The 10 Best Boating Life Vests | Boating Buying Guides and Review

This review has been updated 16 times since it was first published in June of 2016. Whenever and wherever you decide to go boating, remember that a life jacket is a safety essential. But which specific model you decide to choose depends a lot on how you’re spending your time out on the water. This list brings together a wide variety of styles, from more fitted vests ideal for extreme sports, like tubing and wake boarding, to ones with lots of pockets designed for fishing. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the review.

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Top 10 2 Person Kayaks

10. Imax Auto-Vox Inflatable

You don’t have to be on a snorkeling excursion to appreciate the utility of the Imax Auto-Vox Inflatable, which blows up with just a few strong breaths and folds away neatly when not in use. For those reasons, it makes a smart addition to any boating hobbyist’s gear bag.

9. Stohlquist Women’s Flo

Whether you’re canoeing, rafting, or even small craft sailing, the Stohlquist Women’s Flo will ensure you stay comfortable and stylish the whole day through. With a slim width and built-in supportive foam cups, this model is tailored specifically for the female figure.

8. Onyx General Purpose

Designed to fit most adults, the Onyx General Purpose is value-priced and ideal for public use aboard big vessels. Large armholes allow for freedom of movement, while adjustable straps accommodate chest sizes up to 60 inches, making this a true one-size-fits-most option.

7. Body Glove Women’s Phantom

The Body Glove Women’s Phantom features a flexible neoprene lining and a heavy-duty nylon exterior shell that, together, make it a solid choice for anything involving strenuous physical activity. Interior glide-lock printing ensures it won’t ride up on you, either.

6. Mustang Survival Lil’ Legends

Made specifically for young children, the Mustang Survival Lil’ Legends has an innovative shape that keeps the wearer’s head above water even if he or she is not yet a competent swimmer. Loud, but attractive, colors make it impossible to lose track of your precious cargo.

5. Onyx MoveVent

If you’re an avid kayaker, you’d be hard-pressed to find a model better suited to your particular needs than the Onyx MoveVent. It boasts a shorter length and wider armholes than typical PFDs, giving you unrestricted movement while paddling and pivoting in the cockpit.

4. Flowt AK-1

The USCG-approved Flowt AK-1 would be a sound purchase for the responsible boat owner. Even if you and your family might not use them that frequently, these classic orange options are great to have on hand for guests or as backups, and affordable enough to buy in bulk.

3. NRS Chinook PFD

If fishing is your aquatic activity of choice, then strap on the NRS Chinook PFD and stay safe while also enjoying handy access to your gear. This comfortable, and even fashionable, jacket has tons of pockets and attachment options for tackle, including rod holder loops.

2. O’Neill Wetsuits Superlite

With a relaxed fit and a lightweight foam construction, the O’Neill Wetsuits Superlite is a popular option among recreational water sports enthusiasts. It’s sturdy, but also comfortably flexible, allowing for the kind of mobility needed during tubing or wake boarding.

1. Stearns Adult Classic Series

The humble Stearns Adult Classic Series won’t bowl you over with its appearance, but this well-made device is rugged and very budget-friendly. With a shell comprised of the same resilient nylon as more expensive models, it will stand up to the elements season after season.

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