Best Life Jacket for Adults Reviews 2020
Life jackets have saved many lives over the past hundred and some years and have advanced from being made of cork to lightweight PE floatation foam. These devices are now starting to be called personal floatation devices (PFD) instead of the old traditional life jacket name. It is essential to have one of these PFDs with you when you’re out boating or doing other water recreational activities.
So, what is the best life jacket vest out there? In this review, there are five excellent products to read about that are US Coast Guard approved. Not only will this review break down the details of each product, but also give you some advice on how to pick the one that fits your needs.
Best Seller – Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Jacket
- 200 denier nylon ripstop and nylon oxford
- Mesh in lower back fits high back seats;
- Shoulder adjustments with neoprene comfort pads
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The Onyx MoveVent is designed with a built-in safety whistle that will sound out a loud noise to warn others of danger ahead. This Dynamic Sports life jacket is made out of durable bubble foam that provides shoulder and back support while keeping the user comfortable. Unlike other zipper styles, where you struggle because it gets stuck on the material, this durable zipper won’t snag making it a more of a reliable feature.
The Onyx life jacket also offers two expandable shoulder and torso straps that adjust to the perfect fit; this also prevents the life jacket from riding up and inadequately protecting you in the water. A feature that many people like in this product is the lower back mesh ventilation because it helps to keep you cool when you’re out paddling in the hot summer sun. The written inside label clarifies that it is US Coast Guard approved and the sizing is also indicated.
Features:
- Comfortable shoulder pads
- Expandable zippered pockets
- Two expandable shoulder and torso straps
- Bubble foam back support for maximum comfort
- Built-in whistle for safety
- Lower back mesh ventilation to keep you cool
- Durable zipper that doesn’t snag
- US Coast Guard approved
Verdict: The Onyx MoveVent is one of the best sellers on the adult life jacket market. With its safety features and durability, you can’t go wrong when choosing Onyx products. This life jacket is best suited for adults over 90 pounds and is available in X-small up to 2X-large.
Pros:
- The padding design makes it comfortable
- The mesh drainage will keep you dry
- Built-in whistle helps others to find you
Cons:
- It doesn’t provide a crotch strap to help keep you secure
- The sizing is known to run small
Top Pick – Body Glove Method USCG Approved Nylon Life Vest
- Super duty nylon outer shell with PE foam flotation for maximum comfort
- 4 heavy duty 1 inch belts with durable quick release buckles
- Oversized arm holes
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The Body Glove life vest is made out of super duty nylon on its outer shell with 100 percent PE foam flotation that is tucked away inside for maximum comfort. There are strategically placed drain holes that prevent the vest from getting heavily bogged down, and it also helps to keep you dry. The Body Glove design has oversized armholes that make it easier to maneuver around while you’re out on the water; it also makes it more comfortable across the shoulders and around your torso.
This USCG approved life jacket is interchangeable for watermen and women alike; it also comes in teen sizes as well. The size and USCG approval decal will be located inside the vest for your convenience. This type III Nylon PFD has a lightweight design that is adjustable from 2 inches to 7 inches in length; this feature provides conformability and adaptability while keeping you safe and secure out on the water.
Features:
- Body Glove US Coast Guard approved the quality
- Four heavy-duty 1-inch belts with a quick release
- Super duty nylon outer shell
- Made out of 100 percent PE foam
- Oversized armholes for better maneuverability
- Strategically placed drain holes to keep you dry
Verdict: The Body Glove life vest has four 1-inch belts with a quick-release clip that is made to hold you securely and safe out on the water; three of the belts go across the waist, and the other one goes across the chest to give you the ultimate fit. The body glove style is USCG approved and is our top pick in this review.
Pros:
- It offers strategic drain holes
- Oversized armholes for better maneuverability
- Sturdy and robust nylon outer shell
Cons:
- It has no heat ventilation
- It doesn’t provide a crotch strap
Best Value – Onyx Adult Universal Type 2 USCG Approved Life Jacket
- Country Of Origin : China
- The Package Height Of The Product Is 1.13 Inches
- The Package Length Of The Product Is 24.5 Inches
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The Onyx Universal Type II life jacket is designed for inland water near the shore, where the chances of an instant rescue are more likely. The lightweight structure has minimal buoyancy, which provides the right amount of balance to turn an unconscious person face-up in calm water conditions. The US Coast Guard-approved life jacket is made out of heavy-duty nylon with bright orange fabric covering the outer layer.
This life jacket style goes over the head with the vest laying on the front of your torso. To fasten it tight, wrap the adjustable strap around your waist and in through the attached loop, click the quick release buckle together, and then tighten the strap to size. The strap adjustability is between 30 inches – 52 inches across the chest. The Onyx classic design provides you with added head support and a clear airway; if you should become unconscious, you will be safe and secure until help should arrive.
Features:
- US Coast Guard approved Type II life vest
- Made of heavy-duty nylon and brightly orange fabric
- Has a lightweight feature that is comfortable
- Designed with minimal buoyancy
- One adjustable strap with a quick-release buckle
- Fits those who are 90 pounds and over
Verdict: The Onyx Universal is intended for those who have a bodyweight of 90 pounds or more. You can’t go wrong when purchasing the Onyx as it has the best value for your money within the PFD market. Whether you’re out on a surfboard or another water sport, the Onyx will provide you with the protection and safety you need.
Pros:
- US Coast Guard approved
- Fits adults who are 90 pounds or over
- Has a lightweight structure
- Made out of heavy-duty nylon
Cons:
- Only has one adjustable strap
- There is no crotch strap
Runner up – Stearns Adult Classic Series Vest
- US coast guard-approved adult life jacket
- Great for boating, tubing, and swimming
- Soft polyester shell and durable Crosstech flotation foam
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The Stearns Adult Classic Series is specially designed for both men and women with its US Coast Guard approval you will be kept safe and secure. This model is a one size fits all design but does offer adjustability in the buckles and straps to customize the fit. The adult universal life vest is between 30 inches – 52 inches of adjustability with leaving the oversized adult vest being 52 inches – 62 inches. If you are particularly small or very large, then this Classic Series vest may not fit you properly as it is for a more standard size person.
The three 1-inch webbed straps run horizontally across the stomach and chest area. In addition to the one-sided design, it offers a soft and durable nylon shell that covers and tucks away the PE flotation foam structure. Not only is this strategic and unique life jacket easy to wear, but it also is comfortable enough to wear all day long. The Stearns Classic is available in two different colors, blue and red.
Features:
- US Coast Guard approved
- Three 1-inch adjustable webbed straps
- Soft and durable nylon shell
- Lightweight PE flotation foam
- One-sided design and three buckles for quick release
- Designed for adults weighing 90 pounds or more
Verdict: If you do multiple types of water sports, then the all-purpose Stearns Adult Classic may be the ideal choice for you. This lightweight design is intended for the use of adults that weigh 90 pounds or more of body weight and is the runner up in this review.
Pros:
- Lightweight PE flotation foam design
- US Coast Guard approved
- Easy adjustable webbed straps
- The durable nylon shell will last for years
Cons:
- It is a one size fits all; so, if you’re not a standard size, it will not fit properly
- Not suitable for adults over 6-feet tall
Also Consider – Onyx General Purpose Boating Vest
- Adjustable belts and chest strap to keep vest from riding up
- Lightweight durable flotation foam
- Large armholes for comfort
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The Onyx General Purpose life vest design provides large armholes for better maneuverability and comfort while you’re out boating. This lightweight type III life vest is made from 200-denier nylon and 150-denier poly-twill. Great to keep stored in the boat for an unexpected guest. The two adjustable belts and one chest strap ensures your safety and its adaptability to be used for different adult shapes and sizes. This open-sided style is US Coast Guard approved as a Type III life jacket and a personal floatation device.
The Onyx PFD is designed with durable PE flotation foam that allows you to easily float on your back during a water tragedy. The Onyx Adult Universal fits adults of 90 pounds and over with a chest size between 30 inches – 52 inches. It also comes in an adult oversize design that accommodates those who are adults 90 pounds and over with a chest size of 40 inches to 60 inches. This boating vest comes in a variety of bright colors such as solid red, solid blue, and a bicentennial red, white, and blue, which can easily be spotted in the water.
Features:
- Adjustable belts and chest strap
- Open-sided styling
- Lightweight, durable PE flotation foam
- Large armholes for maneuverability and comfort
- 200 denier nylon and 150 denier poly-twill
- US Coast Guard approved Type III life jacket/ personal flotation device (PFD)
Verdict: The Onyx is a standard three buckle type vest that provides safety to you during many different types of water activities such as boating, water skiing, and jet skiing; this also was considered because of its durability, protection, and comfort it offers a user.
Pros:
- US Coast Guard approved
- Adjustable belts and chest strap
- Large armholes for more maneuverability
Cons:
- The adult sizes don’t offer a crotch strap
Best Life Jacket for Adults Buying Guide 2019
Features
Safety and Security
Safety is always a factor when going out on the water; not to mention, how dangerous hitting your head on a rock can be. Enough said, make sure the adult life jacket you plan to purchase is US Coast Guard approved that way you will be safer and more secure out on the water.
Harness
If you intend to go somewhere where the water is rough, you could possibly end up overboard; be sure that you have an adult life jacket that has harness support. The harness feature will clip you to a solid surface on the boat, meaning you’ll be able to use the harness to get back on the boat if you fall overboard. Having a harness attached makes it safer for those who enjoy going white-water rafting.
Reflective Piping
All adult life jackets have some form of reflective piping or tape all over them. These reflective materials shine brightly in the sun; when a rescue searchlight shines on you, it will be quicker and easier to find after you have fallen into the water.
Padding
If you’re planning on being out on your boat all day, then the adult life jacket you choose will need enough padding to keep you comfortable for a long time. If a PFD has little to no padding, it could ride up making you uncomfortable, and it may also begin to cause some chafing under your arms and stomach.
When choosing an adult PFD, make sure there is enough padding around your shoulders as most of the movements out on the water usually consist of the shoulders moving around. Not to mention how secure and safe you want your shoulders to be. Furthermore, having padding in the lower back region will help to give back support and prevent any back pain.
Pockets
Just like your fall or spring jacket, pockets are a valuable feature to have on your adult PFD. Although bringing your valuables along is not a levelheaded thing to do even though you have the room accidents can happen quickly. If it is necessary to have your keys or small trinkets, that’s okay but place them in a waterproof bag first before putting it in your adult life vest pocket.
Whistle
Many adult life jackets today come with a whistle attached to them for extra safety during a water accident. The whistle is a great feature to have if you fall overboard, as the coast guard or group that is with you will have a quicker way of finding you when you blow the whistle.
Buckles and Zippers
Some adult life jackets come with two or three straps that stretch across the stomach; whereas, others have two straps going across the stomach and a chest strap. Either option will hold the allotted weight limit securely and safely. Also, some adult life jackets that have a zipper to fasten them for easy in and out access. By the same token, these are excellent adult life jackets, but personally, it is recommended having both a zipper and buckled strap.
What to Look for in a Life Jacket
Type
You must use a life jacket that is designated for adults and for the kind of water sports you’re planning on attending. If you’re an adult that can’t swim, then the type I is the ideal life vest for you. It is big and bulky, but PFDs are meant to support the non-swimmer and are the type that lifeboats use.
If you are going to be in calmer waters, the type II will work; it’s just a smaller version of type I. Again, these types are only used during an emergency water incident. The type III is mostly the style you see out on the water for boating, water skiing, and sailing.
These adult PFDs will help you if you should ever get into trouble, but mostly it will allow mobility for water sports. Type IV is the style that gets thrown to you in the water during an emergency, and it kind of looks like a lifesaver. The last one to go over is type V, which resembles the type-III; these are typically smaller and don’t have as much Buoyancy to them.
Buoyancy
Obviously, the main concept of an adult life jacket is to be buoyant; generally speaking, the companies that make adult personal floatation devices need to provide enough of buoyancy that will keep your face out of the water, so you don’t drown. For adults, it will require around 12 pounds of buoyancy in order to maintain a 90-pound person afloat. When you’re looking for a life jacket, be sure to look at the buoyancy rating to determine if it is right for you. Always remember, the heavier your body is the less buoyancy you will need to stay afloat.
Weight Capacity
Every adult life jacket is intended for only a certain amount of weight capacity before it goes under, so it’s essential to keep that in mind before you just grab one off of the rack and purchase it. Most adult life jackets typically carry all different amounts of weight and do come in a variety of sizes, but it is always best to check. Another aspect that could happen like you may grab one that is too large for you, causing it to be bulky and uncomfortable. To avoid this happening to you, check the specifications on each product before purchasing.
Color
Many people often overlook the color aspect of an adult life jacket. In fact, most just grab them and don’t even worry about the color, or it’s a personal preference in regards to choosing your favorite color. To look at it differently, many want to be stylish and look good while boating, skiing, or doing other water activities. Some come in black while others come in bright yellow, orange, or red. However, when you’re out on the water, the main aspect of having an adult life jacket is for your safety. Logically speaking, the brighter the color, the better others can see you. It also makes it easier to find you in a dangerous situation. It is best to consider bright luminescent colors for your safety.
Material
There are two main options to consider when it comes to using material of an adult PFD.
Neoprene
This material has a much higher buoyancy than nylon and typically gives a better fit. Neoprene is a stretchy material that retains body heat and provides comfort during water sports and other water recreational activities.
Nylon
This material doesn’t have quite as much buoyancy as Neoprene, but is the lightest on the material market. Healthy, athletic people who love being in the water may benefit from using nylon material.
Both materials have a unique part in the flotation of an adult life jacket. To get the best out of your adult life jacket, utilize the type of fabric that fits your body weight.
Frequent Asked Questions
How do you tell if an adult life jacket is US Coast Guard approved?
First of all, don’t ever buy a life jacket that isn’t US Coast Guard approved. It’s a simple rule to follow to stay safe out on the water. Every life jacket made and sold in the United States should be USCG approved. Companies that produce life jackets know how essential this endorsement is to sell the product. With that said, look for the US Coast Guard endorsement inside of the life vest; if there is no label stating it is USCG approved, it most likely is not.
What is the lifespan of an adult PFD?
A life jacket has no expiration date as long as the foam inside is still intact as the day you bought it. Along those same lines, there should not be any tears in the cover; the straps should be in decent functioning condition and should be checked by tugging on them; lastly, if there’s no excessive mold that can’t be washed off. If your life jacket should have any of these things that were just mentioned, you need to replace it with a new USCG approved PFD.
Is it possible to wear an adult life jacket while snorkeling?
In view of the fact that life jackets are intended to keep you afloat above water, it doesn’t work for snorkeling. However, a better recommend option would be to use a snorkel vest which is intended for this type of water activity.
Does a heavier adult need more buoyancy to stay afloat than a lighter adult?
Believe it or not, it is the exact opposite. Okay, that might have sounded a little blunt, but the fact is fat floats a lot better than muscle. For instance, a 280 pound NFL quarterback with 10 percent body fat will require more buoyancy than a 280 pound individual with 35 percent body fat who already has natural buoyancy. You don’t need to lose sleep over how much buoyancy you need in a life jacket; after all, that is what USCG does for you.
Are there places where adult life jackets are available for rent?
Yes, life jackets are a mandatory part of renting a boat. If you go to a place to rent a boat, life jackets are typically offered as part of your rental. Another option would be: if you are taking an extra guest out on your boat, then you could go through a life jacket loaner program. Sometimes, it doesn’t pay to purchase a life jacket for a one-time event out on the water.
What kind of adult life jacket should be worn while water skiing?
Some life jackets that do not work well for water skiing, so be sure you choose the right one. For an activity like water skiing where you will be hitting the water at high speeds, you need a life jacket that offers multiple closures around your torso. Having various closures will help to keep your life jacket snug while you’re skiing, giving you better protection.
Do I need to store adult life jackets on the boat?
It is not mandatory to store life jackets on your boat when you’re not out on the water. However, it is mandatory to have a life jacket for everyone that is on the boat. So, why not just keep them in the boat for easy access?
Conclusion
That concludes our top five life jackets for adults for 2019. We looked at several life jackets that meet different criteria when it comes to the style, buoyancy, amount of safety connectors, and so on. We also talked about the main features to look for in a life jacket and why it is essential to have them. As an adult, you will want to set an excellent example to the younger generation around you by wearing a life jacket every time you are out on the water.
With any life jacket, you will want to check to see the buoyancy rating, how it is made, and look for the US Coast Guard seal of approval. These three aspects will help you to determine the quality of the life jacket and how well it will work for you. A point that is often overlooked after purchasing a life jacket is that it is tested out in shallow water before it is taken out into the deep blue sea.