddy-Flex offers a few thoughtful extras: A handy loop on the back shoulder fits a strobe light or hangs a hydration pack, while a front mesh pocket keeps small essentials accessible.

Bottom line

A solid choice for any weekend warrior, the Salus Eddy-Flex is a reliable companion for your single-blade adventures and more.

Best life jacket for women

Astral Layla

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ASTRAL AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY REI

Why I love it

The Astral Layla is the PFD that Eric Clapton would write a song about if he were into paddling. The Layla is a stylish women’s-specific PFD tailored for comfort on curvier figures. Its sculpted chest cups and hinged princess seams contour around the body like a well-fitted bodice, providing support and protection without compression. The design places less foam up top, leaving room for the chest and avoiding the uncomfortable pancake squish many bustier women experience with unisex PFDs. The Layla offers a more refined fit with four size options—unlike the typical three in most women’s PFDs—and six adjustable straps to customize the fit. As a woman who has never opted for a women’s-specific PFD before, I was surprised by how much I loved the fit and feel of the high-waisted Layla.

Another aspect of the Layla I like is the deceptively spacious mesh front pocket. It has internal organization and more room than it appears for snacks, sunscreen, smartphone or even a soda can, and it fastens with a single buckle. With added details like a zipper protector over the durable YKK side-entry zipper, the Layla quickly became our testers’ top pick for curvier women who want a high-quality, well-fitting PFD, and at a reasonable price too. If you’re interested in a similar unisex design, check out Astral’s Ringo, which shares many features with the Layla.

Bottom line

The Astral Layla offers best-in-class comfort for curvier paddlers seeking a stylish, well-fitting PFD.

Best inflatable vest PFD

Mustang Survival MIT 70 Manual

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MUSTANG SURVIVAL AMAZON REI

Why I love it

Inflatable PFDs keep things light and minimal, which is ideal for hot and muggy days when you don’t want to wear anything extra. For a vest-style inflatable, my go-to is the Mustang Survival MIT 70, which is suited to calm-water paddling.

The MIT 70 is straightforward to use. Put the collar over your neck, fasten the buckle and tighten the strap. If you need to activate it, pull the tab to deploy an internal bladder and expand the vest with high-visibility cheek-hugging flotation. One aspect I love is how simple Mustang has made repacking this PFD—after deflation, fold the chest pieces lengthwise and secure the Velcro. That’s it—one fold, no rolling or stuffing. Maintenance is simple, too: replace the CO2 cartridge annually, keep the inflator clean and check the visibility window regularly. Replacement cartridges run about $35 each.

This inflatable vest PFD is available in three different models with different buoyancies (from 15 to 38 pounds), and it has a huge following amongst the sailors and anglers I know. I tested this vest while paddleboarding. I prefer a manual inflatable PFD over an automatic one so there isn’t accidental inflation from an unexpected swim. But remember: inflatables aren’t appropriate for everyone or every situation. A manual inflatable PFD must be activated to work, which means having a calm and conscious paddler who can deploy if needed. Inflatables are also a one-and-done deal until you re-arm them. Find out how to choose the right inflatable PFD for you.

Bottom line

For strong swimmers who want the safety of a PFD without the bulk, the Mustang MIT 70 inflatable vest is a great choice for calm-water paddling adventures.

Best for paddleboarders

Onyx M16

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ONYX OUTDOOR AMAZON SCHEELS

Why I love it

Offering barely-there protection, the Onyx M16 is our testing lineup’s smallest, lightest and most low-profile PFD. Especially popular amongst paddleboarders, the ultra-slim design has an inch-wide belt and weighs less than a pound. Truly, it’s barely noticeable around my waist. The M16 boasts 17 pounds of buoyancy from its CO2 cartridge, and you can increase that to 26.5 pounds by manually inflating it, so this is solid flotation in a tiny package.

This belt pack’s activation mechanism is straightforward: one strong tug on the pull cord inflates the PFD. The M16 inflates into a rectangular pillow shape with a piece of webbing that the swimmer puts over their head. I prefer this to the neck-collar style some inflatable belts use, which can be awkward to wrestle into in the water. When not in use, the pull cord of the M16 neatly tucks away, keeping it from dangling and making it easy to find when in the water. Packing away the bladder took a few tries to get my technique down.

As mentioned above, inflatables come with a few drawbacks. They require a calm, conscious paddler for manual deployment, making them best suited for experienced swimmers on calm water and nearshore outings. Once deployed, the flotation’s placement can make swimming challenging.

Bottom line

For minimal bulk, the M16 belt inflatable from Onyx wins for calm, near-shore outings.

Best plus size

Stohlquist Trekker

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STOHLQUIST AMAZON OUTDOORPLAY

Why I love it

When purchasing a plus-sized life jacket, paddlers need to choose a PFD that offers the adjustability to accommodate them without being too tight and restrictive or riding up.

As a smaller paddler, I asked some larger-bodied friends about their favorite life jackets. Three name-dropped the Stohlquist Trekker, praising its exceptional adjustability, including the unique cross-chest cinch strap, which helps eliminate annoying ride-up, which can be common with bigger bellies. The Trekker’s open sides enhance ventilation and range of motion while the Wrapture torso design, with articulated foam, contours to the shape of the body. All this makes the Trekker a very comfortable PFD, and it’s one that fits generously too. Additional features like zippered bellows pockets with drainage ports and a rear lash tab for attaching safety gear make it a versatile and well-designed choice.

Bottom line

A favorite amongst our larger testers, the Stohlquist Keeper has multiple adjustment points and the cross-chest cinch holds it in place.

Best low profile PFD

Level Six Mattawa

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LEVEL SIX

Why I love it

The first thing I notice wearing the Level Six’s new women’s-specific Mattawa is how small a footprint is on my body. No surprise that it’s thinner and lighter than any other foam PFD tested here and, on the water, there’s noticeably less bulk while paddling.

The Mattawa and its counterpart, the Thompson, are the first low-profile Level 50 buoyancy aids approved for the North American market. They provide 11 pounds of flotation, versus the standard 16 pounds of flotation in Level 70 or Type III PFDs used by most paddlers. Less flotation comes with limits: Level 50s are intended for good swimmers on protected waters, near shore and where self-rescue or help is close by. And unlike traditional paddling PFDs, they only meet legal carriage requirements when worn.

Paddling with the Mattawa, I was reminded of a friend’s mom, a talented DIY tailor, who found her off-the-shelf PFD so bulky she opened a seam, removed half the foam and sewed it back up. That’s a real bad idea, but I think she would approve of the Mattawa. For the kind of sheltered paddling many recreational paddlers are doing, 11 pounds of forget-about-it flotation being worn beats 16 pounds of flotation sitting under a bungee. The endlessly wearable Mattawa and Thompson will be available at paddlesports retailers in 2027.

Bottom line

Comfortable, ultra-slim and best suited to sheltered adventures, less is more with the Mattawa.

Best PFD for kids

Mustang Survival Child Lil’ Legends

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MUSTANG SURVIVAL AMAZON REI BACKCOUNTRY

Why I love it

After testing a dozen life jackets for paddlers 30 to 90 pounds, the Mustang Survival Child Lil’ Legends rose to the top as our pick for the best child and youth life jacket. It uses plenty of foam for keeping your child floating high out of the water, which makes it a little bulkier than some of the kids vests we tested, but it remains very comfortable to wear. A large front zipper makes it easy for kids to get the PFD on and off by themselves, and the foam collar keeps kids face up if they are tossed from a raft. The parents of our testers also loved the grab loop that gives a secure handle for hauling a kid back aboard after a swim or capsize.

The Lil Legends life jacket is available in multiple sizes and weight ranges. The infant and toddler life jackets in this model include a crotch strap for extra security, while the child version does not.

Bottom line

The Mustang Survival Lil’ Legends is not the sleekest vest we tested, but for flotation and peace of mind, it is hard to beat.

Best infant and toddler life jacket

Level Six Puffer

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LEVEL SIX AMAZON

Why I love it

The Level Six Puffer is a favorite infant and toddler life jacket. Paddling parents want to get their children on the water as soon as possible but it is hard to find something that fits well on children under 20 pounds since they are all head and no neck. With the float on the chest and back of the head, the Level Six Puffer does a great job of floating infants face up. The back of the life jacket features a few straps that keep the floats in place and help adjust sizing. One of the features on this jacket our testers most loved is the extra buckle at the crotch that allows parents to change a diaper without taking off the whole life jacket.

This PFD is not Transport Canada approved since there is currently no testing standard to certify PFD’s for children under nine kilograms.

Best dog life jacket

Salus Skippy

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SALUS MARINE

Why I love it

Many people assume dogs are naturally great swimmers, but thousands of dogs drown each year in the United States, according to PetMD. There is no official Coast Guard standard for dog PFDs, so buyers must research and choose a reputable brand.

I’ve tested many brands making dog life jackets with the eight foster pups I have raised for a local guide dog organization. My favorite by far is the Salus Skippy and my pups never go out on the water without it. Most importantly, much of the flotation sits under the chest, where it helps lift the dog, rather than placing it on the back, as many dog PFDs do. Another essential feature I love is the double handle on the top of the life jacket to hoist the dog back on board if they jump in. I am also a fan of the high-viz colors to help the pup stay visible in the water.

Bottom line

After eight foster pups, the Salus Skippy is my go-to recommendation for dog owners looking to get a PFD. However, like humans, fit matters, and there is no perfect life jacket for every dog—see more of the best PFDs for dogs.

What to consider when buying a PFD

When shopping for a PFD, you’ll notice a variety of styles at your local paddling store, including mesh-back and foam-back designs, inherently buoyant and inflatable options, and closures that vary from zippers to buckles, or even just webbing. Each design has unique advantages, so considering your intended use is essential.

Like when choosing a canoe or kayak, the first question to ask yourself is what kind of paddling you plan to do. A PFD designed for relaxing afternoons meandering around the local duck pond will be different in fit, function and features than one designed for remote whitewater expeditions, for example. Choosing a PFD that matches your intended paddling environment will ensure it’s comfortable, functional and reliable.

For the average recreational paddler, comfort and mobility are key. Mesh-back PFDs with high foam panels on the upper backs are often better suited to kayaks with high-backed seats and allow more ventilation on hot days. You may also choose between inherently buoyant and inflatable PFDs. Inflatable PFDs are low-profile, great for hot weather and provide buoyancy with a CO2 cartridge (which needs maintenance). Most inflatable PFDs are more appropriate for calm water adventures close to shore. Foam-filled PFDs, on the other hand, always offer buoyancy. Some specialized foam PFDs are used in more challenging environments, such as by whitewater kayakers, sea kayakers and more. There’s a lot to know about how to choose a PFD.

Fitting your PFD

The right PFD should feel comfortable, with ample range of motion for your arms and torso. The right fit largely depends on how a PFD feels when worn and how snugly the straps adjust. PFDs should fit securely at the waist and ribs to avoid slipping upward. To check fit, tighten all straps and gently pull upward on the shoulder straps; if the vest slides up, it needs more tightening or isn’t a great fit.

Ultimately, finding the right PFD is as personal as body shape. It’s always best to try several options in your preferred category to discover the perfect fit.

Best PFD brands

• NRS
• Kokatat
• Mustang
• Salus
• Stohlquist
• Onyx
• Astral
• Level Six
• Lifeshirt

How we tested

I’m sure my choices for the best PFDs will cause arguments. That’s because there are so many great PFDs, and each paddler has his or her favorite. To test these PFDs, we paddled, portaged, swam and floated. After evaluating 39 models, we narrowed it down to the top contenders. Each PFD was selected for its fit, comfort, features and function. These picks reflect not only hands-on testing in the summer of 2024 through to the fall of 2026, but also years of accumulated experience and the expertise of our seasoned editors through extensive paddling and product testing.

Why trust us

At Paddling Magazine, we take gear testing seriously. Editor-in-Chief Kaydi Pyette has spent more than a decade at the helm of Paddling Magazine, leading its product reviews. She has been an avid paddler for more than 20 years; her paddling adventures have taken her from Patagonia to the Yukon and across her home province of Ontario. Along with our team of seasoned editors and contributors, we rigorously test every piece of gear we recommend to determine our top performers.

Feature photo: Geoff Whitlock