tour life jacket

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Kokatat Women’s UL MsFit Tour PFD Life Jacket

About this item

• 500D Cordura outer and 200D nylon oxford inner shell
• Articulated shell and foam panels
• 3 bellows pockets with zippered side entry
• One electronics pocket
• Reflective tape

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Product Description

KOKATAT WOMENвЂS UL MSFIT TOUR PFD LIFE JACKET The Women's MsFit Tour Kayak Lifejacket by Kokatat features eight points of adjustment that provide maximum freedom of movement, while fitting you comfortably and securely. Ergonomic and innovative components such as thermo-formed, padded Hypalon shoulders, 3 side adjustments, GAIA PVC-free foam and superlative construction methods set the standard in modern PFD design. The MsFit gives the gadget-happy paddler plenty of room for gear. When it is time to get out on the water and enjoy yourself, don't forget the Women's MsFit Tour Kayak Lifejacket by Kokatat. DISTINCTIVE FEATURES Front lash tab Strobe lash tab on back USCG approved; CE approved Deep-cut neck and armholes maximize range of motion

Product information

Technical details, additional information, looking for specific info, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the fit, quality and pockets of the personal flotation device. For example, they mention it's adjustable, has plenty of arm room and is perfect for large busts. That said, opinions are mixed on comfort.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the fit of the personal flotation device. They mention that it has a great fit, is adjustable, and has room for lots of pockets.

"...of other high end life jackets, I finally found one that fit me to perfection and has all the pockets I need...." Read more

"...sized person and I need a good life jacket for sailing - this fits me very well (after some adjustment) and the tight strap around the waist allows..." Read more

"...The fit is great and I never feel like I can't wait to get out of it. It's a shorty with plenty of arm room, lots of pockets and very adjustable...." Read more

"...I'm 6'2 and mine fits great . Very comfortable, good floatation and it's OK in Gulf Coast heat...." Read more

Customers like the pockets on the personal flotation device. For example, they mention it has plenty of arm room, and is adjustable. Some say the fit needs more pockets.

"...jackets, I finally found one that fit me to perfection and has all the pockets I need ...." Read more

"...It's a shorty with plenty of arm room, lots of pockets and very adjustable. It also has reflector tape back and front...." Read more

"Very pleased with the quality of the product. I needed all the storage compartments , it fits well and is comfortable." Read more

"It fit great and has pockets in right spots to put things so you can easily get to them. We now have 3 my girls have one also." Read more

Customers are pleased with the quality of the personal flotation device. They mention it's well-made and nicely put together.

"...They use quality material and it is a quality build. What else could I possibly need for my kayaking adventures? It's Kokatat for the win. A+++++" Read more

"...The jacket is great quality , i just feel like the placement of the pockets can be better designed, and the PFD itself is a bit bulkier than i would..." Read more

"Very pleased with the quality of the product. I needed all the storage compartments, it fits well and is comfortable." Read more

" Well made and nicely put together, tempted to get one for myself!" Read more

Customers are mixed about the comfort of the personal flotation device. Some mention it fits well and has nice padding in the back for comfortable paddle, while others say it's bulky and uncomfortable, and the inside of their arms rub against them.

"For a kayaker, a comfortable PFD (personal flotational device) makes your paddling day all the better...." Read more

"...are a tad too bulky and too close to the sides and the inside of my arms rub against them ...." Read more

"...I'm 6'2 and mine fits great. Very comfortable , good floatation and it's OK in Gulf Coast heat...." Read more

"...I needed all the storage compartments, it fits well and is comfortable ." Read more

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/ KAYAK ACCESSORIES

/ Kokatat OutFIT Tour Lifejacket (PFD)

Kokatat OutFIT Tour Lifejacket (PFD)

$185.00 USD

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• Overview Overview The Kokatat OutFIT Tour Lifejacket offers comfort and safety in a popular multi-function touring PFD. This lifejacket rocks all the fit adjustments and safety options you need for a long paddle in ...
• Technical Specifications Technical Specifications

The Kokatat OutFIT Tour Lifejacket offers comfort and safety in a popular multi-function touring PFD. This lifejacket rocks all the fit adjustments and safety options you need for a long paddle in open water while a tough Cordura shell wears and weathers hard use and the elements exceptionally well.

• Flexible & articulated shell and foam panels
• Large arm and neck openings offer an ample range of motion without sacrificing vital flotation
• Full-length front zipper
• Padded adjustable shoulders w/ Hypalon grip panels
• Fully adjustable stretch mesh side panels
• Adjustable waist belt w/ fastex buckle
• Dual duplex zippered front pockets w/ key lanyards
• Electronics pocket
• Hidden pocket behind entry zipper
• Covered front lash tab for a rescue knife attachment
• SOLAS reflective tape front & back
• Transport Canada (ULC) approved
• US Coast Guard approved

Technical Specifications

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I didn't take the amount of layering beneath my life vest in account at the first order(paddling in SE Alaska) but with the extremely simple return process I received the perfect fit on the second order. Great vest front and center radio pocket along with other easily accessible pockets, even with gloved hands makes this the perfect vest for my ocean adventures. I highly recommend to anyone trying to choose the right vest for sea kayaking.

Comfortable, versatile, adjustable. Love them.

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The Best Life Jackets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

By Kevin Hughes

Updated on Dec 27, 2023 12:25 PM EST

Fact Checked By Scott Einsmann

11 minute read

Best for Kayak Fishing

Nrs chinhook, best automatic inflatable, onyx a/m-24, best budget for fishing, bass pro shops tournament fishing.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

The list of gear to remember for a day on the water is seemingly endless. While all the fancy new electronics and accessories are fun additions to any watercraft, everyone needs one critical accessory — a life jacket. 

Unfortunately, many people disregard the importance of a good PFD or wearing them properly until it’s too late, often to  tragic ends.  The excuse for not wearing a life jacket is that the bulk inhibits movement and causes discomfort. 

Fortunately, the current market is full of great PFD options that are specifically designed for a wide range of water activities, from casual boating to hardcore kayak angling. To help you find the best life jacket for your needs, I tested everything from full-size vests loaded with accessories to ultra-simple inflatables. Here are my top picks. 

• Best for Kayak Fishing : NRS Chinook and Shenook
• Best Automatic Inflatable : Onyx A/M-24 Inflatable Life Jacket
• Best Manual Inflatable : NRS Matik
• Best Budget for Fishing : Bass Pro Shops Tournament Fishing Life Jacket
• Best All-Purpose : NRS Raku
• Best Budget for Paddling : Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Life Jacket
• Best Inflatable Belt PFD : Onyx M-16 Belt Pack

How I Tested the Best Life Jackets

Kevin Hughes

First I selected life jackets of different styles to test that are all U.S. Coast Guard approved . With the help of friends and family, I tested them on rivers, lakes, inshore, and the open ocean. Testing took place in summer, fall, and winter while fishing, paddling, and having fun on the water. That helped me determine what activities each life jacket is best for and how they fit while wearing a light  fishing shirt  or over layers in colder months.

Best Life Jackets: Reviews and Recommendations 

Best for kayak fishing: nrs chinook and shenook.

Key Features

• Weight: 2 pounds 
• 16.5 pounds of flotation
• Front zip entry
• Rod holder loop
• Strobe attachment point
• Reflective accents
• Knife lash tab
• Pockets with internal organization
• Shoulder strap keepers
• Lots of storage
• Designed specifically for kayak angling
• Comfortable while paddling
• Somewhat bulky
• Can be hot on warm days

The NRS Chinook, along with its female design-specific counterpart, the Shenook, is a staple for kayak anglers. It has a lot of gear storage and has six adjustment points for a custom fit. All the storage options on the Chinook are catered to what kayak anglers need, including a rod holder loop, knife holster, and external gear tab for holding pliers or other fishing accessories. While all the pockets and gear storage are a plus, I found they add bulk and can make this vest a little warm on hot summer days. It does have a mesh back, which helps vent some heat, though. 

I liked that the high-back flotation design made paddling and fishing comfortable while seated in a kayak or canoe. The Chinook is a well-rounded kayak fishing vest and is a comfortable and extremely capable PFD for any kayak angler.

Read Next : Best Kayak Fishing Accessories

Best Automatic Inflatable: Onyx A/M-24 Inflatable Life Jacket

• Water-activated or pull cord inflation
• Universal Size: Fits 30 to 52-inch chest
• Minimum 22.5 pounds buoyancy
• D-Ring attachment
• Convertible from automatic/manual to manual-only inflation
• Lightweight
• Very comfortable 
• Good buoyancy
• Minimal gear storage
• Needs to be re-armed if accidentally triggered 

Inflatable PFD options are becoming more popular among watersports enthusiasts, mostly due to their minimalistic design and comfort. The Onyx A/M-24 inflatable vest is an excellent option in this category, providing a good level of buoyancy at 22.5 pounds and automatic inflation. 

This PFD also allows the user to alternate between manual or automatic inflation methods. So if you’re wearing this PFD while paddle boarding where you plan on getting wet, you can set it to manual inflation only. Then, if you’re on a bass boat doing 40 mph, you can have it in automatic mode.

One of the biggest downfalls to any inflatable PFD is lack of storage space, and the Onyx A/M-24 is no exception. It has a D ring attachment and small Velcro pockets, allowing accessory attachment and storage. 

I found this vest extremely comfortable and light to wear during long, hot days on the water. So, if comfort is a priority, the Onyx is a good option. 

Best Manual Inflatable: NRS Matik

• Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Provides 22.5 pounds of buoyancy 
• Type III  
• Zippered pocket with internal tether 
• Mouth inflation valve 
• Reflective accents 
• 24 gram CO2 cartridge included
• Extremely comfortable
• Mouth inflation option in case CO2 cartridge fails
• More storage than most inflatables
• Relatively expensive
• Manual pull tab requires focus to activate 

As with the Onyx-A/M 24, the NRS Matik is a lightweight option that provides good buoyancy at 22.5 pounds. However, unlike its automatic counterpart, the Matik is a manual inflation vest. This means the inflation chord must be pulled to activate the CO2 cartridge and inflate the vest. While that requires more effort and thought than an automatic vest, it can be beneficial for more experienced paddlers and swimmers who don’t want to risk having a CO2 cartridge discharge accidentally. The Matik also provides a mouth inflation option, which is a nice backup in case the CO2 fails. 

I liked that the Matik has better storage and accessory options than many inflatables. In addition to some Velcro liner pockets, this PFD also has a front-facing zipper pocket with a keyring attachment. While it’s not much, it’s just enough to separate it from some of the cheaper inflatables on the market and make it more appealing for serious kayakers or boaters. 

Best Budget for Fishing: Bass Pro Shops Tournament Fishing Life Jacket

• Neoprene collar
• Mesh shoulders and upper back
• Full-zip front
• Two chest accessory loops
• Two chest lash tabs
• Dual elastic tool loops
• Two zip chest pockets with outer mesh pockets
• Twolarge zip body pockets
• Body pockets have inner zip mesh pockets and accessory loops
• Outer hook-and-loop pockets
• Handwarmer pockets
• Two fold-down pockets with foam fly bench
• Impressive storage and features for price
• Breathable mesh top makes for comfortable wear 
• The low position of the pockets and flotation makes for a slightly awkward fit while seated in a kayak

The BPS Tournament Fishing Life Jacket has more pockets than most anglers will know what to do with. I liked that all the pockets, rings, and loops will hold any accessory you need on the water. I also found the upper mesh breathable and comfortable in all seasons. 

The biggest drawback to this vest is the placement of the flotation and storage. They’re at the bottom of the PFD, which isn’t ideal for kayak fishing, where you spend most of your time seated. 

Additionally, while the price is exceptional for the features this vest provides, there’s no denying that it lacks the durability of the higher-end vests on this list. Despite its drawbacks, the BPS Tournament Fishing Life Jacket is a great option to have as a spare on your boat or for the kayak angler on a budget.

Best All-Purpose: NRS Raku

• Weight: 2.1 pounds
• 5-panel design
• UL Certified
• Level 70 Buoyancy Aid
• Good storage
• It can be hot and uncomfortable 

While the NRS Chinook is undeniably the king of kayak fishing life vests, the NRS Raku provides many of the same features in a more multipurpose design. With a similar pocket and storage layout as the Chinook, the Raku is certainly at home in the world of kayak fishing. However, its traditional, five-panel design places the flotation around the midsection rather than the shoulders. This results in a vest better suited for a wider range of watercraft and activities than the Chinook while still firmly landing in the kayak fishing vest category. While this design provides good upper body mobility and is beneficial for things like rowing and wakeboarding, it can be a bit uncomfortable for pure kayak fishing. As with the BPS Tournament Vest, the placement of the flotation and storage around the midsection can be awkward and bulky when seated in a kayak. The design is also not as breathable as more fishing-oriented vests, making it a bit hot on warm days. 

Best Budget for Paddling: Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Life Jacket

• Mesh ventilation in front and back for breathability
• Mesh panel in back to accommodate most canoe and kayak seats
• Shoulder adjustments with neoprene comfort pads
• SOLAS grade reflective material for visibility
• Expandable zippered pocket with mesh drainage
• Lash tab for small accessories
• Marine whistle included
• Comfortable kayak-friendly design
• Reasonably priced
• Minimal storage
• Not Durable

Some kayakers value feature rich PFDs, while others put more emphasis on comfort. The Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Life Jacket provides a simple middle ground for both at a reasonable price. While it certainly doesn’t have the pockets or accessory storage of the Chinook or Raku, it does have a high-back flotation design that’s comfortable to wear and fish out of while seated in a kayak. It has one large front-facing zippered pocket for storage, as well as a lash tab for accessories. Additionally, its barebones design makes it light and streamlined to paddle in while eliminating some of the annoying snags and sticking points of vests with more features. The simple design also makes this vest more comfortable for paddling than the bulkier, feature-rich vests on this list. The Onyx Movevent is a simple but effective all-purpose PFD at a price considerably lower than many other comparable vests.  

Best Inflatable Belt PFD: Onyx M-16 Belt Pack

• Weight: Less than 1 pound
• 17 pounds of buoyancy
• Additional mouth inflation tube for buoyancy up to 26.5 pounds
• Secure pull clips to life jacket
• 1-inch buckle and body belt
• Low profile
• Buoyant 
• Comfortable to wear on hot days
• Not as much buoyancy from CO2 alone as inflatable vests
• Belt placement doesn’t provide the same level of protection as vests

Some days are just made for relaxing and paddling in the sun. While it can be nice to soak in the rays on a boat, it’s still critical to have a PFD. The Onyx M-16 Belt Pack is a great option for if you’re looking for something more comfortable and less obtrusive than a vest. While the C02 cartridge alone provides 17 pounds of buoyancy, the M-16 also includes a mouth inflation option that can increase that to 26.5 pounds. The ultra-slim and lightweight design of this belt pack is ideal for casual wear on hot days. The slim design does create a storage issue, as the M-16 doesn’t provide much in the way of pockets or accessory holders. Additionally, a belt pack doesn’t provide the same level of upper body support as a vest, so it’s important to consider where and when you may need to activate it and plan accordingly.

How to Choose the Life Vest for You

The number one factor in choosing a PFD should always be safety. Make sure the vest is rated for the proper weight, as well as the situations you plan on using it in. There are several life jacket rating systems in place, as well as U.S. Coast Guard requirements, and it’s critical that you understand what is legally required based on where and when you’ll be using the vest.

Here are some guidelines from the Coast Guard:

• Most adults only need 7 to 12 pounds of buoyancy (31 to 53 Newton) to keep their heads above water.
• When worn correctly a foam filled lifejacket will fit snugly, and will not allow the lifejacket to rise above the wearer’s chin or ears.
• To meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements, a recreational vessel must have a U.S. Coast Guard Approved lifejacket for each person aboard.
• Some styles of lifejackets are not intended for weak or non-swimmers (read the label and be honest).
• More info .

Life Jacket Types and Performance Levels

You’ll see life jackets with specifications like Type III or Level 100. These refer to their buoyance and how they floatation supports the wearer. Here’s a breakdown from the USCG on what each means as well as weight ratings.

Life Jacket Types

• Type I: The greatest required inherent buoyancy and turns most unconscious persons in the water from a face down position to a vertical and slightly backward position, therefore, greatly increasing one’s chance of survival.
• Type II: Intended to turn some unconscious persons from a face down position in the water to a position where the wearer’s respiration is not impeded.
• Type III: Intended to support a conscious person in the water in an upright position. This type of device is not required to turn an unconscious person in the water from a face-down position to a position where the wearer’s respiration is not impeded.
• Type V: Is approved for restricted uses or activities such as boardsailing, or commercial white water rafting. These devices may not be suitable for other boating activities.  The label indicates whether a particular design of Type V can be used in specific application, what restrictions or limitations apply, and its performance type.

Performance Level Devices

• Level 50: Intended for use by those who are competent swimmers and who are near to bank or shore, or who have help and a means of rescue close at hand.
• Level 70: Intended for use by those who have help or a means of rescues close at hand, or who are near bank or shore. These devices have minimal bulk, but cannot be expected to keep the user safe for a long period of time in disturbed water.
• Level 100: Intended or those who may have to wait for rescues, but are likely to do so in sheltered water. The device should not be used in rough water.
• Level 150: Intended for general application or for use with foul weather clothing.  It will turn an unconscious person into a safe position and requires no subsequent action by the user to maintain this position.
• Level 275: Intended primarily for offshore use under extreme conditions.

Lifejackets Weight Categories

• Adult : Users with a weight greater than 88 pounds
• Youth: Users with a weight over 55 pounds and less than or equal to 88 pounds
• Child: Users with a weight over 33 pounds and less than or equal to 55 pounds
• Infant: Users with a weight less than or equal to 33 pounds

The Best Life Jacket Is the One You’ll Wear

Next, consider whether comfort or functionality is more important to you. If you’re an active paddle kayaker, you’ll probably want a vest more suited to mobility and comfort. If you’re a dedicated angler and use your kayak solely for fishing, something with better gear storage and functionality is probably up your alley. Lastly, if you’re just out for a day on the water and need something unobtrusive to ensure safety and legality, maybe an inflatable is your best choice.

Ultimately, trying different vests on and testing them out is the best way to decide what suits you. 

Final Thoughts on the Best Life Jackets

While they aren’t glamorous, life jackets are absolutely one of the most important items that anyone needs on the water. They may not always be comfortable or stylish, but this list of the best life vests works hard to solve those issues. There are plenty of great PFD options on the market, and hopefully, you can find one that perfectly suits you. No matter which you choose, just remember how critical it is to wear a good PFD. After all, it can literally save your life.  

Kokatat OutFIT Tour Men's PFD

Description

 Pockets and comfort define the OutFIT Tour life jacket. As with all the men's OutFIT series river and sea kayak PFDs by Kokatat, the OutFIT TOUR model PFD has double-stitched seams throughout, triple-stitched where needed for added durability, bar tacked stress points, beveled extra soft flex GAIA® foam, and adjustable, padded thermal-molded shoulders. The OutFIT TOUR PFD has more features than the basic OutFIT model, but otherwise they are the same. The TOUR model sports front and rear reflective tape, front and rear lash tabs (rear for emergency strobe and front for knife). It also has three external front pockets plus one hidden internal stash pocket behind the front zipper for reading glasses or other small items. The left side external pocket is a generously sized combination zippered and flap-top pocket, and the right side external pocket is a tall electronics pocket (for VHF radio, GPS, etc.). All pockets have D-rings to attach things to. Three adjustment straps on each side plus shoulder adjustment straps give this Type III PFD a secure fit that minimizes the PFD's tendency to float up around your face when in the water. The optional Tributary Hydration System or accessory Rear Pocket can be attached as well.

Sizes and Buoyancy:

Men's S 36" - 40", Buoyancy 16 lb. 5oz.

Men's M 40" - 44", Buoyancy 16 lb. 5oz.

Men's L 44" - 48", Buoyancy 16 lb. 10oz.

Men's XL 48" - 52", Buoyancy 17 lb. 0oz.

Men's XXL 52" - 54", Buoyancy 17 lb. 0oz. (Mango color only)

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Best Kayak Fishing Life Vests – Buyer’s Guide To PFDs for Yak Anglers

A kayak fishing life vest can be one of the most important pieces of safety equipment for kayak fishing. But how do you choose a new life vest?

Because kayaking PFDs (Personal Floatation Device) are important we’ve made a guide to help you find the best kayak fishing life vest (and the right PFD). 

Table of Contents

13 Best Kayak Fishing PFDs Reviewed

1: stohlquist fisherman personal flotation device (best overall).

• Weight: 2 pounds
• Size: SM/MD to XXL (ranging from 33 to 52 inch chest)

This Stohlquist Fisherman PFD can be one of the best kayak fishing life vests. It has multiple pockets for accessories so you can keep your essential gear within easy reach. But it might feel bulky.

The front pockets also have protective EVA foam. These large pockets also double as bridges so you can use them as platforms.

It features multiple adjustment points for a perfect fit, and benefits from chest cinching straps to keep it in place.

Extra features include neoprene padded shoulders and back waistband, high back flotation for kayak chairs, and open sides for ventilation and maximum mobility.

• Accessory pockets
• Comfortable
• High back design
• May feel bulky

2: Kokatat Bahia Tour Personal Flotation Device (great for increased visibility)

• Weight: 2.01 pounds
• Size: S/M to XXL (36 to 58 inch chest)

The Kokatat Bahia Tour PFD can be the best fishing PFD that features SOLAS approved reflective strips on both the front and back, for increased visibility.

This kayak fishing life vest is ideal for kayak fishing because of its fishing specific features, reduced padding at the lower back and a mesh panel for ventilation. It also has a lightweight outer shell.

It features large pockets for accessories and pliers, as well as front and back lash tabs. For a more customized fit, there are multiple adjustment points and side straps. But it’s not the best if you’re a smaller kayak angler.

The neoprene padded shoulders and the soft Gaia foam helps to improve comfort for all day kayak fishing.

• Reflective strips
• Accessory storage
• Fully adjustable
• Not great for small anglers

3: Stohlquist Women’s Flo (best for women)

• Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Size: XS/SM to Plus (ranging from 28 to 46 inch bust)

The Stohlquist Women’s Flo is a Type III PFD with durable materials that’s designed for women and comes in exclusive graded sizing with the same features as the men’s version. It features built-in supportive bust cups to provide more comfort for all day wear and benefits from cinching chest straps to prevent it from riding up.

It has lightweight foam with a durable ripstop nylon shell and features a padded neoprene lower back waistband for paddling comfort. But it might feel bulky at the front and there are limited mounting points for tools.

It also has high back construction.

As well as the adjustable chest straps, the cinch vest can also be adjusted at the waist and shoulders, so you can get the best fit for your body types.

• Made for women
• Neoprene back panel
• Ripstop nylon outer shell

4: Stohlquist Men’s Ebb (best value fishing PFD)

• Weight: 1.5 pounds

This Stohlquist Men’s Ebb is a high quality PFD that offers great features and great value.

It features a mesh lower back panel for added ventilation and to allow for a more comfortable sitting position in your kayak, especially in yaks with high back seats. The sides are also open for added ventilation for a hot day.

The adjustable waist, shoulder and chest straps help to give you a customized fit and the Wrapture foam is designed to fit around your body for optimum comfort and buoyancy.

However, this cinch vest has limited storage for essential gear.

• Quality materials
• Comfortable fit
• Good ventilation
• Minimal storage

5: NRS Chinook PFD (best for comfort)

• Size: XS to XL/XXL (ranging from 28 to 58 inch chest)

This NRS Chinook PFD is built for kayak fishing and long hours on the water. it has graded sizing but it can be a little pricey.

One of its main features is the soft PlushFit foam, which is designed to mold to the shape of your body, for added comfort. It also features eight adjustment points so that it’s securely and correctly fitted.

There are plenty of pockets with hook and loop closures, and D-ring points, meaning it can double as a fishing vest, with enough room to keep small tackle boxes, tools and accessories. It even has rod holder loops.

For extra comfort, the PFD also has a mesh panel at the lower back.

• Ample storage
• Made for fishing
• Great for high back seats

6: Old Town Lure Angler PFD

• Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Size: S/M, L/XL, 2XL/3XL (ranging from 40 to 60-inch chests)

The Old Town Lure Angler PFD has been designed specifically for kayak fishing. It has as many as seven pockets, including two large pockets and top pockets, so you can streamline your gear on deck and keep it on your person within easy reach.

This angling PFD has been made to integrate with Old Town kayak seats, so the back foam panel should sit above the back of the framed seat, allowing a kayak angler to sit comfortably.

It features an AirComfort system for maximum breathability on hot days and a front zipper for ease of use. It also has multiple pockets, including D-ring points and a Hypalon tab.

This kayak angler PFD can be better for larger anglers as the smallest size may not be small enough for smaller paddlers or women, even with the adjustment straps.

• High-back foam
• Easy to get on and off
• Multiple pockets
• Not suitable for small paddlers

7: Astral V-Eight Fisher PFD

• Weight: 1 pound 6 ounces
• Size: S/M, M/L, L/XL (ranging from 31 to 51-inch chests)

The Astral V-Eight Fisher features a lower back mesh panel for comfort while seated and a foam panel that sits above the top of your seat.

The back panel also features a mesh lining, as part of the Airescape Air Flow System that helps to maintain breathability for the kayak angler.

There are several attachment points on the life vest and a dedicated holster for your pliers. There’s also a knife lash point (or for a light).

The large front pocket can be ideal for storing gear and line cutters or a variety of lures or leader line – perfect PFD for a kayak angler. However, there is only one secure pocket, so it may not be the best if you’re a kayak angler looking for multiple zippered pockets.

• Designed for high-back seats
• Lots of attachment points
• Pliers holster
• Only one zippered pocket

8: Stohlquist Contour Inflatable Life Jacket (best inflatable)

• Weight: 1.21 pounds
• Size: Universal sizing

This Stohlquist Contour PFD is a Type V PFD that is primarily designed for stand-up paddle boarding but can be ideal for recreational boating and kayak fishing.

This inflatable vest is designed to be worn around the waist. It has universal sizing with an adjustable waist strap that fits up to 45 inch waists.

It features a manual inflation system with a pull cord that activates the CO2 cartridge. This means it won’t inflate until you pull the cord unlike foam PFDs. Once inflated, the neck strap can help keep you afloat .

This life jacket’s also got small zippered pocket that can be great for storing keys, but it’s not waterproof, there are no anchor points, and there’s no room for tackle. So you may want larger pockets elsewhere for your multi tool.

• Lightweight
• Manual inflation
• Limited storage

9: Lixada Fly Fishing Vest (best budget PFD)

• Size: Universal adult

The Lixada Fly Fishing Vest is designed as a fishing vest but with the added benefit of foam flotation inserts for added buoyancy. The foam inserts can also be removed making it a quick answer for a combo fishing vest and PFD in one.

This budget vest is designed with a universal size to fit most adults. However, the buoyancy of the PFD is only for adults under 209 pounds, so if you’re a larger person this may not be adequate. It also doesn’t have a cross chest cinch harness.

The Lixada is built for fishing and has more pockets than most and tool pouches to store your small accessories. There are also several attachment loops for clipping on other items.

• Fishing vest
• Lots of storage
• Not for large kayak anglers

10: Kokatat Leviathan PFD

• Weight: 3 pounds 2 ounces
• Size: XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL (ranging from 32 to 55-inch chests)

The Kokatat Leviathan PFD comes in a good range of sizes to fit most paddlers and could be ideal for both men and women. But it’s not the lightest of options.

It features PVC-free Gaia foam flotation, which is designed for flexibility and can mold to the shape of your body. It also has internal foam contouring for a custom feel and a snug fit, plus ventilated shoulder panels.

There are a total of 14 pockets, including eight zippered pockets. So there’s plenty of space to store all your essential tackle as well as your phone.

• Soft foam padding
• Not lightweight

11: MTI Spirit Women’s PFD

• Weight: 1.9 ounces
• Size: XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL (ranging from 30 to 56-inch busts)

The MTI Spirit PFD is designed specifically for women, with comfort and support around the bust with the handy Adjust-a-Bust system.

It’s designed to suit the needs of women kayak anglers, with a lower mesh back panel and high foam panel to better fit high-back fishing kayak seats. This also allows for ventilation.

There are two large zippered pockets for fishing tackle and a storage loop for your sunglasses. But there aren’t many external attachment points.

It has a simple design three-buckle front closure. There are also two side cinch straps and adjustable shoulder straps for a tailored fit for your body type.

• Buckle closure
• Limited attachment points

12: Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Jacket

• Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Size: Universal or Oversize (30-52-inch chest or 45-65-inch chest)

This Onyx Kayak Fishing life vest can offer good value as it’s packed with fishing features and has plenty of pockets to stash your tools.

However, if you’re a smaller kayak angler, it may require a bit of adjusting for a snug fit. It may be better suited to larger anglers. It does have six adjustment straps so you can tailor the fit to your body.

It has a high foam padded back, with a mesh lower back, which can be ideal for high-back kayak seats. It also benefits from having comfortable neoprene shoulder straps.

• Good for large paddlers
• Six adjustment points
• Lots of storage pockets
• Not the best for smaller anglers

13: Astral Sturgeon PFD

• Weight: 1 pound 10 ounces
• Size: S/M, M/L, L/XL (ranging from 31 to 51-inch chest)

The Astral Sturgeon life vest can be great if you’re looking for a durable PFD with plenty of pockets and six adjustment straps.

This lets you organize your tackle in five different centralized pockets for convenience, offering space for pliers, flies, your knife, and radio.

This is designed with large arm openings for range of movement. There’s also a mesh back panel to allow for air flow.

There are six points of adjustability for an easy custom fit. However, the largest size may not fit the largest anglers. And it doesn’t have a cross chest cinch harness.

• Well-placed tackle storage
• Easy to adjust
• Not great for very large paddlers

Do I Really Need To Use A PFD For Kayak Fishing?

You should be wearing a PFD, whether you’re paddling, fishing or general boating.

In some states and areas, you may be required by law to wear a PFD in a kayak, such as New York (between November and May) and New Mexico .

In the US, it’s the law to have a correctly sized PFD for every person on all types of vessels, including fishing kayaks. To comply with the law your PFD should be approved by the US Coast Guard.

Children under the age of 13 are required to wear a USCG approved PFD at all times while they are in a kayak or other open deck vessel.

What Type Of PFD Is Best?

There are five types of PFD , with four of them being wearable types and Type IV being throwable.

• Type I is generally the most buoyant and often the bulkiest. It’s designed for offshore and rough water. Turns you face up if unconscious.
• A Type II PFD is designed for inland waters close to shore. These can be either standard or inflatable, with the standard option sometimes able to turn you face up if unconscious.
• A Type III PFD is probably the most common type of life vest used for kayaking. It’s recommended for recreational boating and near shore activities. Can be either inflatable or standard.
• Type IV PFDs are throwable devices that are used alongside marinas and pools, as well as on vessels longer than 16 feet.
• Type V PFDs generally include specialist PFDs (inflatable belt packs).

Inflatable vs. Standard Foam – Which To Choose?

Inflatable PFDs can be more comfortable than other life vests because they tend to have a lower profile than standard ones . This could make it easier to move your arms for fishing and paddling.

However, inflatable PFDs will only become buoyant when they’re inflated, unlike foam vests. You will usually have to pull a cord to inflate it. There are fishing life jackets with automatic inflation that inflate when in water but these may not be suitable, as they could inflate when they’re not needed.

Inflatable life jackets will generally have less storage options because of their low profile nature, meaning you may not have anywhere on the PFD to keep your fishing accessories.

You might also want to consider the additional costs of using an inflatable fishing life vest. Once it inflates, you will usually need to purchase a new CO2 cartridge so that it’s armed and ready for your next kayaking trip. This could become expensive if you frequently need to inflate your PFD.

Standard Foam

A standard foam PFD is an inherently buoyant PFD . This means it’s designed to float instantly and provide you with buoyancy to keep your head out of the water without having to pull any strings – safer for kayak fishing life vests. The foam material is what makes the PFD float.

These types of fishing life jackets can be beneficial for kayak fishing because they will often have pockets or loops to attach your gear. This can be especially useful in a kayak where you might not have a lot of room for additional accessories or you want to make sure your fishing tackle is within easy reach.

What Features To Look For When Buying The Perfect Fishing PFD?

Many kayak fishing life vests will often have pockets and other features – handy when you’re kayak fishing , especially for stowing smaller accessories, such as spare lures, lines or pliers .

Some fishing life jackets will also have D-rings or attachment points that can let you clip on other accessories or safety gear for quick access.

For the best life jackets or any safety gear, size is important. It should fit you correctly so that it can work as intended if and when you need it. If it’s too big it may come off and if it’s too small, it may not be able to hold your weight.

>  Life vests for big and tall kayakers

Video: How To Fit A Life Jacket

It can be a good idea to opt for PFDs for kayak fishing with multiple points of adjustment , and side straps, as this can give you a better, more secure fit than one that only has one or two adjustable straps.

If you’re a woman, you might find that a women’s specific PFD might be more suitable, as the best life jackets can better accommodate your body (and other features).

High Back Float

Some fishing life jackets for kayaking have high back flotation. This is for comfort while you’re seated in your kayak so it rests above the back of your seat .

Some may have other features such as hand warmers or a stowable hood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Adults And Kids Have To Wear PFDs When Kayak Fishing?

Children under 13 must wear a PFD. Some states have different laws that include children up to 16. Adults are required to have a correctly fitting PFD on board but it doesn’t necessarily have to be worn, except in some states.

What Exactly Is Coast Guard Approved?

The US Coast Guard is the maritime law enforcement agency that approves life jackets for use in the US. It approves PFDs based on their use and buoyancy. If a PFD is Coast Guard approved it means it meets US standards for use as a buoyancy aid.

How Do You Care For And Clean Your PFD?

Rinse safety gear in clean water after each use , using mild soapy water beforehand. Hang up to air dry somewhere with good ventilation.

Are Life Jackets And Vests Comfortable When Fishing?

It should be comfortable if it fits well. However, there are some lower profile options you can choose if you want less bulk.

Wrapping Up

If you’re after the best PFD for kayak fishing then the Stohlquist Fisherman PFD is our favorite vest. It has plenty of places to keep your gear and is comfortable to wear.

If you’re a woman, the Stohlquist Women’s Flo is also a great PFD, with a range of sizes and a comfortable fit.

A great PFD is a no brainer and the most important piece of equipment when you’re kayak fishing and in some cases it could be the law.

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Tour LIfe Black & Red Combat Vest

The Tour Life Combat Vest worn by ALLBLACK in the 'West Coast' music video has a black polyester mesh knit with adjustable velcro shoulder straps, and a large velcro strap across the lower front; flap pocket on the upper chest with white 'Weekly Tour Life' print inside; & large white 'LF' heart logo, and red 'TOUR' logo print on the lower front.

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Riverside Kayak Connection

Life jackets, kokatat unisex life vests, featured life jacket – poseidon.

The Poseidon is the ultimate sea kayaking and touring PFD featuring a modular outfitting system that can be customized with a myriad of accessories to meet paddlers’ changing needs. The Poseidon comes stock with the Full Chest Pocket Accessory that has three zippered compartments and a lash tab on the back for knife storage. Via a series of slick clips and webbing straps additional pockets and accessories, sold separately, can be added to the PFD 

Accessories Sold Separate:    Poseidon Quick Release Belt, Belly Pocket, Single Chest Pocket, Tactic Pack, Reservoir, Tributary Hydration Syste m 

Colors:  Glacier, Red Yellow Sizes:  XSmall/Small, Medium/Large, X-Large/XX-Large 

NEMO INFANT & CHILD $59.95

Unique wrap-around flotation turns a child face up. Dual support collars cradle the head. Front zipper entry and adjustable crotch strap secures the jacket in place. » Available in high visibility red or yellow » Quick release buckle over entry zipper for added security » Adjustable crotch strap » Convenient grab handle » Infant: Type II PFD with sea level buoyancy of 7 lbs. 6oz. » Child: Type III PFD with sea level buoyancy of 8 lbs. 6 oz.     *Except Canada where both Infant and Child are Type II » USCG and Transport Canada approved

Featured life jacket – CONTOUR INFLATABLE BELT PACK

Airbelt $ 119.95

The elegant design is completely out of your way, but transforms into a large buoyant bubble with the jerk of the cord if things go awry. This is the ultimate PFD for use in calm, warm waters near shore.

The 3 Best Snorkel Vests, Life Jackets and Flotation for Snorkeling (Adults & Kids)

The best snorkel vests, life jackets, and other flotation for snorkeling can help you increase your safety and confidence in the water.

Snorkeling is a most magical activity, allowing us to join the undersea world and mingle with incredible submerged landscapes and marine life that are so different from our own everyday experience. There isn’t much else like it.

And, fortunately, snorkeling is one of the most accessible ways to join this whole other world for a while as it requires much less training, equipment and cost when compared to something like scuba diving .

But, snorkeling does have a few basic requirements to get started, and one of those is at least some degree of comfort in the water, which usually correlates to your swimming ability.

Fret not, however, if your swimming ability isn’t as high as you would like it to be yet you are still itching to get out and snorkel. Different levels of flotation (like the best snorkel vests, life jackets, and other options) are commonly used for all types of snorkelers to increase comfort, safety and ability in the water.

If you can’t swim at all, one of the best snorkel vests or like jackets will most certainly help you start to learn the type of swimming needed for snorkeling, but it’s still recommended to stick to shallow waters until you start to build some skills. If that sounds like you, check out our article Can I Snorkel If I Can’t Swim? 7 Ways to Enjoy the Water Safely & Smartly .

Otherwise, flotation can absolutely be a benefit to both adults and kids alike, though there are different considerations to make for each type of human. Let’s get educated on the different types of flotation available for snorkeling, how to choose the best snorkel vest or life jacket (or something else), and why it all matters.

What Are the Different Types of Flotation for Snorkeling?

The different types of flotation for snorkeling typically break down into three categories: maximum flotation like life jackets, medium flotation like snorkel vests, and light flotation like pool noodles.

Generally, the idea is that if you want the maximum support in the water, go for a life jacket, whereas a snorkel vest is good for a moderate amount of support, and light flotation options like pool noodles (yes, really) are good if you’re looking for just a little buoyancy boost.

But, there are different options within each category for adults and children, as well as different considerations to make if you’re flying or driving to your destination (some take up more or less space when packing, while some have inflatable/deflatable models). So, let’s look at each of the options and find the best snorkel vests, life jackets, and even pool noodles for us.

1. Maximum Flotation: Life Jackets

As mentioned above, life jackets will give you the most flotation of any of the available flotation options for snorkeling. They’re typically the best choice for snorkelers and swimmers who are newer for this reason.

However, there are some trade-offs, considerations, and fitting determinations that must be made to make sure that you end up with one that works well (and safely) for you in the water.

How to Determine What Size Life Jacket You Need

First on the list of decisions is the level of buoyancy that you need. Life jacket buoyancy (or floatiness, if we want to make up a work) is measured in terms of Newtons (N for short) and refers to the upward force of the buoyancy. More Newtons of buoyancy means more floatiness (there’s that word again), and life jackets can range from 50N up to 225N and above.

For our purposes (snorkeling in waters that aren’t super rough or too far offshore), a 50-70N life jacket is going to do great for most adults and children and will give excellent buoyancy in the water without interfering with your technique too much.

Once you get up to 100-150N life jackets, they’re typically designed to be so buoyant (or floaty) that they’re meant to naturally flip an unconscious person onto their back until help can find them [ source ]. That’s great in certain situations, but not great for snorkeling since we want to stay swimming with our face pointing down to see what’s underwater. If you’re over 220lbs/100kg and do want a lot of buoyancy, you might start to consider 100N life jackets, however.

The next thing you need to make sure that you’re on the money with is sizing. For adults, sizing of life jackets goes by the circumference of your chest, while for kids it will typically go by weight of the child.

To find your chest circumference, use a measuring tape to wrap around your torso under your arms at its widest point. Then, that number will typically fall into ranges that a life jacket manufacturer has set for large, medium, small, etc. Large online stores like Amazon typically will offer free returns on fit-dependent items (like life jackets), so if you’re uncertain about your size, you may consider ordering a couple of options and returning what doesn’t fit.

In any case, you want your life jacket to be quite snug without being crushing. A good test for this is to have someone pull up on the shoulders of the life jacket once you’ve fastened all buckles and tightened all straps. If it pulls up past your mouth, the life jacket is too big [ source ]. Shaun does a great job walking you through the fitting and testing process in his video below.

Standard vs. Inflatable Life Jackets

Lastly, what kind of life jacket — or snorkeling flotation in general — that you may be in the market for can also come down to the space which you have available when packing to take it somewhere. If space isn’t an issue (perhaps you’re driving to the beach), your traditional fixed foam life jacket is probably your best option.

Standard life jackets have become much slimmer over time, though if space is an issue (maybe you’re flying to a beach destination and would like to bring several life jackets in your suitcase), there are inflatable life jackets available that can compress down a lot smaller. The benefit to these is that they’re much more easily packable and simpler to carry around, but you will need to spend a little time at the beach inflating them (usually by breath) before heading into the water.

The biggest caveat with inflatable life jackets, though, is that they tend to be the type that you throw over your head and then strap around your waist instead of the standard type where you put it on like a vest and then buckle it together in front. This means that an inflatable life jacket is fixed to you a lot less firmly than a traditional life jacket, which can be comfortable, but potentially more prone to moving or slipping along your body in some way. If you prefer absolute peace of mind that your life jacket will stay in place, go with a standard life jacket.

Let’s look at the best life jackets for snorkeling given all of the considerations outlined above.

The Best Life Jackets for Snorkeling for Adults

In our experience, the O’Neill Superlite (here on Amazon) checks all of the boxes to make it the best life jacket for snorkeling for adults if you’re looking for a traditional life jacket.

The Superlite has the right buoyancy (about 70N), available sizes, durable straps and buckles, slimmer design (perfect for snorkeling), and a lot of use and testing throughout the years along with being US Coast Guard certified. You can even pick a unique color and style if you’re looking to make a bit of a fashion statement.

O’Neill even has a Superlite version for women (Amazon) that better fits the female form, which is a rare mega-bonus in the world of life jackets in terms of both comfort and safety.

If instead you would prefer an inflatable vest despite the less-fixed form factor, consider the Rrtizan Inflatable Swim Vest (Amazon) . The buoyancy, sizes, and durability are on point, and the inflation holds well while you’re in the water. When it’s not inflated, it packs down small into a mesh bag to make it easy to pack and transport.

The Best Life Jackets for Snorkeling for Kids

For your kids, O’Neill again comes in clutch and their Youth Superlite (here on Amazon) is a really popular choice for the best life jacket for snorkeling for kids who are 50-90lbs (23-41kg), and rightly so. It’s more comfortable to wear than your average life jacket (very helpful depending on the age of child wearing it) and does everything needed to keep the little snorkeler buoyant.

If you have a slightly smaller child (30-50lbs / 14-23kg), check out the O’Neill Child Superlite (on Amazon) which comes in smaller sizes and also utilizes a strap that connects under the child to keep the life jacket from sliding upward.

Kids over 90lbs (41kg) may start to fit well into smaller adult sizes, but don’t be tempted to buy one size up to allow some room for your child to grow into. A snug and proper fit now should be the only consideration here since misfitting life jackets can even more easily slide up on children and cause safety problems [ source ].

If you need an inflatable option and are comfortable with the less snug set-up, check out the Eyson Inflatable Child Classic Life Jacket (Amazon) as well. You’ll easily be able to pack it with you in a suitcase, and the smaller child sizes will at least save you a little breath when inflating it on the beach before a family snorkel.

2. Medium Flotation: Snorkel Vests

Think of snorkel vests as a light-duty life jacket made especially for snorkeling. You’ll still get some nice buoyancy added to your swimming, but snorkel vests won’t be as bulky or potentially difficult to travel with, so they’re a great middle-of-the-road option for snorkelers with decent swimming ability, but who maybe just want a little extra support as they push to develop their skills.

And just like with life jackets, the best snorkel vests are going to have a lot of the same attributes for snorkeling in terms of the necessary sizing, buoyancy ideals, standard vs. inflatable (with the same potential benefits and drawbacks), etc. So, we won’t go back through all of the same details, but if you happened to skip over the life jacket section, take a moment to read it so you’re all caught up in terms of the basics that go into the best snorkel vests and the like.

If you’re up to speed, just keep in mind that the differences are mainly around buoyancy and packability.

Snorkel vests will have less buoyancy than life jackets, which can be either a positive or a negative for you depending on your wants and needs. Even the best snorkel vests will probably require a little bit of swimming to stay fully afloat, but that means they can also allow you to swim underwater a bit, which is a great skill to develop as you snorkel more . If you need constant full buoyancy, though, life jackets are a better bet for you.

In terms of packability, the best snorkel vests have life jackets beat. Ultimately, since snorkel vests are a lighter duty form of a life jacket, they take up less room and are less difficult to pack in a typical suitcase. Snorkel vests also offer inflatable versions as well, which are also smaller than inflatable life jackets simply because the amount of material used is less.

The Best Snorkel Vest for Adults

Our pick for the best snorkel vest for adults is the Seaview Palawan Snorkel Vest (over on Amazon) . And, it’s impressed us so much over the years that it’s our pick for both the best traditional snorkel vest as well as the best inflatable snorkel vest.

Ultimately the Palawan looks cool and inflates with less effort and more comfort than most inflatables thanks to its more straw-like mouthpiece rather than the tiny rubber nub that we’re all used to.

Seaview also adds just the right amount of buoyancy for decent swimmers who just want a boost, and the Palawan packs down flat to take up not much more room than a sweatshirt or something similar, so it’s excellent for travel.

The Best Snorkel Vest for Kids

There’s a ton of overlap in terms of how an inflatable snorkel vest and an inflatable life jacket work in the for-kids arena, so the Eyson Inflatable Child Classic Life Jacket (Amazon) from our best-of pick for inflatable child’s life jackets above would work well as a stand-in for the best snorkel vest for kids while still minimizing the space needed to store it quite well.

If you have kids in tow and want something even more compact, though, our pick for the best snorkel vest for children that’s even smaller is the Scuba Choice Kids Snorkel Vest (Amazon) for smaller kids along with the Scuba Choice Youth Snorkel Vest (Amazon) for larger kids. You’ll find a familiar around-the-neck inflatable form factor, but these vests do an admirable job of keeping kids afloat given how small the actual vest is.

3. Light Flotation

If both life jackets and snorkel vests sound a little burdensome or overkill to you, you might be looking for something lighter duty that maybe you don’t have to strap yourself into.

Believe it or not, a surprisingly effective form of light floatation in the ocean for snorkelers are pool noodles. Yes, the colorful foam tubes from the childhood pool.

Pool noodles obviously aren’t going to be much help for someone gone overboard in rough seas, but you would be surprised how much they can support a snorkeler in normal waters.

Instead of attaching it to yourself, you can swim with a pool noodle or two underneath your armpits and around the front of your body. This set-up lets you swim around with your goggles in the water (obviously a must for snorkeling), and allows you to put the noodle aside to dive underwater unimpeded before returning.

Pool noodles are also great if you’re teaching a child to snorkel in shallow water, helping you to work on getting them comfortable with using goggles and a snorkel in the water before transitioning to swimming on their own. Plus, pool noodles are easy to cut into different lengths (children don’t necessarily need the full length to have helpful buoyancy, though it’s good to test it out first) for different sizes of kids (or adults) and travel packing capacities.

The Best Light Flotation for Snorkeling: Pool Noodles

Don’t overthink it too much; pool noodles are generally pool noodles. But, these floaty noodles from FixFind (Amazon) come in a multi-color pack of 5 (nice if you want to cut a few to different lengths for different family members or for different travel luggage capacities) and we like them.

The Deep Dive

If you’re a newer snorkeler still working on your confidence in the water (or have kids who are) — no worries! We’ve all started there and several different types of snorkel flotation exist (specifically, life jackets, snorkel vests, and lighter flotation like pool noodles) to help you take that next step.

Ultimately, if you want to be fully supported in the water while you snorkel, a life jacket is the way to go. If you’re a decent swimmer who is just looking for a little bit of a boost, a medium-duty snorkel vest might be right up your alley. Or, if you just need a minor lift (or are teaching kids and need the flexibility), even a pool noodle can efficiently do the trick.

Whatever makes most sense for you, pick one up and get out in the water to experience the undersea world!

First, you can look into the recommended gear from this article (the best snorkel vests, life jackets, etc.) at their Amazon links below:

Best Life Jackets for Snorkeling

• Best snorkeling life jacket for men: O’Neill Superlite Men’s Life Vest
• Best snorkeling life jacket for women: O’Neill Superlite Women’s Life Vest
• Best inflatable snorkeling life jacket: Rrtizan Inflatable Swim Vest
• Best snorkeling life jacket for 50-90lb kids: O’Neill Youth Superlite Life Vest
• Best snorkeling life jacket for 30-50lb kids: O’Neill Child Superlite Life Vest
• Best inflatable snorkeling life jacket for kids: Eyson Inflatable Child Classic Life Jacket

Best Snorkel Vests

• Best snorkel vest for adults (standard & inflatable): Seaview Palawan Snorkel Vest
• Best inflatable snorkel vest for kids: Scuba Choice Kids Snorkel Vest
• Best inflatable snorkel vest for youths: Scuba Choice Youth Snorkel Vest

Best Light Flotation for Snorkeling

• Best pool noodles: FixFind Pool Noodles

Next, if you (or members of your family) are newer to snorkeling, check out some of our other helpful snorkel guides that will help you find the right gear and get in the water with more confidence and knowledge:

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