Packa SPY Self-Inflating PFD FAQs
Q1: What is the buoyancy of the Packa SPY self-inflating PFD?
A1: The buoyancy is 60N, but it may decrease as the water temperature drops.
Q2: How do I choose a properly fitting PFD?
A2:
- The bottom of the PFD should be level with your navel.
- When a companion pulls the shoulder straps upwards, the straps should not rise above your ears.
- There should be enough space between your chin and the top of the PFD. You can check by tightening your chin towards your chest to see if the space is appropriate.
- Ensure the PFD fits snugly around your body without being so tight that it affects breathing or movement.
Q3: Is the Packa SPY self-inflating PFD suitable for whitewater rafting?
A3: It is not recommended. The buoyancy of the SPY PFD comes from three airbags, providing some safety redundancy. However, the complex and dynamic environment of whitewater will accelerate airbag wear, increasing potential risks. For whitewater environments, it’s safer to choose a PFD made with solid buoyancy materials.
Q4: Can the PFD float the entire body above water after falling in?
A4: It can support the wearer in keeping their head above water, but it will not lift the entire body out of the water.
Q5:Will water enter through the inflation valve, and what happens if it does?
A5:If a large amount of water accidentally enters, the PFD should be sent to the manufacturer for cleaning as soon as possible. Do not continue using it.If a small amount of water vapor enters occasionally, please don’t worry. Just leave the valve open for an extended period, and the moisture will evaporate naturally without special treatment.
Q6: Does a thicker PFD provide more buoyancy?
A6: No. While thickness can be one factor influencing buoyancy, it’s not the only one. When choosing a PFD, you should consider its buoyancy materials, design structure, and factors like your weight and height to ensure it provides adequate buoyancy support.
Q7: Why is the PFD shipped in an inflated state?
A7: The best storage condition for the Packa SPY self-inflating PFD is in its uncompressed state, so we ship it inflated.
Q8: Why is the overall weight of the small-sized PFD heavier than the larger one?
A8: For the XS/S size PFDs, we have increased the thickness of some inflation materials to compensate for the reduced buoyancy due to the smaller size, which makes the overall weight slightly heavier than the larger sizes.