Having a life jacket on board is essential whether you’re a seasoned boater or a novice on the water. Safety comes first when you are out on the water. Your life jacket should be comfortable and reliable. There are some considerations to keep in mind when looking for the best life jacket. The first is understanding what your use will be.
Your activity will determine what type of life jacket you will need. Additionally, the U.S. Coast Guard must approve all life jackets. So ensure yours is USCG approved before purchasing. Life jackets are not always a perfect fit, but the more straps there are, the more likely you can customize the life jacket to fit your body.
Think about your need for pockets. While you are out, do you need to have the capacity to store items? If you need this space, check out the number of pockets available and size to ensure your needs are met.
Life jackets can save your life. This will be one of the best investments that you will make. Do your research before buying. Find the best life jacket that will suit your needs. Below, we have listed several of the key factors to keep in mind when browsing for lifejackets.
Sizing and Style
One of the more obvious features that differ between brands is the fit of the jacket itself. Each vest maker will have specific size guidelines – and this will differ between each vendor. Be sure to follow these closely to ensure that your jacket will have the best fit. If the jacket is shared between people, it may be good to invest in a style that includes a lot of straps. This provides more flexibility in sizing while still maintaining a safe and snug fit.
Another thing to keep in mind is how you will be storing your life jacket. Does it need to be deflated after each trip? How many jackets will need to fit on your boat? There are a variety of jackets on the market that don’t inflate until immersed in water, making for a slim fit for wear and for storage. Some styles make for easy storage, and others are bulkier.
Depending on your activity, you may want a certain style of jacket. If it is used for a lot of water sports, you may want a more sleek or fitted design. If you’re planning to take the vest on your next fishing trip, you may want to select a jacket with more muted colors. However, you may want to research the vests that include reflective piping for night visibility. Regardless of your activity, having a proper-fitting life vest onboard for each individual will ensure the safety of you and your crew.
Pockets
One of the most important features of a lifejacket for fishermen is the amount of storage built into the jacket itself. Do you need to have all your fishing accessories stashed in your jacket and ready for the next big catch? The number of pockets varies greatly between brand and even style of jacket. There are jackets specialized for any seamen’s needs down to extra tool holders and strobe loops. Also, some pockets might be waterproof while others are not. This is something to consider when selecting the jacket appropriate for your needs.
Activity
However you spend your time out on the water, it’s more enjoyable knowing that every member of your crew is safe and comfortable. Depending on your activity level, this could greatly impact your selection of life jackets.
For kids or poor swimmers, it is important to find a life jacket that is properly fitting and approved by the coastguard. This will keep them safe and secure in the water.
For paddlers, fishermen, and other participants in water sports, mobility is an important factor for a life vest. Some vests are designed with large armholes to increase mobility. Others have a sleek design with fewer pockets to allow a full range of motion.
Safety on the Water
As with any boating-related equipment, safety comes first. Finding a life jacket that fits you and your needs on the water is essential to being safe. Knowing your state regulations with life jackets is vital to the well-being of all on board. Having the proper life jackets can save you from a citation of $50, but up to $1,000 depending on your state, from the U.S. Coast Guard.
If you are in the Southern California area and want to learn more about boating safety, BoaterU is a great place to start. With over 34 years of experience in boater education, our team specializes in courses designed to help you feel confident and comfortable on the water. With online, in the classroom, and on the water training options, our boating courses have been carefully crafted to meet the needs of new and experienced boaters alike.
