Ranking of the best wakeboard vests for 2024

Wakeboarding is an entertaining board sport taking place on the water, which does not exclude the possibility of medium and high injury. To protect yourself from shocks and provide support on the water, there are special hydro vests that differ in models, materials, and professional use. In some lines of well-known brands, there are rescue models that have a number of disadvantages, advantages, restrictions on use. This article provides a ranking of the best wakeboard vests for 2024.

Types of vests

Sports vests are divided into 2 main types:

1. Professional.
2. Rescue.

In turn, the models differ in material, the presence of a zipper and additional elements - segments that give special flexibility and convenience to the outfit.

Professional

Confident users choose thin vests that do not constrain movement or slow down the body during difficult maneuvers on the water. Such models protect against water hammer, but practically do not keep the body on the water. The manufacturer chooses neoprene for professional models. Such vests are kept in water up to the chin, they are found in several versions:

• With a zipper, such a thing is easier to take off and put on. The correct size will ensure a comfortable workout.
• T-shirt is a deaf model without fasteners and unnecessary details, which does not hinder movements and is not blown out. It is especially good in the cold season due to its ability to save heat. It happens two-sided. The price for this type is much higher than similar ones. A well-stretched jersey is often chosen for jet skiing and surfing.
• With an inner belt. Usually found on vests equipped with zippers. Provides an excellent fit to the body. With a strong water hammer, it does not slip and does not bulge when performing heavy tricks.

It is important to keep in mind that wakeboarding equipment differs significantly from similar board sports equipment. So, for example, a jet ski vest is thinner and much shorter, which does not meet safety standards for wake training.

Rescue

Thinness, tight fit and reduced protective functions are what distinguishes a sports vest from a life jacket. Also, the rescue models are certified by the Coast Guard (American Lifeguard Association). Such equipment is, first of all, protective. It will help not to go to the bottom when falling in large water, and also protect against impacts. This is the view offered at the equipment rental station. Suitable for beginner riders, children and large companies, as in addition to strong protection it has the ability to adjust the size. The stylistic decision of modern models can be completely unpredictable, but most often the design is determined by color.A prerequisite is a bright and noticeable color (orange, yellow, all neon shades), but such equipment is a base for beginners and is not suitable for experienced athletes. The reason for this is the stiffness of movements when performing tricks, the size and heavy weight of the product.

This type of equipment is divided into groups according to the following features:

• the presence of size adjustment;
• weight, volumes;
• design;
• material of manufacture.

Life jackets are versatile and versatile for all types of water sports.

Material

All types of vests are made of 2 types of material:

1. Neoprene
2. Nylon.

Apart from the price difference, the basic materials differ from each other in quality, comfort and durability.

Neoprene

Models of this type are soft, elastic and highly stretchy. A prerequisite for buying neoprene products is a tight fit. Often, the consultant will suggest purchasing a smaller vest for a tighter fit. This is done so that the vest does not stretch and fall off during operation. Such models are more durable, but they also cost 2-3 times more expensive than analogues. Such material is used by the best manufacturers who are not used to saving on quality.

Nylon

This is also a synthetic fabric, inferior to neoprene in elasticity and comfort. Nylon models are found in inexpensive lifejacket and sport vest manufacturers. Their price is significantly lower than the average cost of neoprene clothing. Such equipment is tough and performs a powerful supportive function on the water, but the protection against impacts of this type is weaker. Less comfortable than neoprene vest.

Trainers recommend purchasing nylon models for savings or for occasional workouts.

Choosing a quality vest

The wrong size of the vest, as well as its improper storage and care, will quickly render the product unusable. And vice versa, having fulfilled all the conditions for the correct choice of size and care conditions, they will extend the life of the thing up to 3-5 years.

Size selection:

• It is undesirable to order a product online if there is no confidence in the manufacturer's good faith, as well as if there is no table with dimensions derived from the calculation of body volumes.
• In offline stores, you can try on a product, compare one type or brand with another.
• The vest should fit snugly, models with a lock should be difficult to fasten, and there should be no feeling of chest tightness. In this case, the seams may come apart.
• You can determine that the item is correctly selected by conducting a mini-test. To do this, you should seek help from a consultant who will pull the vest up. If there is a hump on the back, then the model is large in size, if it fits snugly to the body, the size is suitable.
• If the athlete's equipment includes a wetsuit, then it is worth making sure that the selected vest is suitable for joint wearing.

The lifejacket is often adjustable, which does not require particular scrupulousness in choosing the size.

The manufacturer takes into account the anatomical features of the body, so the weaker sex should choose a vest from a specialized women's line, and children, if their height and dimensions allow, from the children's line, respectively.

In the photo in the table, you can see the characteristics for the sizes of a particular user group:

Characteristics of a quality product:

• bright color;
• high level of buoyancy (indicated on the inner lining. Designation - N);
• strong fasteners, zippers;
• high thermal insulation;
• tightly stitched seams;
• no protruding threads;
• additional protective blocks for children's models.

The more divisions on the model, the less stiffness of movements. The same can be said for models with clasps instead of a lock.

Care and storage

Like any wardrobe item, a wakeboard vest requires care and proper storage. The necessary conditions for care include:

• Drying equipment after each use.
• It is strictly forbidden to dry a thing over an open fire, stove, fire or on a hot radiator. In addition to fire, this can lead to the destruction of fabric, weakening of threads, melting of accessories or fasteners.
• No need to fold and jam the vest.
• Do not pack your model in a plastic bag.
• Storage is permissible only in ventilated rooms with permissible humidity, in order to avoid the appearance of fungus and mold on the fabric.

It is advisable to attach a tag to the item with the designation of personal data, such as: name, blood type and contact phone number of a loved one in case of an emergency.

Review of popular models of wakeboard vests

Below is a ranking of popular vest models for 2024. Review based on customer feedback. Acquaintance with the description will help you not to make mistakes when choosing a product, and also tell you what and what criteria you should pay attention to when buying.

Mens

FOLLOW SURF EDITION IMPACT MENS VEST

Australian company Follow has created the first slim vest adapted for active wakeboard training. The ergonomic design follows the anatomy of the body, which significantly reduces discomfort during movement. Stretch neoprene does not constrict the body, comfortably fitting even protruding areas. Foam pads on the chest and back provide safety. Fastens with a zipper, which allows you to quickly remove and put on equipment. Made in accordance with CE standards. Suitable for professionals and novice wakers. Sizes XS - XL. This is not life-saving equipment. Price from 6260 rub. Design: navy blue with bright orange accents. Available for online purchase.

• ergonomics;
• high quality material and seams;
• suitable for all types of water sports.

• high price;
• pale color;
• short size range.

LIQUID FORCE FLEX COMP 2024

The Liquid Force brand is the largest manufacturer of wakeboarding equipment and has been on the market for over 35 years. The sports vest considered in the review can be chosen in one of 2 options - in gray or black. The equipment protects against impacts, but does not serve as rescue equipment. The reversible model has a flexible design and 38 sections filled with PVC foam, which significantly reduces body stiffness, but actively protects against injury. Fastens with a zipper. Made of neoprene Flex-Span fabric with 150% tensile strength. Price from 11000. Sizes S - 2XL. Withstands weight up to 105 kg.

• new sewing technologies;
• bilateral;
• wide size range.

• high price;
• dull colors;
• light load.

JETPILOT F-22 IMPACT

The California brand Jetpilot has been in the water sports market for 25 years. During this time, the company, in addition to the production of jet skis, has expanded its range of related equipment. The most popular model was the F-22 IMPACT. The classic half-hoop style fits any body shape for a comfortable fit. New Technologies Flex-Lite Ultra is the thinnest 2mm flexible neoprene with virtually no water absorption. This feature allows the athlete to keep the body dry, and the equipment does not have to dry for a long time. Multi-Density Core is a system of filling - foams of different thicknesses and densities for strong protection without stiffness of movement. Flex-Cell Technology - Each foam compartment is individually cut. They are all connected with neoprene for greater mobility. Design: black with a bright orange stripe, print - company logo. Suitable for beginners and professionals. Price from 4949 rubles.

• new sewing technologies;
• without unnecessary details;
• low price.

• main color: black;
• volume;
• size range up to XL.

Womens

Female models differ from male models in anatomical features, product length and depth of fit in the chest area.The size range is varied, depending on the brand.

Luck Impact Black

The neoprene sports and life jacket of the Australian manufacturer Jetpilot is designed specifically for the anatomical features of women. It provides a snug fit. Thanks to the stretchy material, it creates a feeling of security and does not hinder freedom of movement, while the structure of the model does not create unpleasant or painful sensations in the chest area. The style (shirt) provides a secure fit from all sides. No lightning. Design: black checkered color with an inscription - brand logo. Size range XS - L. Price 4290 - 6500 rubles.

• high quality fabric;
• anatomical sewing option;
• low price.

• only black;
• short range of sizes;
• narrow armhole.

WAKEBOARDING

This vest was not created by marketers, but by wakeboarders, based on personal preference, conducting tests, identifying flaws in models and noting advantages. The vest provides 50 N buoyancy and withstands high impact loads while remaining lightweight and comfortable. Suitable for professionals, mastering new tricks and maneuvers in big water, as well as for riding on all kinds of board and boating sports. Consists of 20 PVC blocks. Lycra and neoprene fabric. 25% - rubber, 75% - butadiene rubber. In the abdominal area there is an additional strap with a carabiner. Dark turquoise color. There is a lock-clasp along the entire length of the product for easy removal and putting on. Sizes from 40 to 48. Price 5800 rubles.

• complies with EN ISO 12402-5;
• functionality;
• low price.

• pale color;
• short size range;
• rigid PVC inserts.

ION VEST LUNIS 2015

In this bright neon pink and blue reversible vest, the athlete can be seen from afar. Anti-shock equipment protects against strong shocks against equipment and water. The model (shirt) is not equipped with unnecessary details and a zipper. This provides a greater anatomical fit and practically does not hinder movement. In the production used neoprene category L. This type is the most durable and elastic. The vest is intended for professional athletes, as well as experienced wakeboarders. The products comply with the European standard (PPE directive 89/686 / EEC). Comfortable armholes and classic length ensure comfort throughout your workout. Sizes up to XL. Price 6990 rubles.

• bright;
• bilateral;
• CE compliant

• absorbs water;
• high price;
• discomfort in the neck area.

Baby

Children's models differ from adults, first of all, in a grid of sizes. Sometimes they are divided into types: for girls and boys. In general, such vests meet all safety requirements and are non-toxic. When choosing a vest for a child, you should not buy a model for growth, since it should also fit the body and fit in height, like an adult model.

Jobe Nylon Vest Youth 2024

The birthplace of the Jobe brand, which created this protective vest for children, is the Netherlands, and the manufacturer is China. The model is a novelty, which is made of budget nylon material, but is certified by ISO. Buoyancy: 50 Newtons. Panels with polyethylene foam protect the child from blows. The equipment is quickly relieved from the water thanks to the drainage holes. The striking design is to the taste of every child and parent. The models are presented in several bright colors. In addition, there are reflective stripes on the shoulder. A big plus is the semi-automatic fasteners, which rigidly fix the child's body in 3 places, while quickly fastening and unfastening. The fabric is easy to care for, it is not prone to mold, mildew, and is also non-toxic. Price: 3350 rubles. The product can be ordered in the online store.

• low price;
• complies with ISO standards;
• bright, varied colors.

• made of nylon;
• volume;
• weight limit - 60 kg.

NP HIGH HOOK

This vest for kids is made of high buoyancy and durability foam.It is designed for boys and girls between the ages of 3 and 16. The size range is divided into 2 designations:

1. JUNIOUR. Weight: 25-40 kg, chest volume: 66 -76 cm.
2. YOUTH. Weight: 30-50 kg, chest volume: 76-86 cm.

The vest is made in 2, to choose from, bright colors - yellow and red. The stylistic features include a large zipped pocket and reflective inserts. There are straps for a firm grip around the child's body, as well as comfortable openings for the arms and a special hole for the trapezoid hook. The vest allows you to stay upright on the water, but is not suitable for long waiting for help. Price: 5400 rubles.

• multifunctional;
• lasting;
• bright, varied colors.

• high price;
• volume;
• weight limit 50 kg.

Conclusion

Riding a wakeboard with pleasure, you can only feel completely safe. To do this, you should pay attention to a sports vest that performs several functions at once - protection from impacts, wind and water retention. The tips in the article will help you decide which vest is best to buy, so as not to miss important points when choosing. A high-quality model will allow you to maintain health and avoid serious injuries.