Best Life Jackets for Water Sports Reviews 2021
With summer bringing the heat, there are few better ways to keep cool than going out on or in the water. However, some people take their time with the water more seriously and enjoy a variety of different sports. That said, the wide range of different water sports all call for different equipment.
Few pieces of equipment are as important as the life jacket which can be the difference between being fished out of the water and being fish food. That’s why this list breaks down the 5 best life jackets for water sports, identifying the different sports that it’s best for. Whether fishing on a pond or racing down whitewater rapids, this list has the right personal flotation device for you.
Last update on 2022-01-03 at 01:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Best Seller: Onyx Unisex Belt Pack Manual Inflatable Life Jacket (PFD)
- U.S. Coast Guard Approved Inflatable Belt Pack - Manual Inflation
- 16 gram CO2 charge provides 17 lbs. of buoyancy
- The oral inflation tube can be used by wearer to provide additional buoyancy up to 26.5 lbs.
Last update on 2022-01-03 at 01:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
A quick look at the Onyx M-16 inflatable life jacket is all you need to see why it’s a best-seller. This connection is especially true when you look for the best life jacket for water sports specifically. As the only inflatable life jacket that does not start in swim vest form, this PFD provides the most maneuverability out of any product reviewed.
Unless you’re familiar with life jackets, you probably don’t know how this one differs from other types outside of the obvious difference in appearance. As a belt pack inflatable life jacket, this model fits into the Type V automatic inflation models. That said, the Onyx M-16 does not initially meet these standards from the automatic inflation which only achieves 17 lbs of buoyancy. Thankfully, this entry also comes with an oral inflation tube for manual inflation that can achieve up to 26 lbs of buoyancy– more than enough to meet the Type V standards. Of course, you probably won’t need that much buoyancy unless you are in choppy waters with strong currents or undertows.
In terms of use, the Onyx M-16 is a bit of a mixed bag as the automatic inflation is incredibly easy, using a pull cord attached to a 16 g CO2 canister. However, as a belt pack, this means that once the Onyx M-16 begins inflating, you will need to sleep the vest over your head. In ordinary circumstances, this should not be a problem, but in situations where a life vest is necessary, it can be risky.
Of course, a big part of the reason to use a belt pack inflatable life jacket is comfort. In this regard, the Onyx M-16 passes most tests with flying colors. For starters, the extremely low profile means that you will not have to worry about limited mobility or range of motion. However, some people have noted that the velcro around the belt is scratchy.
This option is also reasonably durable with a cover made of 200D oxford nylon that protects the bladder from punctures or scratches. To further reinforce the durability, the Onyx M-16 employs a welded bladder which significantly reduces the chances of leaks. On top of that, the 1-in belt clip helps ensure that the Onyx M-16 will not slip off if you find yourself in dangerous waters.
Features:
- The belt pack style offers a low profile for increased mobility
- The welded bladder and 200D oxford nylon cover are durable
- Provides an automatic inflation rating of 17 lbs
- Easily inflates thanks to a 16 g CO2 canister
- Can inflate up to Type III PFD standards manually
Pros:
- Provides some of the best mobility
- Meets higher standards than most
- Durable enough for most casual situations
- Inflates both automatically and manually
Cons:
- Not easy to put on when inflated
- The belt may feel a bit scratchy
Verdict: As long as you feel comfortable slipping the vest on after inflation, the Onyx M-16 is an excellent option for water sports. The belt pack design ensures an extremely low profile to maximize your maneuverability and range of motion. While not the most durable encountered, the Onyx M-16 is plenty durable for most circumstances that don’t involve large flotsam and debris. While the belt can be a bit scratchy, you won’t have to worry about it slipping off if you’re overturned underwater.
Top Pick: Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Vest
- Mesh in lower back fits high back seats
- Shoulder adjustments with neoprene comfort pads
- SOLAS grade reflective material for visibility
Last update on 2021-12-24 at 09:11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Making its second appearance, Onyx sacrifices some of the mobility for an extra helping of ease and convenience. Most notably, the Onyx MoveVent employs an inherently buoyant action that doesn’t require inflation. Aside from the fact this means you don’t need to inflate it manually, this approach also reduces the total necessary buoyancy poundage.
While the exact buoyancy isn’t provided, the Onyx MoveVent rates as a Type III inherently buoyant model by the US Coast Guard. This means that the life vest provides at least 15.5 lbs of buoyancy. However, the Onyx MoveVent is meant for more casual settings– even if it can handle everything from paddle boarding to riding a Jet Ski.
But the reason this life vest was made for casual water sports like paddle sports comes down to the accessorizing features. For starters, the Onyx MoveVent comes with a zippered pocket that is both expandable and features a mesh drain. On top of that, this life vest also provides a lash tab for smaller objects.
Beyond convenience, the Onyx MoveVent also happens to be one of the more comfortable options for a wide array of activities. Kayak paddlers will rejoice thanks to the high back panel that allows you to fit snugly and comfortably in your craft. The Onyx MoveVent also uses stretchy neoprene at the shoulders to prevent the jacket from biting. You can even use this vest while water skiing or in rough water.
That said, the Onyx MoveVent may not be the best option for all people, especially those with larger chests. While this personal flotation device technically fits larger chested people, it may not be the most secure when it does. This seems to be an issue with the larger chest models also being for taller people which can be an issue for some women.
Finally, the Onyx MoveVent goes the extra mile to ensure that you are not only safe but easily found should you fall into the water. For one, this life vest applies SOLAS-certified reflective stripes to make finding people in the water easier. If that doesn’t work, the Onyx MoveVent also comes with a signal whistle.
Features:
- Comes with an expandable zippered pocket
- The mesh material is breathable
- Designed with a high-back as kayak PFDIs SOLAS and US Coast Guard certified
- Made of durable 200D ripstop nylon
Pros:
- Is more comfortable than most
- Certified by the US Coast Guard
- A great kayaking PFDHas a solid, durable build
Cons:
- Isn’t the most maneuverable
- Can be bulky for larger chests
Verdict: The Onyx MoveVent may not be ideal for water sports that require a wide range of motion like water skiing, but it is one of the more convenient and comfortable models reviewed. The mesh fabric and high backing keep you cool and allow water to flow freely while also great for kayaking. The Onyx MoveVent also provides plenty of inherent buoyancy as well as reflective stripes and a signal whistle.
Best Value: Stohlquist Adult FIT High Mobility Life Jacket | Unisex Personal Floatation Device, PFD Vest
- FEEL THE MOVEMENT - High mobility, non-restrictive cut. Higher placement of upper buckle helps reduce ride up. Thinner back panel to reduce...
- INNOVATION MEANS BETTER - All foam corners are rounded and sculpted compared to many 3-buckle PFDs. Box-stitched webbing is also more...
- COAST GUARD APPROVED - Safety is our number one concern for open water explorers. Safe is exactly as you'll feel as this PFD is approved for...
Last update on 2022-01-03 at 01:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Stohlquist Fit is probably one of the best all-around life jackets for most general purposes. Granted, certain water sports, especially those that involve sitting in a paddle craft, need not apply. However, for most other situations, the sculpted foam floats strike a wonderful balance between comfort, mobility, and performance. This float coat would be perfect for water skiing or jet skiing.
Even better, the Stohlquist Fit features three adjustable straps to ensure that not only does the PFD fit snugly but will not slide off either. Speaking of a comfortable fit, the Stohlquist Fit comes in two sizes: one for a standard adult and one for an oversized chest. However, this is where wearing this life vest while paddling can be uncomfortable. Unlike some life jackets, the Stohlquist Fit does not feature a high back panel.
This design means that the back of a paddle craft’s seat may very well cause the PFD to ride up. While the Stohlquist Fit employs a thinner back panel, it’s not enough to prevent the jacket from riding up. Thankfully, this dynamic doesn’t seem to cause the life vest to slip off, but it still feels uncomfortable.
With no bladder to worry about, you might expect this life jacket to meet the bare minimum in terms of durability. Thankfully, the Stohlquist Fit takes more pride in itself and features 200D nylon for both the outer shell and the liner. There’s also a convenient hanging loop, so you can dry it off without having to worry or struggle.
Features:
- Sculpted foam paneling offers better mobility
- Secures comfortably and tightly with three straps
- Offers 18 lbs of inherent buoyancy
- Two sizes with an oversized chest option
- Has a grab handle for extra security
Pros:
- Fits better than most
- Provides ample inherent buoyancy
- Easier to use than most
Cons:
- Not ideal for rafting
Verdict: This is another paddling jacket, but it’s because of a lack of buoyancy. At 18 lbs of inherent buoyancy, the Stohlquist Fit comes with a Type III PFD rating from the US Coast Guard. While it rides up when rafting, this life vest is otherwise one of the more comfortable inherently buoyant around– perfect for a Jet Ski. The three straps and sculpted foam floats make it incredibly mobile and comfortable for its style.
Runner Up: ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket
- Durable fabric resists tears and punctures
- Inflates with manual movement of T-cord or automatically upon immersion in water
- Lightweight, comfortable, slender design keeps you cool in warm weather
Last update on 2021-12-22 at 17:08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Onyx A/M-24 may not look like much at first glance, but that deceptive simplicity belies its effectiveness across multiple qualities. For instance, this is the only inflatable life jacket reviewed that is both manual and automatic without requiring an oral inflation tube. This is great because it means that you don’t have to worry about frantically trying to inflate it in the water.
That said, this means that the already somewhat steep price of this inflatable PFD continues to cost you money. This is because the Onyx A/M-24 uses a CO2 canister to inflate the bladder– regardless of whether inflated automatically or manually. Still, the convenience of these inflation methods cannot be understated.
For automatic inflation, the Onyx A/M-24 uses a needle that shifts when the PFD is submerged to puncture the CO2 canister. When inflating manually, you simply pull the attached T-cord to puncture the canister. It’s worth noting that some people reported accidental inflation when the PFD is exposed to rain. But that is exceedingly uncommon and likely an issue with those specific jackets, not the model as a whole.
Outside of the convenient inflation, the Onyx A/M-24 is also reasonably comfortable in a couple of different ways. For those who need mobility or paddle raft, the absence of panels makes moving and sitting comfortable regardless of the situation. On top of that, this inflatable life jacket also features a neoprene neck that stretches as you move and will not chafe the skin.
The Onyx A/M-24 is a one-size-fits-all model that only requires adjusting a single strap. However, this can potentially present issues with the jacket slipping off in extremely turbulent circumstances. Thankfully, this PFD is rated as a Type V option and provides an impressive 22.5 lbs of buoyancy.
Features:
- Switches from manual to automatic
- Can automatically inflate if submerged
- Features a thin profile for increased mobility
- Is lightweight and has a neoprene neck
- Made of solid materials for durability
Pros:
- Easiest to use if desired
- Small touches for increased comfort
- Provides plenty of mobility
Cons:
- Can accidentally inflate
Verdict: Outside of the most extreme circumstance, the Onyx A/M-24 is likely one of, if not, the safest options on this list. The automatic inflation method responding to submersion is an amazing feature. This alone means that people with mobility issues do not have to worry about the jacket inflating. This feature combined with the thin profile and neoprene neck also makes the Onyx A/M-24 extremely comfortable. You can wear this jacket for long periods or when paddle boating without worry.
Also Consider: 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
Last update on 2021-12-24 at 17:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Stearns Classic Series is just that: classic. This is both a good and bad thing depending on the waters and water activities in question (we’re thinking Jet Ski). The good thing about the Stearns being a “classic” is that you don’t have to worry about inflating it. Even better, you don’t have to replace a CO2 canister which prevents it from costing you money over time.
Of course, anyone familiar with a “classic” life vest will loathe how big and bulky the Onyx A/M-24 is. On the other hand, one thing that “classic” life jackets do well that Stearns brings to the table is staying on the wearer and not sliding off. The Stearns Classic Series accomplishes this with the employ of four different straps– the most reviewed. Granted, this security only further adds to the lack of mobility, but it’s worth the trade-off.
Like many other classic options, the Stearns Classic Series is an inherently buoyant life vest that keeps you above water with solid polyethylene floats. To make sure nothing happens to the floats, this life vest covers the devices in a 200D nylon shell. Those straps mentioned earlier? They use a webbed design to reinforce stability, preventing fraying or tearing.
While Stearns doesn’t provide a specific buoyancy rating, the jacket is certified by the US Coast Guard. As an inherently buoyant jacket, this certification ensures at least 15.5 lbs of buoyancy. Finally, the mesh fabric at the bottom of the jacket allows it to drain easily and prevents the build-up of microorganisms.
Features:
- Four straps to keep the jacket in place
- Polyethylene foam floats are durable and effective
- The 200D nylon shell protects the floats
- Provides at least 15.5 lbs of buoyancy
Pros:
- Extremely secure compared to some
- Provides adequate buoyancy for casual purposes
- More durable than some
Cons:
- Not the most comfortable or mobile
Verdict: The Stearns Classic Series isn’t the best model reviewed, but it’s not at the top of the list either. Still, if you’re looking for a reasonably priced classic option, this life vest checks all of the boxes. The three-buckle, four-strap design makes the Stearns Classic Series one of the most secure. It also uses durable materials, so it can be used for multiple seasons without issue.
Conclusion
In the end, the best life jackets for water sports will heavily depend on the water sport in question and the person wearing it. A fisherman or someone paddling doesn’t generally have to worry about the same things as someone kayaking whitewater rapids. Thankfully, this list has something for everyone.
If you are looking for something a bit more casual while you fish, the Stohlquist Fit is reasonably comfortable while offering ample protection. Another solid option for casual water sports that’s also more affordable is the Stearns Classic Series.
On the other hand, if you want to take rushing rapids, you might be better off going with the Onyx MoveVent and its high back panel. Those who prefer an automatic inflater should look at either the Onyx A/M-24. While not fully automatic, the Onyx M-16 is also easy to inflate and offers the maximum buoyancy aid.