Finding the best flotation vest suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Best flotation vest
1. Speedo Kids UPF 50+ Begin to Swim Classic Swim Vest, Lime/Orange, Medium
Feature
UV50+ Block the Burn protection from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB raysSoft, durable neoprene construction for warmth and buoyancy
Full Front zipper for easy on and off
Safety strap with buckle closure
Sizing - MEDIUM: Ages 2-4 Years (Weight Capacity: 33-45 lbs), LARGE: Ages 4-6 Years (Weight Capacity: 45-60 lbs)
Description
Speedo classic swim vest is perfect for the child who is familiar with the water and is building his/her confidence. They are still dependent on full flotation and are just beginning to develop swimming skills. This comfortable swim vest has a full front zipper with a safety closure and leg strap to stay secure during water enjoyment. The 50+ UV protection is a huge plus and allows for longer sun exposure and more fun during Adult assisted water play.2. ONYX MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Vest, Orange, Medium/Large
Feature
Mesh in lower back fits high back seats;Shoulder adjustments with neoprene comfort pads
SOLAS grade reflective material for visibility
Expandable zippered pockets with mesh drainage
Heavy duty nylon fabric; soft, lightweight flotation foam
Description
The Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddling vest provide excellent mobility for kayaking, canoeing, and stand up paddling. There are ventilation panels in the front and back to keep you cool, and the sculpted and flexible foam design conforms to your body and stays in place when paddling.3. ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket
Feature
Durable fabric resists tears and puncturesInflates with manual movement of T-cord or automatically upon immersion in water
Lightweight, comfortable, slender design keeps you cool in warm weather
Soft neoprene neckline for all day wearing comfort
This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
Description
U.S. Coast Guard Approved Type V Life Jacket / Personal Flotation Device (PFD) with Type III Performance. Not recommended for non-swimmers or weak swimmers4. ONYX General Purpose Boating Life Jacket Universal, Blue
Feature
200 Denier nylon oxford outer fabricAll PE foam construction
U.S.C.G. approved
Chest: 30" -52" Lb
Capacity: 90+
Description
Specifically designed for the general boating family who is looking for comfort, style and safety in an affordable vest. 200 Denier nylon oxford outer fabric, all PE foam construction. U.S.C.G. approved. Blue/Black. Chest: 30" -52" Lb. Capacity: 90+5. NP Surf High Hook Flotation Vest, Black/Silver, X-Large/XX-Large
Feature
Super-soft buoyancy foamReflective piping and panels
Hydro pouch attachment points
Side zipper with adjustable buckles
Mesh drainage panels
Description
The NP floatation and impact vest are designed around the wind sports rider. Allowing maximum range of motion in the shoulder and arms. The unique designs are forms fitting to allow the use of any harness.6. ONYX MoveVent Curve Paddle Sports Life Vest, Yellow, Medium/Large
Feature
Mesh in lower back fits high back seats;Heavy-duty nylon fabric for durability
Adjustable side belts
Shoulder adjustments with neoprene comfort pads
Soft, lightweight flotation foam
Description
The Onyx MoveVent Curve Paddling vest provide excellent mobility for kayaking, canoeing, and stand up paddling. There are ventilation panels in the front and back to keep you cool, and the sculpted and flexible foam design conforms to your body and stays in place when paddling.7. Stearns Adult Watersport Classic Series Life Vest, Blue
Feature
US Coast Guard-approved adult life jacketGreat for wakeboarding, water skiing, and tubing
Soft and durable 200D nylon shell and lightweight PE flotation foam
Open-sided design and 4 adjustable buckles for breathability
Designed for adults weighing 90 pounds or more
Description
Stay safe and comfortable all day while catching wakes with the Stearns Adult Watersport Classic Series Life Vest. Featuring a durable 200D nylon shell and lightweight PE flotation foam, this adult life jacket is designed to withstand steady use while wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, and more. This life jacket for adults has an open-sided design for extra breathability and comes with four adjustable chest belts with 1-inch buckle straps for a secure fit. Great for long days of watersports, this adult life vest has a universal design that fits most adults weighing 90 pounds or more.8. Scubapro Cruiser Snorkeling Vest, Black/Yellow - Medium
Feature
NOTE: IF YOU ARE BETWEEN SIZES, PLEASE ORDER THE NEXT SIZE UP.Description
Scubapro's Cruiser Snorkeling Vest will give the novice or the experienced snorkeler the floatation they need when cruising the reef. Like all Scubapro products this vest is built to last. With its Nylon and neoprene construction for excellent durability and comfortable fit, easy to use oral inflator valve, and convenient pocket for storage of personal affects this vest is the best choice. The Nylon back adds protection to the snorkelers back when laying on the surface.9. Crown Sporting Goods Multi-Sport Personal Flotation Device Life Vest with Hi-Visibility Reflective Panels and Threading (Red)
Feature
Traditional life vest with unique shoulder safety reflectors and reflective threadingGreat for skiing, sailing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, dinghy races, and watercraft operation
3 quick-release buckles and 2 leg straps. Oxford cloth and nylon upper, layered buoyant foam inner
One size fits all adults 110 lbs. and up. Wide open arm holes and adjustable straps for best fit
Available in four colors: Red, Blue, Safety Orange, and Safety Green
Description
Stay safe in the water with this life vest by Crown Sporting Goods. Made with inherently buoyant polyethylene foam, this personal flotation device is great for nearly all water activities: skiing, sailing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, dinghy races, and operating a watercraft. Traditional vest style with 3 quick-release buckles and 2 leg straps. Thanks to its wide open arm holes and adjustable straps, this vest is one-size-fits-all for adults over 110 lbs.
Why You'll Love It:
This jacket is not only made to keep you afloat, but it also has unique features to keep you safe out in the water. Each shoulder has a safety reflector patch and reflective threading that will keep your vest shining, even in the dark. It also includes an attached pealess whistle, so you can call for help no matter how wet it gets. These jackets are available in four vibrant colors: Blue, Red, Safety Green, and Safety Orange.
10. Stearns Adult Classic Series Vest, 3000004475, Blue, Universal
Feature
US Coast Guard-approved adult life jacketGreat for boating, tubing, and swimming
Soft polyester shell and durable Crosstech flotation foam
Open-sided design and 3 adjustable buckles for breathability
Designed for adults weighing 90 pounds or more; fits 30- to 52-inch chests
Nylon construction
Three buckle design
Universal size, for adults over 90 lbs. and 30-52 in. chest size
US Coast Guard-approved life jacket
Great for a day on the boat or beach and in the pool or lake
For use on a boat, a personal watercraft or for tow sports
Two adjustable straps and open sides for better fit
Durable construction: Nylon shell, Crosstech Flotation Foam, two 1-in. webbed straps
Made in the USA