The swiftwater world is one of the most exciting environments for a rescuer to work in. It’s loud, fast, disorienting, dynamic, often very cold, and risky.
Training is the keystone to any swiftwater operation, and we're blessed with a wealth of resources here in Canada. After great training comes great gear. Water rescues can change from safe to scary in a split-second. Proper gear can help mitigate some of the risks.
Swiftwater rescue teams need specialized equipment designed for the demands of working in and around moving water. Check out our 2026 swiftwater safety gear list below for our go-to essentials for when water turns rough:
Flotation
First and foremost - flotation. Your primary source of buoyancy is your personal flotation device. Fit is the key here. If the PFD is not snug, it will ride up and keep you in a lower position in the water and obscure your vision. We also want our PFDs to allow for a good range of motion and to provide optimum flotation with minimal bulk.
A top choice for the professional is the Northwater Pro System PFD. This highly adaptable PFD has dozens of add-on options and comes in multiple sizes, making it a great option for someone who uses their PFD on a regular basis.
For teams looking for other professional rescue options, the NRS Rapid Rescuer PFD, NRS Rapid Responder PFD, and NRS Echo Rescuer each offer features suited to the demands of swiftwater rescue. From customizable rescue setups to high-buoyancy flotation, these PFDs provide different options depending on the needs of your team and the environment you're working in.
Drysuits & Layering
Drysuits are also an invaluable part of the swiftwater kit. We have seen huge improvements in design and materials over the past decade. There are now options for all budgets and specialties.
Our SAR customers love the NRS Extreme SAR GORE-TEX Dry Suit. Built for demanding search and rescue environments, it provides the waterproof protection needed when conditions get cold and wet.
For another versatile option, the NRS Foray Dry Suit provides protection and comfort for a range of water rescue applications.
And don't forget about what's underneath your drysuit. Proper layering is key to staying warm during cold-water operations. The NRS Expedition Weight Union Suit provides an additional layer of warmth and is available in both men's and women's versions.
Water Shoes
Rugged, wet environments require traction and stability unique from your basic wetshoe or bootie. The right footwear can make a big difference when you're moving through slippery rocks, riverbeds, and other challenging terrain.
The NRS Workboot Wetshoe is used by river professionals and rescue agencies and is built for demanding river environments.
For another option, the NRS ATB Wetshoe provides durable footwear with the traction and stability needed for working in wet environments.
Gloves
Cold water and rope handling can be tough on your hands. The right gloves can help provide warmth, protection, and grip while still allowing you to maintain the dexterity needed to work with ropes and rescue equipment.
The NRS Reactor Rescue Gloves are made with 3 mm neoprene to provide warmth when you're working in cold conditions. The durable construction and reinforced palm help provide protection and grip when handling ropes and equipment in demanding environments.
Helmets
A good helmet is an essential part of any swiftwater rescue kit. Rescuers may encounter rocks, boats, equipment, and other hazards while working in and around moving water. The right helmet should provide protection while remaining comfortable enough to wear throughout an operation.
The WRSI Current Helmet is designed for whitewater environments and provides a comfortable, secure fit. For a lightweight option, the Tactyl Helmet is well suited to water rescue applications.
For teams working across multiple rescue disciplines, the KASK Quantum offers a versatile option for technical rescue and demanding water environments.
Throw Bags
We don't go into any water operation without a throwbag. A throw rope provides rescue personnel with a fast way to reach a person in the water while keeping the rescuer out of the current whenever possible.
A good throwbag should be easy to deploy, highly visible, and simple to repack and reset between rescues. It should also be easy to carry and accessible when you need it quickly.
The NRS Throw Bag is an essential addition to any swiftwater rescue kit and a must-have for teams working around moving water.
Other Essentials
A few smaller pieces of equipment are also worth having in your rescue kit.
A waterproof light is essential for low-light operations. The UST See-Me 2.0 Strobe Light provides a compact way to increase visibility when conditions get dark.
A water rescue knife is another important piece of equipment to have readily accessible. The NRS Co-Pilot Knife is a compact option for your rescue kit.
A whistle is another simple but effective communication tool. The Fox 40 provides a reliable way to communicate when the sound of moving water makes verbal communication difficult.
Rescue Boards & Boats
Rescue boards and boats are another important part of a well-equipped water rescue cache. They provide teams with additional options for reaching and recovering people in the water.
The Rescue Board provides a stable platform for a variety of water rescue situations.
For larger operations, the NRS ASR 155 Rescue Boat provides a larger platform for professional water rescue teams.
Check out all our water rescue gear here.
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