laser sailboat life jackets

6 Best Life Jackets for Sailing (2024)

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

January 2, 2024

Are you looking for the best life jackets for sailing? You've come to the right place.

Sailing is, without a doubt, one of the best experiences you could ever have. The calming and gentle sound of the ocean, the slight rocking of the boat, and the warm breeze that brushes against your face simply make sailing one of the most fun activities you can indulge in. But even with the joys that come with sailing, it does have its hazards and things can quickly go wrong if the unexpected happens. The fact that you're out on the water means that there's a possibility that you can end up in it instead.

And because a simple slip is all it takes to have you over the side, it's of great importance to have a good life jacket. Given that sailing is an active sport that requires lots of movement, the best life jackets for sailing should neither be restrictive nor bulky. It should also provide good support in case you find yourself in the water. With a good life jacket for sailing, you should just stay afloat without using a lot of energy.

When sailing, safety should be a priority and this calls for the need to have a proper life jacket. But because there are a lot of sailing life jackets in the market, choosing a good one can be quite challenging. To make it a lot easier for you, we'll highlight the best life jackets for sailing.

Table of contents

Spinlock Deckvest 5D 170N Inflatable PFD

The Spinlock Deckvest 5D is an excellent life jacket made from weight-saving ripstop cover fabric. This material is soft, lightweight, flexible, and durable and can resist tear and puncture that are likely to occur during sailing. This is a highly durable life jacket that will withstand the most extreme conditions.

This lifejacket has an ergonomic design with a reliable safety harness to ensure that it comfortably sits on your neck and around your shoulder without impeding your freedom and movement. Given that it's a high-tech type of PFD, it can turn your face up and keep your head above the water in case you become unconscious. It also has an integrated sprayhood that's integral in protecting you from secondary drowning.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Spinlock Deckvest is a professional grade life jacket that will ensure that you're always safe. Even though this life jacket inflates automatically when water flows upward through the vest, it will not inflate accidentally when it's raining or if it gets sprayed with water. While this is a common problem in normal inflatable life jackets, the Spinlock eliminates this problem through an inside paper capsule that helps it inflate or deflate.

Its comfortable and unobtrusive design means that you can wear it all day without tiring you out. To make it safer, this life jacket has other additional features such as a flashing LED light and a flexible antenna for improved visibility in the water.

The Deckvest 5D may be a little expensive but it won't let you down as far as comfort, safety, and ease of use are concerned. It's also very durable, which makes it worth the extra investment if you plan to use it regularly. It's also versatile as it's available in three various sizes from small to XX-Large so it can be excellent for a wide range of users.

• ‍ Strong and durable exterior
• Reliable UML Pro Sensor
• Mesh pocket
• Double crotch straps
• Auto/manual option
• ‍ It's quite expensive

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Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Sailing Life Jacket

No list of best life jackets for sailing can be complete without the Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Sailing Life Jacket . Well, that's because it's one of the best PFDs in the market. This life jacket has a strong exterior made from 200 denier Nylon Ripstop and Nylon Oxford. This makes it durable and resistant to tear and puncture that can occur in extreme conditions.

The Onyx MoveVent Dynamic is structured with two pads on the shoulders to make it comfortable and wearable throughout the day without feeling tired. The neoprene pads are perfectly structured to ensure that there's no chafe and to make you enjoy sailing. That's not all; it has a powerful and durable zipper closure at the front and is complemented by adjustable side belts to ensure that it fits you safely. This zipper closure is expandable and you can use it to store crucial equipment such as your mobile phone and keys.

This life jacket is uniquely and flexibly designed to ensure that it conforms to your body and fittingly stays in place even if you are hit with a huge impact. It also has a mesh at the lower back to eliminate excessive heat and make it breathable. This will make your body cool while preventing moisture from your body. This is also essential in making it lightweight and comfortable to be worn throughout the day.

The Onyx MoveVent Dynamic has a whistle attached to it. This is essential if you want to raise alarm or seek help in case of an emergency. It's also structured with reflective material on the shoulder pads to enhance visibility during low light conditions, which is integral in preventing water accidents, especially at night.

• ‍ Lightweight
• Drying loop
• Adjustable side belt
• Expandable pocket
• Neoprene shoulders
• ‍ It may be small for some people

Astral V-Eight Sailing Life Jacket

With the life vest built around a mesh base, the Astra V-Eight is a modern sailing life jacket that's designed to give you enough freedom of movement thanks to its unobtrusive design. In addition to the open sides that will not interfere with your arms, the shoulder straps are modest while the panels sit low on the body so that it doesn't move up into your face.

Even though the life jacket's high seat may back if you're kayaking, this won't be an issue if you plan to use it when sailing. The foam panel is structured with Polyethylene (PE) and EVA foam both in the front and at the back to shape it better for your body. This makes it a perfect fit for both men and women, and also very comfortable.

The Astra V-Eight has a zipper closure at the front and has a quick release buckle on the lower chest as well as two adjustable buckles on each shoulder to help you adjust the life jacket to fit you accordingly. It has a mesh at both sides to make it breathable while eliminating excessive heat to make you cool throughout your sailing escapades. This life jacket is completely free of toxic PVC.

And do you have an integral device that you want to carry with you while sailing? No problem, this vest has two zippered front pockets so that you can keep important gadgets such as an emergency whistle, an emergency knife, a strobe, and many more.

Weighing about 1.22 lbs. with a buoyancy rating of about 16 lbs, this is an extremely reliable life jacket. It is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard as a Type III life jacket and is perfect for a variety of water sports, sailing included.

This life jacket is available in various sizes and high visibility colors to make it excellent if you want a life jacket that's easy to wear and spot in case of an emergency. Overall, this is a great life jacket that scores highly well in terms of buoyancy, comfort, safety, and durability.

• ‍ Breathable
• Durable and comfortable
• Comes with adjustable buckles
• It is free of toxic PVC
• It is USCG approved
• ‍ It's bulky

Onyx Absolute Outdoor Life Jacket for Sailing

A slender life jacket that's made from nylon material, the Onyx Absolute Outdoor Life Jacket is a superb sailing life jacket that's durable and resistant to tear and puncture. It is extremely lightweight that you won't even realize that you have it on you. This means that you can comfortably wear it throughout the day without getting tired.

The fact that you can inflate it automatically or manually is essential, especially in emergencies. It doesn't matter whether it's deflated when you fall into the water; it will automatically inflate to ensure that you remain safe. Well, this jacket is designed with a carbon dioxide cylinder to help inflate automatically if it's submerged in 4 or more inches of water. As such, you'll always remain safe even if you suddenly fall into the water. This, therefore, makes it a great option if you're not good at swimming.

If you want to inflate it manually, you just have to pull a T-chord attachment at the right bottom of the life jacket and it will inflate. This makes it an excellent option if you love inflating the life jacket manually. And even if you find yourself in a situation where you're unconscious, this life jacket will keep your face and head on top of the water.

This life jacket is also designed so that you can easily wear it on top of your shirt or t-shirt and still feel good. Whether you're sailing during summer or winter, it's designed to serve you perfectly throughout the year. In terms of safety, this is another USCG-approved life jacket on this list. So in addition to sailing, you can effectively use it in a variety of water sports.

• ‍ It has a very comfortable neckline
• It's made from durable material
• It is lightweight thanks to its slender design
• It's a USCG-approved life jacket
• It has both auto and manual inflation
• ‍ It doesn't work perfectly if the water is cool

Stohlquist Edge

A brilliant addition to the great Stohlquist family, the Edge is an incredible life jacket that guarantees your freedom of movement and safety. It's designed with an ergonomic WRAPTURE shaped torso to give you the utmost comfort. With its adjustable padded, four side pulls, and front waist buckle, this life jacket can easily fit any type of body. The vest's shoulders have adjustable straps to help you adjust the vest according to your fit.

It's also designed with ultra-soft buoyancy foam that will ensure that you stay afloat no matter what happens. The low-cut offset zipper makes wearing this life jacket a lot easier and can also act as an additional front pocket for storing your essentials. We have to note that the pocket is not waterproof, so it's important to use a waterproof zip lock to ensure that your gadgets and other essentials are protected against water.

The Edge has mesh at the sides for maximum ventilation. This means that excessive heat will be easily eliminated while allowing cool air to make you fresh throughout your sailing adventures. That's not all; this life jacket is designed with 3M reflective that makes it highly visible in low light conditions.

This vest is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, Transport Canada, and has both the ULC and UL listings. This means that it can be worn throughout North America.

• ‍ It has adjustable straps
• It has 3M reflective strips
• It is USCG-approved
• It's very comfortable
• ‍ The pockets are not completely waterproof
• It's bulky
• It may not be perfect for women

Mustang Survival Corp HIT Sailing Life Jacket

An award-winning deluxe life jacket, Mustang Survival Corp is designed with HIT (Hydrostatic Inflator Technology) to enhance your safety while minimizing maintenance. This life jacket can automatically inflate if it's submerged in 4 or more inches of water. This means that it will not inflate at the wrong time, say when it's raining or when it's accidentally sprayed with water.

When inflated, it provides 35lbs of buoyancy, which is more than twice the rate of buoyancy provided by most standard life jackets. It also comes with solas reflective tape, a safety whistle, and a strobe light attachment to ensure that your safety is a priority. This life jacket is designed with a fully adjustable harness to ensure that it perfectly fits on you no matter your body size.

This life jacket has two d-rings that can be essential in tethering the jacket to the jack line so that it doesn't restrict your movement and range of motion. Thanks to its low profile feature, this life jacket will enhance your mobility and allow your hands to move freely without restrictions. It is highly visible thanks to its bright and fluorescent yellow and green hues to make it excellent even low light conditions.

Mustang Survival Corp HIT is a USCG Type II life jacket that will enable you to indulge in various water sports. This life jacket is known for its superb customer service, award-winning HIT, and is excellent even in the severest of weather conditions.

• ‍ It has a superb Hydrostatic Inflator Technology (HIT)
• It has a SecureZIP Closure
• It offers great buoyancy
• ‍ It's only available in the United States

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Choosing a Life jacket - The definitive guide

There are several categories of vests and it is essential to choose the right category or else you will lack the buoyancy to float without swimming, or be hindered in your movements.

• Be careful to choose the right category for the dinghy: minimum 50N (and 100N for children under 25 kgs)
• A "high performance" vest changes life: it doesn't ride up, it doesn't itch.
• NO wakeboard vests that don't float enough!
• Budget for a high performance vest: 80-110$.

Impact Vests / Less Than 50N: Caution!

Wakeboard and water ski" type vests. Be careful, these vests, very thin and aesthetic, are not approved as flotation aid vests. Their role is to ensure a minimal protection to the impacts for the riders

50N Vest: The Right Choice For Small Sailboats And Catamarans

Legally, this type of vest is not called a life jacket but a buoyancy aid, or IFE: Individual Buoyancy Equipment.

The EN ISO 12402-5 standard specifies the safety requirements for buoyancy aids with a buoyancy of at least 50 newtons. ‍ It applies to people who can swim well, are close to shore, and have nearby help or assistance. They are inexpensive but of limited use. They do not turn an unconscious person and require active participation from the user.

Reference: for France, here is the complete text in pdf of division 240 .

Child Vest: 100N Essential For Sizes < 25 Kg

These vests are easily recognizable by their head support. They are equipped with whistles and subcutaneous straps. Some are also equipped with a retrieval strap.

Adult 100N Foam Vest

A good idea for your unmoored passengers or if you are uncomfortable in the water

Self-Inflating Vests 100, 150 N

Small size with a percussion bottle that inflates the vest. They are designed to navigate on "dry" boats. When in contact with water, the vest inflates automatically via a cellulose pellet that releases the CO2 cylinder release system. They are therefore not recommended for small boats sailing, which is a wetter sport. Indeed, if it is inflated, this vest becomes very cumbersome.

Other criteria [among 50N vests].

Olympic series athletes spend more than 300 days on the water, in 470, Nacra, Laser etc.. The major brands have taken advantage of their collaboration with these athletes to considerably improve comfort.

• a "gathered" cut that does not descend too much on the chest.
• a low cut at the neck to avoid any friction with the face
• an anti-slip strip that avoids slipping up
• A pocket to slip a knife, a tip, a cereal bar, a phone.

The style is subjective, but recently, manufacturers have made real efforts and the vests are rather aesthetic and stylish. Here is our selection to follow.

Our favorite vests

Magic Marine Racing Buoyancy Aid

Spinlock Foil

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The Best Life Jackets For Sailing

At the risk of sounding too cliche, the best life jacket for sailing is the one you wear. Unfortunately, no matter how feature-rich a life jacket is, it’s no good stuffed away in a locker when it’s needed most.

The sailing life jacket you invest in must be comfortable. And while several other considerations should factor in your buying decision, this is paramount.

From a decade of yachting experience, I can tell you that rigid life jackets are not practical to sail in. And for that reason, there are only inflatable life jackets on this list.

Before diving deeper into sailing life jackets, this article assumes that you have a basic knowledge of the differences between life jackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs). Also, I use the terms life jacket and life vest interchangeably. Let’s begin.

The Best entry level life jacket for sailing

For those sailors who have recently taken up the addictive habit of trimming sails when the wind is blowing. Since you won’t be ready to spend generously just yet and hopefully won’t be venturing too far from the port, here is our recommendation.

M.I.T. 100 Inflatable Life Jacket

A fantastic option if you are looking for versatility beyond sailing. It’s lightweight and comfortable, so wearing it on deck will be pleasant. The sleek design covers the self-inflating bladders discreetly with velcro along the outer edge of the life jacket.

The outer material is lightweight and durable, so you don’t need to be too concerned about tearing or snagging it while you work outside on the deck.

This personal flotation device (PFD) includes several safety benefits. Such as the clear inflator inspection window so you can view the hydrostatic release unit (HRU) without having to open the life jacket to inspect it. I can tell you from experience that having this feature is a huge time saver if you need to check multiple jackets, and it’s typically only a premium feature.

In addition to the automatic inflation capability, a marked yellow manual release toggle and a mouthpiece for oral inflation are available to the wearer. When fully inflated, the M.I.T 100 provides 28 lbs of buoyancy.

So, if you are a recreational sailor who does not require regular commercial inspection, this life jacket is an excellent addition to your life-saving appliance equipment onboard.

• Lightweight construction paired with good versatility
• The durable material also means you can adequately sail without fear of damaging the jacket
• Handy HRU inspection window when doing routine maintenance
• Manual release toggle and mouthpiece
• It won’t cut it when you plan more adventurous sailing trips
• Not made in the USA

A fantastic option if you are looking for versatility beyond sailing. It's lightweight and comfortable, so wearing it on deck will be pleasant. The sleek design covers the self-inflating bladders discreetly with velcro along the outer edge of the life jacket.

The best coastal life jacket for sailing

This is our recommendation for those who are out sailing whenever the wind blows, whether it be day sailing or even multi-day sailing, all within a reasonable distance of a safe haven.

Automatic Inflatable DeckVest™ 6D with Harness

From personal experience, I can tell you that Spinlock makes some of the most comfortable life jackets and life vests on the market today. So much so that we routinely offer them to super yacht charter guests ahead of every other brand.

Their latest DeckVest™ 6D is no different. Some key features in this iteration are the crotch straps now being placed on the side of the jacket and the addition of a harness release system to free you from tethers is needed.

Spinlock is well-known for speaking with sailing experts in their research and development. Their adjustable backstrap now means that the wearer can pull the strap and bring the jacket down off the neck. If you have worn your fair share of life jackets, you’ll understand that a subtle change like this makes a significant difference in comfort.

There are also clearly marked manual inflation toggles on the front of the life vest. In addition, it’s fully fitted with an HRU that is also self-righting for unconscious persons overboard. There is also a mouthpiece for oral inflation.

The Spinlock 6D comes in various colors, offering good buoyancy of 38lbs when fully inflated. Two bonus premium features are a saltwater-activated light and a spray hood for rough weather.

• Exceptional comfort from a market-leading manufacturer
• HRU unit that is automatic and can also be triggered manually
• Premium features like a spray hood saltwater illuminated light
• Checking the CO2 canister can be tricky
• Repacking the internal bladder after inspection is difficult

The best ocean life jacket for offshore sailing

If you are looking for something capable of handling an Atlantic crossing leaving for Grenada from Gibraltar in October, you will require the best. Longer ocean crossings mean you need to be prepared for bad weather.

Mustang Survival Corp Inflatable PFD with HIT and Harness

This Mustang Survival PFD is a reliable and comfortable choice, offering top-notch safety, mobility and will hold up in foul weather by complimenting your foul weather gear , not hinder it.

The standout feature of this PFD is its automatic inflation through the Hydrostatic Inflator Technology (HIT). This innovative tech ensures the vest only inflates when submerged in water, preventing accidental inflation due to rain or spray. The peace of mind this provides is invaluable, especially during long sailing trips or races.

Another impressive aspect of this PFD is the overall comfort. The low-profile design allows for maximum mobility, making it easy to maneuver around the vessel. 

A soft neoprene collar ensures a comfortable fit even during extended periods of wear. Furthermore, the PFD includes a sailing harness with two heavy-duty stainless steel D-rings for quick tethering, as well as a safety whistle and water-resistant pocket.

The only drawback I have noticed is the price, which may be steep especially if you need one for each crew member. Additionally, be aware that returns can be tricky due to the CO2 cartridge.

Overall, the Mustang Survival Corp Inflatable PFD with HIT and Harness is a fantastic option for serious ocean-going racers who prioritize safety, comfort, and mobility on the water.

• Automatic inflation with Hydrostatic Inflator Technology
• Comfortable, low-profile design with a neoprene collar
• Equipped with a sailing harness and two stainless steel D-rings
• May be expensive for occasional users
• Not returnable due to CO2 cartridge
• Limited color options (only red-black)

The Mustang Survival Corp Inflatable PFD with HIT and Harness is a fantastic option for serious ocean-going racers who prioritize safety, comfort, and mobility on the water.

The best all-around life jacket for sailing

Mustang survival elite inflatable life vest with hit.

Designed for maximum mobility and all-day comfort, the Mustang Survival Elite life jacket is the best all-rounder on this list.

Similar to how the Spinlock 6D provides comfort by removing weight off the neck, so too does the Mustang. The neck material is the same used in the body armor industry and eliminates neck fatigue. In addition, there is a wicking mesh liner on the back to increase comfort for long days out sailing.

The HRU system is similar to the Mustang EP38. It’ll only inflate automatically when submerged in at least 4 inches of water, so you can leave it in a humid locker when not in use. And there is an anodized manual pull trigger that sits discreetly on the inner side of the jacket. This prevents any accidental triggering of the CO2 canister.

When it’s fully inflated, the wearer will have 28lbs of buoyancy. The bladders a fluorescently colored for better Search And Rescue (SAR) visibility, and there is a safety whistle and a mouthpiece for oral inflation.

A secure zipper keeps the jacket compact and sleek looking, unlike velcro closure jackets which can look messy and can potentially fail.

• A versatile all-round jacket that sailors of various levels can use
• Ergonomic design that gives the wearer all-day comfort no matter the conditions
• HRU system that has dual manual backup systems in case of failure
• The Zipper system is made of metal, which will eventually succumb to a saltwater environment

Designed for maximum mobility and all-day comfort, the Mustang Survival Elite life jacket is the best all-around life jacket for sailing.

Our Recommendation Process

Between us, we have nearly 50 years’ worth of experience in the yachting and sailing industry. We have maintained and inspected thousands of SOLAS-approved life jackets.

Our commercial marine background ensured we checked and tested all types of life-saving appliances to the highest standards.

The recommendations we share are 100% impartial and bias-free. We only offer genuine advice on what we have come to know as the best life jackets for sailing from countless hours of testing and inspections.

Buyers Guide for Sailing Life Jackets

There are more life jacket variations than I could possibly cover in the scope of this article. The important things to consider when looking to buy a sailing life jacket are:

• How comfortable is the jacket you are buying?
• Inflatable life jackets are better for sailing!
• Are you pleasure sailing, day sailing, or open ocean sailing?

1. Sailing Life Jacket comfortability

In the beginning, we talked about the most critical component being comfortability. Now there may be some that argue there are other more pressing concerns.

But if you aren’t comfortable wearing your life-saving appliance , then you are less likely to don it when you should.

Rigid life vests full of foam are not comfortable for sailing, period! More on that in the next section. Look for an inflatable life jacket with adjustable straps that can also factor in clothing changes throughout the day. If the weather turns sour, you may wish you opted for a life vest with better accommodation for wet weather gear.

2. Inflatable life jackets over rigid life jackets

Inflatable life jackets typically have more buoyancy than rigid models. You can still get rigid life jackets with at least 28lbs of buoyancy, but they are a bulky life vest indeed. An inflatable model with equivalent buoyancy will be easier to wear.

In addition, you must consider that the possibility of head injuries in sailing is highest for all water-based sports. Unseen booms have left many sailors face down unconscious in the water, even experienced ones. That is where a self-inflating life jacket comes into play. They are designed to right the wearer face up, thus taking away the danger of drowning until help can get to the casualty.

There are some rigid jackets that have head support. But most do not. Do not be swayed to buy a life jacket with rigid foam around the torso and use it for sailing.

3. Pleasure sailing, day sailing, or open ocean sailing

Ultimately, the sailing scenario should determine what sailing life jackets you buy. If you are sailing more than 60NM (Nautical Miles) from a safe haven, you need a proper life jacket and a recognized ocean rating.

You can look at entry-level models before making a more considerable investment if you are just puttering around the bay every now and then.

Final Verdict

The most essential thing all the best sailing life jackets have is that they are comfortable for long periods.

So that’s why I’ve chosen Mustang Survival’s Elite Inflatable model as the best life jacket for sailing all around.

It’s packed with premium features and an excellent life jacket for the price. You can get yours from Amazon or Bass Pro Shops below.

If you are still educating yourself on ocean safety, then be sure to browse our sea safety knowledge hub .

Frequently Asked

How often should i inspect and maintain my inflatable life jacket.

Regular inspection and maintenance of inflatable life jackets are essential to ensure their functionality. Inspect them before each use for visible signs of wear and tear, ensure the CO2 cartridge is intact, and check the inflation mechanism. Additionally, a thorough inspection and maintenance should be done annually or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Are there specific life jackets designed for children and pets while sailing?

Yes, there are specially designed life jackets for children and pets. Children’s life jackets are tailored to provide the right fit and buoyancy for their weight and size. Similarly, pet life jackets are designed to ensure the safety of pets on board, with features like grab handles for easy rescue.

How do I choose the right size and fit for my life jacket?

Choosing the right life jacket size and fit is crucial for the effectiveness and comfort of the life jacket. Always refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart and consider factors like chest size and weight. Trying on the life jacket and adjusting the straps for a snug fit, without being too tight, is recommended.

Written by:

I’m the founder and chief editor here at Sailing Savvy. I spent a decade working as a professional mariner and currently, I mix those experiences with digital publishing. Welcome, and I hope that we can be the hub you need for safe passage.

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The Best Life Jackets to Navigate the Waters Safely

Embarking on kayaks or boats promises thrilling adventures, but amidst the excitement, it's vital to acknowledge the inherent water hazards. Enter life jackets, indispensable guardians of safety. In our comprehensive guide, discover the pinnacle of life-saving gear, meticulously crafted to safeguard against unforeseen challenges, be it inclement weather or unexpected capsizing. With a variety of designs, colors, and sizes, there's a life jacket for every adventurer. Prioritize safety on your outdoor escapades with our curated selection, ensuring peace of mind for all. Among the top contenders, Onyx stands out for crafting some of the best life jackets, renowned for their durability, comfort, and reliability.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Onyx Life Jacket Shop Now ➔
• Best for Kayak Fishing: Onyx Life Jacket Shop Now ➔
• Most Vibrant: Airhead Life Jacket Shop Now ➔
• Best Storage: Lixada Life Jacket Shop Now ➔
• Most Adjustable: Onyx Life Jacket Shop Now ➔
• Longest Flotation Duration: Eyson Life Jacket Shop Now ➔
• 1 Life Jacket
• 2 Why You Need a Life Jacket
• 3 For protection
• 4 For compliance
• 5 For peace of mind
• 6 For versatility
• 7 What to Consider When Buying a Life Jacket
• 9 Materials
• 12 Capacity
• 14 How to Choose the Right Life Jacket

What is the lifespan of a life jacket?

Can life jackets be helpful for non-swimmers, how do i choose the right size life jacket, related reviews, the best life jackets, best overall.

Onyx Life Jacket

Enjoy the superior protection the Onyx life jacket provides. Not only does it help you stay afloat, but it also includes high-grade reflective materials to increase your visibility in the water.

The pockets on this life jacket are expandable to provide ample storage space. This jacket also includes mesh material on the lower back for improved breathability. Also, it features neoprene comfort pads on its adjustable shoulders. With its snug and comfortably tailored fit, this life jacket emerges as the top pick among our selection, ensuring optimal safety without sacrificing comfort.

• Pockets include mesh drainage
• Includes adjustable straps and comfort pads
• Features an attached whistle for enhanced safety
• Limited color options

Best for Kayak Fishing

This impressive life jacket from Onyx has it all. Fashioned from lightweight, heavy-duty fabric and sporting neoprene shoulder pads, this jacket is the ideal kayak fishing companion.

This life jacket offers a high foam back and six adjustable straps that allow you to fit the vest to your body comfortably. One of the front pockets opens with the push of a button to reveal a tray-style pocket, ideal for holding a small tackle box. The lower back features a mesh construction that ensures phenomenal breathability throughout your adventures to keep you sweat-free. 

• Designed with paddling in mind
• Snug fit with six adjustment straps
• Perfect for high back seats
• Not designed to fit children

Most Vibrant

Airhead Life Jacket

The Airhead life jacket stands out for both safety and style in the water. This life jacket, stamped with U.S. Coast Guard approval, ensures the safety of kids and adults during fun-filled water activities like boating, floating, and tubing. With its vibrant pattern design, it isn’t just about safety; it captivates with its striking pink, black, and white hues. The unique Kwik-Dry Neolite material envelops you in warmth, defying the chill of the wind during your water adventures.

This life jacket prioritizes comfort and durability with its snug yet easy-to-wear design. It includes a strong zipper and double quick-release buckles, which provide both security and ease of removal. This jacket is available in sizes from infant to adult XL, ensuring a perfect fit for all.

• Perfect for kids and adults
• Dries quickly and is comfortable
• Secure and snug fit
• May need to order a size up

Best Storage

Lixada Life Jacket

Keep all your items close at hand thanks to the wide array of pockets included on the Lixada life jacket. It has 11 pockets throughout the back, chest, and sides, offering you plenty of secure storage space for all your personal belongings.

In addition to pockets, this life jacket also includes several accessory loops for snapping on hooks and carabiners. Adjustable straps on the shoulders and around the waist ensure a comfortable fit for almost any age. The jacket is made with premium-grade yet lightweight mesh fabric and a polyester upper that ensures exceptional breathability. Also, the back features a wide reflector to improve your visibility in the water.

• Includes a built-in fishing rod holder
• Reflective material on the back for visibility
• Features a detachable fishing jacket
• The design is somewhat bulky

Most Adjustable

The six adjustable straps on this Onyx life jacket help all family members achieve a snug fit that keeps them comfortable and secure in emergencies. One large pocket on the front of this life jacket can securely store your phone and other loose items. The padding on the shoulders can enhance your comfort for all-day wear.

The mesh lower back of this life jacket ensures flawless breathability to keep you sweat-free, while the high-foam upper back is designed to keep you comfortable on high-back seats. It has a low-profile construction so it does not look or feel bulky, and it is also lightweight enough to not feel like a burden.

• Bright color aids with visibility
• High foam backing
• Low profile, lightweight, compact design
• May ride up slightly in the back

Longest Flotation Duration

Eyson Life Jacket

This life jacket from Eyson inflates automatically when submerged in water or can be inflated manually with the pull of an easy-to-reach cord. Additionally, it comes with a whistle and a rescue strap to make it easier for someone to get a hold of you quickly. Plus, it will help you stay afloat for more than 48 hours.

This device uses a quick-release plastic buckle for easy on and off. It’s convenient to repack and reuse since the fabric cover and airbag are attached. You can adjust the fit and size with the adjustable strap, so you get a secure fit, and it’s designed to fit an adult or youth with a chest size from 29 to 62 inches. It also has reflective bands, so it’s easy to spot.

• Made with lightweight yet sturdy fabric
• Washable and easy to air dry
• Adjustable belt fit
• The design may not appeal to everyone

Finding the Best Life Jacket: A Buyer’s Guide

Whenever you’re out on the water, it’s important to have safety and security in mind. There are many accidents and dangerous situations that can arise while boating, fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, and having a life jacket is essential to reducing the risk of these accidents occurring. This guide will introduce you to the importance of life jackets and help you find the best personal flotation devices, or PFDs, for your needs.

Life Jacket

A life jacket, also known as a life vest or PFD (personal flotation device), is a vest-like accessory that can be worn around the torso while engaging in activities on the water, such as sailing or paddling. It is designed to float in water, helping anyone who accidentally falls into the water stay afloat until help arrives. 

Why You Need a Life Jacket

Life jackets are absolutely essential when you’re out on the water, and here are just some of the key reasons why.

For protection

Obviously, the main reason to use a life jacket and the main benefit offered by life vests in general is protection. Studies and statistics show that life jackets can save lives. They help to prevent accidental drowning, and in situations where people fall into lakes, oceans, or rivers, they can help those individuals get back onto a boat or to dry land as safely as possible.

For compliance

It’s also a simple fact that life jackets are a legal obligation in many situations. Boats and other vessels carrying passengers aren’t allowed to sail without an adequate stock of life vests, and many people aren’t allowed to engage in water-based activities like kayaking and paddling without having a good-quality life jacket.

For peace of mind

Another important advantage of life jackets is that they can provide peace of mind. Many people stress and worry about the dangers of water. This stress can prevent them from enjoying water-based activities like paddleboarding and sailing. Having a life jacket can provide you with the peace of mind you need to relax and have fun, especially when traveling with family and children.

For versatility

Another good reason to invest in life jackets is that they can be used in a wide range of ways, often featuring very versatile designs that are well-suited to activities as diverse as fishing, paddling, and open-sea sailing. Some might have pockets for storing your fishing accessories , for example, and others come with special designs to enhance movement and let you paddle with ease.

What to Consider When Buying a Life Jacket

One of the most important aspects to take into account when choosing a life jacket is size. The size of the jacket needs to match the size of the wearer. If the vest is too big, it could become loose or slip off. If it’s too small, it will feel tight and restrict movement. You have to make sure that any PFD you use is the perfect size for you.

There are a lot of different materials that can be used in the design and manufacture of a life jacket. Examples include polyester, neoprene, and nylon. Nylon and neoprene tend to be regarded as some of the best materials for life jackets because of their durability. Life jackets made from these materials tend to last the longest.

You also must pay close attention to the design and features of your life jacket. They might all look quite similar at first glance, but each one often has unique design features and quirks. Mesh panels are a good design feature, as they add breathability and help jackets dry off more quickly. Strong buckles and pockets can also be helpful design additions.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming that color isn’t important when choosing a life jacket. This can be a very important factor, as brighter colors like yellow will be easier to see if you do end up in the water and need to be rescued. Color also has aesthetic importance, as some people will want to find a jacket in their preferred color to look their best.

You also must think about the weight capacity of any life jacket. Each one is designed to offer a certain amount of buoyancy, and some are much stronger than others so they’re able to hold up heavier people. Make sure you pick a jacket that is strong enough to support your weight.

Life jackets can have varying price tags. You can find basic, budget models for about $10. Then there are high-end jackets with premium features like pockets, enhanced comfort, and ease of movement, and you can expect to find these priced in excess of $250. The price you pay will depend on your own budget, needs, and preferences. In general, paying more will get you a more comfortable jacket with useful extras, but there are plenty of budget offerings that are completely safe to use.

How to Choose the Right Life Jacket

When putting this guide together, we wanted to make sure that we recommended only the very best, safest, and most well-made life jackets to our users. We, therefore, took the time to look at a lot of different options, considering key factors like design, materials, and features, as well as consulting user reviews to see what real people felt about these products. This approach allowed us to select a set of highly-rated and widely recommended jackets for a wide range of users.

People Also Asked

There is no official expiration date on a life jacket or vest, but it's important to look after them well if you want them to last a long time. Jackets that are damaged, with holes and punctures, will need to be replaced.

Yes, life jackets are very useful for people who can't swim. They make it easier for you to stay afloat without putting in too much physical effort and can be useful when learning to swim in pools.

To ensure proper fit, consider your weight, chest size, and any specific sizing charts provided by the manufacturer. It's crucial to try on the life jacket to ensure it fits snugly but comfortably.

Article Contributors

Sail magazine review team.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

To ensure questions about product testing or a specific article are addressed, please contact [email protected]

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

We Tested 16 of the Best Lifejackets for Boating and Sailing

• December 15, 2023

We tested 16 of the best lifejackets under £300 to find out what they're really like to use both in and out of the water

With over 3.5 million people in the US alone participating in sailing each year, it’s more important than ever to understand the fundamentals when it comes to being in the open water. One of the most important things any sailor or boater can own is a life jacket. Yes, all of the best lifejackets for boaters conform to a set of minimum ISO standards and are USCG approved, but how do you know which one is actually the best for your personal use and body type?

How to choose the best lifejacket?

From their basic ISO rated start point, all lifejackets take on their own characteristics and design elements. The positioning of the CO2 inflation bottle, the shape of the bladder, the position of the crotch strap and the way it is attached, the location of the whistle, the position of the oral inflation tube and the location of the lifting strop. Some of our lifejackets on test also have sprayhoods and water activated strobe lights.

I comprehensively put these lifejackets through sea survival drills and shoreside scrutiny. To learn more about what the team tested and how we did it, go to the bottom of this buyers guide to see our crew doing their thing.

Each lifejacket has its own review page. If you want a more in-depth review, simply click through to read more.

A note from the Tech Editor: Fox Morgan “I have a confession. I’ve been on boats since I was 4 years old  and it took until I was 32 before I started to wear one regularly. I was commuting to and from my boat daily in some cold and dangerously tidal waters.  A friend and sailing instructor saw me rowing in the dark late at night and reminded me that I will only ever fall in once if I don’t wear a lifejacket.  It was the wakeup I needed. I never go out without one now. In fact I have several for a variety of types of boating I do. My offshore one has a handy pouch for a knife and beacon, but I fill it with snacks sometimes.  The best lifejacket is the one you wear. (especially if it allows for onboard snacks) At a glance

Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket – Best women’s specific lifejacket  – Buy Now

Seago Seaguard 165N – Best budget friendly lifejacket – Buy Now

Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N pro – Best premium costal lifejacket– Buy Now

Spinlock 6D Deckveset – Best offshore lifejacket

Coastal Lifejackets 150-180N

The best lifejackets for boaters and sailors.

fitting and adjusting with Anna

Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket

“best women’s specific lifejacket”.

Specifications:

•  Size: Adult (one size)

•  Colour: White

•  Inflate: Auto inflatable

Reasons to Buy: This lifejacket is cut for women and fits really well over foul weather clothes and light weight layers. It is comfortable and easy to move around in. It is easy to fasten in all conditions. It is easy to repack and easy to check the firing mechanism.

Reasons to Avoid: The bladder might be a bit tight around the neck when inflated wearing a large foul weather jacket collar and this can be uncomfortable.

Verdict: This is an excellent choice of lifejacket for women who do a host of boating activities. High praise from all who tried this lifejacket in the dry.

Read the full Baltic Athena review

Buy Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket from tradeinn.com

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Fox adjusting

Spinlock Deckvest Lite

“best coastal on test for everyday wear and general purpose water activity”.

•  Buoyancy: 170N

•  Material: Nylon

•  Colour: Black Graphite, Pacific Blue, Flow Green, New Bleach White, New Seagrass Green and New Mercury Red

Reasons to Buy: This is a smart looking lifejacket with a slimline feel. There are very few details to get caught or snag. The best feature are that it’s really easy to repack, fits smaller adult body types and has a high visibility bladder.

Reasons to Avoid: This might feel a little restrictive on some people with the over-the-head method of donning. It might not suit larger bodies.

Verdict: This no frills but stylish lifejacket performs well both off and on the water. It is great for everyday wear and is unobtrusive and easy to forget you’re wearing it.

Read the full Spinlock Deckvest review

Buy Spinlock Deckvest Lite from Amazon

Seago Seaguard 165N

Score 69/100

“best budget friendly lifejacket”

•  Buoyancy: 165N

•  Colour:  Navy/grey

Reasons to Buy: Excellent value for money. The cross over bladder design works well. There’s room in the casing to add a sprayhood and light. It also comes in a version with a harness loop.

Reasons to Avoid: There are a few little snaggy areas where the straps or toggles could be tucked away better.

Verdict: We were very pleased with the performance of this lifejacket. Some would argue that it doesn’t look super stylish, but it doesn’t offend either. Where it excels is as a lifejacket in the water, and that’s where it really counts.

Read the full Seago Seaguard review

Buy Seago Seaguard 165N from Amazon

Buy Seago Seaguard from Pirates Cave

checking adjustment

Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N pro

“best premium coastal lifejacket”.

•  Buoyancy: 180N

•  Colour:  Black

•  Features: Soft loop D-ring for attaching harness

Reasons to Buy:  It’s a smart black lifejacket that will blend in with any outfit. If you’re all about minimal, understated style this is the lifejacket for you. Along with being fitted with sprayhood and light as standard, it also has a well designed wide bladder. It is very comfortable when worn day to day. Plus, it’s easy to adjust.

Reasons to Avoid:  At the end of the day unpacking and repacking will take a longer as the rearming the firing mechanism is really fiddly. If you fly regularly with this lifejacket, the CO2 bottle seal will be an annoyance.

Verdict: This is an excellent lifejacket, leading the way with coastal lifejackets that will take you offshore and into the night with its well positioned strobe light and nicely designed sprayhood. The thoughtful design is apparent throughout, but perhaps was taken one step too far with the CO2 bottle anti-unscrew seal feature making it a poor choice for frequent flyers but an excellent choice for people who worry about their CO2 bottles coming unscrewed.

Read the full Crewsaver Crewfit+ review

Buy Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N Pro from Marinestore

TeamO Micro lifejacket adjustment

TeamO Micro

•  Colour: Black/Orange, Black/Yellow and Blue/Yellow

•  Features: U ltra light weight (approximately 900g),  a djustable waist belt and 170 Newtons of Buoyancy

Reasons to Buy: Super skinny lightweight lifejacket, one of the lightest on test at 860grams.

Reasons to Avoid: A bit of a pig to repack. Very basic with no room for add-ons such as a light or sprayhood

Verdict: The target market for the stylish TeamO Micro is likely to be for those who use RIBs, go day boating and motorboating and for other inshore sheltered water activities. If you want a lifejacket with the smallest footprint, then this may well fit the bill. If you are looking for a lifejacket that you can add to later with additional safety gear, then you might look elsewhere.

Read the full TeamO Micro review

Buy TeamO Micro Ultra Light from sheridanmarine.com

lifejacket worn by Alex

Ocean Safety Sport 170 ADV

•  Colour: Navy, red and carbon

•  Features:  Single crotch strap, side adjustment for bespoke fit and soft loop harness point for safety harness (harness version only)

Reasons to Buy:  One of the reasons to buy this option is that it’s a smart looking lifejacket. It’s also a ocean safety brand is well established and trusted with service centres readily available everywhere. Plus, it has a crossover bladder design.

Reasons to Avoid:  As per a previous test conducted on this lifejacket, it has suboptimal positioning of the CO2 canister on the curve of the bladder which causes it to rotate on inflation and jab into the chest or ribs of the wearer.

Verdict: Whilst there’s no doubt this is a good quality ISO rated lifejacket, it is smart and fits well, adjusts well and functions well in all aspects, however there’s no escaping its shortcomings in respect to the bottle position and the underwhelmingly small sprayhood.

Read the full Ocean Safety Sport review

Buy Ocean Safety Sport ADV from Ocean Safety (UK)

James wearing the lifejacket

Helly Hansen Sail Safe

Score 56/100

•  Size: STD

•  Colour: Navy and alert red

• Fiber content: 100% Polyamide

•  Features:  UML Water activated automatic inflation sensor

Reasons to Buy:  This option is lightweight and easy to stow. It has a no frills design, neat stowage for the crotch strap on the back of the life jacket straps.

Reasons to Avoid:  The performance was adequate in all areas but didn’t excel in any particular area.

Verdict: The Helly Hansen Sail Safe lifejacket is a lightweight coastal lifejacket with the ubiquitous HH branding. You get good performance all over but for the (relatively high) price it does feel that you are paying for a name and higher specified lifejackets are available at a lower price.

Read the full Helly Hansen Sailsafe review

Buy Helly Hansen SailSafe from hellyhansen.com

Toby wearing lifejacket

Waveline lifejacket

Score 61/100

•  Size: Suitable for weights above 40kg

• Material: 600D polyester outer shell and coarse polyester webbing

•  Features:Velcro closure cover and lifting loop

Reasons to Buy: This is the lightest on test and weighs just 800g fully armed. The flat profile is comfortable to wear. The velcro closure makes this life jacket really easy to check the arming mechanism and really easy to re-pack. It’s also very good value for money.

Reasons to Avoid:  If style is something you want to consider, this is probably not the option for you. There’s also nowhere to stow excess webbing after adjustment.

Verdict: The Waveline 165N auto lifejacket is an excellent budget option that works well in the water when inflated and is a no frills option for getting out on the water boating safely. A lightweight and simple lifejacket that is tried and tested the world over.

Read the full Waveline review

Buy Waveline 165N from eBay

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence. Where indicated, items have been tested independently of manufacturers influence.

Offshore lifejackets 190n, spinlock deckvest 6d, “highly commended best all round”.

• Buoyancy: 170N or 275N

• Colour: Black, pacific blue, tropic white, citrus yellow, black with HRS, pacific blue with HRS, tropic white with HRS and citrus yellow with HRS

•  Features:170N autoinflation, harness release system, crotch strap, sprayhood, lumeon bladder illumination, automatic strobe light,  adjustable body height

Reasons to Buy: Its form-fitting sculpted design and bright colour of casing make this a stylish lifejacket. It has excellent elevated lighting and reflective visibility, good snug fit holding the user high in the water and good sprayhood. The harness release system is another good feature.

Reasons to Avoid: The bladder is a darker orange and may not be as visible as some of the brighter bladders available. The extra sculpting can make the lifejacket feel a bit stiff to wear and makes it heavy.

Verdict: This is an outstanding lifejacket with great performance across the score board. The standout features are the lighting, both elevated and lumeon, lighting the entire bladder. The essentials are labels and easy to find and this feels like a lifejacket that has really been designed with the user in mind. Every query has been answered. If we were challenged to find a way to improve this, we’re really not sure how we would.

Read the full Spinlock Deckvest 6D review

Buy Spinlock Deckvest 6D from marinesuperstore.com

Mustang Atlas 190 lifejacket

“raises the bar in bladder design”.

Specifications: 

• Buoyancy: 180N • Colour: Black, Red/Black • Weight 1.2kg •  Features: Pro Sensor auto inflation, crotch strap, pram style sprayhood, automatic strobe light, smart bladder design

Reasons to Buy: Very comfortable, innovative bladder design, high freeboard, understated casing design

Reasons to Avoid: Conservative outer styling might not appeal to those who like to make a statement.

From the outside the casing looks pretty standard and dare I say it a bit bland. It doesn’t shout look at me, which I suspect will have as many nods of approval as there will be shrugs of where’s the pizzazz?

It has a smooth contoured shape to fit the body and once it’s on you can easily forget you’re wearing it. The back section is cut low and doesn’t impede on a collar or the back of your neck.

The weight is also distributed nicely across the whole body so there’s no hot spots. I tried this on over the top of a T-shirt and then later with a lightweight foul weather jacket and both options were comfortable.  The quick adjust side buckles are a familiar premium feature and the tail end excess is dealt with neatly with velcro loops.

Where the lifejacket really shines though is when it is deployed as an inflated bladder. The shape is really unlike all other lifejackets currently available. The bladder at the front is more pointed or conical, with additional wave baffles built into it. This acts doubly to make waves pass around you and those that hit directly are baffled by the webs. There’s an additional little “pillow” to raise your head further still and this gives a feeling of really being raised out of the water.

The sprayhood has a pram-style arch support which keeps it from collapsing on your head and keeps the plastic away from your face. It also makes it very easy to deploy and pull forward.  Two loops pull down and go over each bladder end.

They’ve thought about emergency beacon positioning too, though these were still being certified for use at the time of testing. There’s a dedicated area for a personal locator beacon or personal AIS beacon to attach to on the right-hand lower bladder section which is unencumbered by the sprayhood.

In the water I was able to scull backwards and maneuver really easily as there was plenty of room for arm articulation. I strongly believe that all other lifejacket manufacturers are going to have to up their game in terms of bladder design. The Mustang Atlas 190 DLX has set the bar very high indeed.

Baltic Force 

•  Size: Adult

• Colour: Black

•  Features:Integrated safety harness with twin loops for attaching the safety line and detachable crutch strap.

Reasons to Buy:  The larger/longer bladder provides higher buoyancy and the smart outer casing looks stylish. It also comes in a range of specification levels to suit individual needs.

Reasons to Avoid: This test model version comes without a sprayhood or light which would be essential for any offshore or coastal use after dark. Make sure you opt for the higher spec model.

Verdict: This is without doubt a highly capable lifejacket. It fits well both shoreside and in the water. The extra buoyancy is noticeable in the longer bladder. We were unable to test the fully fledged offshore equipped lifejacket and if this lifejacket suits you, then make sure you opt for that extra specification.

Read the full Baltic Force review

Buy Baltic Force from tradeinn.com

Toni wearing Seago 3Dynamic 190N lifejacket

Seago 3Dynamic

Score 62/100

•  Chest size: 55 to 140cm

•  Buoyancy: 300N

• Colour: Carbon/black

•  Features: Double crutch strap, pro sensor firing head, neoprene collar,  harness included

Reasons to Buy:  This lifejacket looks smart and generally well sculpted to form fit. The bladder has a crossover design to stop waves funneling into your face.

Reasons to Avoid:  It is really difficult to re-pack after inflation/re-arming. It also has a poorly designed sprayhood, the light us poorly positioned and might be a bit snug on larger people.

Verdict: The Seago 3Dynamic looks to offer so much on paper but in practice we found it had one too many compromises for our tastes. It is comfortable, but repacking is a real faff. the buckle was fiddly and the sprayhood was subpar. A little more thought into the layout and practicalities of this lifejacket could turn it around though to be a solid contender.

Read the full Seago 3Dynamic review

Buy Seago 3Dynamic from eBay

worn by Anna

TeamO Backtow

“highest scoring on test”.

Reasons to Buy:  This lifejacket has a smart sculpted design, excellent sprayhood and innovative design with backtow harness.

Reasons to Avoid:  If you deploy the backtow, you’re going to need to know how to put that back together or take it to a service centre.

Verdict: A truly excellent lifejacket with innovation at its heart and the user practicality forefront.  The complexity of the backtow element means that rearming it in a hurry, unless you’re a dab hand already and have practiced shoreside, might leave you reaching for the spare lifejacket and sending this one off for someone else to do it for you.

Read the full TeamO Backtow review

Buy TeamO Backtow from promarinestore.co.uk

Ocean Safety Sport Pro 170 ADV

Score 78/100

• Colour: Carbon / Sky

•  Features:  Pro sensor with indicator window,  spray hood, s torage pocket

Reasons to Buy: smart stylish design from a reputable brand, neat built in stowage pocket suitable for a PLB

Reasons to Avoid: small sprayhood feels claustrophobic and too tight around the head, the trigger toggle should have better stowage to avoid accidental trigger or to avoid unsafe tucking away by users.

Verdict: This is a comfortable, sturdy, good quality and relatively well specified lifejacket at a good price. It has some great features and comes as standard with the basic equipment for going out of sight of land at night. The crossover bladder is a good design to stop waves funneling into the face, but we would advise to upgrade the sprayhood and light position to have a better in-water performance should you ever need it.

Read the full Ocean Safety Sport Pro review

Buy Ocean Safety Sport Pro 170N ADV from marinestore.com

Spinlock Vito 170N Hammar

• Buoyancy: 170N

•  Features: Pylon Lifejacket Light™, Lume-On™, Toggle attachment point for optional Chest Pack (DW-PCC)

Reasons to Buy: One of the best sprayhoods we’ve tested, low profile lifejacket casing, Hammar trigger means you can use this in wild sailing conditions without accidental triggering.

Reasons to Avoid: Hammar trigger means re-arming this is a faff. Quite rigid construction, might not fit smaller people as adjustment will go as small as a size 8 European female.

Verdict: This is used by a variety of professional teams, including Volvo ocean racers. The Hammar trigger mechanism is a matter for you to decide if it’s right for you. They do sell the Vito with the pro sensor trigger too. The over the head donning is a love it or loathe it style and whilst it can feel very secure and the harness loop is excellent, passing this over your head, large collar and other foulies in a rush can feel a bit claustrophobic. The back is low cut though and the sprayhood is stowed in a back panel keeping the bulk away from the collar area. It is an excellent lifejacket and has scored highly in our early test scores. The full test review is coming soon,

Buy Spinlock Vito 170N Hammar from thewetworks.co.uk

Ocean Lifejackets 270N +

Spinlock deckvest 6d 275n.

Full review coming soon…

•  Features:  Pro sensor automatic inflation, spinlock harness release system, structured spray hood

Reasons to Buy:  It has a larger capacity bladder for superior righting and buoyancy. It can have HRS facility and is compatibility with other spinlock products.

Reasons to Avoid:  It feels noticeably larger/bulkier than a 190N. It might impede access to liferaft if you are a smaller person.

Verdict:  Our pool tester Phil noted how much confidence this lifejacket inspired in the water. The bladder is significantly larger and provides a much greater buoyancy and visibility. It is large though, so we don’t recommend this for day to day sailing. The weight of the lifejacket comes in at 1529grams, which is 200g more than the standard 170N deckvest. This might not seem a great deal but over the course of a day, wearing this might be quite fatiguing. Of course, if you are wearing a large immersion suit or other bulky clothes or dry suit for use in deep ocean conditions, you will be very glad of the extra this lifejacket offers.

 Buy Spinlock Deckvest 6D 275N from piratescave.co.uk

Our previously tested lifejackets from 2017 Group test

Baltic 150 Race SL lifejacket

Read the full review for the baltic race sl lifejacket.

•  Size: ‎50-110 Kg

•  Features: Anti tangle back, padded shoulders, integrated safety harness, etro-reflective patches, whistle and detachable crutch strap

Reasons to Buy:  It has good padding and a metal harness tether loop.

Reasons to Avoid:  The lifejacket’s smaller buoyancy meant a slower roll over time.

Verdict: The padding was comfortable, although the inflation tube and light assembly inside the lifejacket sat over the collar bone, which could create a pressure point over time. Unlike the longer bladder of the other Baltic lifejackets, this had a shorter, higher bladder with more rounded lobes. The standard Baltic hood had a good support arch, but the elastic straps tended to slip off the bladder. It also let spray in.

Buy it now on Amazon

Crewsaver Ergofit+ 190N lifejacket

Read the full review of crewsaver ergofit 190.

•  Buoyancy: ‎190N

•  Features: Three-layer cover, inflatable chin support, stainless steel buckle, AIS and MOB Lifesavers compatible

Reasons to Buy: Impressive buoyancy and has an excellent sprayhood.

Reasons to Avoid:  It’s a little rigid and bulky.

Verdict: If performance in the water is the most important aspect of a lifejacket, the Ergofit+ 190N was streets ahead of the other lifejackets tested. It was one of the fastest to inflate, but more importantly it was a good second or two ahead on the rotation test. It was very difficult for the tester to get onto their front to begin the test at all, and they spun over in close to one second. The Crewsaver Ergofit+ 190N also produced the best freeboard figures with up to 4cm more than some of the other lifejackets.

Buy it now on eBay (marinesuperstore)

Buy it now from Gael Force Marine

Helly Hansen Sailsafe Race 170 Auto lifejacket

Read the full review of the helly hansen sailsafe race.

•  Buoyancy: ‎170N

•  Features:  Hammar Hydrostatic pressure automatic inflation sensor, SOLAS approved Reflective elements, 5000N reinforced grab loop

Reasons to Buy:  The hammar has an auto activation function and is fast to inflate.

Reasons to Avoid:  The thigh straps might not be for everyone and its buckles slip too easily.

Verdict: Hammar inflation and an inspection window make checking and maintaining the lifejacket simple. It sits flat against the body but includes space to add in an MOB beacon or PLB. The thigh straps are slightly more complex to fit, they need to be snug so they don’t slip down and limit movement. The lifejacket was the fastest to inflate on test (2017) The hood is well-made with a supporting arch and good ventilation at the sides and front, and well-located reflective strips.

Buy it now on Hellyhansen.com

The back length is adjustable, one of only two lifejackets to offer this

Plastimo SL 180 lifejacket

Read the full review of the plastimo sl 170.

•  Buoyancy: ‎180N

•  Features: Double thigh support, retro-reflective tape, quick-closing zip

Reasons to Buy:  The adjustable back, good maneuverability in the water and storage for MOB built-in make this a good lifejacket for your yacht.

Reasons to Avoid:  It has a slightly disconcerting soft feel when inflated compared to other conventionally constructed lifejackets.

Verdict: With adjustable back length, (one of only a couple of lifejackets to offer this) and inspection windowvia dedicated zip opening and a separate stowage place for a personal beacon, this is a versatile lifejacket.

This jacket is designed to remain soft and flexible once inflated. We found this disconcerting initially as it felt like it had not fully inflated. The sewn-in sprayhood was easy to find with a string to pull forwards. The oral inflation tube was less simple to use.

Buy it now on tradeinn.com

Lifejackets group test – what we scored our lifejackets on

Adjust speed ease difficulty

Our testers checked how easy and quickly our lifejackets were able to change from full foulies, then down to a t-shirt then back again. The double adjuster was a popular method and was scored highly by our testers.

Fastening buckle ease with gloves

The ease with which we can fasten and unfasten the various buckles, including with gloves or cold hands. Seabelt style buckles were generally scored very highly.

Comfort men women body size

Front cross-over design

The cut and design of lifejackets varies a lot. From high cut waistcoat styles that suited the men or wider shouldered and taller people and the longer in the body cut lifejackets tended to suit a slimmer person with a waist for the lifejacket to cinch into.

Practicality . bulk snagging

Waistband stowage

Some lifejackets have been well thought through. What do we do with the long surplus piece of webbing? what about all the flappy strappy bits? Are they neatly stowed? Lifejackets that had better stowage of surplus dangly bits were scored highly.

Manual inflated view and fitment

We tried all of the lifejackets shoreside, manually inflated and looked for the essential gear, whether it fell readily to hand and how the lifejacket fitted around the body in its fully inflated lifejaclet mode. A couple of the lifejackets had top up tubes that were a bit of a stretch to reach and some were difficult to locate the whistle or lifting strop.

Ease of checking and repacking

Repacking the lifejacket

Some of our lifejackets just slipped back into their casing without a fuss, others didn’t want to go back in without a bit of a wrestle. The velcro closure lifejackets are the easiest and the tightly packed ones with all the bells and whistles required a little more consideration to careful tucking and folding. Most had easy access to check the arming mechanism within a few brief seconds.

Phil during the pool test with sprayhood deployed

Where a lifejacket was fitted with a sprayhood we scored it. Some sprayhood were considerably better designed than others. Of the coastal lifejackets on test the Crewsaver was outstanding.

Personal Beacon stowage

The offshore lifejackets should reasonably be expected to have adequate stowage provision for a personal locator beacon or AIS.  Some were much better equipped than others. The Ocean Safety Sport Pro ADV has a pocket built in, the Spinlock Deckvest 6D has an optional side pouch which is excellent.

In water testing

Plunge test

We tested every lifejacket in the pool and ran each one through basic personal sea survival drills, from manual inflation, auto inflation, swimming, rafting and climbing into a liferaft, we looked at the performance of all our best lifejackets for boaters in general use.

It is clear to see that all lifejackets are not made equal. Certainly not in how they feel from person to person.

Whilst all of our lifejackets on test performed well according to basic safety standards, they all have elements that could be tweeked and adjusted to be better functioning or designed and all of them have their unique selling points.

A final note from the Tech Editor : Fox Morgan My personal favourite lifejacket is the old Kru Sport, as it fits me so well. They no longer make this waistcoat style model, but the sprayhood and equipment storage capacity on this one is excellent. My AIS beacon fits on a webbing belt on the bladder. I familiarise myself with my lifejacket manually inflated once or twice a year or before every big offshore race. I inspect it on a regular basis and check the arming mechanism before every outing. Once you have chosen the best lifejacket that suits your needs, make sure you get to know it well. Not just in it’s rolled away form, but as a lifejacket, inflated. Know where your essential safety kit is stowed. Where is the whistle and lifting strop? Put your lifejacket on and feel around for them. Store this in your memory. The least sensible time to be doing this for the first time is when you actually need them.

Our lifejacket testing team were:

Alex :  Professional Skipper of traditional sailing vessels (Charlestown Harbour)

Paula : Chief at Charlestown Harbour

Toni : Ex RNLI lifeaboatman, Ex Brixham fisherman, Professional skipper and owner of traditional sailing and fishing vessels

Phil : Ex Lifeboatman, Ex Brixham fisherman, Ex Navy Chief Engineer, Principle sea survival skills training officer, Professional Skipper and University HE lecturer.

Anna :  Clipper Sailing Crew and experienced offshore sailor/racer

James : Retired GP and experienced offshore sailor/racer

Mike : Outward bound sailing instructor, poolside safety and drills at Western Maritime Training

Toby : Experienced sailor and dinghy racer, Senior writer at Future Marine Group

Fox : Professional sailing skipper, experienced offshore sailor/racer, Senior HE University lecturer, Tech Ed at Future Marine Group

Our lifejacket testing was held over several days.

Our dry testing day was hosted by Charlestown Harbour.

We tested all of our lifejackets for the ease of adjustment from wearing it over bulky clothes to t-shirts and then back to bulky clothes.

We looked at how easy or difficult our lifejackets were to fasten and unfasten and then try that again with cold hands or with gloves on.

We looked at the fitment of crotch straps and for any loose or dangling straps or toggles that might get snagged by accident when worn in a marine environment.

We manually inflated all of our lifejackets and assessed their onboard equipment and location. Some lifejackets have the minimum or lifting strop, whistle and top up tube, others have spray hoods fitted and lights. We assessed how easy those items were to find and use when wearing the lifejacket inflated.

Where suitable, we looked at where a personal locator beacon or personal ais beacon would fit on or within the lifejacket casing or bladder.

We packed away our lifejackets and assessed how easy or difficult they were to stow back into their casings. While we were doing this, we also looked at how easy it would be to rearm a lifejacket if it had been triggered.

Our Pool testing day was held in Plymouth Life Centre Diving Pool and organised by Western Maritime Training.

In the pool we had a liferaft set in place for us to run through standard sea survival drills and practice. Western Maritime Training kindly set the pool up for us as per standard STCW personal survival techniques training days .

We highly recommend that anyone who spends time heading out of sight of land for leisure or pleasure should consider doing this course.

While we were in the pool area, we assessed the manual trigger mechanism and auto inflate mechanism of lifejackets. How hard is it to pull the trigger to activate the gas canister or when auto inflating, did the lifejacket turn us over quickly?

We assessed the comfort of the lifejacket when inflated and how easy or difficult they are to readjust whilst in the water. such as tightening crotch straps or cinching in waistbands.

Where lifejackets were fitted with a sprayhood, we looked at how easy it was to locate and pull over the bladder, checking its effectiveness/practicality.

We formed a human safety circle and assessed what practical grab holds our lifejackets had, then we climbed into a liferaft, also checking for practical use and ability to physically handle a person giving them assistance to enter the liferaft.

After testing

We hung up our inflated lifejackets to dry and confirmed that all remained fully inflated for well over 48hours. In fact all of our test lifejackets remained inflated for two weeks, by which time only one of them had slightly started to soften.

What’s the scores?

Each lifejacket was independently scored by members of the testing team.

We took those scores and averaged them for each criteria.

We added up the individual element scores and converted this to a percentage rating.

Throughout the process all notes were taken from our testers and those comments can be seen in each review and within our buyers guide.

Note: all of our lifejackets tested conform to either  ISO 12402-3 (coastal/non harness) or iSO 12401 (harness versions), and this means that they all meet the basic safety standards you would expect from a lifejacket.

In order to conduct unbiased testing, our test team were given full freedom to test and evaluate the lifejackets presented to them on the tests days. their opinions are made in a professional capacity and skippers and end users of the products and are a result of direct hands on experience. this does not override any official safety rating or certification. legal disclaimer is available here.

The 5 Best Sailing Life Jackets

A top sailing life jacket will fit comfortably and help keep a person safe while sailing or out boating on the water.

A life jacket is a great personal flotation device (PFD) that helps protect men, women and children when sailing.

There are a number of top sailing life jackets to choose from with each having its own strengths.

The best sailing life jackets are:

• Best Overall : Onyx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest
• Best For Men : Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket
• Best For Women : O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest
• Best For Kids : Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket
• Best For Price : Stohlquist Fit Adult Life Jacket PFD

These life jackets for sailing will ensure safety and good buoyance in the water while also fitting comfortably. There are both offshore life jackets and inshore life jackets on the list.

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission.

1. Onyx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest

The best overall sailing life jacket is the Unisex MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest manufactured by the brand Oynx in Minnesota, America and sold worldwide.

Most retailers price the Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest between $60 and $90. This life jacket comes with a 1-year warranty to protect against manufacturer defects and errors in workmanship which is a great comfort for first-time buyers.

The Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest is U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada approved and comes with a USCG/TC label inside the life vest so buyers know it provides great safety in the water.

It is a Type III PFD which means it is an approved device designed to have more than 15.5 pounds of buoyancy.

The Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest is constructed of 200 denier nylon outer shell, shoulder adjustments with neoprene comfort pads, adjustable side straps, mesh material on the front and the back, a non-corrosive heavy-duty front zipper and soft, lightweight floating foam to help with buoyance.

This Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest's adjustable side belts and shoulder straps help adults to conveniently alter the size of the life vest to fit their body size perfectly.

The Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest comes in 3 size options including:

• X-Small/Small : 90lbs+ adult with an adjustable chest size of 28" to 36"
• Medium/Large : 90lbs+ adult with an adjustable chest size of 36" to 44"
• X-Large/2X-Large : 90lbs+ adult with an adjustable chest size of 44" to 56"

The Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest comes in two color options which are blue and yellow.

For better and more enhanced visibility when sailing, the yellow-colored Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest is our recommended color to buy.

The benefits of the Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest are:

• It is comfortable & breathable : This life vest has great ventilation with mesh material on the front and back to help make the life jacket more breathable in warm weather and keep people cool
• It is a unisex life vest : This Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest is unisex so it can be worn by both men and women and is not restricted to one gender
• There are plenty of size options to choose from : This life vest has 3 different size options to choose from that can be adjusted to fit most adult body shapes and sizes which means there are plenty of options
• It is lightweight : The Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest weighs 1.2 pounds meaning it is lightweight and easy to wear without sacrificing flexibility or mobility
• It is cheap : This life vest is one of the cheapest top sailing life jackets on the market with a price of just $60 to $90

One disadvantage of the Oynx MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest is it does not have any pockets so there is no place to store items when sailing.

Oynx Life Vest On Amazon →

Oynx Life Vest On Walmart →

2. Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket

The best sailing life jacket for men is the Men's Edge Life Jacket manufactured by the brand Stohlquist in Buena Vista, Colorado, America and sold worldwide.

Most retailers price the Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket between $100 and $140. This life jacket comes with a 3-year warranty to protect against manufacturer defects and errors in workmanship which is a great long time period warranty for added peace of mind. This life jacket weighs 1.7 pounds.

This life jacket is perfect to use when sailing and doing watersports.

The Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket is U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada approved and comes with a USCG/TC label inside the life vest.

The Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket sea level buoyancy ranges from 15.8 pounds buoyance to 17.8 pounds buoyance.

The Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket is constructed of lightweight PVC foam material for great buoyance, 240D mini-ripstop outer shell, 200D nylon inner liner, 3M reflective accents for the best visibility in all light conditions, mesh sides for improved ventilation in warm weather, anti corrosive zipped front pocket for storing items with a front waist buckle closure for the perfect fit, 2 adjustable shoulder pads and 4 side pulls.

The adjustable shoulder straps, adjustable side pulls and the wrapture shaped torso fits around any body type and gives a custom and unique fit.

The Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket offers exclusive sizing known as Graded Sizing. This graded sizing provides the perfect dimensions with varying amounts of flotation foam for many sized sailors to ensure the right amount of buoyance and comfort.

The Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket comes in 3 size options including:

• Small/Medium : This is an adjustable chest size of 33" to 39" with a sea level buoyance of 15.8 pounds
• Large/Extra Large : This is an adjustable chest size of 40" to 46" with a sea level buoyance of 16.8 pounds ‍
• 2XL : This is an adjustable chest size of 46" to 52" with a sea level buoyance of 17.8 pounds

These sizing options cover most adult body sizes and shapes.

The Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket comes in 4 color options which are red, black, royal blue and lime green/grey.

The benefits of the Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket are:

• It is extremely comfortable : With the ergonomic wrapture shaped torso and mesh material for ventilation, this life jacket is extremely comfortable to wear when sailing
• It comes with a storage pocket : This life jacket comes with a zipped front pocket which can be used for conveniently storing items
• Large arm openings prevent chafing and improve mobility : This sailing life jacket comes with large arm openings which helps prevent chafing and discomfort and improve mobility
• 3M reflective accents means great visibility : This sailing life jacket comes with 3M reflective accents which makes it safer and more visible in any lighting conditions
• It comes with a great 3-year warranty : This life jacket comes with a great long 3-year warranty

One disadvantage of the Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket is it is better suited and fits better on men and it is not recommended for women.

Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket On Amazon →

Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket On Walmart →

3. O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest

The best sailing life jacket for women is the SuperLite Life Vest manufactured by the brand O'Neill in Santa Cruz, California, America and sold worldwide.

Most retailers price the O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest between $50 and $90.

This life jacket comes with a 2-year warranty to protect against manufacturer defects and faults which is a great bonus for first-time buyers of this life jacket. This life jacket weighs 1 pound so it is lightweight.

The O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest is U.S. Coast Guard approved and comes with a "U.S.C.G. Approved" label inside the life vest.

The O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest comes in 4 size options including:

• Small : This is an adjustable chest size of 30" to 33"
• Medium : This is an adjustable chest size of 34" to 36"
• Large : This is an adjustable chest size of 37" to 39"
• X-Large : This is an adjustable chest size of 40" to 42"

These sizing options cover most adult female body sizes and shapes.

The O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest comes in 4 color options which are

• Black, turquoise & lime
• Black, smoke grey & black ultra violet
• Black & turquoise
• Pacific blue, navy, ultra violet & white

The O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest is constructed of a coated polyester shell, lightweight polyethylene foam, 4 heavy-duty 1.5" wide webbing belts with Delrin buckles, large armhole size, overlock stitched strong seam and quick-release quad safety buckles.

The benefits of the O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest are:

• It is comfortable : This lightweight life jacket at just 1 pound and the adjustable straps fits helps to make this life jacket to fit comfortably on most body types and the polyethylene foam is soft for added comfort too
• It's great value for money: This life jacket is one of the cheapest top sailing life jacket and buyers get a great quality life jacket for a reasonable price of $50 to $90
• Large armhole size improves mobility : This life jacket comes with large armhole sizes which helps to improve mobility while wearing it when sailing
• It has multiple color options to choose from : Sailors can choose from 4 different color options and patterns which gives plenty of choice for the female sailors

One disadvantage of the O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest is it does not have a pocket for storage.

O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest On Amazon →

O'Neill Women's SuperLite Life Vest On Walmart →

4. Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket

The best sailing life jacket for kids is the Unisex Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket manufactured by the brand Zeraty and sold worldwide.

Most retailers price the Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket between $25 and $50. This life jacket weighs 13.12 ounces so it is extremely lightweight.

The Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket is EN 13138-1: 2014 approved meaning it meets European safety standards.

The Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket comes in 3 size options including:

• Small : This is for recommended ages 1 to 3 years with a weight range of 18 pounds to 40 pounds and a size recommendation of 33.4" to 39.3"
• Medium : This is for recommended ages 4 to 6 years with a weight range of 40 pounds to 55 pounds and a size recommendation of 39.3" to 49.2"
• Large : This is for recommended ages 7 to 9 years with a weight range of 55 pounds to 77 pounds and a size recommendation of 49" to 55"

These sizing options cover most children's body sizes and shapes.

The Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket comes in 2 color options which are blue and pink so there are life jacket colors that both boys and girls will like.

The Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket is constructed of EPE polyethylene foam cotton, 5 layers of 0.6cm thick cotton, flexible 2MM neoprene, double adjustable chest nylon straps with quick-release buckles, adjustable nylon crotch strap, 50-N buoyance aid and a front zipper.

The benefits of the Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket are:

• It is a great price: This life jacket is a great price at $25 to $50 and it is not expensive and the price fits in most sailor's budget
• It's comfortable : The Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket is comfortable with an ergonomic design and adjustable straps to help ensure the perfect fit and the flexible 2MM neoprene is soft on the skin
• Large armhole size helps with mobility : There are large armhole sizes that help with mobility when sailing. The larger armholes also allow for space so kids can wear armbands too
• It is unisex : This kid's life jacket is unisex and not restricted to one gender which means both boys and girls can get one

One disadvantage of the Zeraty Kids Swim Vest Life Jacket is it does not come with a warranty.

Zeraty Kids Life Jacket On Amazon →

Zeraty Kids Life Jacket On Walmart →

5. Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket

The best sailing life jacket for the price is the Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket manufactured by the brand Coleman in Minnesota, America and sold worldwide.

Most retailers price the Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket between $25 and $40. This life jacket weighs 1.4 pounds.

The Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket is U.S. Coast Guard approved and comes with a "U.S.C.G. Approved" label inside the life vest.

The Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket comes in 2 size options including:

• Universal: This is for adults 90 lbs+ with a chest size of 30" to 40"
• Oversized : This is for adults 90 lbs+ with a chest size of 41" to 52"

The Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket comes in 2 color options which are blue and red.

The Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket is constructed of soft polyester nylon shell, crosstech flotation foam, two 1-inch webbed adjustable straps and 3 adjustable buckles.

The benefits of the Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket are:

• It is comfortable : The soft crosstech flotation foam and adjustable straps make this life jacket comfortable to wear
• It is cheap : This life jacket is the cheapest top sailing life jacket on the market with a price of $25 to $40 which means most sailors should be able to afford it
• It is durable : The crosstech flotation foam is extremely durable and this life jacket can last up to 5 years

One disadvantage of the Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket is it does not come with a warranty.

Coleman Stearns Life Jacket On Amazon →

Coleman Stearns Life Jacket On Walmart →

Top Sailing Life Jackets Comparison Table

What to consider when buying a sailing life jacket.

The factors to consider when buying a sailing life jacket are:

Size & Comfort

The price of a life jacket for sailing is an important factor to consider when buying one. Due to a life jacket being crucial for safety while sailing, it is best to not buy cheap or poor quality life jacket. However, some great life jackets costs as little as $60 so there are great priced options for every sailor's budget.

When choosing a great life jacket for sailing, it is vey important to only choose life jackets that are safe and meet the proper safety standards.

Typically, a buyer should only buy a life jacket that is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard or Transport Canada.

Typically, a life jacket that is approved by these government bodies will have a label inside the life jacket with a mark labeled "U.S.C.G. Approved" or "T.C. Approved". Also, only purchase a life jacket from reputable retailers.

The size and comfort of the sailing life jacket is another factor to consider before buying it.

Sizing for life jackets can be different than sizing for other clothing items so make sure to read the sizing chart of the life jacket to get the perfect measurement for your specific body size.

A buyer will need to choose a life jacket that fits their own body dimensions. A properly fitted life jacket will ensure maximum efficiency when sailing. A properly fitted life jacket will also be more comfortable to wear.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Sailing Life Jackets

Below are the most commonly asked questions about the top sailing life jackets.

What Are The Top Sailing Life Jacket Brands?

The top sailing life jackets brands are:

• O' Neill's
• Helly Hansen

How Much Do Top Sailing Life Jackets Cost?

The best life jackets for sailing cost between $25 and $140.

How Much Does The Cheapest Top Sailing Life Jacket Cost?

The cheapest top sailing life jacket is the Coleman Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Jacket which costs $25.

How Much Does The Most Expensive Top Sailing Sailing Life Jacket Cost?

The most expensive top sailing life jacket is the Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket which costs approximately $100 to $140.

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Best Life Jackets for Sailing of 2024

The law and common sense agree: if you’re in a boat, you need a life jacket. Even if you’re a great swimmer, if things go wrong and you’re sharing the water with a mass of rigging or assisting another sailor in difficult conditions, you’ll want the added security of a good life jacket. It’s an essential piece of kit, and you need one that fits your body and your specific needs. We’ve made your choice easier by selecting five of the best life jackets for sailing, across a range of prices and styles.

Most manufacturers don’t make sailing-specific jackets, and many of the products on this list are also popular for sea kayaking, fishing, and other water sports that require a combination of safety and unrestricted movement. These jackets will allow you to focus on sailing without feeling burdened by your safety gear and without worrying about what will happen if you end up in the water!

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailboat Anchors . 

Quick Answer - The Best Life Jackets for Sailing

• Astral V-Eight View at REI
• ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24 View at Amazon
• Onyx MoveVent View at Amazon
• Stohlquist Kahuna View at Amazon
• Astral BlueJacket View at REI

Comparison Table - Best Life Jackets for Sailing

Reviews - the best sailing life jackets, astral v-eight.

• Type : Conventional
• Floatation : 16 lbs.
• Gender : Men’s And Women’s Models
• Adjustment Mechanism : Side, Waist, Shoulder
• USCG Rating : Type III
• Fully Breathable For Maximum Ventilation
• Contoured Foam For Snug Fit
• Multiple Adjustment Points
• 2 Large Expanding Pockets

BEST FOR: ALL-AROUND USE

Astral is a small company that has earned a big reputation for innovative design, quality construction, and dedication to using environmentally friendly materials and processes. The V-Eight is one of their most versatile offerings, available in men’s and women’s versions and sporting a premium set of features, including an extraordinary range of adjustment. If you’ve ordered the right size, you should be able to fine-tune this jacket to a perfect fit.

Astral advertises the V-Eight as the world’s first breathable life jacket: it’s designed around a ventilation system that keeps you cool and comfortable without compromising on safety and storage.

ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24

• Type : Inflatable
• Floatation : 22.5 lbs.
• Gender : Unisex
• Adjustment Mechanism : Waist
• USCG Rating : Type V
• Choose Between Automatic Or Manual Inflation
• Comfortable Low Profile Design
• Back-Up Oral Inflation Tube
• Durable Fabric Resists Punctures
• Side Pockets
• Soft Neoprene Neckline Prevents Chafing

BEST FOR: BIG-BOAT SAILING

The Onyx A/M-24 is one of the most popular inflatable life jackets on the market. When not inflated, it’s streamlined and comfortable enough that you’ll hardly know it’s there. In the water, it deploys over 22 lbs. of inflation either automatically on immersion or manually through a pull tab: the jacket can be set up for either manual or automatic inflation.

Once the jacket is inflated, the gas canister must be replaced and the jacket repacked, so this is one to use if immersion is rare and unexpected. Inflatables are ideal for crew on larger boats who need protection in case they go overboard but don’t want the bulk of a conventional life jacket.

Onyx MoveVent

• Floatation : Not Specified, Minimum 15.5 lbs. (For Type III Certification)
• Adjustment Mechanism : Side, Shoulder
• Front And Back Ventilation
• Flexible Panel Design For Freedom Of Movement
• Integrated Whistle
• Expandable Pocket With Mesh Drainage

BEST FOR: SAFETY ON A BUDGET

This is a highly rated life jacket providing a competitive feature set at an accessible price point. Rather than using the contoured foam panels common in more expensive jackets, the MoveVent achieves a snug fit by mounting foam panels on a flexible mesh base, keeping the foam hugging your body and providing ventilation at the same time. An expandable zippered pocket, integrated whistle, and a solid range of adjustments round out an excellent entry-level life jacket.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, capable life jacket that will keep you afloat without sinking your budget, the MoveVent is a top candidate.

Stohlquist Kahuna

• Floatation : 18 lbs. for Small Size, 22 lbs. For M And L Sizes
• High Buoyancy
• Large Front Pockets
• Fleece-Lined Hand Warmer Pockets
• Low Profile Design For Easy Movement

BEST FOR: ROUGH WATER

What’s a white water vest doing in a list of sailing PFDs? It’s all about flotation. If you sail in choppy water or if you’re a lean, muscular person with low natural buoyancy, you’ll want a life jacket with the lift to keep your head above water when it counts. This vest packs extra foam and distributes that foam so effectively that you’ll hardly feel the added bulk.

Stohlquist is a premier life jacket manufacturer with a wide range of quality products, and the Kahuna reflects that heritage, offering comfort, practical design, and a host of useful features along with all that buoyancy!

Astral BlueJacket

• Floatation : 16.3 lbs.
• Adjustment Mechanism : Side, Waist, Torso
• Two-Panel Fit System Eliminates Ride-Up
• Adjustable Torso Height For Custom Fit
• Back Pocket And Shoulder Ports For Hydration Bladder
• Huge Front Pocket With Internal Organizer Sections
• Additional Side Pockets
• Pocket With Antenna Port For VHF Radio

BEST FOR: WHEN YOU WANT THE BEST

Astral has a reputation for introducing cutting-edge design and construction features in their top of the line products, and the Blue Jacket lives up to that tradition. Multiple contoured foam panels shift independently as you move, maintaining comfort and flexibility while eliminating ride-up. There’s a huge clamshell front pocket with multiple zippered sub-pockets inside, along with side pockets. A rear pocket fits a hydration bladder (not included) that can feed over either shoulder, a big plus when your hands are busy and you need a drink. A huge range of adjustability assures a perfect fit.

The Blue Jacket isn’t cheap, but if you’re looking for a premium life jacket that combines impeccable fit, innovative design, and bombproof construction with environmentally sensitive materials and manufacturing, it’s worth the price.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A LIFE JACKET FOR SAILING

If a life jacket isn’t comfortable, you’re likely to take it off, and it won’t help you if you’re not wearing it! Life jacket manufacturers pursue comfort by using different systems to keep foam matching body contours, multiple adjustments to let the user control fit, and soft fabrics to control chafing. Sailing is an active sport , so look for wide armholes and designs that don’t interfere with movement.

TYPE: CONVENTIONAL VS INFLATABLE

Conventional life jackets use high-density foam to provide flotation. They are inherently buoyant and require no activation. They can also be bulky and may be uncomfortably hot in warm weather.

Inflatable life jackets use a compressed gas canister to inflate automatically on immersion or manually using a pull tab. Many jackets can be set for automatic or manual-only inflation. They are very streamlined when not inflated and are comfortable and cool to wear. Once the jacket is inflated, you must replace the gas cartridge. Sailors on larger boats, who need a jacket only as an emergency measure if they fall overboard, often prefer inflatables for their superior comfort. You will need extra gas cylinders, and you should note that you may not be able to ship or carry compressed gas cylinders by air.

Ride-up occurs when a life jacket moves up the wearer’s body instead of lifting the body. If the shoulder straps are high above your shoulders and the front of the jacket is up under your chin, the jacket is riding up, and it’s not floating you properly. Test for ride-up by pulling up on the shoulder straps. If you can lift them to your ears, tighten the side straps and the waist strap. If it still rides up, it’s probably too large. A waist strap that tightens below the ribs can control ride-up effectively, but only if it’s snug!

Life jackets offer numerous features, and you’ll have to decide what’s important to you. If you like gear on the outside of your jacket look for lash tabs and attachment points; if you’d rather stay streamlined, you’ll prefer a range of pockets. If you sail in hot weather, ventilation is key; if not, it’s a lower priority. Consider the type of sailing you do and the conditions you normally sail in and decide which features matter most to you.

Most life jackets have pockets, but the number, configuration, and accessibility may vary. Consider what you’re likely to keep in the pockets and how many you’ll need. Many boaters prefer to keep critical equipment like a knife or whistle in a dedicated pocket where they can’t get mixed up with other items.

REI offers a useful guide to choosing a life jacket , and the US Coast Guard has helpful advice on how to choose and how to use a life jacket .

FEATURES EXPLAINED

Coast guard classifications.

The US Coast Guard classifies life jackets in five types.

• Type I and II jackets place most of their flotation in the front of the chest. This helps to turn an unconscious swimmer upright but leaves the jackets too bulky for most recreational use.
• Type III jackets are preferred by most sailors and water sports enthusiasts. They have a minimum of 15.5 lbs of flotation and allow a wide range of movement. They will not turn an unconscious user face-up.
• Type IV devices are throwable cushions or rings. In many states, boats over 16 feet are required to carry at least one type IV device.
• Type V devices are specialized life jackets designed for specific purposes and certified only for those purposes. The label will specify the approved use of the device.

Annapolis Performance Sailing offers this more detailed guide to the types of life jackets .

Flotation or buoyancy is the force needed to keep the wearer’s head out of the water. Most adults need 7 to 12 pounds of flotation in calm water. This may vary with weight, body fat, lung size, and other factors, and you may need more flotation in rough water.

Lash tabs are fixed points where you can attach a whistle, knife, strobe or other accessories that you might need in a hurry.

Life jacket sizes are based on chest size, not height or weight. Measure your chest across the widest point, just below the armpits, and consult the manufacturer’s size recommendations.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Sailboat Anchors

Sailboat Winches

Sailing Shoes

Solar Panels for Sailboats

Bilge Pumps

• Rooster Sailing Gear
• Rooster Buoyancy Aids & Bibs

Rooster Lifejackets

Rooster Race Armour Buoyancy Aid (Black, Gray, Blue S)

Rooster US Coast Guard - PFD

Rooster Womens Superlite Eco Vest (Gilet)

Rooster Junior Side Zip Buoyancy Aid (2021)

Rooster Superlite Eco Vest (Gilet)

Rooster Side Zip Buoyancy Aid (2021)

Rooster Diamond Overhead Buoyancy Aid 50N (Cyan)

Rooster JUNIOR Diamond Overhead Buoyancy Aid 50N (Black)

Rooster JUNIOR Diamond Overhead Buoyancy Aid 50N

Rooster Diamond Overhead Buoyancy Aid 50N (Black)

Local boat club, marinas working with national foundation to keep children, teens safe in the water

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — To reduce the risk of children and teens drowning this summer, several local emergency agencies, boat clubs and marinas are participating in a program that allows parents to borrow life jackets for free.

The Palatine Fire Department is just one of several local agencies working with the Boat U.S. Foundation to lend out life jackets that fit children and teens who weigh up to 90 pounds.

Palatine Deputy Fire Chief Anthony Lavacchi says families that don't have their own life jackets should consider borrowing some if they plan to spend time at or near any body of water.

"According to the CDC., more children ages 1 to 4 die from drowning than any other cause of death. Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury/death for children ages 5 to 14, and every year in the United States there are more than 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths," Lavacchi said.

"Water is dangerous for children, and that's all types of water from open bodies of water like lakes and the ocean to backyard bodies of water. Pools, kiddie pools, hot tubs, if you're at a water park, and local ponds and things of that nature."

There are various locations in the Chicago-area where parents can borrow life jackets for their children for free. Find a location near you on the Boat U.S. Foundation website .

Jackets can be borrowed for the day or the weekend. A staff member will make sure your child gets the appropriate sized life jacket.

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8 people, including a child, found clinging to cooler after boat capsizes

by SOPHIE PENDRILL | WPEC Staff

BOCA GRANDE, Fla. (WPEC) — On Saturday, a Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater crew rescued a child and seven adults clinging onto a cooler after their boat capsized near the Boca Grande shore.

The U.S. Coast Guard reported that the group had sent a distress call when their 28-foot boat started taking on water.

The Jayhawk helicopter aircrew found the missing boaters thanks to one of the boaters' Personal Locator Beacon, which was displaying strobe lights.

It was reported that the boaters were found 36 miles from shore clinging to a cooler in the water, all of them wearing life jackets.

See also: Martin County brush fire that sparked evacuations nearly 90% contained, MCFR reports

The Coast Guard helicopter aircrew successfully rescued each person from the water and transported them to Venice Municipal Airport for emergency services.

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West Coast Sailing is North America's #1 source for Laser sailors, offering parts, apparel, and support for since 2005. Laser sailing has been a core part of our business since day one, and we've had the honor of working with sailors around the world. Our connections to the community include annual support of the North American class association, Columbia Gorge Racing Association (local racing venue in the Gorge), west coast districts including District 22, District 24, and District 25, and numerous events around the country. We actively stock new ILCA sailboats from Ovington, offer charters at regional events, and have an industry leading selection of one design parts, new sails, spars, upgrades, covers, dollies, and all of the latest apparel from top brands. Whether you're an Olympic hopeful, active weekend warrior, or recreational sailor, you can trust our team to help you get out on the water and discover why thousands of sailors around the world choose to sail in this great class.

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