Choosing The Right NRS Ninja PFD

The NRS Ninja series is a favorite among kayakers, SUP users, pack rafters, whitewater paddlers, and anglers because of its high-quality, low-profile PFDs. Designed for comfort, mobility, and safety, each model in the Ninja line serves a specific purpose. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a professional guide, or a hardcore offshore enthusiast, understanding the differences and choosing between the Ninja, Ninja Pro, and Ninja OS ensures you're protected, comfortable, and prepared for every adventure!

Ninja

The original NRS Ninja is a straightforward, low-profile PFD ideal for recreational paddlers, whitewater kayakers, SUP enthusiasts, and anglers. It features a side-entry design, 14.5-15.75 lbs of buoyancy (Type III), based on size, and six adjustment points for a secure fit. It also features a large clamshell front pocket with internal organization that is ideal for snacks, tools, or a phone.

Constructed with 420-denier ripstop nylon, the Ninja is comfortable and durable without overcomplicating the design. Its lightweight, flexible design ensures a free range of motion for each paddle stroke and torso rotation. The standard Ninja checks all the boxes for convenience, comfort, and user-friendly ability.

From NRS: The Ninja PFD

Ninja Pro

If you're an adventurer looking to push the limits, the NRS Ninja Pro is for you. It is perfect for river guides, whitewater rescuers, or paddlers pushing into technical or hazardous environments. While maintaining the same low-profile cut as the original Ninja, the Pro version is a Type V PFD because of its integrated quick-release rescue harness, a must-have for rescue professionals.

The Pro delivers slightly more buoyancy at 15.75-16.75 lbs and features ultra-tough 420-denier ripstop nylon. A dual-zippered front clamshell design is used for organization with quicker access and divided compartments. With the rescuer in mind, reflective accents and MOLLE attachment points add critical attachment points to carry tools, knives, or radios on the water.

The Ninja Pro is designed with professionals in mind for swift water rescue situations. However, the Pro is perfect for the experienced paddler who needs a dependable harness system.

From NRS: The Ninja Pro PFD

Ninja OS

When taking to the sea or open water, no matter the conditions, look no further than the NRS Ninja OS. The Ninja OS offers specialized comfort and warmth. The "OS" generally refers to Offshore or Open Sea, as the design keeps the sea kayaker in mind. The OS model includes a fleece-lined handwarmer pocket to add warmth in cold climates, a favorite among dry-suit users.

The Ninja OS features 14.5-15.75 lbs of buoyancy (Type III) constructed of 420-denier ripstop nylon. Its large front pocket resembles the standard Ninja but has more internal organization and multiple external attachment points for a knife, light, or strobe. 3M reflective accents are strategically placed around the OS for easy visibility to ensure your safety.

The OS skips the rescue harness, making it lighter and more focused on cold-weather comfort than professional rescue use. If you're venturing offshore, the Ninja OS was built for your needs.

From NRS: The Ninja OS PFD

Conclusion

Each Ninja PFD serves a specific purpose for different users and activities. The right one for you depends on where you paddle, your paddling style, and which features are most important to you. Regardless of your choice, you can trust the quality, performance, comfort, and reliability of an NRS PFD!

Learn more about fitting and sizing your next PFD here!

Check out our full offering of NRS PFDs!