A swim vest not only makes you feel safe in the water, but can even save lives in an emergency.
Avoid buying mistakes:
Not all pool vests are suitable as life jackets. Different vests are also used for fishing than for water sports, for example.
The best swim vests 2024?
BeyondSurfing shows you the best swim vests 2024 and explains which features and characteristics really matter when buying.
Further swim vest recommendations:
Content
- 1 These are the top 8 swim vests 2024
- 2 Bestsellers: The most popular swim vests
- 3 Buy swim vests: How to make the right decision
- 4 FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about swim vests
- 4.1 How does a swim vest work?
- 4.2 How should a swim vest fit?
- 4.3 How long do swim vests last?
- 4.4 How safe are swimming vests?
- 4.5 How safe are swim vests for children?
- 4.6 What do I need to consider with swim vests?
- 4.7 What is the difference between a swim vest and a life jacket?
- 4.8 Which is better swim vest or life belt?
- 4.9 Which is safer swim vest or water wings?
- 4.10 How much does a swim vest cost?
- 4.11 Where can I buy a swim vest?
- 5 Conclusion: The most popular swim vests reviewed
In a hurry? Our swim vest favorite:
- Three different colors
- ISO certified
- Reflectors for more safety
- Quick creation
- Lots of freedom of movement
- Impact protection foam
Swim vests Checklist
- Wearing comfort: If the swim vest fits properly, it does not restrict your freedom of movement.
- Safety: swim vests with reflectors improve visibility for other boats.
- Size: There are no standard sizes – therefore always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Design: Most swim vests are gender-neutral.
- Service life: Correct care increases safety and longevity. The swim vest must be replaced after 10 years at the latest.
Important: A swim vest is not a life jacket. They are not suitable for non-swimmers!
These are the top 8 swim vests 2024
1. MESLE buoyancy aid according to ISO standard
Advantages
- Three different colors
- ISO certified
- Reflectors for more safety
- Quick creation
- Lots of freedom of movement
- Impact protection foam
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for children or non-swimmers
Summary
The Mesle swimmy vest complies with the latest European standards. It is ISO certified and available in four different colors. Each version is equipped with reflectors.
According to the manufacturer, it is suitable for people with a body weight of 40 – 70+ kg. The chest circumference may be up to 132 cm.
The swim vest is suitable for various water sports thanks to the deep armhole and promises plenty of freedom of movement with a high level of safety.
Conclusion
The vest is lightweight, fits comfortably on the body and offers very good buoyancy.
Water sports enthusiasts who value comfort and color variety choose this product. The extra reflectors make it ideal for waters where many boats are underway.
The vest is not suitable for small children and non-swimmers. They are better off choosing a product with a headrest.
Product details
Size: 76 – 132 cm chest circumference | Material: EPE impact protection foam, nylon fabric | Weight class: 40 – 70+ kg
Customer ratings
The buoyancy is strong and customers are kept comfortably afloat. The color selection is beautiful and elegant. Even large bust sizes are no problem. The openings for the arms offer sufficient freedom of movement for various water sports. The pack size and weight are not too big. This makes transportation easy. The vest is comfortable against the skin and can easily be worn with just a swimsuit underneath. Delivery by the manufacturer is very fast.
Around 11% are neutral about the product, while 9% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
It is very difficult to swim with the jacket on. The inner parts can come loose and exert pressure on the neck. The waist strap does not always fit properly. With straps on the legs, the vest would do an even better job.
FAQ
2. Jobe Universal swim vest
Advantages
- Three straps for high customizability
- 4 different colors
- ISO certified
- Freedom of movement
- Foam adapts to the shape of the body
- Open sides for wide upper bodies
- Good ventilation
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for non-swimmers or children under 50 kg
- Straps can rub against bare skin
Summary
The swimming vest is a one-size-fits-all product that can be used for various purposes. The customer can choose from four different colors.
Jobe is an experienced manufacturer in the water sports sector that impresses with its quality and reliability.
The product has a very low net weight and is ISO-certified according to European standards. The lightweight PE foam has good buoyancy. The model is open at the sides, making it easy to adapt to different body shapes.
The vest has three straps which are all individually adjustable. This makes the shape exceptionally adaptable. The two lower straps are attached with a loop. This prevents them from sliding up with the vest.
Conclusion
Customers with a large bust, strong muscles or other special body shapes choose this pool vest. The open sides offer very good freedom of movement for all water sports.
The product is not suitable for non-swimmers or small children.
Product details
Size: 85 – 125 cm chest circumference | Material: PE foam and polyester | Weight class: > 50 kg
Customer ratings
One customer describes how the vest protects both a 14-year-old girl and a tall adult. They fit the body well and allow sufficient freedom of movement. It has a very low weight and can be used for various water sports. The design is very nice for a swimming vest. The colors are bright enough to be easily recognizable. They do not make a cheap or garish impression. The price-performance ratio is excellent.
Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The delivery time was too long so the product was not delivered on time. One customer had to cancel her canoe tour as a result and was very disappointed.
FAQ
3. Baltic Aqua swim vest
Advantages
- Suitable for children and adults
- Particularly durable
- ISO certified
- Very good freedom of movement
- Experienced manufacturer
- Also suitable for heavy people
Disadvantages
- Only one color
- Not for non-swimmers
Summary
This swim vest from Baltic comes in a dark blue color that closely resembles the open sea. It is available in different versions depending on your weight class. Also suitable for heavier people.
The special feature of the model is the variety of sizes. It is equally suitable for children and people with larger body circumferences. This is also confirmed by the customer reviews.
The armhole leaves enough room for athletic movements. The strap is easy to attach to the stomach with a click fastener. The model is manufactured in accordance with European standards and is ISO certified.
Conclusion
For lovers of the high seas, the ocean blue is particularly suitable – you are virtually in camouflage. The sizes are suitable for everyone.
The product is not suitable for total non-swimmers.
Product details
Size: N/A | Material: PE foam and polyester | Weight: 30 – 90 kg
Customer ratings
The swimmy vest is well suited for slightly heavier users. The material is very gentle on the skin and offers enough freedom of movement. The strap is flexibly adjustable and can be adapted to different body shapes. It still offers sufficient buoyancy even for poor swimmers. Children can handle the model without any problems. The price-performance ratio is reasonable. Customers would order the product again at any time.
Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer complains that the material soaks up water and becomes very heavy. Another received the delivery too late and therefore had to cancel again. Unfortunately, the vest slips relatively often when rowing.
FAQ
4. Laliza lifejacket
Advantages
- Suitable for non-swimmers
- Keeps even unconscious people afloat
- Iso certified
- Also suitable for heavy people
- Leg strap prevents slipping
- With alarm whistle and reflectors
Disadvantages
- Only available in one color
- Little freedom of movement
Summary
This life jacket from Lalizas is Iso-certified and corresponds to the classic swim vest known from large boats or films. It is strikingly orange and equipped with reflectors.
The model has a pronounced neck support that keeps even unconscious people afloat. It also rotates automatically. They always swim with their heads up.
A leg loop prevents the vest from sliding upwards. A whistle is also fitted so that a warning signal can be given in an emergency. The clip fastener can be quickly closed in front of the stomach.
Conclusion
The Lalizas lifejacket is suitable for absolute non-swimmers and as safety equipment on boats.
Customers looking for a swim vest for water sports reach for a product with more freedom of movement.
Product details
Size: N/A | Material: Polyethylene foam and polyester | Weight load: 10 to 90+ kg
Customer ratings
The lift is powerful. Thanks to reflectors and eye-catching colors, people can be seen from far away. The design is very practical and does its job. Customers are satisfied and consider the product to be good value for money.
Around 2% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
The neutral and negative reviews are unfortunately without comments and feedback on the product.
FAQ
5. PI-PE swim vest for water sports
No product found.
Advantages
- 4 different colors
- Iso certified
- Freedom of movement
- Especially many straps for ideal adjustment
- Suitable for children and adults
Disadvantages
- Not for non-swimmers
- Iso certification only up to 20 kg load capacity
Summary
This swim vest from PI-PE is suitable for men, women and children. There are different sizes and the customer can choose from four colors.
The model is equipped with 4 belts. Each one runs individually through a loop and cannot slip. They can be individually customized. The swim vest can thus be individually adapted to your own body shape.
The ventilation is sufficient even on warm days. There is no “sauna effect”. According to the manufacturer, the vest is suitable for water skiing or wakeboarding and also offers safety and comfort on paddle trips.
Conclusion
Customers who prefer an individual fit are well advised to choose this product. The ideal companion for windsurfing or water sports facilities.
The armhole is slightly smaller than on other models. This means that the vest fits tightly, but movement is restricted when paddling. It is not suitable for non-swimmers.
Product details
Size: S – XXL | Material: N/A | Weight: According to Iso only up to 20 kg, customers describe load up to over 100 kg
Customer ratings
The straps and fasteners are of good quality. The buoyancy is strong enough for most water sports. You stay well ventilated even in warm temperatures. The vest works perfectly as a swimming aid. Delivery is fast and customers would recommend the product to others. Some customers were so satisfied that they gave the product away several times.
Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The product is large. The information on the vest is incorrect. According to Iso certification, the vest can only carry a load of up to 20 kg. The product description may be misleading.
FAQ
6. rrtizan inflatable swim vest
No product found.
Advantages
- 1 year warranty
- Particularly small pack size
- Inflatable
- 6 different colors
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for non-swimmers
- Only up to 110 cm chest circumference
Summary
The Rrtizan inflatable swim vest can be inflated without an air pump. The vest can be fully inflated with just 2 large breaths via a valve. If necessary, the air can be released again with a flick of the wrist.
The manufacturer offers the model in six different colors.
Uninflated, the vest is only the size of a pocket book. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty and 24-hour customer service. This means you can test the model without risk and get your money back if in doubt.
Conclusion
This inflatable swim vest is best suited for snorkeling. The pack size is smaller than all other models.
Product details
Size: up to 110 cm chest circumference | Material: 60 % polyester and 40 % PVC | Weight: 80 – 220 kg
Customer ratings
The material is very robust and is ideal for inland waters. The crotch straps provide additional safety. The swim vest takes up very little space. It is easy to use and easy to understand even without instructions. You only need about 2 big breaths to inflate it. The price-performance ratio is good.
Around 12% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The neutral and negative reviews are unfortunately without comments and feedback on the product.
FAQ
7. Secumar Jump buoyancy aid
Advantages
- Experienced manufacturer
- For children and adults
- Freedom of movement
- Especially for demanding sports
- Good padding of the body
- Reflective strips
- Extra zippered pocket
Disadvantages
- Only one color
- Not for non-swimmers
- Slip-on entry more cumbersome than zipper
Summary
The Secumar swim vest is designed for demanding water sports. It is equipped with a slip-on entry instead of a zipper. Why?
Zippers can cause injuries if they are knocked. This risk does not exist with the model. The filling also provides sufficient padding and protection against bruising.
The swim vest is available in different versions: For children from 30 kg up to adults weighing 120 kg.
A practical pocket can safely store your keys, for example. The side fasteners allow individual adjustment to different body shapes.
Conclusion
Customers with sporting ambitions are well advised to choose this product. The body is also well cushioned in the event of falls from high speeds.
The model is not suitable for non-swimmers. The slip entry takes some getting used to at first.
Product details
Size: N/A | Material: SECU-Foam multi-layer soft foam and polyester | Weight: 30 – 120 kg
Customer ratings
The fit is also ideal for children. The adjustable straps allow the vest to grow with the child. The customer service is exceptionally friendly and fast. The workmanship is very high quality. It is perfect for SUP boarding and sailing. The freedom of movement is great and the price-performance ratio is excellent. The storage compartment is practical. The vest can be put on and taken off quickly. It looks quite fashionable for a swim vest.
Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The fit is not ideal, the vest can pinch under the chin. A customer is dissatisfied with the late and complicated delivery, but not with the product.
FAQ
8. Jobe neoprene vest
Advantages
- Freedom of movement
- Good padding of the body
- Mesh insert against water accumulation
- ISO certification
- Practical waist belt
- High-quality neoprene fabric
Disadvantages
- Only one color
- Not suitable for non-swimmers
Summary
The Jobe neoprene vest is particularly recommended by the manufacturer for wakeboarding. It offers good cushioning in the event of a fall and sufficient freedom of movement. The high-quality neoprene fabric is robust against damage.
The vest is closed quickly and easily with a front zipper. A waist belt holds the product in place. This prevents it from slipping upwards or disturbing the user during sport.
The manufacturer offers a total of 10 different size variations. There is a suitable model for almost every body size and shape.
Conclusion
This vest is particularly recommended for wakeboarding as the material protects the body in the event of a fall.
The neoprene vest is not suitable for non-swimmers.
Product details
Size: S to 2 XL+, 82 to 119 cm chest circumference | Material: Neoprene and PVC foam | Weight: N/A
Customer ratings
The vest is of excellent quality. It is as described and sits comfortably on the body. The design is beautiful and delivery is speedy. Customers have no complaints about the product and would buy the vest again at any time. You can move and swim well in the vest.
Around 22% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The neutral and negative reviews are unfortunately without comments and feedback on the product.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
More swim vests:
Bestsellers: The most popular swim vests
(**Last update 2024-09-16)
Buy swim vests:
How to make the right decision
For many years, swimming vests had a reputation as an uncomfortable and not particularly fashionable water sports item.
Studies show that most fatal accidents on the water could have been prevented by a pool vest.
This has motivated manufacturers:
Today, swim vests are much more comfortable and increasingly inconspicuous. At the same time, the safety of the products is constantly increasing.
The best is yet to come:
Find out now how to recognize a good swim vest and how the vests manage to combine comfort, style and safety.
What you need to consider when buying a swim vest
When looking for the best swim vest, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and properties:
- Swim vest type
- Size
- Weight class
- Comfort
Which type of swim vest is right for me?
There are 5 official classifications of swimming vests. These differ depending on the intended use:
| Intended use | Features of the swim vest | |
|---|---|---|
| Type I: Open sea | Strong buoyancy, even turns unconscious people in the supine position, for places where Rescue can take longer, e.g. on cruise ships. | |
| Type II: Close to land | Wider rivers or lakes with calm water, turn unconscious with face up, not quite as reliable as type 1, use e.g. on ferries or at boat rentals. | |
| Type III: Buoyancy aids | Support the buoyancy, but the swimmer must keep his head up independently. stay afloat and be rescued quickly. Due to the narrow design, the They are ideal for sports such as jet skiing or kayaking trips. | |
| Type IV: Litter vests | Vests that are ejected like buoyancy aids. Large boats must have a to be thrown over the railing in the event of an accident. | |
| Type V: Special vests | There are many special shapes for requirements that demand exceptional technology. For example, there are special vests that warm the swimmer or inflate automatically. | |
| Note: Most customers who enjoy water sports as a hobby are best advised to choose type III. | ||
The right swim vest size?
A swimming vest must fit securely and comfortably. Why is this important?
- Too big: If the swim vest is too big, you run the risk of simply slipping out.
- Too small: You will have difficulty moving and breathing properly with it.
- Just right: Saves your life in case of doubt.
Measure your upper body and follow the manufacturer’s measurements. If in doubt, order several sizes and test which one fits you best.
Note: If you are a woman with a large bust, you will have to fall back on special sizes. The unisex version will not fit securely in this case.
Restricts movement safety? This is how you test whether the vest fits:
- Can you paddle in the air with it without any problems?
- Can you sit down with it as if you were in a boat?
- Can you breathe easily with it?
- Doesn’t the swim vest slip a lot when you pull it in all directions?
If you can answer YES to all the questions, you have found the right size.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, as not all vests are equally suitable for all sports.
Which weight class?
To keep you afloat with sufficient buoyancy, each swim vest has a different maximum load capacity.
This means:
The weight of the person plays a decisive role in the purchase decision. Always observe the manufacturer’s instructions.
Note: Only if the product is advertised for the correct weight class does it offer sufficient buoyancy. The same rule applies to pool vests for dogs.
The comfort of the swim vest?
In many cases, the fabric of the swim vest will touch bare skin or be worn only over a thin T-shirt.
Therefore:
Test the feeling on your skin immediately after purchase. If it chafes or you react with rashes, another model is needed.
How do I put on a pool vest correctly?
How to put on a swim vest correctly:
- Pull the vest over your shoulders.
- Close the zipper or the clips in the middle.
- Tighten the straps from bottom to top, starting at the hips.
- When tightening, the following applies: Tight enough for a secure hold and loose enough for sufficient comfort.
- The upper straps must not be so tight that they pull the vest towards your head.
Put your arms over your head and have another person pull the vest towards your ears – if it barely slips up, everything fits and you can go on the water with it.
Well-known brands and manufacturers
There are manufacturers who specialize in swim vests for water sports. The best-known brands include:
Secumar, Jobe and Baltic
For lesser-known brands, refer to buying guides and customer reviews to get an initial idea of quality and workmanship.
Consumer Reports and Which? have unfortunately not yet carried out any swim vest tests.
You can still recognize quality by this:
Nevertheless, swim vests that are certified according to the ISO standard are considered very safe and can be purchased with confidence.
Care tips for longevity
To ensure that the swim vest lasts a long time, it must be well cared for. Most manufacturers have specific care tips for their products.
The following tips apply to the majority of swim vests:
- Always rinse with clear water after each use.
- Rinse particularly thoroughly if there has been contact with salt water.
- To clean, simply fill a bucket with mild soap and water and immerse the vest in it.
- Never dry or store in direct sunlight.
The following rules apply to the correct maintenance of your swim vest:
- Automatically inflatable swim vests must be tested before each use.
- The vest should be serviced every 2 years (often offered by the manufacturer).
- The swim vest should always be replaced after approx. 10 years.
- Always check for cracks or cuts before each use.
Is it compulsory to wear a swim vest?
Passengers Ferries and any type of commercial water transport are required to wear a swim vest. This means that companies are legally obliged to provide their customers with swim vests. This equipment is randomly checked during the licensing process and during operation.
No swim vest to hand?
Do you urgently need a swim vest but don’t have one to hand? How about a quick do-it-yourself swim vest made from old water bottles?
Here you can see how you can easily make your own DIY swim vest:
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about swim vests
Discover the most frequently asked questions about swim vests below.
How does a swim vest work?
How should a swim vest fit?
How long do swim vests last?
How safe are swimming vests?
Important: Regardless of the safety level, the vest must always be adapted to the user’s weight and fit correctly.
How safe are swim vests for children?
What do I need to consider with swim vests?
What is the difference between a swim vest and a life jacket?
Which is better swim vest or life belt?
Which is safer swim vest or water wings?
How much does a swim vest cost?
Where can I buy a swim vest?
Conclusion: The most popular swim vests reviewed
Uncomfortable and unsightly swim vests are a thing of the past. Modern swimmy vests are safe, comfortable and look good too.
*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.
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