Are you thinking about buying a jet ski? Do you have a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) to protect you when you’re out on the water?
A jet ski life jacket is essential equipment for any rider, and it’s a vital piece of kit that could save your life. We reviewed the best jet ski life jackets to help you choose the right model for your watersports activities.
Contents
- Our Top Picks
- Jet Ski Life Jacket Reviews
- Best Overall Jet Ski Life Jacket – O’Neill Assault
- Best Premium Jet Ski Life Jacket- O’Neill Slasher Comp
- Best Budget Jet Ski Life Jacket- O’Neill Superlite
- JetPilot L.R.E. Helmsman
- O’Brien Traditional Life Jacket
- Airhead Camo Cool
- Yamaha Life Jacket
- JetPilot Fleet
- Body Glove Method
- Other Best Selling Options
- Jet Ski Life Jacket Buyers Guide
- Jet Ski Life Jacket Materials
- Tips for Choosing Your Jet Ski Life Jacket
- Maintaining Your Jet Ski Life Jacket
- Jet Ski Life Jacket FAQs
- Jet Ski Life Jackets – The Verdict
Our Top Picks
- The Best Overall Jet Ski Life Jacket – O’Neill Men’s Assault
- The Best Premium Jet Ski Life Jacket – O’Neill Slasher Comp
- The Best Budget Jet Ski Life Jacket – O’Neill Superlite
Jet Ski Life Jacket Reviews
Best Overall Jet Ski Life Jacket – O’Neill Assault
We recommend the O’Neill Assault as our top choice for the best overall jet ski life jacket. O’Neil is one of the leading brands in life jackets purpose-built for performance use out on the water. The company was the first to design the recreational surfing wetsuit, and they have a long history of producing top-quality watersports apparel.
The O’Neil Assault comes with your choice of five color combinations to match your jet ski colors and personal style. This low-profile USCG Approved Personal Flotation Device has a snug fit, with slimline floatation panels that substitute as an impact panel for absorbing shock when you impact the water after falling at speed when wakeboarding.
- USCG Approved Personal Flotation Device; Perfect for Wake Sports, Waterskiing, Tubing, and Swimming
- Minimal Bulk Design Allows Full Mobility, While Anatomical Flex Points Enable Unrestricted Movement
- NytroLite Foam: 3x Lighter, 10% More Buoyant, and Absorbs 15-20% Less Water Than Regular PVC Foam
- Low-Back Lumbar Pad Provides The Extra Support You Need In Your Core
- Snug Fit For The Performance-Oriented Wakeboarder Or Waterskier Looking For A Life Vest Which Won't Move During High Impact
This life jacket offers full mobility giving you a complete range of motion in your arms and shoulders without feeling cramped. There are six floatation panels on the front of the vest, four pads on the rear, and two on the sides. You get a vest that keeps you afloat when you’re feeling tired and don’t want to tread water till the boat arrives to collect you.
The flotation panels feature design and construction with NytroLite foam that’s tree-times lighter than traditional foam panels. The panels absorb up to 20% less water while offering around 10% more buoyancy. This jacket might look thin and less buoyant than other PFD from leading brands.
However, you get the same amount of float and unrestricted movement in the arms and shoulders. The lower back panels provide lumbar support for skiing, and The front of the vest features a YKK zipper and two large quick-release buckles for easy donning of the life vest.
What We Liked
- Slimline panels.
- 10% better buoyancy with 20% less water absorption.
- Zipper and buckle fastening system.
- Five color options.
Best Premium Jet Ski Life Jacket- O’Neill Slasher Comp
If you’re looking for the best jet ski life jacket, we recommend the O’Neil Slasher Comp. This model is a great choice for competitive wakesports and drivers entering races. The Slasher Comp is the flagship jet ski life vest from this leading brand in watersports apparel.
The vest features design and construction with NytroLite foam, offering you better buoyancy than traditional PFDs, despite the slimline look and thin panels. The pads absorb less water than conventional PVC foam floatation panels, providing better buoyancy.
- Not Approved By the U.S. Coast Guard, Vest Is For Competition Waterskiing and Wakeboarding
- NytroLite Foam: 3x Lighter, 10% More Buoyant, and Absorbs 15-20% Less Water Than Regular PVC Foam
- Segmented Foam Core And Anatomical Flex Points Enable Unrestricted Movement
- Front-Zip Design Allows Easy Exit And Entry. Weight(kgs) - 70-77, Chest(inches) - 38.9-40.9
- Snug Fit For The Performance-Oriented Wakeboarder Or Waterskier Looking For A Life Vest Which Won't Move During High Impact
The slimline design provides a full range of motion in the arms, and the segmented foam core and anatomical flex points offer you unrestricted movement in your core and shoulders. The floatation pads also serve as impact panels, absorbing the energy from a fall at speed.
The front of the vest has a YKK zipper for easy entry and exit from the vest. However, there are no quick-release buckles. The rear panels of the vest also provide lumbar support for riders. This vest has a snug fit, and it won’t ride up or move around during your wakeboarding session.
The only issue with this vest is that it’s not USCG-approved. However, you get plenty of float and impact protection for your body. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for the lightest jet ski life vest with a slimline profile that feels almost like you’re not wearing a PFD at all.
What We Liked
- Slimline, lightweight design.
- Ideal for competitive wakesports and jet ski racing.
- Easy entry with front zip and no buckles.
- Flotation panels absorb impact.
- Plenty of color options.
Best Budget Jet Ski Life Jacket- O’Neill Superlite
We recommend going with the O’Neil Superlite if you’re on a budget. This model is very affordable and less than half the cost of the two previous O’Neil models we covered. This life vest comes with USGC approval as a Type II PFD, suitable for jet ski activities.
This vest is a good all-around choice, and despite its bulk compared to the Slasher Comp and the Assault jackets, it’s somewhat bulky. However, O’Neil designed the vest to enable a complete range of motion in the shoulder and arms. You won’t find any limitations to your movement when your wakeboarding.
- USCG Approved Personal Flotation Device (Type III); Perfect For Wake Sports, Waterskiing, Tubing, And Swimming
- Designed to fit snug for your safety. Minimal bulk design allows full mobility and easy on and off
- Anatomically cut lightweight polyethylene foam flotation with durable coated polyester outer shell makes the vest strong yet soft and comfortable
- Heavy-duty 1.5 inch wide webbing belts with quick release buckles allow for an adjustable fit and easy fastening
- Size Up. When choosing a size, try one size larger for a more relaxed fit
The shoulder pads feature an anatomical design that won’t get in your way. This vest comes with lightweight polyethylene foam featuring a rugged coated polyester shell, which gives this vest a long service life and excellent flotation.
The front of the jacket doesn’t have a zip entry system. Instead, you get four heavy-duty 1.5″ webbing belts with quick-release buckles. The vest offers a snug fit and easy adjustment. The clips secure the vest in position, and it won’t ride up on you when you’re floating in the water.
Overall, you can’t beat the value you get from the Superlite, plus it’s an O’Neil product, and you know you’re buying a quality vest with this model.
What We Liked
- Five color options and Hi-Viz colors available.
- Large, anatomically-cut floatation panels.
- Secure fit that doesn’t ride up in the water.
JetPilot L.R.E. Helmsman
Are you an angler? If you enjoy taking your jet ski out on the water for some fishing, this life vest is your top choice. What makes the Helmsman exceptional is the amount of storage available on the vest. This model has a pocket for everything, and you’ll have all your gear and tech on hand without the need to fumble through your gear bag or tackle box.
This jet ski life jacket features a design with built-in utility. You get multi-purpose zipper-mesh pockets, with two storage pockets on the left side and one large pocket on the right. The right side pocket features zip access with a mesh lower to keep your gear dry and let the vest drain.
- Built-in utility, multi-purpose zipper/mesh pockets, shoulder straps and multi-use D-rings
- Pure-Lite soft, flexible, and durable neoprene with Aero Jet super soft front and back foam
- US Coast Guard approved dual-buckle vest and front-zip entry
- Co-pilot side grabs and shoulder handles with built-in safety whistle and reflective safety nylon tape
- Adjustable Velcro strap for UHF or VHF radio and removable Go-Pro camera mount
This pocket also features Molle webbing, allowing you to attach other Molle-compatible pockets, pouches, and accessories. The top of the right front panel holds a clip for your GoPro, VHF marine radio, or walkie-talkie. You’ll find a key pocket and a smaller storage pouch on the left upper.
The Helmsman comes with shoulder lifting straps, making it easy to haul you from the water if you’re knocked unconscious or can’t get back onto the ski for some reason. There are two side handles for your co-pilot to grab when water conditions get rough. There are D-rings above the lower right pocket and at the bottom of the front panels.
You get a bright-yellow strip on the front for better visibility in the water, and there’s a zip-entry system combined with two oversized quick-release buckles for easy fitment. There’s a built-in safety whistle, and You get large neoprene construction with Aero-Jet super-soft floatation pads that keep you bobbing on the water when you fall from the ski.
What We Liked
- Dedicated fishing design.
- Built-in utility.
- Neoprene and Aero-Jet flotation pads for added buoyancy.
- Hi-Viz reflector strip on chest.
- Lift handles and side co-pilot handles.
O’Brien Traditional Life Jacket
The O’Brien range of life jackets offers you an excellent balance of quality design and materials with affordable price tags. The Traditional life jacket model is ideal for all watersports activities and general use. The jacket features design and construction with Biolite foam floatation panels offering excellent buoyancy in the water.
The front of the life vest features a zipper entry with two wide nylon straps and quick-release buckles for easy adjustment of the vest and a secure, snug fit. The vest remains in position during a fall, and it won’t ride up when you’re floating in the water. There is a D-ring for attaching your gear on the lower left front panel of the vest.
- BioLite construction - Neoprene alternative that is soft, lightweight, breathable and eco-conscious
- Front hinge and wide armholes for enhanced range of motion
- Zip closure with 2 adjustable belts for security
- PWC lanyard attachment ring
- Harmonized U. S. Coast guard and Transport Canada Approved life jacket
Biolite materials feature construction with lightweight neoprene featuring soft, breathable fabrics that don’t cause you to sweat in the jacket. The front hinge in the floatation panels allows for better movement, and the anatomically-cut arm sleeves give you a full range of motion when holding onto the ski rope.
The O’Brien traditional life vest comes in five color options with Hi-Viz colors available in orange and green. This model is one of the few life vests with USGC and Transport Canada approval.
What We Liked
- UCG and Transport Canada approved.
- Five color options.
- Secure fit with zipper and buckles.
- Front hinge design ideal for wakesports.
- Lightweight neoprene flotation panels.
Airhead Camo Cool
Airhead is one of the leading brands in jet ski accessories. This jet ski life jacket is another top-rated model that’s a great choice for recreational jet ski use and wakesports. You get the design and construction of the floatation panels with neoprene and foam and Kwik-Dry NeoLite materials for the outer shell.
You get PVC floatation panels and closed sides, with two wide nylon buckles and quick-release clips for a secure fit. The vest also comes with a front zip-entry system. This vest has USGC approval as a Type III PFD, ideal for all water conditions.
- US Coast Guard Approved: This personal flotation device meets USCG requirements. Less bulky design for use when quick response is likely and offers a larger range of motion
- US Coast Guard Approved: This personal flotation device meets USCG requirements. Less bulky design for use when quick response is likely and offers a larger range of motion
- Buckles & Zipper: Side release buckles open and close quickly while the zipper is easy and quick to fasten to ensure safety and security on the water. Children's life jacket features a crotch strap for added safety
- Material: Quick-drying and super soft. This fabric keeps you comfortable and dry all day long
- Sizing: This life jacket follows the sizing determined by the USGC and is designed to fit adults that weigh over 90 pounds and have a 42.5-45-inch chest size. For your convenience, please know that the Neolite life jackets may feel snug or run a little small. If you are unsure or in between sizes, we would recommend choosing the larger size
We love the cool camo styling on the front and back of the vest, but it only comes in one color. There’s a small pocket for your car key on the shoulder but no other storage pockets on the vest. It’s a lightweight model offering you a full range of motion in the shoulders for wakesports and no restriction of movement.
What We Liked
- Cool camo styling.
- Secure fit.
- Ideal for wakesports.
Yamaha Life Jacket
Do you own a Yamaha jet ski? If you’re a fan of this manufacturing brand, pick up this life vest to complete your look. The OEM Yamaha life jacket comes with a purpose-built design for wakesports and jet ski use.
The jacket features a modular panel design, allowing you to turn and bend in the vest without riding up when you move your upper body. The front has two panels on the right and left and two panels on the side.
The rear of the life vest features another modular panel design with the lower panels providing support for your lower back. Yamaha uses high-quality foam for the floatation panels, giving you excellent buoyancy in the water.
- OEM Yamaha Men's Neoprene 2-Buckle PFD Life Jacket Vest
- High-quality neoprene construction. Fully segmented foam panels
- Two adjustable straps with side-release buckles for additional support and security
- Durable front-zip entry
- Sizing: Small=33"-37", Medium=37"-41", Large=41"-45", X-Large=45"-49", XX-Large=49"-53"
The front of the vest features a zip-entry system, and you have two wide nylon straps and quick-release buckles, providing a secure fit that doesn’t ride up on you when you’re floating in the water. The cut of the vest leaves plenty of freedom in the shoulders and arms, enabling a full range of motion when wakeboarding or crouched over the ski at speed.
This model comes in three colors, Hi-Viz red, blue, and black. It’s a must-have jacket for Yamaha fans, offering a functional and effective jet ski life jacket.
What We Liked
- Modular panel design for freedom of movement.
- Buoyant foam floatation panels.
- Secure fit with zipper and buckles.
- Three color options.
JetPilot Fleet
The Jet Pilot Fleet is another top-rated model from this premium PFD brand. The Fleet brings you a jet ski life vest with a purpose-built design for water sports. This model features an anatomically-designed fitment with low-profile floatation panels to support you in the water. The result is a full range of motion in the arms when wakeboarding.
The vest’s shell features construction with Duralite neoprene materials, Aero-Jet front panels, and Jet-Foam rear panels. Duralite gives you all the neoprene benefits but at a reasonable price. You get a soft feel to the vest that feels like a pillow. The fit is comfortable, with a front entry YKK self-locking zipper and two wide nylon straps with quick-release buckles. This model has approval from the USGC as a Type III PFD.
- DURABLE NEOPRENE -> The Fleet vest is made using Duralite Neoprene material. Duralite material has many of the finer qualities of neoprene but at a better price. Duralite neoprene dries quickly, is lightweight, and most importantly it boasts durability.
- FRONT & BACK JET-PANELS -> Our Fleet vest comes equipped with Aero-Jet front panels and Jet-Foam back panels. The foam in the vest is what makes the vest float, but the feature that makes it awesome is the fact that the vest is extremely soft and pillowy. Some vests contain layers of foam (3-5 layers like a club sandwich), this one doesn't! The entire vest, front/back/sides have this foam making it one solid piece of foam ensuring its flexible and durable design.
- ZIPPER FRONT AND CENTER -> Our Fleet vest has a YKK self-locking zipper running down the front. A YKK zipper is a premium kind of zipper that won't break or lock up and the zipper head won't get stuck. The teeth on the zipper are coated with a high strength plastic to increase durability. The YKK zipper is UV treated meaning the sun won't be able to bake or fade it.
- INTERNAL BUCKLE DUO -> Our neoprene Fleet vest comes fully equipped with an internal dual buckle design. With premium features such as internal or enclosed straps the potential for twisting, snagging, or tangling is greatly reduced
- US COAST GUARD APPROVED -> This USCG approved type 3 vest is designed using 2 buckles as well as a zipper running down the front of the vest. Safety is a priority for Jet Pilot and we don't sacrifice comfort to achieve it. We aim to make our vests stylish, safe, and comfortable to use.
The foam panels are one complete panel instead of other cheaper vests that stack thinner panels together. The bottom of the left front panel comes with a D-ring for attaching your lanyard. However, there are no storage pockets on this life vest.
What We Liked
- Purpose-built design for watersports and jet ski riding.
- Duralite materials for lightweight use.
- One-piece floatation panels on the front and rear.
- USGC approved.
Body Glove Method
The Body Glove Method is another top-rated choice in this review. Body Glove has an outstanding reputation for providing some of the best watersports gear on the planet. They specialize in form-fitting accessories, and the Method is another excellent product from this leading brand.
The Method features classification as a Type III PFD by the USGC. This vest features design and construction with woven polymer for a lightweight outer and inner shell. You get a form-fitting vest with an anatomical cut in the shoulders for a full range of motion and no restriction on your movement in the vest.
- COAST GUARD APPROVED – Safety first this USCG approved PFD is perfect to enjoy Boating, Water Skiing, Jet Skiing, Fishing, Kayaking, Rafting, Paddling, and use on personal watercraft.
- DELUXE 4-BUCKLES – Ensure a snug fit with 4 heavy duty 1.5” belts with durable quick release buckles. Extra protection by adding an extra strap to keep you inside your vest under harsh conditions.
- DURABLE & AGILE – Woven polymer for a sturdy yet lightweight inner and otter shell, form fitting but allows for mobility with oversize armholes.
- LIGHTWEIGHT WHEN WET – Strategically placed drain holes make this vest a pleasure to wear even when wet.
- EVERYTHING WATER – Bodyglove provides the quality, fit, and functionality in the industry. Our USCG life vests continue to set new standards of excellence in design for all everything water sports for over 60 years.
This vest comes with USGC and TC approval for use in US or Canadian waters. You get a choice of four colors, with an option for Hi-Viz yellow to make you stand out in low-light conditions. The only drawback with the Method is the lack of front entry zip. However, you get four wide nylon straps with quick-release buckles for a secure fit that doesn’t ride up on you when floating in the water.
What We Liked
- USCG and TC approved Type III life vest.
- For colors with a Hi-Viz yellow option.
- Lightweight and dries fast.
- Excellent buoyancy.
- Snug and secure fit.
Other Best Selling Options
- USCG Type III: US Coast Guard certified Type 3 vest, with a strength rating of 100 MPH. Required flotation vest for almost all public waterways in the United States. Also required by some Jet Ski race organizations.
- SIDE ENTRY: Comfortable open sides for better movement and lightweight. Three 38mm buckles and webbing for easy closure on the side of the life vest.
- ALL AROUND RECREATION: Nylon flotation vest works for fishing, snorkeling, kayating, wakeboarding, sailing, and personal watercraft racing
- SIZES: Side-Entry Vest Approval is for Adult Sizes Small / Medium and Large / X-Large. vest is designed for use for both men and women.
- FEATURES: Included Jettribe Lanyard Loop Attachment. Shoulder Rescue Handle. Removable Flag Patch on Shoulder.
- DURABLE NEOPRENE -> The Fleet vest is made using Duralite Neoprene material. Duralite material has many of the finer qualities of neoprene but at a better price. Duralite neoprene dries quickly, is lightweight, and most importantly it boasts durability.
- FRONT & BACK JET-PANELS -> Our Fleet vest comes equipped with Aero-Jet front panels and Jet-Foam back panels. The foam in the vest is what makes the vest float, but the feature that makes it awesome is the fact that the vest is extremely soft and pillowy. Some vests contain layers of foam (3-5 layers like a club sandwich), this one doesn't! The entire vest, front/back/sides have this foam making it one solid piece of foam ensuring its flexible and durable design.
- ZIPPER FRONT AND CENTER -> Our Fleet vest has a YKK self-locking zipper running down the front. A YKK zipper is a premium kind of zipper that won't break or lock up and the zipper head won't get stuck. The teeth on the zipper are coated with a high strength plastic to increase durability. The YKK zipper is UV treated meaning the sun won't be able to bake or fade it.
- INTERNAL BUCKLE DUO -> Our neoprene Fleet vest comes fully equipped with an internal dual buckle design. With premium features such as internal or enclosed straps the potential for twisting, snagging, or tangling is greatly reduced
- US COAST GUARD APPROVED -> This USCG approved type 3 vest is designed using 2 buckles as well as a zipper running down the front of the vest. Safety is a priority for Jet Pilot and we don't sacrifice comfort to achieve it. We aim to make our vests stylish, safe, and comfortable to use.
- PROTECTION: Built-in molded high-density chest plate to reduce chest impacts when riding your watercraft
- RESCUE: Rescue Handles to help pull a downed rider back up on their ski. All 3 rescue handles are wrapped underneath, bar tacked, and finished with a box stitch
- SIDE ENTRY: Side entry style and 3 buckle closure allow for better side-to-side movement for a PWC rider or racer
- 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION: Upgraded features such as premium Black Lanyard Attachment, New Velcro Patch Strap Attachment , Enhanced Customizable Back Plate, and 3-Point Strap Reinforcements
- CUSTOMIZABLE: The removable back plate can be customized with heat transfer vinyl lettering to show off your race name and number. Customization not included. WARNING: This impact vest IS NOT approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Jet Ski Life Jacket Buyers Guide
After reading through the best jet ski life jacket reviews, you probably have your eye on a preferred model for your needs. Whether you need something for performance riding, wakesports, or casual cruising, we have a PDF option for you in this review.
This buyer’s guide unpacks everything you need to know about jet ski life jackets.
Why Do I Need a Jet Ski Life Jacket?
While the USCG enforces the mandatory wearing of PFDs when operating jet skis, many owners choose to violate this law. We get it; wearing a PFD when wakeboarding or just riding your ski is a hassle. It gets in the way, and it feels so much better when you’re not wearing one.
However, the PFD is there for a reason. Have you ever seen someone get thrown from a jet ski while executing a high-speed turn? The force involved with the throw is astounding. When you hit the water at speeds over 20-mph, it feels like you’re landing on concrete.
So, hitting the water at 30-mph or 40-mph is almost as bad as having a motorcycle accident. While there is no tarmac to grind you up, the force of the impact when landing on the water can knock you out cold. If you’re KO’d in the water, you’ll drown and sink to the bottom before anyone comes to your rescue.
The PFD isn’t a guarantee against you drowning, but it makes it more likely that you’ll experience a rescue where the team can revive you.
How does a Jet Ski Life Jacket Work?
The jet ski life jacket consists of a durable outer shell covering floatation panels. These panels come with foam construction providing buoyancy in the water.
Jet ski life jackets usually feature modular panel systems that allow you to move in the vest without restriction.
What are the Types of USCG-Approved Jet Ski Life Jackets?
The US Coast Guard enforces the bylaw of wearing life jackets on jet skis. To be compliant with the Coast Guard, you need to have a PFD with a minimum Type III classification when operating a jet ski.
Here are the PFD classifications as set by the USGC.
Type I
This PFD offers you the best buoyancy. The PFD has a design that rolls you over in the water, so your face is pointing to the sky. These life vests are common on boats, but they are unsuitable for jet skis due to the bulky design of the life jacket.
Type II
The Type II PFD has less buoyancy than the Type I, but it also turns the wearer the right side up in the water, preventing drowning. These PFDs, like Type I, are unsuitable for jet ski use due to their bulk.
Type III
The Type III PFD is what you use when riding your jet ski. This life jacket offers less buoyancy than the Type I & II, but you get a slimline design suitable for jet ski use. The PFD keeps you afloat, but some models might not turn you over to avoid your drowning. However, they stop you from sinking, allowing the ski driver to rescue you from the water and start CPR.
Type IV
These PFDs are suitable for sports like fishing and sailboarding or SUP. They offer less float than Type II, but you get a slimline vest that doesn’t interfere with your movement.
The USCG also uses a “performance level” grading system. Typically, jet ski lifejackets fall into the Level 70 to 100 grading.
Level 50
These life jackets are for activities close to shore. They offer the least amount of buoyancy and are suitable for strong swimmers.
Level 70
These PFDs are intended for use near shore where rescue is close by. Like Level 50, these vests have a slimline design and offer minimal buoyancy. They are not suitable for rough water conditions.
Level 100
These PFDs are suitable for use in scenarios where rescue might be hours away. They suit to use in sheltered waters, but they are not the correct choice for rough conditions.
Level 150
This PFD classification is suitable for use in bad weather conditions and rough water. They are similar to the Type I & II PFDs, in that they turn the wearer the right-side-up in the water to prevent them from drowning.
Level 275
These PFDs have the highest buoyancy rating. They are suitable for use in offshore waters and rough water and weather conditions.
Jet Ski Life Jacket Materials
Outer Shell
Jet ski life jackets feature design and construction with durable, tear-resistant materials for the vest’s outer shell. Typically, manufacturers will use nylon, neoprene, or another lightweight, waterproof synthetic material.
Flotation Panels
The floatation panels inside the vest can feature materials like PVC foam or other similar lightweight and buoyant materials. NitroLite foam is a popular option for top-of-the-line jet ski life jackets.
Zippers
Some jet ski life jackets feature front zipper systems that close the vest for a secure fit. We recommend looking for vests with YKK locking zippers to prevent them from working loose when you’re riding or wakeboarding.
Straps and Buckles
The vest will also feature wide nylon straps, plastic quick-release buckles, and a zipper closure system. You can adjust the straps to give you a custom fit. The number varies, but most brands use two to five straps and buckles.
Sizing Your Jet Ski Life Jacket
After you decide which jet ski life jacket suits your needs on the water, it’s time to choose the right size. The jet ski life jacket allows you to adjust the straps to fit the vest to the contours of your body for a snug fit. Most manufacturers have a size curve available on their website or in the product listing for the vest.
Adults
You’ll need to use the chest measurement of the jacket when assessing the right adult size. The jacket should fit snugly and feel comfortable while retaining a full range of motion in your arms and shoulders.
Children
The kid’s PFDs are sized by the child’s weight. Life jackets for infants have a rating between 7 to 30-lbs. Kid’s jackets have a rating of 30-lbs to 50-lbs. Youth sizes fit kids weighing between 55 to 90-lbs.
Tips for Choosing Your Jet Ski Life Jacket
- We recommend looking for USGC-approved jet ski life vests unless you need a professional racing model, like the O’Neil Slasher Comp.
- Look for a D-ring on the vest that lets you attach your jet ski key lanyard.
- If you’re riding in cooler water temperatures, choose black or dark colors to absorb the sunlight and keep you warm. If you’re in warm water, we recommend going for a Hi-Viz color, like bright orange or yellow.
- Choose your life jacket to match your jet ski activities. There are options for wakesports, racing, and fishing.
- Every jet ski life jacket comes with an expiry date. Check the date and replace the life vest when it expires. Expired panels reduce the buoyancy and performance of the life jacket in the water.
- Make sure you choose the right fit for your jacket to prevent it from riding up in the water.
- Ensure you choose the right fit for children. If the chin slips through it, they need a smaller size vest.
Maintaining Your Jet Ski Life Jacket
Your jet ski life jacket comes with an expiry date, so pay attention to that. However, to ensure you get the best service life out of the vest, you’ll need to keep it in good condition.
Rince the vest with fresh water after every use. The salt will eat away at the fabrics if you’re riding in the ocean, and let the vest dry afterward without rinsing it. In freshwater, the debris and organisms in the water can degrade the vest.
Leave the vest to dry in a shady area, not in the direct sunlight. Drying under direct light damages the materials in the vest and the flotation panels.
If your vest experiences a tear, you’ll need to throw it away and buy a new model. Never wear a damaged vest as it compromises your safety in the water.
Jet Ski Life Jacket FAQs
Q: Is there any difference between men’s and women’s jet ski life vests?
A: Yes, there is a difference between men’s and women’s life vests. Women’s vests offer more room in the chest, and they have an anatomical design to fit your body. Most of the jet ski life jackets in this review come from men’s and women’s models.
Q: Is there a law saying I need to wear a life vest when riding my jet ski?
A: Yes, state law in the US and Canada requires you to wear a PFD when operating a jet ski. The PFD must be an approved USGC model and meet the requirements set by the USGC for a Type III PFD. The life jacket must also fit the rider correctly and be in good condition.
Q: What’s the difference between a performance jet ski life vest and a conventional PFD?
A: The jet ski life jacket comes with a purpose-built design for jet ski and watersports use. These vests offer you more freedom of movement in the arms and shoulder without the vest riding up in the water.
Q: Where can I buy the best jet ski life jacket?
A: We recommend you purchase your jet ski life vest from Amazon, the global leading in online retail. Amazon has all of the vests mentioned in this review in stock, and at the best prices, you’ll find on the internet. You get fast shipping and buyer protection on your order as a Prime member.
Jet Ski Life Jackets – The Verdict
After reading through our reviews of the best jet ski life jackets, you might feel confused about which model is the right choice for your jet ski activities. If that’s the case, why not go with one of your top picks? We have options for professional models for any watersports activity and budget.
- The Best Overall Jet Ski Life Jacket – O’Neill Men’s Assault
- The Best Premium Jet Ski Life Jacket – O’Neill Slasher Comp
- The Best Budget Jet Ski Life Jacket – O’Neill Superlite
