11 Best Life Jackets in 2025
We’ve tested these vests on efoils, skiing, kayaking and motor boating. We compare them based on comfort and the experience between three wearers of different size and shape.
Finding a life vest that’s comfortable should be as important as it saving your life. It’s not, but it can be, so why not get the product that does both well.
Legally, a life jacket is required on all boats and for water sports it has to be worn. For the latter finding one with at least 50 Newtons of buoyancy is the way to go for adults weighing up to 150-160 pounds (70-75 kg) for example. Take a look at the Newton (expressed like “50N”) for towing and efoiling.
These options include personal floatation devices designed by activity with a focus on explaining each product’s features, quality and corresponding price.
The Top 6 Life Jackets & Vests in 2025
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1
Flexible, Soft, Reliable: O’Neill Men’s Reactor -
2
Easy-on/off, Simple Paddling: NRS Vapor -
3
Affordable, Reliable Tow Sports: Stearns Adult Classic -
4
Wakeboarding: Stohlquist Fit -
5
Women's Waterskiing Favorite: O’Brien Focus Women's Neoprene -
6
Affordable Extra Vest: Onyx General Purpose
All the Life Jackets & Vests We've tested
The first pick for the high-end life jackets would be O’Neill ‘Men’s Life vest. That’s because if you are seeking for impressive comfort, design, and free movement, and you have the budget to spend on it… O’Neill life vest would be the perfect fit for you. It comes with an attractive and non-thick design. Extra cushioning is added for maximum comfort and reliability.
On the whole, this is an excellent life vest. It is elegantly designed, and it comes with extra cushion and padding for greater comfort during watersports. It is definitely worth the cost.
- Suitable for multiple watersports
- 2 easy-to-remove buckles
- Minimal bulk design
- Priced at $136
Things we like:
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The comfortable structure and design make it perfectly suitable for various water-related activities. -
Due to its elegant design, the person using it is granted with considerable mobility and freedom.
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US Coast Guard approved.
Things we don't like:
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The stomach padding area is too thick, and this might cause overheating. -
There aren’t any pockets, and this counts as quite a considerable disadvantage when we are speaking of high-end life jackets. On the other side, comfort, design, and effectiveness are the things that make it up for the price.
The NRS Vapor features a lightweight and side-entry design for faster and easier put-on and off operations. What’s even better about this PFD is that there is a large zippered compartment of the front side of the vest. Besides small stuff such as a whistle and a band, you can keep larger essentials in the pocket too. On top of that, a lash tab is added to the front design that keeps your knife within reach.
This paddling-first but boating-friendly PFD features simplicity with a bit more functionality than more expensive models of PFDs. It’s very compelling as a competitor to the Stohlquist Trekker previously reviewed above.
- 18 inches wide
- 1 large zippered compartment
- Side-entry design
- Features soft and flexible foam
- Made of high-quality materials – 200D Nylon
- Priced at $80
Things we like:
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The large front compartment allows you to keep essentials in a hand-reach.
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Added cushion for excellent comfort and convenience. You simply put this life vest on and participate in any water-related activity without any movement restrictions.
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The life jacket is extremely lightweight, and you can carry it anywhere without much effort.
Things we don't like:
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Some customers complain about having a rash during paddling. So if you are highly allergic to any kind of Nylon or polyester, you might skip this option.
The universal Stearns Series life jacket is one of those flotation vests that we see on ski boats and fishing vessels equipped with extra safety gear (required by law).
It is made from nylon, a standard and proven material. It’s very workable for most water sports such as wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, and more. There’s not the same range of motion freedom for paddling, so it’s not ideal for anything more than casual kayaking or paddleboarding.
The vest has 3 adjustable straps so you can make amends depending on your comfort and preference.
It has a simple design, it costs under $50 and it is US Coast Guard-approved.
- The vest is available in 2 colors: Red and Blue.
- Constructed from Nylon
- 3 buckle straps available
- It’s suitable for adults who weigh over 90 pounds.
- It’s priced at $25
Things we like:
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It has added nylon foam to its design which delivers extra comfort and convenience when you put the life jacket on.
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Suitable for multiple water-based activities. It’s definitely a reliable option which you can use any time even when diving.
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The PFD is quite comfortable to adjust so it can fit your size and create a coveted comfort without much effort.
Things we don't like:
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It’s not particularly suitable for any size. As we mentioned earlier, if you are overweight or very skinny, you might want to refer to another life jacket that covers your weight & size.
Where to buy Stohlquist Fit:
Amazon
The Stohlquist Life Jacket will keep you out of many pickles due to its steadfast design. It has three buckle straps at the front to make sure you are secured in rough conditions. This PFD is Coast Guard approved. The vest only weighs 7 lbs and is ultra-lightweight.
This life jacket is well suited to cover all your floating requirements. The 16 lbs jacket is USCG approved. As a result, it can hold a weight higher than 90 lbs with 30” – 52” chest. The life jacket has a universal fit to support a more considerable amount of people.
- Adjustable three buckle system.
- Sheer back panel.
- Lightweight at 7 lbs.
- Fits adults more significant than 90 lbs and with a 30”-52” chest.
- Bright red and grey color.
Things we like:
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There is a loop at the top of the life jacket that you can use for natural drying and storage afterward.
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The straps are box stitched. This increases the jacket’s durability.
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The PFD is Coast Guard approved, which gives you added reassurance.
Things we don't like:
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It does not fit well on a woman size 6.
Where to buy Stohlquist Fit:
Amazon
This life jacket for women will have you enjoying the water for hours while providing you with a comfortable experience. It has a neo-style design that is modern and trendy. The outer part of the jacket is made from BioLite material for extra breathability. It will undoubtedly give you that edge in the water if you participate in water sports or water activities.
This life jacket is compact and does not weigh that much. It is a fantastic fit that can be adjusted with the two buckle straps. You will manage to put it on and off with relative ease due to the large armholes. This jacket is highly recommended by everyone who has purchased it. It is a good buy for its price range. Check out other life vests for women
- Wide armholes.
- Two adjustable belts.
- US Coast Guard approved.
- Biolite material.
Things we like:
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The biolite construction gives you more room to move and is more breathable.
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The big armholes give you the ease of access and exit.
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The classic zipper with the two strap buckle ensures the life jacket stays snug when worn.
Things we don't like:
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The jacket is limited in color varieties.
Similar to the Stearns Series the Onyx boating vest comes with 3 adjustable straps for excellent comfort. It is also approved from the US Coast Guard.
This is a cheap and versatile vest that’s available in many sizes from enfant to adult. The life jacket has large armholes for better movement when participating in different water-related activities.
On the whole, the Onyx General life vest is a highly comfortable and convenient option. It’s suitable for many water sports, but keep in mind that you will have some issues with your head movement. It’s very lightweight, and you can store it easily anywhere (whether in your dinghy, or in your cabin cruiser) without much effort.
- The life vest is available in 2 different colors – orange and yellow, which are one of the most bright shades. And this is highly important so you can be easily noticed when the jacket is put on.
- 3 adjustable straps
- Large armholes
- Lightweight
- Priced at $13
Things we like:
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Additional foam and cushioning are added to this life jacket assuring you will feel comfortable enough.
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3 adjustable straps so the PFD can fit easily and tight to your body.
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Large armholes are designed so you can move freely without any issues.
Things we don't like:
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Due to the added padding near the neck, the head movement is restricted.
Where to buy O’Brien Men’s Biolite:
Amazon
You will love your time in the water with the O’Brien Men’s BioLite Life Jacket that is US Coastguard approved. The jacket features a breathable design. This will aid in faster drying. A significant feature is that the coat comes with segmented panels. It has large armholes that will significantly improve your range of motion. The vest has two adjustable belts for a snug fit that won’t move around during vigorous activity.
The O’Brien life jacket is equipped with all the necessities you will need to stay upright in the water. The jacket has two adjustable straps that will grant you extra comfort and convenience. The straps will also make sure you are secure and that the coat won’t slip off. This PFD is US Coast Guard approved, which shows it is of high quality.
- BioLite construction.
- 2 adjustable belts.
- It comes in a variety of color options.
- US Coast Guard approved.
- Wide armholes for easy moveability.
Things we like:
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The PWC lanyard comes with an attachment ring that keeps the rope out of your way.
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The BioLite material will ensure breathability and faster drying.
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It comes in a variety of bright colors so you can be visible.
Things we don't like:
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The jackets run two sizes small.
Where to buy O’Brien Men’s Biolite:
Amazon
Where to buy O’Neill Men’s Superlite:
Amazon
The O’Neil Men’s Superlite is the budget-friendly life jacket you will be able to find. It is ultra-lightweight and comes in a stylish design. The life vest can be used for water skiing, tubing, and swimming, or just as a floating device. It doesn’t feature a bulky design, which leaves more room for you to move in. The jacket is made from a durable coated polyester shell and gives a sturdy exterior.
If you need a reliable jacket, this is the pick for you. The coat is well insulated and dries very quickly. The jacket is equipped with four safety buckles ensuring that you are secure. The vest is an excellent buy if safety is your number 1 priority.
- Durable and strong exterior.
- Ultra-lightweight
- Easy to move in.
- Mesh provides quick drainage.
- Dries quickly.
Things we like:
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It comes with four safety buckles to ensure the vest stays secure.
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It uses an overlock stitching that makes the seams robust and reliable.
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The armhole size is strategically measured for optimal safety in any situation.
Things we don't like:
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No collar for supporting head in water
Where to buy O’Neill Men’s Superlite:
Amazon
If you are looking for a compact life jacket, that has an eye-catching design and isn’t bulky…
The Onyx Universal Paddle Vest would be an excellent option for you. Unlike the previous model, this PFD comes without neck cushioning, and you can move your head around easily while paddling. Large armholes are also provided so you can move freely without any issues. A cool feature here that misses most budget PFDs is that this one has additional pockets. Extra pockets are handy when you have to store essentials in a hand-reach. A great avail here is the mesh added to the bottom half of the back. This allows the PFD to filtrate better and produce more excellent airflow so you can avoid any sweat on your back.
All in all, it’s an excellent option for people who participate in watersports most of the time. The life jacket is very lightweight, and you can wear it anywhere without any issues. A decent pick when it comes to comfort and safety.
- Made from neoprene
- Breathable mesh lower back.
- Durable foam back that accommodates back seats
- 6 adjustable straps available for maximum comfort
- It’s priced at $35
Things we like:
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Due to the lack of neck cushion, this paddle vest would be an incredible pick for a vast majority of water sports.
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The large armholes provide extra comfort and free movement when you take part in water-based activities such as kayaking, swimming, boating, and many more.
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The foam added to the back adds incredible comfort.
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It’s exceptionally lightweight and allows you to fit it in any backpack.
Things we don't like:
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A bottom strap isn’t available. This might result in an inappropriate fit and cause the vest to slip off.
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The zipping might cause overheat during a hot day.
Related Reviews
The Best Life Jackets in 2025
There are a couple of crucial things to consider before investing in a life jacket. To come with a vest that fits your personal style and preference perfectly, you’ll have to be aware of essentials such as size, design, weight capacity, color, and others that add supremely to the overall performance of the PFD.
Size
Everything comes down to the size of the life jacket. If the vest is too small, there will be a movement restriction. If it happens to be too large, you’ll have trouble staying afloat. The perfect size is determined when you have the jacket put on, and someone tugs the PFD up. If the jacket doesn’t go up to your neck and nose and stays in its place, congratulations, you’ve found your perfect size.
Design
It’s crucial to have mesh drain panels added to the life jacket. They allow the PFD to dry quicker than average (hours faster), and provide proper ventilation. Thus you will be able to deliver excellent care to your back, avoiding sweating and perspiration. While most life vests are unisex, it’s also important to understand that there are life jackets specifically designed for a certain sex. Women’s life vests, for instance, are specifically designed to accommodate the shape of the female body.
Weight Capacity
Water is denser than air and therefore a person won’t effectively weigh as much in water (less in salt than fresh, too). In other words, a person is more buoyant in water. We know this intuitively when we try to lift someone in a pool or lake and find we can do it, though it’s not possible on land.
Buoyancy is measured by a Newton metric. When listed, they commonly appear as 50N, 70N, 100N and 150N.
10 Newton corresponds to 1 kilogram or 2.2 pounds. As the buoyancy of a person lessens our weight in water, the units of Newton will be less too.
A 50N vest will be ideal for a 150 pounder, a 70N better for heavier or more muscular people.
It’s crucial to be aware of the floating capacity when you are choosing a life vest for tow sports and on yacht toys like efoils and electric surfboards.
Be aware that some PDFs don’t list a Newton rating, but 50N tends to be the standard for an adult vest.
Color
The thought “color being unimportant” probably goes through your mind right now, but let me tell you why this is wrong. Brighter colors, especially orange and yellow, provide better visibility. And people will be able to see you if you are 100 meters away from them. Therefore rescue you.
Materials
Nylon and neoprene are what you are looking for. They provide better durability than other materials. For example – a polyester life vest will last up to 5 years, while a neoprene one will do it for 6 and a half years.
So, after you’ve read this whole guide, you now know why a life vest is crucial to your safety and how to choose one. If you don’t want to bother yourself with buying decisions, we’ve done the dirty work for you and listed the best life jackets, depending on your budget.
Leave a comment below if you already have a life jacket and we will be happy to assist you with anything!
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Comments
That was amazing
Ive had several vests over the years started with an NRS chinook which is still my goto vest. I bought an Onyx vest for the large pockets but it was too large for me so gave to son in law. Now i choose between the NRS chinook and an NRS Ninja i use the ninja more in colder months as it has two side open pouches to keep hands warm.. but i dont like the side opening id rather have zipper in middle with clasp like the chinook
Hi Kimberly. Because we’ve seen that there is in fact a difference and that there is not enough info about it, we researched and wrote a guide to womens life vests. We had some writers test them to see how they’re different. Each model has some unique sizing for comfort and safety. Hope this helps.
what life jacket is best for someone is actively working (crew of 2-3 people)on a sail boat. This is regards my daughter about 120lbs and 5′ 4″. They are on the open sea (pacific). The owner has life jackets but I’ve seen auto inflatable “accesories” that will add extra buoyancy .Such as a waist style device.
Hi there my sister and I are both petite and we are non-swimmers we are planning a trip to the beach we will be playing along the shoreline and may be in the ocean up to at least our waist and in the resort pool we believe in safety first and are looking for a life vest to wear upon our research we have found that there are universal life best in Life vest that are made or promoted for women is there really a difference between the two which one would be better for us also what would be the best class class one class two or class three for what we are using the lifevest for thanks so much I greatly appreciate your information
My 11 year old grandson is a good swimmer, loves the water, but recently had a seizure and will now need to wear a life jacket for lake swimming. Is there one which would allow him to swim underwater and keep him safe should he have a seizure?
I’m 74, female, and a non swimmer who lives on the bay. I read a while ago about a new type of life preserver that would keep me upright in a standing position. Are you aware of these? If so, who makes them?
Looking for a jacket with a whole mesh back and not too bulky . I need it for kayaking and find all the jackets out there restricting. I am frustrated TIA
I’m sorry that you’re feeling overlooked. It’s not unjustified. Hope it helps that we are currently curating and working on lifejackets for women. It’s on its way! Any models you’d like reviewed, please reply with the names.
Literally not a single recommendation for women. It’s important, because I’m currently searching for something that is going to be comfortable to wear while having boobs. Feeling pretty left out right about now.
Looking for a light weight pfd to wear while swimming in open water. I am 5’9″ and weigh 185 lbs. I am a strong swimmer but also want to be safe.
I have a paddle vest for kayaking but find it too bulky to swim in.
I have a special needs grand daughter who is 12 y/o and weighs 84 lbs, she cannot swim, what would you recommend?
I’ve not tried any PFDs from that brand, but I can see they have mostly inflatable life jackets–the likes of which I use when sailing. They’re great for freedom of movement. We’re currently updating our list with newer and improved options. Could be it makes the cut if it makes sense to get our hands on one.
I recently purchase a life jacket form Mustang Survival, and it’s been great to me. Super comfy and the material feels top quality. Have you ever tried them before or reviewed them? I’m looking to buy one for my kid shortly and want to get them the best available. Cheers!
Hi my other half has bought a jet ski but he can’t swim, I know sounds rediculous but it’s how he roles! I want to get him a life jacket, please could someone advice me on one that would be good for impact (hopefully not needed and one that will help him float if needed)
Hi Jennifer,
Try to check out our guide to Kayak LIfe Vests
I am petite, good swimmer like to paddle board and kayak – but can’t find a comfortable light vest option.
5’1 110lbs Suggestion?
I also have 2 children similar size as me that swim in the lake – I alway insist they wear life jackets – any recommendations for small (but not child size) vests that are flexible for movement?
I am an 82 yr old female. There is a pool at the apartment complex where I live. The pool is large but does not have a large 3ft level and drops fast. I would like to find a preserver that I could wear in the pool and feel safe.
This is so much helpful!! life jacket is essential things!! thanks for this information
Hi Huia,
Not in the once that we have tested, as this was not part of our critics in the tests.
Hi there
i am trying to find an answer to this question:
is there any life jacket, life preserver etc that is GUARANTEED to keep head above AERATED water
Hi Carla,
I can see the prices have gone up on this model. I can’t find it at this price either, so we’ll have to update the guide.
Thanks for the comment.
Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Jacket:
I have not been able to find this in the $40 or less group. is there a place where I can buy one for under the $40?
My sister and I just purchased an inflatable kayak and are not happy with our bulky life vests. They are the standard classic ones. Can you help me with one that is the lightest weight that is safe? I am 170 lbs. and my sister is 130 lbs. We are willing to pay for whatever price we have to to find comfortable vests.
I am a short man, 5ft 3inch. I am I good shape and am a non swimmer. I enjoy boating and water sports and am looking for a light weight fitted jacket to be comfortable in the water. I want it to be secure and not float up around my neck
I want to know what you recommend to wear for boat fishing that is not bulky & hot?
Hi Frank,
I’m sorry, I’ve no idea which Life jacket/vest that would do well here. Are there not some support groups that can help, and maybe someone in the group that have faced same problem and found a suitable product.
I am looking for a lifejacket for Laryngectomees. I don’t breathe out of my nose or mouth. I am a total neck breather, I breathe out of my stoma in my neck and can not get water in it! If I fall into water, the water will fill my lungs and I’ll drown. Can you help me find one? Thanks
I am looking for a jacket with velcro stretch lumbar support, and with a pocket
I am 82, I have a small Aluminium boat 12″. I have had two incidents when going lake fishing. Falling into water in very low temperatures. The problems are using an automatic Air operated life jacket.When I am in the water I am very restricted With my arms and the angle of my body tends to push me more on my backTherefore I am more restricted on the bottom In shallow waters. I am looking for a jacket that is zipped with two straps or more, My weight is 200lbs/5’6″ chest 48 inch chest with clothes.
The water conditions I would be in would be relatively calm lakes