
Table of Contents
What Is A Snorkeling Vest For?
The most important thing to note is that a snorkeling vest is not intended as a life preserver.
It will not keep you afloat if you are unable to float; it is intended to give you a little extra bouyancy whilst underwater.
What Should You Be Looking For In A Snorkeling Vest?
A snorkel vest should be close-fitting, yet still allow you freedom of movement, and shouldn’t sit too high on your neck.
You’re looking for a vest that gives a sleek, smooth finish, and that you can easily inflate to a level that’s comfortable for you, and suitable for the kind of waters you’re snorkeling in.
Snorkeling is all about freedom, unrestricted movement. When you go snorkeling, you want to feel as though it’s just you in the water.
However, as with any water based activity, you still need to be protected, and that protection is exactly what a snorkel vest offers.
The Best Adult Snorkel Vests Reviewed
#1: ScubaPro Cruiser
This is a good quality, snug-fitting manual inflation snorkel vest, which comes in a variety of colors.
As the vest offers a very snug fit, it is advised to purchase a size larger than your clothing size, in order to accommodate for the vest tightening when it is inflated.
These vests are durable and comfortable to wear, and will last you well beyond your family vacation.
The vests are easy to inflate, giving you complete confidence under water.
Pros:
- Good fit
- Easy to inflate
- Durable
Cons:
- Expensive
Value For Money?
This is a costly snorkel vest, and would definitely be more for those who go snorkeling regularly.
- Increase and control buoyancy. Easy-to-use oral inflator and dump valve for added flotation control.
- 1/8" Neoprene adds warmth while not compromising comfort in warm-water snorkeling
- Protects snorkeler's back from excessive sun exposure
Last update on 2021-12-24 at 21:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#2: Phantom Aquatics Jacket Style Zippered
Designed to offer one-size-fits-all protection, this zippered option is easy to adjust.
It’s available in either hi-vis orange or hi-vis yellow, giving you the peace of mind that, if you do get into difficulty, you can be easily spotted by rescuers.
If you are particularly large or small, this vest will not be the best option for you, as it isn’t possible to purchase tailored sizes.

Pros:
- Affordable
- One-size-fits-all
Cons:
- Can be uncomfortable for those who are not standard size
Value For Money?
If you’re looking for a cheap, basic snorkel vest to take on vacation, this is a good option for those who fit within the average size range.
- Deluxe snorkeling vest highlighted with 3M reflective tape for added visibility at a distance.
- Pocket Equipped with Buckles Closure
- Heavy-Duty Front Zipper Closure
Last update on 2021-12-24 at 21:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#3: Rritizan Unisex Portable Life Vest
Presented in a range of colors, this snorkel vest gives you the freedom and flexibility you want when snorkeling, with the protection you need.
Easy to put on and adjust, this vest is held close by a strap that runs between your legs, stopping the vest from riding up.
Ideal for taking on vacation, this vest folds down compact, and fits neatly in your luggage.

Pros:
- Good fit
- Folds compact
Cons:
- Crotch strap has a tendency to ride up
Value For Money?
Affordable performance that’s a good option for those looking to try snorkeling while on vacation.
- 🐬【Rrtizan Snorkel Vest】: This swimming life Jacket provides enough buoyancy while snorkeling, And the neon colors provide excellent...
- 🐬【Fast Inflation & Fast Deflation】: Just right fully inflated without the need of excess air. Press and hold blow air valve when...
- 🐬【Adjustable Waist & Crotch Straps】: Latch straps secures vertically and horizontally, providing a secure and worry free fit, easy...
Last update on 2021-12-24 at 21:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#4: SealBuddy Inflatable
This manual inflatable snorkel vest would benefit from having instructions, as the inflation process is not intuitive.
While this vest offers excellent bouyancy for smaller adults, including women, the waist straps are too short for many people, and will not fit anyone over a 36” waist.

Pros:
- Excellent bouyancy
Cons:
- Difficult to inflate
- Very small
Value For Money?
Not really comfortable enough for most people to merit buying – while it is affordable, there are better vests in the price range.
- Ultimate snorkeling vest: Small footprint, Large buoyancy while snorkeling; Neon colors provide excellent visibility, great for learners
- Fast inflation, fast deflation: snorkel vest supports the body just right fully inflated without the need of a lot of air, convenient Mouth...
- Horse collar over the neck style: simple to put on and take off, very comfortable, Large enough for most adults and sizes
Last update on 2022-03-18 at 20:28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
#5: Innovative Scuba Concepts
This is a simple, easy to adjust vest that comes in a range of sizes and colors, and so offers a good fit for almost anyone.
It can be tricky to work out how to inflate the vest initially, and it is worth being aware that not all venues accept this vest as being safe enough for snorkeling.
If your vacation spot is happy for you to wear this vest, it folds up to a compact size that’s ideal for stowing in your luggage.

Pros:
- Folds compact
- Easy to adjust
Cons:
- Not all venues accept this vest
- Difficult to inflate
Value For Money?
Better vests available at the price.
- Vest is designed to add buoyancy while snorkeling without sacrificing comfort
- Made from durable 210 denier urethane-coated nylon for maximum durability
- Intuitive screw-down oral inflation mouthpiece (plastic) provides in-water inflation
Last update on 2021-12-24 at 21:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
The Best Snorkel Vest For Kids
When you’re buying a snorkel vest for you little water lovers, the most important thing to look for is a good fit, with straps to ensure that the vest stays on, and secure.
You also want a vest that’s not going to ride up around the neck.
JoeDiver’s Junior Size from Innovative Scuba Concepts is easy for children to inflate themselves, and gives them confidence in the water, which, in turn, offers peace of mind to parents.
Presented in hi-vis yellow, this is easily seen by rescuers if your child should get into difficulty, and provides a crotch strap for complete security.
If you’re looking for a vest that gives your child the freedom and confidence to enjoy the water, then this is a good option.
- Junior size snorkel vest fits kids great
- Highly Visible - spot your kid in an instant
- Snorkel vest tail strap for better fit
Last update on 2021-12-24 at 21:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info