Life Jackets for Recreational Water Sports

Today’s life jackets may not be what you think – many are lightweight, easy to move in, and come in many sizes, styles, and shapes for every person and every sport.  There are even ones for pets! Click on a jacket to find out more about it and get tips on proper fit. Click here for life jackets that are best for angling and hunting.


auto inflatable life jacket
manual inflatable life jacket
Belt Pack Inflatable
Vest-type Flotation Aid
Auto Inflatable
general recreational boating
Manual Inflatable general recreational boating
Belt Pack Inflatable
general recreational boating

Vest-type
Flotation Aid

personal watercraft, waterskiing, and water sports

Child Hybrid Inflatable
Child Life Jacket
Flotation Aid
Vest Type
Child Hybrid
Inflatable

general recreational boating
Child Life Jacket
general recreational boating
Flotation Aid
general recreational boating
Vest Type
general recreational boating
Paddling Jacket
Offshore Vest
Just for Pets
Paddling Jacket
paddle sports
Offshore Vest
offshore boating and racing

The U. S. Coast Guard requires recreational vessels to have a wearable life jacket for each person aboard. These life jackets must be:
  • U. S. Coast Guard approved
  • The proper size for the intended wearer
  • In good and serviceable condition
  • Properly stowed (readily accessible)
All persons under 12 years of age in a boat 26 feet or less while underway on the waters of California shall wear a United States Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device.

Note: Boating out-of-state? There may be a different age requirement. Check with that state’s boating authorities before heading out on the water.

The U.S. Coast Guard has more life jacket information here.