Adventures on the water can leave us with amazing, lasting memories. However, in order to fully enjoy aquatic activities, it is essential to prioritize safety and safe boating procedures. The Safe Boating Campaign, led by the National Safe Boating Council, highlights safety tips throughout the year. This month, the focus is on life jackets! May 16th is even Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day. So today, let’s talk about life jackets, why they are important, how to select an appropriate life jacket for your sport, and where you can find that perfect life jacket right here on Scuba.com.
Life Jackets: The Easiest Life-Saving Strategy for Recreational Boaters
According to the Safe Boating Campaign, 75% of boating deaths are due to drowning. 87% of these drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket. Two-thirds of those who drowned in this way were considered good swimmers. (https://safeboatingcampaign.com/get-the-facts/) Accidents on the water can happen very quickly. There is often not enough time to grab a stowed life jacket. This is why it is a MUST that boaters wear their life jackets while boating at all times. As summer ramps up, safety should always be every water lover’s first priority.
While the best life jacket is “one you will wear,” it is important to make sure your jacket fits correctly. The life jacket should be snug with all fasteners properly closed. Make sure your life jacket is not ripped or mildewed, and that it is stored properly. Regular maintenance and proper treatment of your life jackets will ensure the jackets continue to keep you, and every boater with you, as safe as possible.
Remember, adult-sized life jackets are not appropriate for kids. There are child-specific life jackets available, so make sure to pick one suitably sized for the little ones. Here is just one great example: https://www.scuba.com/p-obrjvbjbl/obrien-junior-v-back-life-jacket-blue. For more in-depth information on life jacket fit and care, check this out: https://safeboatingcampaign.com/life-jackets/
Pick the Right Life Jacket For Your Sport
Different life jackets are available for various water sports. Be sure to purchase a life jacket that will fit your sport’s specific needs. Having the right jacket for the right activity will enrich your water adventures and help prepare you for whatever may happen on the waves.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Being able to move freely is essential when engaging in kayaking and/or paddleboarding. No one wants a life jacket that hinders their paddling motion. With that in mind, consider the Mustang Survival Khimera 22 Hybrid Universal PFD Red Single. The Khimera 22 has a unique design, combining foam flotation with inflatable technology. The foam flotation creates neutral buoyancy without bulk, while the manual inflation cell gives you more lift if needed. Additionally, getting back into your boat is a cinch, as the Khimera 22 is so light and sleek. Numerous accessory attachment points and a front storage pocket means no essential items will be left behind. The Khimera 22 is a perfect blend of form and function.
Another great option for these sports is the NRS Ninja PFD Life Jacket X-Large/XX-Large Citrus. The Ninja’s low-profile design allows for superior athletic performance. Reflective accents ensure low-light visibility, making it easier for rescue workers to find you should something happen. Also, this life jacket is eco-friendly and kind to your skin. The NRS Ninja features sustainable materials and a 4-way stretch, moisture-managing linen. And, of course, there are functional pockets and attachments for your gear. What’s more, the NRS Ninja comes in 6 fun colors, so you can be both safe and stylish!
Wakesurfing and Towables
Durability, flexibility, and mobility are all important characteristics of life jackets made for wake sports. The O’Brien Flex V-Back LTD Life Jacket for Men Red XX-Large has a FlexFit design that contours to the body so that neither mobility nor safety is compromised. The Split V-Back Stretch panel allows for maximum comfort and finesse, so you won’t feel constrained while performing your sport. Adjustable belts give the user a secure, tailored fit. These belts are also unexposed, so there is no worry about snagging, even in the most demanding environments.
Near-Shore Boating
For activities closer to the shoreline, there are great life jacket options. The Mustang Survival M.I.T. 150 Automatic Inflatable PFD, US Red Single is your “personal guardian in the water.” This life jacket switches easily between automatic and manual inflation modes. The M.I.T 150 provides a very high buoyancy of 38 lbs when inflated, keeping you safe no matter what the water conditions. The front entry buckle makes taking the life jacket on and off a breeze. Moreover, proprietary Membrane Inflatable Technology promises a light, comfortable fit that also ensures durability. Easy to repack and inspect, you can’t go wrong with this Mustang Survival M.I.T 150 life jacket.
Want heavy-duty durability? Unparalleled safety and resourcefulness on the water? Then look into the Onyx Impulse A/M-33 All Clear Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket. The Onyx Impulse comes with a clear window that makes it easy to check if the device is armed. It is made from heavy-duty materials, with nylon and Cordura fabric used in the construction. SOLAS grade reflective material and a light attachment means high visibility, even in very low light. This is a high-end life jacket designed for all water sport enthusiasts, which means enhanced safety does not sacrifice comfort. A low-profile design, zipper front closure, and air mesh contact areas will keep you streamlined, snug, and secure. The Onyx Impulse is the life jacket to buy if you are a full-time water bug.
Conclusion
Wear your life jacket. Seriously, WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET. It is the number one safety tool out there for those who consider the water life to BE life. If you don’t have one or need a new one, consider one of the many options listed above from Scuba.com. We want you and your boating companions, family, or friends to have a fun, happy, and SAFE boating season. If you want more options or information on specific life jackets, here is another great resource: https://www.scuba.com/g/life-jacket-buying-guide. Also, remember to check out the Safe Boating Campaign for more safety tips and ways you can get involved in keeping all water enthusiasts safe year-round. Have a great summer, happy boating, and wear your life jacket!
