I am not sure if you have Costco in your area but they always start stocking nice neoprene ones about this time of year. Usually name brand and $39 if I remember correctly.
Get a good neoprene PFD, I have a couple of Nautica, 4 buckle, offers good flotation and impact resistance, this is not something you want to cut corners, get the best PFD you can afford.
At the time, they were buy 1 get 1, so I got enough for everyone to be able to pick a color. Any safety equipment is more like to be used if the user likes it.
For standups I defiantly use my old Slippery pull over vest. They have extra thick chest padding for when the handpole punches you in the chest and larger arm openings for more arm freedom
.
For cruising it is neoprene but I have some friends that are allergic to them. Go figure.