Most people think of life jackets as something only children or inexperienced swimmers need, but that’s not the case. Everyone can benefit from wearing a life jacket, especially in dangerous or unfamiliar waters. Here’s what you need to know about life jackets for adults.
There are many different types of life jackets available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that will suit your needs. If you plan on spending time in the water, opt for a life jacket that is comfortable and won’t hinder your movement. You should also make sure that the jacket is properly sized – too small and it won’t be effective, too large and it will be uncomfortable.
In terms of safety, all life jackets must meet certain standards set by the United States Coast Guard. That said, some jackets are better than others. For example, some have special features like reflective strips or built-in whistle which can help you attract attention if you find yourself in trouble.
No matter what type of life jacket you choose, wearing it is always better than not wearing one at all. So next time you head out on the water, don’t forget to strap on your life jacket – it could save your life.
Life Jackets for Adults # 1) Stohlquist Fit Adult PFD Life Vest | Pack of 4 | Coast Guard Approved, Adjustable Size, Unisex, Lightweight, High Mobility, PVC Free Life Jacket – Value Pack
Product Summary:
Assuming you would like a description of the product:
The Stohlquist Fit Adult PFD Life Vest is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality, Coast Guard approved life jacket. This vest is adjustable in size, making it a great choice for both men and women. It is also lightweight and highly mobile, making it a great choice for those who are always on the go. Best of all, this vest is PVC free, making it a safe choice for those who are concerned about the environment.
A 5-Star Review: Shipping was extremely fast got them, I’m like two days!, the material is great, and comfortable and light!, will definitely look for other products from them!
A Critical Review: Size & comfort could be greatly improved
Life Jackets for Adults # 2) XGEAR Adult USCG Life Jacket Water Sports Life Vest
Product Summary: – Swimming Vest Type II – Boating Vest for Men Women and Kids – Perfect for Kayaking, Sailing, Canoeing, Paddleboarding
Looking for a reliable and comfortable life jacket? Look no further than the XGEAR Adult USCG Life Jacket. This life vest is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and is perfect for water sports and activities like kayaking, sailing, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The vest is made of durable and comfortable materials, and features adjustable straps for a perfect fit. It also has multiple pockets for storing belongings, and comes in a variety of colors and sizes to suit your needs.
A 5-Star Review: Easy to put on great fit
A Critical Review: It is not as represented in the picture it is short rather than long as the picture appears. But it seems like good quality adding the length for all sizes in the purchasing information would help
Life Jackets for Adults # 3) AIRHEAD Adult Type II Keyhole Life Jacket, 4-Pack, Multiple Colors Available
Product Summary:
The AIRHEAD Adult Type II Keyhole Life Jacket is a great choice for boaters and fishermen alike. With its tough, durable construction and comfortable fit, this life jacket is perfect for those who spend long hours on the water. The keyhole design provides easy on and off, while the multiple colors available allow you to customize your look.
A 5-Star Review: Nice set
A Critical Review: Uncomfortable to have on all the time
Life Jackets for Adults # 4) Mustang Survival Auto Inflate PFD – MIT 100 Auto, Lightweight Life Jacket for Adults
Product Summary:
A PFD that people want to wear? Yep, we built that. An innovative approach to flotation perfect for adventures that keep the shore within sight, the MIT 100 Auto offers a streamlined, comfortable and easy-to-wear solution for all day wear or quick trips on the water. Got guests joining you on board? This is the PFD they’ll fight over. Adjustable waist belt offers customized fit and can accommodate outerwear if needed. Large arm cut outs mean full mobility. Automatic inflation deploys when submerged in water – not before. Manual inflation handle slides away for safety, and is easily accessible if you need to deploy by hand. Membrane Inflatable Technology means a light, flexible fit, and easy re-packing when it comes time to recharge. Make your inshore days memorable in a PFD you don’t have to think twice about. Model: MD2016
A 5-Star Review: The best life vest is the one you never have to use. This one was purchased specifically for a fly-in fishing trip to northern Quebec. Summertime water temp is in the low 60’s and can quickly become incapacitating so good PFD’s are a must. This fits the bill nicely. There are plenty of vests available at lower prices, but the Mustang brand is high quality and very reliable. It certainly beats spending days wrapped in a bulky, clammy conventional foam vest.
A Critical Review: Was led to believe it was made here, they don’t say that but give you that impression had I known this I would have bought another BRAND that is made in the USA ( St***ns)
Life Jackets for Adults # 5) O’Brien Mens Traditional Neoprene Life Jacket
Product Summary:
The O‘Brien Men‘s Traditional Neoprene Life Jacket is a great choice for those who want a reliable and comfortable life jacket. This life jacket is made with neoprene material that is both durable and comfortable. It also has adjustable straps that allow you to get a perfect fit. The O‘Brien Men‘s Traditional Neoprene Life Jacket is a great choice for those who want a reliable and comfortable life jacket.
A 5-Star Review: My God this thing is small. I normally wear an XL size shirt and sometimes even a large. Well I ordered a 2XL and I can barely zip the zipper up. I need to lose weight anyways so it’s not gonna be a problem next year, but dang this thing is small. Aside from that I like the way it looks, it’s a nice feeling material. Very light and mobile with it on.
A Critical Review: The Neoprene Life Jacket looks perfect, but the “L” size did not fit, even though we carefully followed the instructions in the ad. Worst of all, now that I need to return the product because it didn’t fit, the supplier is charging UPS for the return. I had planned to buy a larger one, but I am very discouraged knowing their return policy is so unfair.
Life Jackets for Adults # 6) Stohlquist Fit Unisex Adult Life Jacket PFD – Coast Guard Approved, Easily Adjustable for Full Mobility, Lightweight, PVC Free | Universal and Oversize
Product Summary:
The Fit PFD is a high mobility vest for paddling, general boating, and personal watercraft use. The sculpted front and back foam panels create a more appropriate fit for paddle sports, while still providing the ability to be used in other boating activities.
A 5-Star Review: I have not had to use this vest in an emergency situation yet (and hopefully never will), but am required by law to have a pfd on a kayak. “I can’t wait to put on this beautifully tailored pfd”, said no one ever. But at least this Stohlquist pfd makes you hate following the rules a little less. It is relatively compact and mostly fits this midget; which is pretty impressive for a “universal” garment of any type. I am 5’3″ and 120#, after tightening this vest appropriately I only have about 1 inch left on each side to tighten. Luckily, I’m in no danger of losing weight. However, if you are a very, very thin person and/or have an exceptionally small frame, this “universal” pfd may be too large for you. I am able to paddle with ease and I have not had an issue with the pfd riding up when I am seated (I do have a moderately long torso for a short person), unlike others have mentioned in their reviews. Overall, I am very happy with this purchase. Thank you Stohlquist for a quality product. Side note: Amazon sent an adult oversize (lol!) to me in error, but because Amazon has awesome customer service, I was sent the correct one a day and a half later. Sending the mislabeled one back was very easy (and free).
A Critical Review: Size Warning: regular adult size vest is rated for 90 Pounds Max. I had to return it and get the oversized adult. Thanks vendor.
Straps are adjustable so it fits fine and is better for busty ladies.
It’s OK for a paddleboard, because you are standing up and it has low-cut arms and it seems to sit okay in a chair like being on a boat… BUT for a kayak, since it was mid-Hip length on me, when I sat down, it pushed up beside my ears which was uncomfortable . I had to release bottom buckle to pull it down.
Some types also have thicker back padding… something else to consider when picking a vest for a kayak. This one is not too thick, just too long for me.
So I went to Walmart and tried some on and found a mid-Waist length for use in the kayak, and sat down in it first in the store.
I would recommend going to a store and trying on a few different types to see how they fit and feel for how you’ll use them, then if you want to find a good deal go back on Amazon.
I also learned that life vests are rated for different activities. Some are for flat, calm water and others are for water sports like skiing, tubing, etcetera. So think about usage. Good Luck.
Have a Fun and Safe Summer!
Life Jackets for Adults # 7) NAXER Swimming Vests for Adults – Inflatable Kayak Safety Jackets for Kayaking Paddling Snorkeling Boating Canoeing – Packable Lightweight Water Sports Jackets for Men and Women 90-160 lbs
Product Summary:
This kayak life jacket is easy to set up and to deflate. Once deflated, it doesn’t take up much space in your case so that you’ll definitely have much more space for other devices or fishing stuff, comparing with that of most other adult life jackets.
A 5-Star Review: Our space is at a premium in our motorhome. We had to get some life vests that would store flat. So we ordered these. We will be using these to kayak. It seems like a great vest for the kayak. I don’t think I would use it for swimming. It stores flat which is what I wanted. there is an inflator valve like a snorkel vest that you can see to blow up the kayak.
A Critical Review: I am 5’8″ and 160 lbs, and this “airline flotation vest” does not fit a woman who wears a 36D bra size! “Skin friendly” material? If crunchy plastic feels nice to you, then ok?
Life Jackets for Adults # 8) Absolute Outdoor Kent Clear Storage Bag with Type II Life Jackets, 4 Each (Adult, Orange)
Product Summary:
Onyx stowage bag with 4 type II life jackets, part number 102200-200-004-12, keeps your vests in one place & provides convenient storage. Stored in a clear bag for easy viewing. Includes four adult Universal sized type II life jackets. Convenient strap for carrying ease.
A 5-Star Review: Purposed 2 sets of these to keep on our boat in the event we are pulled over for a life jacket inspection. The bags are well constructed and make storing these in the boats convenient.
A Critical Review: I threw this set under the sun pad near the engine. Turns out, after six weeks the vests have mildew on them and there is condensation in the bag. I was hoping I could just leave this pack in the boat but that’s not the case.
Life Jackets for Adults # 9) Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket, Blue
Product Summary:
The Onyx A/M–24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket is a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket that is comfortable to wear and provides peace of mind in the event of an emergency. This life jacket is ideal for boating, fishing, sailing, and any other activities near water. The A/M–24 life jacket features an inflatable bladder that will automatically inflate when submerged in water, and can also be manually inflated by pulling a cord. This life jacket also has a bright blue color for high visibility, and a durable nylon shell that will withstand years of use.
A 5-Star Review: I admit there has not been a need to deploy this vest as of yet, but it looks very well made and I see no issues to cause me concern. I’m 100% happy with this vest.
A Critical Review: The item arrived too late for our trip so have not used this particular item ( but have used others like it before that worked well).
I tried to return it after we returned from our trip but were advised that it is not returnable because it has a gas cartridge used to inflate the vest.
So if you buy it, it is yours.
No returns accepted
Life Jackets for Adults # 10) Stohlquist Fisherman Adult Men’s Life Jacket – Excellent Cockpit Management, Dual Front-Mounted Pockets, Easy Mounts for Equipment – High Back for Kayak Seating | Small/Medium, Khaki
Product Summary:
The Stohlquist Fisherman Adult Men’s Life Jacket is a great choice for boaters and anglers alike. With its comfortable design and ample storage, this life jacket will keep you safe and comfortable on the water. The bright orange color ensures that you’ll be visible to rescue crews in the event of an emergency, and the adjustable straps make it easy to find the perfect fit. Whether you’re fishing for your dinner or just cruising around the lake, the Stohlquist Fisherman Adult Men’s Life Jacket is a great choice for staying safe on the water.
A 5-Star Review: For your information, I’m 5’9″ and around 160lb, bought a L/XL and it perfectly fits me. As it has a lot of adjustable parts, it will also fit people much bigger than I am.
Before using this, I used to wear a PFD with a fully padded back and it was really annoying because the backrest of the chair on my kayak kept pushing my PFD upward while I was paddling or fishing on it. But with the arrival of this one, all my pain disappeared. After paddling 7-8 miles and spending a few hours fishing, I felt really comfortable, the PFD wasn’t going anywhere, and there was no issue.
Do not buy a cheap one and come back and buy this one as I did, but just buy a good one at once to save your money and time.
I highly recommend this one and I don’t think it would be waste of money.
A Critical Review: Seemed great and was a clear winner for a PFD for a kayak but for fishing it fails for my use. I wanted a PFD that could hold my gear while walking rivers/streams in waders. But the pockets are too small to hold even the smallest of fishing containers.
Life Jackets for Adults # 11) O’Brien 4 Pack General Purpose Life Jackets
Product Summary:
If you’re looking for a comfortable, affordable life jacket, the O’Brien 4 Pack General Purpose Life Jackets is the perfect choice. These life jackets are designed for adults and children over 90 lbs. and feature a durable nylon shell and foam interior for a comfortable, secure fit. The bright red color ensures high visibility in the water, and the jackets come in a handy 4-pack so you can keep one in the car, boat, or RV for emergency use.
A 5-Star Review: Good vests, served its purpose. Great value with the 4 pack. I would recommend this pack
A Critical Review: This items run very small for any adult, my wife has a small frame and it barely fits her. No sure what kinds of adult will it fit.
Life Jackets for Adults # 12) Stearns Adult Watersport Classic Series Vest
Product Summary:
The Stearns Adult Watersport Classic Series Vest is a great choice for anyone who loves spending time in the water. This vest is made with a durable nylon shell and a comfortable polyester lining, so you can enjoy your time in the water without having to worry about the vest wearing out. The Stearns Adult Watersport Classic Series Vest also has a convenient zip–front closure, so you can easily get in and out of the vest. This vest also comes with a safety whistle, so you can always be prepared in case of an emergency.
A 5-Star Review: Very happy with this vest , bought 2 for paddleboarding
A Critical Review: It is a very small fit.
Life Jackets for Adults # 13) Zeraty Adult Life Jacket Men Womens Swim Vest Life Vest Buoyancy Aid Jacket for Swimming, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Paddle Boating
Product Summary:, Fishing, Waterskiing
The Zeraty Adult Life Jacket is the perfect life vest for men and women who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boating, fishing, and waterskiing. This life jacket is made of high-quality materials and is designed to provide maximum buoyancy and safety while you’re enjoying your favorite water activities. The Zeraty Adult Life Jacket is comfortable to wear and provides plenty of room for movement, so you can focus on having fun and staying safe.
A 5-Star Review: I like swin jacket.sizing is a little off. I ordered a large based on size chart but didnt quite fit. I gave it to lmy wife and fits her perfect. Select one size bigger than you think. Not rated by Coast Guard if that is important to you. that is why it is cheaper than the ones that have the Coast Guard approval.
Life Jackets for Adults # 14) Zeraty Life Jacket Adult Swim Vest Buoyancy Aid Swim Jackets Snorkel Vest for Fishing Sailing Surfing Boating Kayaking
Product Summary: Drifting
The Zeraty Life Jacket is a versatile and durable life jacket that is perfect for a variety of activities. It is made of high-quality materials and is designed to provide maximum comfort and safety. The jacket is available in a variety of sizes and colors to suit your needs.
A 5-Star Review: This life vest is light and fits well!
Life Jackets for Adults # 15) Guide Gear Universal Adult Life Vest Jacket, Kayak Accessories, Fishing, Swim, Sailing, Type III
Product Summary:
The Guide Gear water sports jacket for women and men is great for use during water sports such as water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, sailing and swimming. The life jacket for women and men has been designed for a comfortable fit, featuring 3 adjustable buckle belts. The polyethylene foam inserts are ultra-lightweight and keep you safe. The polyester shell is robust and durable for reliability during regular use.
The Guide Gear water sports jacket for women and men is also U.S. Coast Guard approved and features a Type III flotation device. The silk-screened graphics make this jacket unique and stylish. The jacket is made of 100% polyester Oxford material and is 1″ webbing for sure fit. The jacket fits chest (30″ – 52″) and is universal fits chest (30″ – 52″). The jacket is also available in 2XL/3XL.
Life Jackets for Adults # 16) Mustang Survival Auto Inflate Fishing Life Vest – Elite 28 HIT, Automatic/Manual Life Jacket for Adults
Product Summary:
The Elite 28 auto inflate life vest is a front-entry PFD. This front entry automatic inflatable PFD has a 3D chassis designed to reduce drag in high-speed conditions. This revolutionary construction is lightweight and mobility-enhancing. Wide shoulders eliminate neck fatigue, and the wicking mesh liner creates all-day comfort. The intuitive dual-side adjusters allow you to customize your fit and accommodate outerwear. The Hydrostatic Inflator Technology (HIT) automatically inflates under water pressure, while the manual inflation handle enables you to deploy the vest at any time. When inflated, the vest displays high visibility contrasting fabric for increased safety in rescue situations. The Elite 28 Hydrostatic Inflatable PFD provides 28 lbs of buoyancy.
A 5-Star Review: You’ll be more comfortable and actually enjoy putting a vest on every time you jump in your boat
A Critical Review: Comfortable vest but for a small women like me it puffs out in the back. Probably great for a larger person. The 3 stars is due to the following things that I did not realize when I purchased the vest. 1-not designed for activities such as water skiing, riding personal watercraft. 2-checking that the cylinder is full should be periodically checked and if red must be rearmed. 3-to rearm the vest you need to purchase the Mustang Survival Re-arm kit. 4-suggested that a record be kept on the inspections. 5-the US Coast Guard recommends purchasing 2 rearming kits; one to be used immediately in ‘testing’ the automatic inflation system and the other to carry as a spare.
6- It is NOT recommended for weak or non-swimmers.
Therefore not for me due to too much servicing needs and I am not a good swimmer.
I just need a simple- good life vest.
Life Jackets for Adults # 17) ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket
Product Summary:, Red, Adult
The Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket is a great choice for boaters, fishermen, and anyone who enjoys being on the water. This life jacket is comfortable to wear and provides peace of mind in the event of an emergency. The Onyx A/M-24 inflates automatically when submerged in water, or can be manually inflated with the included CO2 cartridge. The bright red color ensures that you will be visible in the water, and the jacket is USCG approved.
A 5-Star Review: Wife tipped on our first kayak trip and the vest automatically inflated just as promised. If you purchase this I would definitely recommend you buy a few extra inflation kits. We moved it to manual inflation for future trips in shallow water.
Buy and enjoy the peace of mind that it will work and that you are safe. Wife said it’s super comfortable.
A Critical Review: Comfortable and affordable is great. But so is truth in advertising. This is strictly an AUTO life vest and can not be switched into manual only mode.
Life Jackets for Adults # 18) Astral, EV-Eight Women’s PFD, Breathable Life Jacket for Kayaking, Touring, Canoeing
Product Summary:
The Ev-Eight breathable PFD is made of 100% recycled polyester and features a bluesign-certified shell. It is lightweight and ergonomically designed with polyester mesh lining that helps to keep you breathing easily. The Ev-Eight hardware is fortified with durable, heavy-duty acetal and features easy entry and wear with center front zipper. The Ev-Eight life jacket supports 16 lb of buoyancy (or one 333 lb person) and carries USCG Type III Approval.
A 5-Star Review: This is my second one. I had 3 back surgeries and gained a bit too much weight to fit into the other one had to buy a new one. I love the cut out back design so you’re not pushed forward when you’re paddling.
Life Jackets for Adults # 19) A Vebodi | POP UP Vest | SURF Impact Vest | Life Jacket |
Product Summary: Wakeboard Vest
A Vebodi POP UP Vest is a high quality and durable impact vest that is perfect for any water sports enthusiast. The vest is made with a durable and comfortable neoprene material that will keep you safe and protected while you are out on the water. The vest also features a convenient pop up design that makes it easy to put on and take off. The vest is also equipped with a life jacket that will keep you safe and secure while you are out on the water.
Life Jackets for Adults # 20) Stohlquist Fisherman Lifejacket (PFD)-OliveGreen-L/XL
Product Summary:
The Fisherman is a great choice for anglers who want good cockpit management with places for the little things that could end up in your seat or overboard. Dual front-mounted tool pouch pockets have protective EVA stiffened outer shells to protect pocket contents, and act as fold down workstations.
A 5-Star Review: Very nice vest, I’m 5’9” 200lbs, about 45” chest, fits well with room for larger adjustment. The back is vented well and no padding on back so I can sit against my seat on my sit-on kayak. My other vest had too much padding/ floatation on the back and it jacked my back up fishing/ paddling. If you want a fishing kayak life vest, this is the one to buy! Bob
Life Jackets for Adults # 21) Swim Vest Float Jacket for Adult, Float Suit for Kayaking Fishing Surfing Canoeing Sailing
Product Summary:
The Swim Vest Float Jacket is perfect for adults who enjoy kayaking, fishing, surfing, canoeing, or sailing. The vest provides excellent flotation and support, while the comfortable design allows for full range of motion. The jacket is made of durable, breathable material that will keep you cool and comfortable in the water.
A 5-Star Review: I got this because it’s more compact and sleek looking than other life jackets. I like the side opening.
But I truly got to test it out after falling into the Pudget sound while crabbing. It helped a lot when swimming to get back to my board and grab my gear.
A Critical Review: Great material, however, the belt slides easily through the buckle, it does not remain tighten.
Life Jackets for Adults # 22) Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket
Product Summary:
The Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket is a high performance, lightweight life jacket that is perfect for boaters, kayakers, and canoeists. The life jacket is made from durable and comfortable materials, and it has a variety of features that make it perfect for any water activity. The life jacket has a crotch strap that keeps it in place, and it also has a front zip closure that makes it easy to put on and take off. The life jacket also has a variety of pockets that are perfect for storing snacks, keys, and other small items. The Stohlquist Edge Life Jacket is a great choice for any water activity, and it will keep you safe and comfortable while you enjoy the water.
A 5-Star Review: We’ve done a lot of long distance kayak races, including, 10 times 1st Place in class Everglades Challenge and 8 times 1st Place among all paddle craft. We wore this pfd during this last Everglades Challenge 2021. We got another first place overall this last year with a second best time ever. We wore the Edge Life Jacket and found them to be the most comfortable, and therefore the best, long distance pfd we’ve ever worn.
A Critical Review: Not a life jacket for women. Earlier feedback mentioned the same thing but also said that she was big chested. I am small chested and I grew up wearing male or unisex life jackets so I thought I would be fine. It is not. The way this one is made, it just hits in the wrong places. Men, go ahead and get it. Women, look elsewhere no matter what size you are.
Life Jackets for Adults # 23) Airhead Women’s CAMO COOL Kwik-Dry Neolite Flex Life Jacket
Product Summary:
The Airhead Camo Cool Pink life vest is made of lightweight, quick-drying materials and features oversized arm holes for freedom of movement. USCG approved Type III
A 5-Star Review: Beautiful design, fabric and fit. Love it!
A Critical Review: This item was much smaller than advertised. I ordered the largest size and according to measurements should have fit my wife but it does not. She loves the look and feel of the material but unfortunately cannot wear it.
Life Jackets for Adults # 24) Stohlquist Fisherman Adult Men’s Life Jacket – Excellent Cockpit Management, Dual Front-Mounted Pockets for Equipment – High Back Ultimate Comfort for Kayak Seating
Product Summary:
The Fisherman is a great choice if you’re looking for a cockpit management system that has places for the little things. It has front-mounted tool pockets that are protected by EVA stiffened outer shells, making them perfect for storing your tools. Additionally, the system has fold-down workstations that make it easy to get to whatever you need.
A 5-Star Review: I bought this for my son as a birthday gift. He and my DIL love to boat and fish. These have ample arm space for fly fishing and are also quality enough for rafting.
Will buy this again.
A Critical Review: It’s a great fishing kayak vest for a male 😀 but it doesn’t fit the female anatomy on top.
Life Jackets for Adults # 25) Life Jackets for Adults, Fit Unisex Adult PFD Life Jacket, Easily Adjustable for Full Mobility, Lightweight Buoyancy Foam, Traditional Neoprene Aid Swim Jackets
Product Summary:
The PFD life jacket is a unisex adult life jacket that is easily adjustable for full mobility. The life jacket is made with lightweight buoyancy foam and traditional neoprene aid swim jackets. The life jacket is USCG approved and is great for swimming, boating, and kayaking.
Life Jackets for Adults # 26) Airhead Element Life Jacket | Open Sided PFD | Child, Youth and Adult Sizes Available
Product Summary:
The Airhead Element Life Jacket is a versatile and comfortable life jacket that is perfect for both children and adults. It is an open-sided life jacket that provides plenty of room to move and breathe, and the soft, comfortable fabric ensures a comfortable fit. The Airhead Element Life Jacket is available in child, youth, and adult sizes, so there is a perfect fit for everyone.
A 5-Star Review: The vest fits great, useful, pretty good price.
A Critical Review: super small!! would fit maybe a 3 or 4 year old, not any larger than that. The quality was good
Life Jackets for Adults # 27) Full Throttle Women’s Rapid Dry Flex Back Life Jacket
Product Summary:
The Rapid-Dry Flex-Back women’s vest offers snug, superior comfort while providing a sleek, stylish look to your next on-water adventure. The front and back segmented foam provide a snug and secure fit without hindering your movement. The “Rapid Dry” fabric is quick-drying, stretchable, and lightweight for all-day comfort on the water. The flexible “Flex-Back” fabric on the back of the vest allows for maximum maneuverability during active water sports activities. Stay safely and securely fastened with a zipper closure and adjustable belts. This U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada approved life jacket fits adults 90 lbs. and over.
A 5-Star Review: I’m 5’6” 140 lbs and it fit good. I prob could have went up a size but when it’s wet it fits good. Very pretty too. I got the medium.
A Critical Review: This seemed to be a really nice vest but it runs small and I returned it i erally couldn’t rate it for comfort or stretch since I couldn’t fit it despite ordering up a size. I found another less expensive one so I didn’t reorder this one. I do think this one is nice but be sure to order up a size (or two).
Life Jackets for Adults # 28) SportsStuff Stars and Stripes Life Jacket | Child, Youth and Adult
Product Summary:
The SportsStuff Stars and Stripes Life Jacket is a USCG approved life jacket that is perfect for any boating or water activity. It is comfortable and stylish with a red, white and blue design. The life jacket is available in child, youth and adult sizes.
A 5-Star Review: Great vest for the money. Fits him well, not too thick and he’s comfortable in it. No crotch strap but he doesn’t need it. He has used it at the lake twice now and color hasn’t bled. He is 7 years old, 4′ 1″ tall and about 52 lbs.
A Critical Review: 😡MAD. I purchased two vests for my (12 yro/112 lbs) son—Adult Large and I (5’9/180 lbs)— ADULT XXL, to go to the beach on Memorial Day weekend.
I literally received the vests like 10 minutes ago. I opened the box and one is adult size small and one is adult size XXL. THEY ARE LITERALLY THE SAME SIZE! I tried both on although obviously they by appearance look the exact same size. What the heck? I’m keeping both because I don’t feel like sending it back — BUT BUYER BEWARE! 🤔 (PS. Yes, I referred to the sizing reference chart.)
Life Jackets for Adults # 29) ONYX Mesh Classic Sport Life Jacket, Navy, 3X-Large
Product Summary:
The ONYX Mesh Classic Sport Life Jacket is a durable and comfortable life jacket that is ideal for boating, fishing, and other water activities. It is made of durable polyester mesh and features a comfortable fit with adjustable straps. The life jacket also has two zippered pockets for storing small items.
A 5-Star Review: Easy to adjust.
Life Jackets for Adults # 30) Full Throttle Adult Rapid Dry Neoprene Life Jacket, S/M, Aqua
Product Summary:
Match up this Full Throttle Rapid Dry adult vest with the Full Throttle infant, child, youth, and teen Rapid Dry vests for a complete family look. The Adult Rapid Dry life jacket offers bright colors to be seen and safe on the water. The Rapid Dry fabric is quick-drying, stretchable, and lightweight to provide comfort and offers greater mobility for today’s active water sports enthusiast. The three adjustable belts ensure a snug, yet comfortable fit and is dual-sized to fit more body types and sizes. Fits adults 90 lbs. and over. U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada approved.
Life Jackets for Adults # 31) NRS Ninja Kayak Lifejacket (PFD)
Product Summary:
The NRS Ninja Kayak Lifejacket (PFD) is a top–of–the–line lifejacket that is perfect for kayakers of all levels. It is made with durable materials and comes with a variety of features that make it perfect for use on the water. The NRS Ninja Kayak Lifejacket (PFD) is comfortable to wear and provides plenty of buoyancy to keep you safe on the water.
A 5-Star Review: This lifejacket seems great. I love how it is low profile so it doesnt get in your way of your arms. Because it is low profile it is thicker than your average lifejacket but that is probably because it needs to be since its smaller. I like the pocket in front and the hand warmers. However, I did end up returning it and going with the Astral, Ceiba Life Jacket instead. Where this jacket sits on my abdomen, causes me a bit of discomfort but keep in mind due to a few medical conditions I have any kind of pressure on certain areas of my abdomen cause me pain. Even when I tried to loosen the straps it still just didn’t feel as comfortable as the Astral. I also like how the Astral goes on like a jacket where you zip and connect one strap whereas the Ninja you have to put over your head and then connect 2 straps on the side – it made it a bit clumsier to put on. Overall, if this is comfortable for you, I think its great especially for those who paddle and want more arm swing without scaping on the jacket. I didnt try in the water. Also, they don’t offer free returns – and you have to print the label. Not very convenient.
A Critical Review: This is a very nice PFD, but it’s super chunky in the front and back, which was very uncomfortable in my high backed kayak seat with lumbar support. It would be great with a back band or low seat, however. The hand warmer in the front is awesome and it’s loaded with pockets and features. Very well made, though not super forgiving on your boobs since it’s pretty rock hard. Just think twice if your seats are higher, that’s all. I purchased a Stohlquist Flo instead. Not nearly as low profile, but definitely fits my seat with zero hinderance, and it’s anatomically made for a woman’s body.
Life Jackets for Adults # 32) Zeraty Adult Life Jacket Swim Vest Buoyancy Aid Jacket PFD for Fishing Sailing Surfing Boating Kayaking for Water Sports
Product Summary: Safety Survival
The Zeraty Adult Life Jacket Swim Vest is a great choice for those who enjoy water sports and activities. The vest is made of high quality materials and provides good buoyancy and comfort. It is designed to provide safety and security while swimming, fishing, sailing, surfing, or boating. The vest is available in different sizes to fit most body types and comes with adjustable straps for a comfortable and secure fit.
A 5-Star Review: I’m 5’11, 205 lbs and I took a chance on this despite being too heavy for the recommendations. Although it may not be able to keep me above water on it’s own(untested), it’s very roomy and does not inhibit my kayaking movements at all. I’ll update once I find out if it can keep me afloat on it’s own.
A Critical Review: Did not float well enough. I returned it.
Life Jackets for Adults # 33) Stohlquist Men’s Drifter Lifejacket (PFD)
Product Summary:
The Stohlquist Men‘s Drifter Lifejacket is a great choice for any kayaker or canoeist. This PFD is comfortable and stylish, with a mesh back panel that allows for breathability and quick drying. The Drifter also has a large front pocket for storage, and adjustable straps to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
A 5-Star Review: The life jacket fit perfect. Very comfortable.
Conclusion:
Without a doubt, life jackets are a must for anyone spending time on the water. Whether you’re an experienced swimmer or not, a life jacket can save your life in the event of an accident. And while life jackets for adults come in a variety of shapes and sizes, it’s important to find one that fits you properly. With so many different options on the market, there’s no excuse not to be safe while enjoying the water.
If you need help finding the best life jackets to enjoy your favorite water activities, we have a few suggestions of our own. You can read all about them here>>