NRS Vapor Review

The NRS Vapor is a unisex, low-profile vest that comes in three sizes with graded flotation (i.e., the larger the size jacket, the more flotation). It's a Performance Level 70 PFD, made of 420D denier recycled ripstop nylon with a side entry buckle system. Sporting NRS's new Orbit Fit system, the contoured Vapor is a comfortable option for active watersports but lacks some of the thoughtful extra details found on several other models.

Fit

The Vapor is available in three sizes, designed to fit paddlers with chest measurements from 30 to 56 inches. Each size jacket spans a fairly wide range of chest circumferences. This life jacket can be adjusted at the shoulders, lower torso, and waist, helping to contour the wrap-around foam to different body shapes. Smaller paddlers are particularly fond of the Vapor as it delivers a tighter fit that's hard to find with many other jackets. Teens who have outgrown youth-specific life jackets may find that the smallest size accommodates them.

Our male and smaller-busted female testers have always loved the fit of the classic Vapor design. The updated version has now also won over those with larger busts, thanks to the reduction in bulk from the top of the jacket. The redesigned Vapor conforms better to the shape of different bodies, enabling all users to get a secure fit.

Comfort and Mobility

The updated Vapor features NRS's new Orbit Fit System, which layers multiple pieces of foam to create a flexible, pre-curved shape. We found this design noticeably more comfortable than previous models.

Rather than concentrating flotation in specific areas, the Vapor's padding is spread evenly around the jacket, keeping it thinner and avoiding excessively bulky areas like some other vests. These contoured panels are also more flexible, making it more comfortable to wear.

The Vapor features large, open “action cut” armholes perfect for expertly wielding a paddle, or taking swim strokes. These wide arm holes also help to vent the paddler, keeping them cooler in hot weather. It's not quite as low profile as a few other vests and inflatable belts we tested, but it does a great job of staying out of your way on the water.

The adjustable, secure straps are low on the vest, letting you find your perfect fit without compromising your ability to move and breathe. The silicone on the inner waistband also helps hold this vest in place even when you jump off your SUP or tip your kayak. Some paddle jackets pile the back flotation behind your head to keep the foam line above the seat; however, the Vapor maintains full coverage across the back, keeping the padding low and out of your way if you do find yourself swimming. The combination of security and mobility that the Vapor provides is among the best.

Quality of Construction

The Vapor is high-quality with hidden seams and sturdy materials, and it both looks and feels robust. While some cheap life jackets skimp on construction, including scratchy materials and sloppy seams, this is not the case with the Vapor.

This PFD is easy to clean after use, and the total lack of features and pockets aids this process and avoids the inevitable zip failure. It's also easier to hang a side-entry PFD on a hanger without needing to close it.

The updated Vapor uses recycled materials for the PFD shell; however, there is no apparent compromise on quality.

Features and Versatility

A no-nonsense paddle jacket, the Vapor fits the bill without the frill. It's a great jacket to wear for paddling and even a comfortable option for spending all day on your friend's speedboat. This updated model has strap garages to secure excess material, preventing them from flapping in your face. NRS has also added more reflective detailing on the shoulder straps to improve visibility.

The Vapor PFD has no pockets, knife tab, or extra loops to clip a whistle to. Some testers saw this as an advantage as they like a streamlined jacket, others felt that a simple pocket would make a big difference, so they could stash a snack, river knife, or phone.

While most of us are used to the comfortable feeling of putting on a front-zip vest, a side-entry PFD can take some getting used to. Once you are, though, it quickly becomes fairly convenient. The Vapor is more comfortable to wear tightened than hanging loose — a great way to make staying safe an unconscious habit. This is an asset to an otherwise quite plain yet effective paddle jacket.

Flotation

Another new feature in the updated Vapor's design is that NRS now grades flotation across their sizes. Instead of the common approach taken by US PFD manufacturers of giving every size jacket the same amount of buoyant foam, NRS designs each size of their new PFDs with a proportional amount of flotation (i.e., a larger jacket has more flotation). This helps to avoid unnecessary bulk in small models and ensures larger paddlers get the flotation they need. All jackets meet Coast Guard standards for Performance Level 70, with the XS/M jacket rated for 14.6 lbs, M/L for 15.75 lbs and the XL/XXL offers 15.75 lbs of flotation.

The flotation on the Vapor is spread out across the PFD and is not concentrated in one area. The secure fit means that if you find yourself in the water, you will have adequate flotation, and the jacket won't tend to float up by your ears, unlike some models tested.

Should You Buy the NRS Vapor?

The NRS Vapor is a straightforward paddling life jacket that takes away the frills and features to lower its price. This option is comfortable and easy to wear without inhibiting your paddling. It's not the fanciest vest we tested, but it's a simple solution that offers great performance for a lower price than many others.

What Other Life Jackets Should You Consider?

The Astral YTV 2.0 has a similar simplistic approach to the NRS Vapor but with a more slimline feel. It also includes two side pockets and an internal central sleeve without adding any bulk. Unsurprisingly, this costs a fair bit more. The only PFD we tested that beat the Vapor in terms of price was the Onyx MoveVent Dynamic, but we found it less comfortable for paddling or swimming.