Ranking of the best life jackets for 2024

A life jacket is an important attribute that keeps a person afloat. It also protects against sudden changes in weather and cushioning spontaneous falls. Vests are of different types. The choice depends on the age of the user, body weight and type of rest.

What are life jackets

Before getting into the water, you need to take care of your own safety, because rivers and lakes keep many unexpected surprises. That is why it is better to play it safe and take a vest with you. These devices must be comfortable and reliable. It is best to purchase a vest that is simpler to design. It is very difficult to find a universal vest, therefore, when choosing, it is better to proceed from your own preferences and tasks.

The first category of life-saving appliances is designed for the seas and oceans. The second type is used on rivers and lakes. All devices have different configurations and certificates. For example, a vest designed for a small body of water cannot be taken with you to the sea, but with a model that is designed for use in the ocean, you can also swim in a lake.

Some lifejackets are equipped with warning lights. Such models can inflate automatically after being submerged in water. These fixtures are made of brightly colored materials. Other models that do not have these features can be painted in different colors. For hunting, manufacturers produce camouflage products, and for going out into the open sea, PPE is not very diverse, while for rivers and lakes the choice is very large.

PPE - Personal Protective Equipment.

Children's life jackets differ in their specificity, so it is better to buy them with your child. The fact is that they need to be tried on, because with a weight of 30-35 kg, a child can be either thin or full of build. There have been many cases when a child weighing 40 kg had to buy a device one size larger. When choosing a swimming device, you need to take into account how a person will use it. Convenience and activity must be taken into account. The vest also needs to be matched exactly to the length and width of the torso. For the production of such life-saving appliances, neoprene and nylon are most often used.

Criterias of choice

Each person is different, therefore, when buying a product, it is necessary to take into account the volume of the chest, height, weight and gender. The devices that are used for water sports are significantly different from the products intended for fishing from an inflatable boat. Athletes need lightness and freedom of movement, while fishermen need good buoyancy, bright colors and light reflectors.Taking into account all the indicators of protective swimming equipment, our rating of the best vests was created. Construction materials, water resistance, fit and certification were taken into account.

Neoprene

PPE for extreme sports is made of this material. The products are suitable for water skiing, kiting (kiting on the sea), windsurfing (driving a small boat with a sail) and wakeboarding (a dangerous hobby associated with jumping). The lifejacket softens the impact during rollover and protects the spine from injury. The design of the product is made in such a way that it does not hinder movement and can be matched to any figure. Neoprene is highly durable and protects the body from cold and wind during sudden changes in weather.

Nylon vests

This material is highly durable, so products made from it are very popular. They are suitable for jet skiing, skiing and descending mountain streams. When learning to swim, you will need a vest with added stability. The product must be selected according to the size of the body. Many devices are equipped with adjusting straps, with which you can tighten the vest under you. The more adjustment straps, the better the product fits on the torso. Thanks to these clamps, the thing perfectly fits the body, and therefore a person will need less effort to move in the water.

There is no need to think that the device will stretch. It is also not recommended to take the model "for growth", as it must fit securely to the torso. It will be uncomfortable to swim in a vest that is not fitted for its volume. If you buy a thing one size smaller, then it will impede movement.

Rescue products for teens and children

This category of goods has its own specifics. Rescue products for children have high buoyancy criteria. It is better when the device has a special collar that supports the baby's head above the water column. The rescue equipment must also be equipped with restraint straps and support straps, which must pass between the child's legs. The sling will prevent the vest from slipping. The size is selected depending on the body weight.

Life-saving appliances for women

These devices also have their own specific parameters associated with the anatomy of the female body. Such products should be equipped with additional protective functions. To this end, manufacturers supplement their devices with special softening blocks located in the chest, sides and back.

Buoyancy

Lifejackets are also classified according to the degree of buoyancy. Impact or Comp protect the body from various disasters, but have very weak buoyancy. These vests are not considered life jackets. They protect a person in case of a sharp rollover. Comp is only suitable for people who are involved in complex and dangerous types of water hobbies. They are made exactly to size and fit flawlessly to the body.

Other products are designated ISO 50N or 100N. Such devices are made in America. The indicated marking indicates the presence of a certificate and that the products are approved for use by the US or European maritime service. The inner surface must be marked USA or EU, and next to it must be indicated the maximum allowable weight of the user for a particular vest size.

In Russia, most of the products presented do not meet the mentioned standards. Based on this, they cannot be used as a lifesaving device.

Mountings

Different devices have different numbers of fasteners and belts. Products with 2, 3 and 4 locks are available for sale. The developers also presented vests with and without zippers. In stores, you can buy products without buckles and belts. These PPE fit well to the body.

The most reliable products are those with adjustment belts and zippers, since they make it possible to select a rescue attribute exactly on the torso.The straps keep the vest from slipping and turning over. This gives you maximum comfort while swimming.

Rescue products equipped with zippers are not inferior in quality and reliability to competitors with fixing straps, but they do not have the ability to adjust the fit to different body types.

Simple PPE (without fasteners and zippers) is suitable for outdoor activities and sports. They can be used for wakeboarding and windsurf. The products are lightweight and comfortable (they can be worn under a T-shirt), but during use, the product may slip, since it has no adjustments in the abdomen.

Best life jackets for men

Comfort Captain

The classic models are available in two-tone colors. On the front, it is a khaki-style protective color, and the inner lining is in a juicy orange shade. Thanks to camouflage camouflage, the fisherman doesn't have to worry about being spotted. The signal orange color is indispensable for boat trips - it will attract attention and make it easy to find a person in the event of a boat breakdown. The model has many additional features.

The strap in the groin area provides a secure fit, to attract attention, there is a whistle in the kit, and the voluminous collar not only protects from the wind, but also prevents water from choking, holding the head even if the owner has lost consciousness.

The vest has reflective elements that can be seen in the dark, even if they get wet. The State Inspectorate for Small Vessels under the Russian Emergencies Ministry (GIMS) issued an approving certificate for this product, which means that it meets all safety requirements. The manufacturer does not recommend using the model for people weighing over 80 kg, but reviews on the Internet indicate that it fits only teenagers.

• reliable protection thanks to the groin strap;
• reflective elements;
• availability of a certificate.

• not detected.

Ark Model No. 1 XL-2XL

The Kovcheg firm is located in Ufa and has long been specialized in the manufacture of PVC boats. The company keeps its finger on the pulse of the latest changes in technical requirements, so its products can be safely trusted. Kovcheg knows everything about how to ensure a safe stay on the water, and therefore has developed designs using unusual materials. Model # 1 is made of multi-layered, lightweight and floatable isolone that does not absorb moisture. For the exterior design, the Osford fabric was used, the weaving of which provides water-repellent properties.

The safety device is certified and suitable for both men and women. Changing the height of the armhole, groin and horizontal straps allow you to adjust the product to any shape. PPE can be used by people of a wide variety of physiques, weighing from 70 to 100 kg.

• availability of a certificate;
• suitable for both men and women;
• belts allow you to adjust the product to any shape.

• not detected.

East PR bilateral ZhS-002 M

An experienced angler always chooses clothing that meets all safety requirements. If fishing takes place on a boat in rough water, and spinning or trolling is carried out on a large body of water - a river, lake or reservoir - a life jacket is a must. A manufacturer from Russia has developed PPE specifically for fishermen and hunters, which can be used not only in summer, but also in winter, wearing over outerwear. The product has groin and side straps, with which it is pulled up to the figure.

Inside, a special NPE filler is provided, thanks to which a person can stay afloat for a long time. If the owner falls asleep or faints, then the high collar will not allow the head to fall and prevent a possible death. The set includes a signal whistle with which you can attract the attention of rescuers. There are also reflective patches that are easily visible in the dark.A large slip pocket can store additional funds to help you in an emergency.

• a stand-up collar that perfectly supports the head above the water;
• large pocket with tight fastening;
• a whistle to call rescuers, indispensable in the dark or in poor visibility.

• not detected.

O'Brien 4b Pro Red

The main material from which this rescue garment is made is nylon, so we can safely talk about the durability, strength and water resistance of O'Brien PPE. Originally designed for water sports, this product has gradually gained popularity among fishermen and hunters. This was due to three product advantages:

1. Wide armholes.
2. Large assortment of sizes.
3. Perfect fit.

The models are available in different sizes (XS to 5XL). They have 4 buckles for fixing, and thanks to the wide armholes, they can float freely.

Another distinctive feature of the model is the presence of a PWC mounting ring connected to the pin of the jet ski or the outboard motor on the boat. This element provides additional safety to the owner. If he suddenly loses his balance and falls out of the boat, the motor will stop immediately.

The buoyancy of this model is approved by the US Coast Guard.

• wide armholes;
• large size assortment;
• perfect fit.

• not detected.

Jetpilot Strike Nylon Vest W. Super Grip Yellow

The Australian company is very demanding on its products, therefore it constantly checks it for compliance not only with local standards, but also with the international quality system. It is for this reason that everyone can use it - from ordinary fishermen on a boat or boat to extreme lovers on wakeboard or water skiing. This PPE is also ideal for those who prefer jet skiing. It has a standard attachment system consisting of 4 buckles and D Clip straps. Among other things, the product is equipped with Supergrip handles on the sides. Thanks to this system, the vest is firmly attached to the wearer, and the passenger can hold on to the driver both in the watercraft and in the water.

This lightweight sports model offers minimal lift when submerged in water. For the same reason, the product is often used in sports competitions or just while riding on the water.

• the product is equipped with Supergrip handles on the sides;
• universal model.

• minimum lifting force when immersed in water.

Taezhnik Breeze-1

Taezhnik is a Russian company that has been manufacturing equipment for tourism, hunting and fishing for over 20 years. Manufacturing processes are structured so that products serve as long as possible. For example, cutting fabrics is accompanied by simultaneous fusion of the cut, which eliminates rapid wear. It is also attractive that the colors in the models can be chosen from several options: forest, city, maple, reed or even NATO.

PPE has 2 capacious pockets and the same number of flat compartments made of mesh material with a zipper, thanks to which the owner can comfortably fish and have quick access to everything he needs. To make the water drain faster, special eyelets are provided on the bottom of the vest. The lining is made of polyester silk (Taffeta), a soft and elastic fabric with high strength fibers.

• durability;
• several colors;
• additional pockets and compartments.

• not detected.

Zhik P2 Slim Pfd

Zayk is located in Australia. The manufacturer relied on sailing and youth, so a lot of attention was paid to the style of the product, and coupled with innovative fabrics that keep the skin warm despite strong winds, storms or cold weather, vests have become the ideal protection.Young people were convinced of the reliability of modern equipment at the World Championships and the Olympic Games, so they are suitable for athletes of all skill levels.

The thin and ergonomic design of the equipment allows the person to move freely, and to enhance the protective properties, there are pockets in the front and back, in which you can place the branded Kollition inserts. The lining is made of soft, tactilely pleasant perforated fabric and is closed with a zipper, which allows you not to waste precious time looking for latches and straps.

• thin;
• ergonomic;
• innovative fabric;
• stylish design.

• not detected.

Marinepool Aero Pro 220N

The uniqueness of this protective device lies in the fact that it inflates when immersed in water, but it also provides a manual mode. The hydrostat quickly goes into operation due to the carbon dioxide cartridges located in it. These features provide a lifting force of 220 N, which means that the vest can be used even in extreme conditions. The life-saving appliances of this brand are very light - weighing only 400 grams. The lineup is presented in one universal size, which can accommodate a person weighing at least 40 kg and a chest volume of no more than 140 cm.

The company also produces low-profile models for fans of speed boats and sailing, since this is where it is important to react quickly to what is happening around. The SS40 hip belt is easy to put on and its crotch straps keep things from slipping when dropped into the water. Anti-slip buckles are also provided for a perfect fit.

• the presence of a headrest;
• reflective elements;
• signal whistle;
• belt;
• additional fixing straps;
• the filler is divided into compartments for greater ease of use.

• not detected.

O'Neill Slasher Kite Vest

This sporty model is made from Ultraflex DS neoprene. The vest is perfect for windsurfing and kite surfing. The fabric with increased elasticity and strength is resistant to external factors, and its stretch ratio reaches 150%. The model has a thin belt, thanks to which the trapezium (belt with a hook) is in close contact with the athlete's body. The contours of the structure follow the curves and relief of the muscles of the male body, and the body is divided into sectors for a perfect fit and does not hinder movement.

NytroLite foam is another advantage of this model. It provides buoyancy and protects the wearer from impact. It absorbs 1/5 less water and 3 times lighter than conventional material. For this reason, the model is popular among beginners and experienced athletes. It is great for both training and competition.

• fabric of increased elasticity and strength;
• the body of the vest is divided into sectors.

• not detected.

Best life jackets for women

Reactor

The O´Neill WMS Reactor 50N is finished with a closure and a belt system pair with strong clips. An important detail is the lumbar grip of the waist, which does not deform the figure. In this position, the vest closely touches the body.

The model complies with USCG / ULC and 50N ISO CE standards.

This lifejacket is suitable for wakeboarding, cable and water skiing, and windsurfing.

• approved by the United States Coast Guard (USCG);
• lightweight neoprene frame;
• free tailoring;
• excellent processing of seams;
• several durable comfortable latches and seat belts;
• sliding zipper;
• drainage with holes;
• outer durable layer.

• not detected.

Traditional pink

O'Brien Women’s Traditional is the ideal PPE for active athletes who go in for swimming. The model is comfortable, flexible and safe.The breathable construction makes it lightweight and environmentally friendly, which, unlike traditional neoprene, provides incredible comfort. Thanks to the front zip closure, the vest is quick and easy to put on, and a pair of adjustable straps ensure a secure fit.

The high reliability of the model is confirmed by the approval of the US Coast Guard.

• when put on it causes a feeling of softness and lightness;
• made from environmentally friendly materials;
• front zipper and adjustable seat belts;
• approved by the US Coast Guard.

• not detected.

WMS Traditional Aqua

Enjoy your time on the water with this sleek, comfortable and eco-friendly life jacket made of neoprene. BioLite fabric is breathable and also minimizes drying time after being in water, making the vest weightless for exceptional comfort and differentiation from neoprene products.

Segmented panels and wide armholes allow for free movement of hands and also do not create discomfort. Straps and zip closure provide a snug fit and safety.

• advanced QDT material with fast drying technology;
• dries faster than neoprene;
• light weight;
• safe and environmentally friendly production;
• high elasticity for a good fit;
• the presence of seat belts and a fastened zipper;
• approved by the US Coast Guard.

• not detected.

Luck Impact Black

This neoprene model for women is suitable for water sports. It is made of high-strength neoprene with stretchability and perfect distribution over the body without restriction of movement.

• Made of high strength neoprene
• fits perfectly on the body.

• not detected.

Best life jackets for kids

Jobe Nylon Vest Youth 2024

The Dutch manufacturer did not neglect responsibility during the development of this model. The product has received ISO 50N certification. Foam panels with polyethylene (EPE) protect the body of a young athlete from bruises and abrasions. The holes (drainage) drain excess fluid, thus lightening the weight of the equipment. The item does not rot, does not emit toxins, is not afraid of bacteria and fungus.

Fastex semiautomatic fasteners quickly fasten and unfasten, and are firmly fixed to the body with three textile straps. The outer lightweight layer, made of nylon, differs from the competitors in wear resistance, so even frequent use will not interfere with using the product for several seasons. Children are attracted by the bright and colorful design, embellished with a corporate logo on one side and contrasting reflective stripes on the other. Depending on your preferences, you can choose different shades:

• red;
• blue;
• citric.

• comfortable fasteners;
• different colors;
• made of durable materials.

• not detected.

Stohlquist

Designed for the little ones, this model has received positive reviews for its convenience, safety and pleasant design. The product has received the USCG Type 2 Promotion, providing 7 lb and 6 oz of buoyancy at the surface of salt water. The baby will always be in the water, face up, thanks to the wrap-around wrap. Increased flexibility provides added comfort, while the dual support collar helps support the head, acting as a pillow for on-board sleep.

It is convenient and easy for children to put on PPE thanks to the front zipper. There is an addition with a clasp to avoid sudden self-opening. Adjust the crotch strap for a secure fit. There is a built-in handle for lifting the baby out of the water or stabilizing while boating.

• convenient;
• original design;
• safety.

• not detected.

Body Glove Vision Type III

This is the most compact variant of most PFD Type II models and is USCG approved for use by small consumers. Suitable for toddlers up to 30 pounds, it features a strong nylon outer shell and 100% polyurethane foam flotation.

Two adjustable shoulder straps are attached around the torso for a good fit, while double straps guarantee maximum safety. The straps are equipped with quick-release buckles and the jacket has a large floating collar to keep water out of your face. In case of immersion, the vest will dry quickly due to the advanced drainage holes.

• safe;
• made of quality materials;
• dries quickly.

• not detected.

When choosing PPE, attention must be paid to ensure that the product fits well on the torso. It should not be allowed to slip or unfasten. To do this, you need to select the product exactly in size.