The Guardian 3.D is here to keep you safe and equipped in the most demanding situations. Its 3D shaping ensures it stays as close to you as you’d want your guardian angel.
+ 3.D? It is our process of pre-shaping the back panel so it even better anatomically adheres to the paddler throughout the range of movement, eliminating gaps and bulk while maintaining top of the line flotation. Also provides a better fit for smaller paddler.
+ Thanks to our telescopic system, the side panels slide through (and are held in place by) a tunnel, eliminating any bulk and unnecessary movement while keeping your ribs protected.
+ The adjustable and padded shoulder straps are designed to move and flex with the motion of the shoulders, allowing for proper fit without restricting mobility,all the while keeping all gaps to a minimum.
+ Quick release waist harness with stainless steel ring
+ Internal strap harness is connected both vertically and horizontally creating much stronger connections.
+ Large front pocket opens wide to allow for easy and quick access and organization of gear.
+ Knife lash tab has a tip sleeve to prevent unwanted catches and snags.
+ Large fleece lined pocket to behind the front panel to keep your hands cozy and warm on those cold days
+ Comes with a whistle in an integrated sleeve low on the shoulder.
+ ISO 12402-5 a ISO 12402-6 / THIS PFD COMPLIES WITH THE EUROPEAN STANDARD ONLY, IT IS NOT U.S. COAST GUARD APPROVED
Sizes: XS, S/M, L/XL, 2XL
| Weight (lb) | Waist (in) | Chest (in) | |
| XS | 66-110 | 29-32 | 33-36 |
| S/M | 66-165 | 31-37 | 35-41 |
| L/XL | 110-198 | 35-42 | 39-46 |
| XXL | 176+ | 40-44 | 44-48 |




























Wade Harrison –
One the best Rescue Vest on the market today and at a great price! A must have for any paddler looking for a quality PFD.
Jared –
Great jacket all round!
The floatation keeps my head way up above the water. The profile is ergonomic and comfortable: I can get in and out of rafts easily without the jacket getting caught on the perimeter line and it is freeing for the arms and torso when ww kayaking. The pocket situation is awesome: I can keep a pin kit with extra beaners and a flip line in the big pocket without anything falling out with the bungee loops and the small pocket keeps my snacks and zinc safe. Side-entry with the slide-in foam keeps me snug and protected when skidding on rocks. Everything is awesome but one thing…
The fabric of the jacket doesn’t last. Within my 2nd season using it, i got a hole next to the main pocket then another formed on the other side. Then another season after, I got a couple other holes in different places. I use the pfd A LOT in every season for work and play time but i’ve had jackets that have lasted longer.
Still highly recommend the PFD
Allen Yip –
Thanks so much for the detailed and thoughtful review!
We’re really glad to hear how well the Hiko Guardian PFD has performed for you on the water — from the floatation and ergonomic design to the practical pocket layout and side-entry protection. It’s great to know it’s serving you well for both work and play.
Regarding the fabric durability: we appreciate you flagging this. There was a small batch with some stitching and fabric issues that were covered under warranty. Please reach out to us with photos of the damage, and we’ll be happy to submit a warranty claim with Hiko on your behalf.
Thanks again for the honest feedback and continued support!
Brent –
I’m on my second Guardian 3.D vest. While I really enjoyed the features, flotation and fit of the first one I had, I became frustrated with the side pads constantly slipping out. Because I’m not the most buoyant person in the world, I’m ok with sacrificing some mobility for flotation. Unfortunately, my stint with the other high floatation vest on the market was brief due to too tight a fit for me so I went back to the XXL Hiko. This time, however, I went Martha Stewart on it, sewing two elastic tabs to each of the side bands with velcro to hold them in place. It worked like a charm, and the side padding certainly came in handy this past weekend on an unplanned hug with the Canadian Shield.
This simple mod, added to the great storage options, clean knife sleeve, and comfortable fit have placed it back at the top of my favorites. Recalling that the Inferno vest I originally had faded quickly, I give the Kaituna vest I now own a shot of 303 from time to time. So far, it has kept its colour after a fair bit of exposure and abuse.
I am extremely happy with the performance of the vest.