I like the idea of making myself more visible in the kayak, but I already have a dark blue PFD and paddling jacket. Does anyone know where to get a light international orange jacket that I could wear over the PFD?

> Before you spend money on visibility products, think about the
> application. Be sure you are getting what you are paying for, and meeting
> your requirements.

> Are you paddling at night?

> Is this for visibility under normal paddling conditions?

> Is this for visibility under emergency search situations?

> It is unlikely that the reflective tape will have any real value, in
> normal day or night conditions. The micro-spheres used to create these
> reflective tapes are designed to reflect light back at its source. This
> makes it great for nighttime automotive applications. Light from the car’s
> headlights strikes the tape and is reflected back at the car. The tape is
> much less useful in daylight. That is why most safety vests are bright
> orange.

> You are correct in your concern over visibility. Kayaks are hard to see.
> However this is not just because of their color. They are also low to the
> water. In anything more that a 6-inch swell your boat will disappear from
> view when it drops into a trough. In these situations you and your paddle
> are what other vessels have the best chance of seeing. Spend money on
> making them visible. I would recommend a bright colored PDF and spray
> jacket. You may want to paint your paddle orange or yellow. A bright
> colored hat may also be useful. Reflective tape’s value is still dubious
> here. Boats rarely run with any kind of headlight that will reflect back
> at the boat.

> A night time search and rescue is the one place I can see some value in
> reflective tape. In this situation you are hoping a search boat or
> helicopter will shine a light on you so the tape will reflect. This is OK.
> But why be passively waiting for a light to find you? Always carry the
> correct emergency signally flares, a flashlight and a 2-way marine radio.
> These items allow you to actively call attention to yourself.

> If you still want to make your boat highly visible a painted haul and deck
> is the only real alternative. Bright colors like orange and yellow are
> best.

> I hope this helps.

> Don