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We tested over two dozen life jackets, PFD vests, and inflatable waist belts from Astral, NRS, Mustang Survival, Onyx, and more to find the right match for all your water-based adventures.
Credit: Cheyenne Summer
By Sara James ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated September 16, 2025
A life jacket is a crucial piece of safety gear for days on the water, but they've come a long way from the bulky orange life vests of yesteryear. Finding one that's comfortable and well-featured will ensure you actually want to wear it.
Since 2019, our water sports experts have tested dozens of the best jackets and inflatable waist belts, side by side in real-world situations. This review outlines a collection of the very best personal flotation devices (PFDs) on the market. We've tried everything from value buys and perfect paddle partners to fisherman's friends and even some options for your kids and dog. We swam, paddled, floated, and frolicked in the water, testing every model's flotation, comfort, and technical components. Whether you're a pontoon partier or a solo SUPer, we've found a great vest for you.
Best Life Jackets At A Glance
If you want the best paddling life jacket around, the Astral YTV 2.0 is the most comfortable and convenient jacket we've found. Not focused on paddling? Check out the Astral E-Ronny, with Astral's classically excellent fit and all the pockets you need to stay organized all day.
Our favorite for females is the Astral Layla, thanks to its wrap-around customizable fit.
The best budget option for general water activities is the Stohlquist Fit. This affordable buy meets Coast Guard requirements without draining your wallet.
For those focused on paddling, the NRS Vapor is our favorite budget choice offering great comfort and mobility in a slimline design.
The NRS Chinook takes the bait for anglers, with large, convenient pockets to stash your tackle and tools.
The Astral Otter 2.0 offers the best flotation, fit, and flair for kids, with a comfortable design and stylish finish.
Our favorite for our canine companion is the NRS CFD excelling in all our tests, particularly for handling.
Editor's Note: Our life jacket review was updated on September 16, 2025, to include the Bote Inflatable Belt, Onyx Universal, Mustang Survival Khimera, and the redesigned NRS Vapor. We also re-tested the NRS CFD and Ruff Stuff Float Coat on dogs of different sizes.
The Astral YTV 2.0 stands out for its simplicity and low-profile design. “This was one of the most comfortable life jackets I tested for being on the move,” our tester said. Thanks to the articulated panels, this vest is both non-restrictive and secure, providing a comfortable, hug-like experience. The shoulder straps are narrow, with a wide range of adjustability to get that just-right fit. The bottom panel secures around the lower torso, leaving full freedom of movement for the upper body. The NRS Ninja features a similar sporty design with a larger pocket for stashing your essentials; however, overall, it is bulkier, weighing in at 7 ounces heavier than the YTV. For those who want to keep it light and who need to move around a lot while wearing their PFD, the YTV is hard to beat.
SPECIFICATIONS
Intended User
Unisex
Manufacturers Stated Intended Use
Whitewater / Tour / Sailing / SUP
Entry Style
Pull over; side entry, 2 side clips
Wear Type
Vest
Sizes Available
S/M (31-37”)
M/L (38-44”)
L/XL (45-51”)
The soft interior fabric offers a comfortable feel against your bare skin, ensuring a cool and pleasant experience, even during intense paddling sessions. For the untrained eye, the Astral YTV 2.0 appears almost identical to its award-winning predecessor; however, in addition to the side pockets, the YTV 2.0 now sports a hidden padded pocket in the cleavage of the front panel, which is just big enough to fit a large smartphone. Our only complaint is that this pocket doesn't have an attachment tab to help secure your essentials. If you are a strong swimmer, expecting to remain in calm waters, and are looking for a truly minimalist design, manually inflatable waist belts such as the Mustang Survival Minimalist Belt or NRS Zephyr may meet your needs, but those seeking more adventurous aquatic activities will be grateful for the more secure but slimline YTV.
The Astral YTV is easy to put on, has a low profile, a comfortable design, and just the right amount of pockets to keep our testing team happy in most situations.
The Astral E-Ronny sets itself apart with its comfortable slimline fit, simple closure system, and dialed features, including pockets and attachment points. The lack of a waist clip ensures you can avoid that uncomfortably tight squeezing of the stomach created by so many other vests after hours of sitting in a boat, and the zip-front closure provides an exceedingly comfortable fit. In addition, the side adjustments create an evenly distributed overall feel that we love. “I appreciated the thinner top front section, which feels like a more natural contour,” our lead tester remarked, “And the narrow shoulder straps and large armholes freed up my arms enough for fly fishing and long days paddling.” The thinly padded back works well with boat seatbacks, and vented sections are present in numerous places, providing breathability.
SPECIFICATIONS
Intended User
Men/Unisex
Manufacturers Stated Intended Use
Recreation, touring, fishing
Entry Style
Front zip
Wear Type
Vest
Sizes Available
S/M (31-37”)
M/L (38-44”)
L/XL (45-51”)
In addition to comfort, the E-Ronny is also a utilitarian workhorse. A mid-sized pocket accommodates phones, radios, or tackle, and a smaller pocket is perfect for snack bars and multi-tools. Functional lapels tuck away loose ends, such as a radio antenna or straps. If you prefer a more streamlined approach, consider the women's Astral E-Linda, which is almost identical but with smaller pockets. If you're a fishing fanatic who loves to keep half a tackle box's worth of gear in your PFD pockets, consider the NRS Chinook, which stands out for its larger pocket capacity. If you're on the hunt for a life jacket that's comfortable, versatile, and great for paddling, the E-Ronny is one of our favorites.
The redesigned NRS Vapor is a comfortable and simple solution for a full day on the water, while costing less than most of its paddle-focused competitors. This side-entry jacket uses pre-curved foam panels that wrap comfortably around the torso, creating a low-profile fit that moves naturally with your body. Wide arm openings and six points of adjustment make it easy to dial in the fit for your unique body shape while keeping a range of motion. For paddlers who want a simple, reliable vest that doesn't get in the way, the Vapor is one of the most comfortable options on the market, surpassed only by the slightly more costly Astral YTV 2.0 that also boasts pockets.
SPECIFICATIONS
Intended User
Unisex
Manufacturers Stated Intended Use
Paddling
Entry Style
Pull over; side entry,1 side clip
Wear Type
Vest
Sizes Available
XS/M (30-38")
M/L (36-46")
XL/XXL (44-56")
The trade-off for this comfort and clear design is the Vapor's lack of storage. There is nowhere to stash your phone, snacks, or attach a river knife. However, the updated model does sport some simple extra features we appreciated, including reflective accents, shoulder strap keepers, and a silicone waist grip that helps keep this PFD seen, tidy, and in place. Despite the storage limitations, the Vapor remains a favorite for its lightweight performance, adaptable fit, and price point that undercuts many competitors. It's best viewed as a simple workhorse PFD—ideal for everyday watersports, as long as you don't need any extra bells and whistles. For those looking for a more feature-full design, the streamlined (and more costly) Mustang Survival Khimera is equally well suited to surfing, sailing, and paddling while boasting some additional features such as a handy pocket, lash tabs, and the option to inflate for additional buoyancy.
The Stohlquist Fit is a “universal-sized” life vest that is surprisingly comfortable in the range of sizes it manages to accommodate. Both large and small testers across genders find this vest easy to wear and simple to adjust to the correct fit. A thinner top front section allows this vest to bend more easily than many others, which our female testers particularly appreciated. “Some similar life jackets I tested fit too high and tight around my neck and collarbone, but I found the Stohlquist Fit to be just right,” said our head tester. The large armholes are comfortable and potentially even spacious enough to wear on a short paddling trip. Numerous loops all the way around the vest also help keep strap tails secure.
Slimmer folks should be aware that the top strap's first containment loop is a bit too close to the buckle, making it more challenging to tighten completely. And, while the jacket is thin enough to be comfortable while leaning back in your boat, it's on the long side for activities requiring scrunched-up postures, such as kayaking. Though it's unlikely to blow your Aqua Socks off, this simple design is comfortable enough that you'll actually be able to wear it all day. If you need a life jacket that offers improved mobility, consider the Astral YTV 2.0.
The Astral Layla is a standout among women's life jackets, offering a rare combination of comfort, adjustability, and performance-driven design. While plenty of PFDs claim to be “made for women,” the reality is that many fall short when it comes to truly accommodating the diverse range of female body types. The Layla, however, lives up to the promise. It was unanimously praised by our team of female testers, who represented a wide range of shapes, sizes, and bust-to-waist ratios. What sets the Layla apart is its combination of an articulated, body-contouring cut and a deep suite of fit customization options. With more sizing choices and more adjustable straps than most of its competitors, this jacket is easy to dial in for a secure, comfortable, and flattering fit—whether you're petite, curvy, athletic, or anywhere in between. The Layla also features soft, high-quality materials and a construction that allows it to move fluidly with your body, providing freedom of movement without sacrificing security. It's a performance PFD that actually feels good to wear—on long paddles, in rough water, or just lounging on the lake.
SPECIFICATIONS
Intended User
Women
Manufacturers Stated Intended Use
Whitewater, touring, SUP
Entry Style
Pull over; side entry, off-center 3/4 zip and bottom clip
Astral prioritizes safety in their designs, and the updated Layla features an extra Velcro tab to help ensure the zipper stays securely closed. Although previous versions of this jacket allowed users to add a quick-release belt, this feature has been removed from the latest version. The Layla has a large center pocket that can be secured shut with a simple buckle. For those looking for a more budget-friendly female option, the Stohlquist Flo is a strong contender. It features a mesh lower back, which we appreciated in the heat and particularly if you have a kayak with a high seat back. Overall, the Layla is considered to have superior fit, construction quality, and mobility.
Only for use by strong swimmers in sheltered waters
If you're a very confident swimmer but still need something to wear on your paddleboard to keep you safe and legal, the Mustang Survival Minimalist Belt is ideal. This was the smallest belt pack we tested, but it doesn't skimp on performance. If activated with the manual inflation cord, a pillow-like bladder is released and inflated with a 16g CO2 cartridge; this can then be secured to your body with the attached webbing loop, delivering 16.9 pounds of flotation. After deployment, the bladder comes with clear instructions on how to deflate and re-fold, and we found this to be the quickest to repack of the waist belts tested. To re-arm the device, you need to replace the CO2 cartridge, which can be purchased for a low price from your local bike store or online.
SPECIFICATIONS
Intended User
Unisex
Manufacturers Stated Intended Use
Paddling on calm water, for expert swimmers only
Entry Style
Waist belt, clip
Wear Type
Belt (inflatable)
Sizes Available
Universal (30-52")
The Minimalist truly lives up to its name; it's easy to forget you are even wearing it. As a result, there is no pocket for storing keys or a phone. The NRS Zephyr has a slimline design but sports a convenient large pocket. In addition, thanks to its 24g cartridge, it also has a large bladder delivering more flotation than the Mustang Survival. Testers preferred the pillow-like bladder of the Mustang Survival, as it is easier to secure around the neck than the horseshoe-shaped bladder of the NRS Zephyr. The 16g cartridges required to re-arm the Minimalist are much more common (and cheaper) than the 24g cartridges required for the Zephyr. Out of all the belt packs we tested, the Minimalist offers the best combination of comfort, mobility, and reliable functionality when you really need it.
It's important to remember that inflatable flotation devices are intended only for very confident swimmers in calm conditions where there is no chance of cold water shock. The user must be able to pull the red tab in order for this jacket to be usable. It should not be used for whitewater environments.
The Minimalist waist belt inflates into a pillow-like bladder that is secured to the body by a strap that goes over your head.
The NRS Chinook is a top contender for anglers who want a vest that's as functional as it is comfortable. Its plush fit and high-back design make it ideal for long days in a kayak, while its impressive range of pockets and gear attachment points ensure your tools and tackle are always within easy reach. Multiple D-rings, tool hangers, and a rod holder loop provide smart organization, and the large zippered front pockets are spacious enough to store small boxes of gear or snacks. The Astral EV-Eight also features a high mesh back design that is well-suited for extended days in a kayak seat. However, it has nowhere near the storage capabilities of the Chinook and is therefore not as popular for fishing.
SPECIFICATIONS
Intended User
Unisex
Manufacturers Stated Intended Use
Fishing, paddling, sailing
Entry Style
Front zip
Wear Type
Vest
Sizes Available
S/M (30-42")
L/XL (42-52")
XL/XXL (50-56")
The Chinook's pocket zippers are made of metal (in comparison to the plastic center zip). After using the jacket in the ocean and leaving it unwashed for a prolonged period, we experienced some saltwater corrosion. Rinsing your gear with fresh water after use is always recommended and can help avoid this issue. Despite this minor drawback, the Chinook remains a top performer for kayak anglers who value comfort and on-the-water functionality. With its thoughtful design and fishing-specific features, it's easy to see why this vest remains one of the most trusted PFDs in its class.
The Chinook has been recently redesigned with NRS's new Orbit Fit System.
The mesh lower panel helps to keep you cool and makes sitting in a high back seat much more comfortable than regular coverage PFDs.
The Astral Otter 2.0 is an outstanding youth life jacket, thanks to its secure fit, thoughtful safety features, and high-quality design. Its short torso length makes it noticeably more comfortable than many other youth PFDs, especially when kids are sitting in a kayak, raft, or boat. Unlike bulkier models, the Otter stays in place—it doesn't ride up when little ones sit, swim, bend, or crawl. Generously sized armholes give kids the freedom to paddle, splash, and leap off docks or boats without restriction. Among all the youth PFDs we tested, this one was by far the easiest to fit securely. The wrap-around side panels hug the body for a snug fit and add an extra layer of protection, offering both comfort and confidence whether your child is on the water or in it.
The Otter 2.0 has an integrated grab handle on the back of the jacket that is perfectly positioned for quick and easy rescues if a child falls into the water. This handle has a reliable grip, is the easiest to carry children in, and was the most comfortable for the wearer. For added safety, the Otter 2.0 also includes optional leg loops, ideal for securing smaller adventurers. Suitable for children 50-90 pounds, this jacket is ready to grow with your child as they progress from a water nymph to a white water ninja. However, if your child weighs less than 50 pounds, this is not the right jacket for them yet. In that case, the Stohlquist Child - while bulkier - is better suited to younger or smaller paddlers in the 30-50 pound range.
The Stohlquist Child is a tried and tested child PFD designed to float young ones weighing 30-50 pounds. An infant model is also available for those under 30 pounds. The foam wraps around the lower abdomen and sides, but features an open-back design. This is a comfortable jacket that your kiddo can sit, float, paddle, and play in. Wide armholes provide unrestricted freedom of movement so your child can enjoy themselves regardless of the activity. Additionally, this jacket offers more adjustability around the waist than some of the other child jackets we tested.
A front zipper features a backup quick-release buckle to help keep this jacket secure even if the zipper is damaged. An additional major safety feature is the large grab handle on the top of the neck pillow, which can be used to hoist a child out of the water. At times like this, the crotch strap is incredibly useful for ensuring the PFD stays in place. This may cause a moment of agitation, especially as your kiddo gets heavier, but it could be a literal lifesaver. The 200-denier nylon finish is comfortable enough against the skin but won't tear as easily as some of the softer hydroprene-lined options we tested. Bottom line, this is a great life jacket option for the youngest aquatic enthusiasts or even those still getting accustomed to being on or near the water.
The Stohlquist Child is a well-designed and comfortable floatation device with excellent safety features.
The NRS CFD (Canine Flotation Device) is a thoughtfully designed life jacket built to keep your dog safe and comfortable during water adventures. Whether paddling, boating, or playing fetch from shore, this canine PFD offers a secure fit thanks to adjustable straps around the neck and belly, along with a strong belly panel that supports your pup when lifting them from the water. The streamlined shape provides a natural, non-restrictive fit, and the padded integrated handle on top makes it easy to grab your dog in a rescue situation or if you just need to wrangle them back onto your SUP. Reflective accents improve visibility in low light, and a leash attachment point offers added convenience when transitioning from land to water.
One standout feature of the NRS CFD is its durable construction. Made from tough ripstop nylon with solid stitching throughout, it's built to withstand the wear and tear of active outdoor dogs. Unlike bulkier dog life vests, the CFD strikes a great balance between buoyancy and freedom of movement, making it a favorite among river runners and SUP enthusiasts alike. Available in five sizes covering a rib cage girth range of 13 - 42 inches, there is a jacket to fit most dogs, except very small toy breeds or dogs with unique proportions. Most owners find it easy to adjust and secure. If you feel your dog is in between sizes, NRS recommends sizing down, or you can try out the Ruffwear Float Coat, which covers a similar size range but has six different-sized models. Our only complaint about the Ruffwear model is that it's not as comfortable as the CFD for lifting a dog. The CFD is a reliable, functional flotation device that helps dogs safely join in on all the fun.
The CFD delivers a secure and comfortable fit for a range of dog sizes.
Credit: Sara James
Compare Product Specifications
Specifications
Mustang Survival Khimera
Astral YTV 2.0
NRS Ninja
Kokatat Hustle
Astral E-Ronny
Astral Layla
Astral E-Linda
NRS Chinook Fishing
Stohlquist Ebb
Kokatat Naiad
NRS Zephyr
Astral EV-Eight
Mustang Survival Minimalist Belt
NRS Vapor
Onyx MoveVent Dynamic
Stohlquist Fit
Astral Airbelt 2.0
Onyx Universal
Bote Inflatable Belt
Stearns Adult Classic
O'Neill Superlite USCG
Onyx M-16
Onyx General Purpose
Airhead Adult Type II
Awards
Best PFD for Paddling
Best Casual Watersports Jacket
Best Women's-Specific PFD
Most Functional Fishing Vest
Best Inflatable Belt
Best Bang for Your (Paddling) Buck
Great Value for a Universal Vest
Intended User
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Men/Unisex
Women
Women
Unisex
Unisex
Women
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Men/Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Unisex
Manufacturers Stated Intended Use
Boating, paddling, sailing, fishing
Whitewater / Tour / Sailing / SUP
Paddling and sailing
Paddling
Recreation, touring, fishing
Whitewater, touring, SUP
Recreation, touring, fishing
Fishing, paddling, sailing
Canoeing, kayaking, sailing
Paddling
Paddling on calm water, for expert swimmers only
Recreation, touring, fishing
Paddling on calm water, for expert swimmers only
Paddling
Paddling
Paddling, general boating
SUP, Fishing, Canoeing
Not stated
SUP, boating, fishing, paddling
Recreational
Waterskiing, wakeboarding, and powered watercraft
Paddling on calm water, for expert swimmers only
General Purpose
Recreational
Entry Style
Pull over, side entry, 2 side clips
Pull over; side entry, 2 side clips
Pull over; side entry, 2 side clips
Pull over; side entry, 2 side clips
Front zip
Pull over; side entry, off-center 3/4 zip and bottom clip
16.5 Pounds Buoyancy when inflated with the CO2 cylinder and 29.5 Pounds of Buoyancy with secondary oral inflated
No rating provided
No rating provided
17.0 lb with CO2 cylinder
up to 26.5 lbs with oral inflation
15.5 lb minimum
No rating provided
USCG Classification
Harmonized Level 70
Type V
Performance Level 70
Harmonized Level 70 (U.S. and Canada)
Type III
Type III
Type III
Type III / performance level 70
Type III / performance level 70
Type V with Type III performance
Type III
Harmonized Level 70 (U.S. and Canada)
Performance Level 70
Type III / performance level 70
Type III
Type V
Performance Level 70
Type V
Type III
Type III
Type V with Type III performance
Type III
Type II
We tested the full gamut of life jackets for this review.
Credit: Sara James
How We Tested
In order to identify the best life jackets for the job, we test the best in head-to-head comparisons in real-life scenarios. To find out what makes each Coast Guard-approved model different from the rest, we start by connecting with other water users to find out what they are using. We then scour the market for the best options for paddling, fishing, children, dogs, and just generally enjoying the water safely. After selecting the best models available, we purchase the whole lineup and wear them for hours on end, taking dips and voyaging on extended paddling adventures. We test every feature, examining each model for functionality and durability. We wore them on and in the water, from boats to swimming pools, assessing comfort in the hot sun, mobility while splashing about, and the quality of each stitch and seam. By pitting these jackets directly against each other, we were able to tease out the differences, both big and small, and identify the best and worst aspects of each one.
Our comprehensive tests for all our life jackets spanned five rating metrics:
Fit (30% of overall score weighting)
Comfort and Mobility (25% weighting)
Quality of Construction (20% weighting)
Features and Versatility (15% weighting)
Flotation (10% weighting)
For more details on our individual test metrics, see our How We Test article.
Why Trust GearLab
This review is headed by life-long water-lovers Maggie Nichols and Sara James, along with their friends, family, and a small army of dogs.
Maggie has been paddling for 25+ years, from the completion of an ACA canoe touring program in high school to working as a whitewater rafting and kayaking guide for four years and an ocean kayak guide for another year. She's guided thousands of water lovers on hundreds of adventures over the last 15+ years. She also heads up our inflatable kayak review.
Sara spent her twenties chasing rivers around the globe, dedicating every spare moment to whitewater adventures. What began as a three-month trip to California turned into ten summers on the American River, where she worked as a kayak instructor, safety kayaker, and whitewater photographer. Over the years, she's logged thousands of river miles by raft, kayak, and SUP—and plenty of time in the water too, sometimes by design and often by surprise. From roaring rapids to glassy alpine lakes, if there's water, Sara's there—with the right PFD, of course. She also puts gear to the test for GearLab, reviewing water shoes, kayaks, kayak paddles, and dry bags to help fellow adventurers choose the right tools for their own aquatic journeys.
We pit every jacket head to head to see which ones are really the best for whom and in what situations.
Analysis and Test Results
To adequately assess every contender, we designed a battery of tests and comparisons that encompass the components of every life jacket's performance, including flotation, fit, comfort, mobility, features, versatility, and quality of construction. We score every PFD's performance across each metric and combine those scores — weighted based on their overall importance to usability — to get a final score measuring how each model does overall. To better inform your purchase decisions, we outline the individual metrics and detail which life jackets score best in specific areas.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
These water jackets come with a wide range of possible price tags. It's pretty easy to walk into most sporting goods stores and pick up an inexpensive life jacket that's Coast Guard-approved. However, there are a lot of less-than-comfortable cheap vests on the market, and if it's not comfortable enough to wear all day, you're unlikely to have your PFD on when your life depends on it. When it comes to the money spent, we've noticed that the comfort of vests significantly increases when you're willing to invest a little more into this life-saving piece of gear. Premium life vests offer a new tier of designs that almost always make them more mobile and comfortable. We tested the full gamut to see which of the pricier options are worth the extra cost and which budget-friendly models are actually worth wearing.
We tested a wide range of life jacket options.
Credit: Sara James
Even with price and performance being fairly well-correlated, certain pieces stand out from the crowd with exceptional performance for their cost. The Stohlquist Fit is one of the most universally useful and low-cost models we tested, and it's still enjoyable to wear. It fits the full range of its advertised chest size capacity and feels pretty good against the skin. The Stearns Adult Classic is another solid value pick, though it's not quite as nice to wear or move in as the Fit. The NRS Vapor and Onyx MoveVent Dynamic are also noteworthy in this regard. They offer reasonable wearability while costing less than most, making them great for those trying to save money while still staying safe. The Vapor is a particularly popular budget option for smaller paddlers, as it's lower-profile and more adjustable. Some higher-priced options, like the women's cut Astral Layla and the unisex Astral YTV 2.0, offer enough extra durability, comfort, and fit versatility to make them worth a little extra investment if you can swing it.
The Stohlquist Fit is a basic and affordable life jacket that's comfortable enough for casual watersports.
Credit: Sara James
Fit
We all come in different shapes and sizes, and finding a life jacket that fits you well is crucial to its effectiveness. We evaluated the fit of each vest and belt by observing how well they adapted to the varying sizes of the humans they were advertised to fit.
The Mustang Survival Khimera is only available in one size, but we were pleasantly surprised by the wide range of body sizes it accommodates. With highly adjustable shoulder and side straps and strap keepers to secure any excess length, small to extra-large paddlers can all wear the same vest. Thanks to its thinner profile, even pregnant paddlers preferred wearing this jacket over most.
The Khimera has long side straps, making the universal-sized PFD adjustable for a wide range of paddler sizes. The strap keepers help keep those long straps at bay.
Credit: Sara James
With multiple points of adjustability and a body-hugging, contoured fit, the Astral YTV 2.0 and NRS Ninja were strong runners-up for best fit. Originally designed for freestyle kayak paddlers, both jackets prioritize unrestricted movement, making them ideal for active use. In swim testing, the YTV 2.0 edged ahead, offering the best freedom and comfort in the water.
Shown here in two different colorways, the YTV was a tester favorite for excellent fit and mobility.
Credit: Sara James
The updated NRS Vapor features pre-curved, contoured panels that wrap around the torso to provide a more personal and comfortable fit. The six points of adjustability further help ensure you can adjust this streamlined jacket to fit your body shape.
The NRS Vapor's paneled foam and six adjustment points help contour it to your body shape.
Credit: Sara James
The Astral Layla is a favorite among our female testers of many shapes and sizes. The Layla has the most significant accommodations for people with breasts and stands out for having four sizes and three adjustable side straps that allow for a more personalized fit. It also has three panels on the front that cleverly and effectively wrap around the torso.
The updated Layla has a velcro tab at the top of the zipper to ensure this does not accidentally come undone.
Credit: Sara James
For plus-sized paddlers, the Kokatat Naiad and Kokatat Hustle are available in larger sizes, and they are notable for their accommodating design. The Astral E-Linda is also noteworthy for its contoured paneling, which is designed to give a more comfortable fit.
The Kokatat Naiad is a comfortable vest designed specifically for the female form and comes in a truly wide range of sizes so just about everyone can find the perfect fit.
Credit: Sara James
The NRS Ninja is a good choice for folks with a shorter torso, as it has less padding confined to a smaller area. That said, larger paddlers also enjoy the minimalism of the Ninja. If you can try before you buy, that's ideal. This vest and the Chinook are also available in larger sizes than most.
The low profile cut of the NRS Ninja makes is a great choice for paddling adventures.
Credit: Sara James
While the Stohlquist Fit and Stearns Adult Classic don't score the highest in this metric, they are worth mentioning due to their adjustability. The Fit is available to fit the widest range of sizes in our lineup, including Youth/Adult XS, Universal, and Adult XL. We purchased the Universal and expected it to fit on the bulky side, but we were impressed with how the adjustability of the paneling allows this jacket to be tightened down to suit a much smaller-framed paddler. The Stearns offers only two sizes, Universal (30-52") and Oversized (52-62"), but these sizes cover almost the widest range of any model we tested. These are worth considering for those looking to have a spare jacket covering all bases for visiting friends and family.
The universally sized Stearns Adult jacket really does fit a huge range of body sizes.
Credit: Sara James
The simplicity of the inflatable waist belts, such as the Mustang Survival Minimalist Belt, Bote Inflatable Belt, NRS Zephyr, and Astral Airbelt 2.0 makes them suitable for a very wide range of body sizes.
Inflatable waist belts such as the NRS Zephyr are a breeze to put on and adjust to your size.
Credit: Sara James
When you first put them on, the waistbelts all offer a really comfortable fit. The NRS Zephyr, Onyx M-16, Astral Airbelt 2.0, Mustang Survival Minimalist Belt, and Bote Inflatable Belt are all simple to fit as they have just one waist strap and accommodate a wide range of waist sizes. The Bote accommodates the largest range, as you can cinch the waist strap tight for narrow waists as small as 24 inches and expand it full length for those with waists up to 52 inches. The Mustang Minamlist can also extend to suit 52-inch waists, and a 1.5-inch belt extension is available as an extra purchase for those who need to size up a bit further. Paddlers of all sizes appreciated the adjustability of the inflatable waist belts, easily accommodating layers, bumps, and lumps.
It's easy to love wearing the Onyx M-16, though it's not quite as reliable as other inflatable belts we've tested.
Credit: Jason Peters
However, when inflated, this type of PFD drops to the bottom of the pack in terms of fit, as the inflated version does not fit in the same way as when it's not yet activated. The inflated portion of the NRS Zephyr is shaped like a horseshoe, similar to an emergency vest from an airplane, and it has no additional straps to adjust once inflated. Instead, this big yellow vest has a small opening to stick your head through, with two short straps to pull the sides away from each other as you work to squeeze your head into this tight contraption. Some of our testers had difficulty getting this part on, particularly if they have a large head, but it's very secure and will keep your head afloat.
To inflate the Zephyr you need to pull the activation cord, wait for the bladder to inflate and slip it over your head.
Credit: Sara James
The Bote Inflatable Waistbelt, Astral Airbelt 2.0, Mustang Minimalist, and Onyx M-16 inflate into a pillow-like bladder with a single adjustable strap to loop over your head and hold the air pillow close to your chest. Less awkward than some, it is far from a secure 'fit.' The strap on the Bote was also quite short, meaning those with a longer torso had to duck down to fit. Given the limited environments for which inflatable PFDs are suitable, users should carefully consider which type will best suit their needs.
Because it can be difficult to actually put on an inflated vest, this style of life jacket is recommended only for expert swimmers.
Credit: Sara James
Comfort and Mobility
Comfort and mobility are important aspects of any life jacket or PFD. We asked people of many shapes and sizes to try on each model in our lineup to assess these aspects across activities. To adequately evaluate the complete picture of this metric, we considered how it feels to sit, paddle, and float in each vest. We also tried each model on over clothes, on bare skin, and during as many activities as possible to assess where they rub, which ones breathe best, and which ones you forget you're even wearing. Every life vest in our lineup has several buckles, clips, or zippers, and we tested them all to see how easy they are to use and adjust.
One of the biggest factors affecting the comfort of vest-style models is the number and configuration of their foam panels. Simple, single-panel PFDs tend to flex less and offer less mobility; multi-panel options are much more comfortable to move in. The Astral YTV 2.0 stood out for its contoured fit, with the bottom section locking around the lower rib cage (likened to "a nice hug") while also delivering freedom of movement in the upper body and arms. With minimal buckles restricting movement, this is a jacket we could wear for days on end.
Whichever direction you like to move around in, the Astral YTV 2.0 is sure to accommodate you.
Credit: Sara James
The Mustang Survival Khimera, Astral E-Ronny, Astral E-Linda, NRS Ninja, and NRS Vapor are all top contenders in terms of comfort and mobility. These jackets sport very wide armholes, allowing for excellent freedom of movement and comfort regardless of whether you're wearing them on a kayak, SUP, or in the water. In addition, the contoured paneling on these PFDs provides a secure wrap around the lower torso, keeping bulky sides from impeding your paddling.
Large arm holes (like those on the NRS Vapor shown here) help to deliver unrestricted movement for active paddlers.
Credit: Sara James
The thin paneling on the Mustang Survival Khimera, particularly on the back, further adds to its comfort. We found it quite comfortable to wear when sitting in a kayak with a high back seat.
The Mustang Survival Khimera has some of the largest arm holes in our lineup, making it great for unrestricted movement when paddling or sailing.
Credit: Sara James
Even when inflated, this jacket continued to excel in comfort with the inflation being predominantly directed behind the head and chest, keeping your head afloat but not hindering swimming.
Of the inflating PFDs we tested, the Khimera was the most comfortable to swim in, thanks to its secure fit and considerate positioning of inflation.
Credit: Sara James
The inflatable waist belts also excel for mobility, as their low-profile design ensures you have an uninhibited range of movement and makes it easy to forget you are even wearing a flotation device. The NRS Zephyr is a particular favorite thanks to its soft finish, which is comfortable against the skin. The Bote Inflatable Belt, Onyx-16, and Astral Airbelt designs felt a bit stiff and do not wrap around your body as comfortably as the Zephyr and Minimalist.
The Zephyr's outer lining is comfortable against your skin and contours to your body's curves.
Credit: Sara James
Quality of Construction
Over several months and multiple summers pushing these personal flotation devices to their limit, we noticed some noteworthy trends and issues. Although they all have the same goal in mind, not all jackets are constructed equally. Depending on the construction, materials, and use, the lifespan of these pieces of gear can vary. Taking good care of your gear and storing it clean, dry, and out of direct sunlight will go a long way in preserving its integrity. However, the fact is that most life jackets will be thrown around and abused. Those designed with robust outer shells and reinforced stitching stand a better chance of avoiding the frays of time.
Astral stands out as a top-quality manufacturer for durable PFD construction. The E-Ronny, Layla, and YTV 2.0 from Astral were all top scorers alongside the Mustang Survival Khimera. These jackets stand head and shoulders above the rest for their robust stitching, high-denier outer shells, and overall attention to design and construction detail. We have seen the Astral jackets on the water for many years and don't see broken buckles or frayed seams. The Astral jackets dried more quickly than some of our other tested jackets, which also helps keep them fresh and ready to perform year after year.
The Astral YTV is very durably constructed and has withstood the hard conditions we put it through year after year.
Credit: Sara James
With a 500-denier outer shell, the Mustang Survival Minimalist Belt uses the most durable materials of any PFD we tested. Following close behind are the Astral Layla and NRS Vapor, which use 400D and 420D ripstop nylon shells, respectively. Upon close inspection, the Ninja and Vapor have some of the cleanest and most reinforced constructions of the models we tested. With thick seams, no loose ends sticking out, and helpful placement of buckles and straps, these models performed among the best in our testing. We found very few complaints from other online users about the durability of these vests during our extensive research.
Of the youth jackets we tested, the Astral Otter 2.0 was head and shoulders above the rest for quality of design and materials. Sporting a high-denier ripstop material and careful consideration for the integration of the features of the jacket, we have seen no signs that these jackets will wear out before your child grows out of them.
On the left is a brand new Astral Otter 2.0 and on the right is one that has had four seasons of heavy use.
Credit: Sara James
Almost every life vest we tested comes with instructions to clean by dunking and hanging to dry in a shady location for storage, which is fairly standard for any PFD. Several gave directions for testing the functionality and continued use of the jacket or belt to ensure it still works before you rely on it to save your life. Most vests require replacing every few years, depending on how you use and care for them, and just about all of them are “dead” if punctured. The only exceptions to this puncture rule are the Astral Layla and Otter 2.0, which have front panels filled with organic kapok fiber. Unlike the plasticizers in foam that inevitably leach out over time and cause the jacket to lose buoyancy, kapok never does. It can also be dried, resealed, and used again. This is a great feature, though only the front panels are kapok-filled — the back panels consist of standard PE foam.
In addition to PE foam, the Layla has kapok fiber, which is a buoyant, lighter alternative to cork.
Credit: Sara James
Features and Versatility
Specific features make each model unique, helping you decide if a jacket is suitable for your chosen activities. For some jackets, simple versatility is their winning ticket. Each model in our review has a stated purpose for which it has been designed and approved. We evaluated the functionality of each feature and kept track of details such as adjustable straps, pockets, padding, lash points, and any other unique attributes, including breathable mesh panels or inflating capabilities.
The award-winning E-Ronny has been well thought out, with close attention to minor details. The mesh-lined patches enhance comfort, and the pockets are appreciated for storing essentials close at hand. A buckle-free design also makes this jacket stand out.
The E-Ronny was a popular choice with those who like to keep their essentials close at hand.
Credit: Sara James
A number of top-end manufacturers have upgraded to offer some form of clamshell pocket for certain life jackets. The updated NRS Ninja features a front pocket with a built-in structure, giving you better access to the pocket's contents. NRS has also added some reflective detailing to the front lapels.
The newest version of the NRS Ninja has a reimagined front pocket with clever organizational features.
Credit: Sara James
Among women's models, the Astral Layla stands out with well-designed pockets and an easy fit that works well for a wide variety of uses, including rafting, sailing, and kayaking. In their latest update, Astral removed the slots that previously enabled this jacket to be compatible with a post-market rescue harness.
Comparing feature sets side by side. From left to right we have the Astral Layla, Astral E-Ronny, and NRS Ninja.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Astral EV-Eight is notable for its features. With the highest back of all the models we tested, it easily accommodates just about any seat height while simultaneously leaving your back open to the breeze for maximum ventilation. Mesh cut-outs on the front add even more breathability, with large, expandable pockets that allow you to keep items on your person. On top of that, for extra strap maintenance, there is velcro on the tails of the shoulder straps that quickly and easily secures to the top of the vest, keeping those pesky ends from dangling in your way. In an attempt to solve this same problem, the Layla, E-Linda, E-Ronny, and MoveVent Dynamic have lapels by the shoulders so you can tuck away extra straps. Some users preferred these options to Velcro, which can catch long hair.
The Astral EV-Eight has mesh vents for breathability.
Credit: Sara James
The Mustang Khimera's slimline back panel makes it comfortable even with high-back kayak seats. It has a well-positioned center pocket with enough space for a large phone or a couple of snack bags. This pocket is sealed with a Velcro closure and also sports an attachment point to keep your items secure. The most notable feature of this jacket is that you can wear it as a vest for basic neutral flotation, or inflate it for additional support and buoyancy. Water enthusiasts ranging from SUPers to sailors will enjoy this dual flotation PFD.
The slimline back panel of the Khimera is comfortable to wear with high rise seats.
Credit: Sara James
The NRS Ninja and the Kokotat Naiad are the only models we tested that enable you to attach a hydration pack to the outside of the jacket. For those wanting easily accessible hydration, this feature really made these vests stand out.
A hydration pack can be added to just a handful of models we tested, like the Kokatat Naiad.
Credit: Sara James
Inflatable PFD belts are a unique product for those who are close to the shore in warm, calm water and are strong swimmers. The ability to inflate at the pull of a string makes them particularly helpful for those who don't want to wear a bulky vest while recreating on flat water like lakes or calm estuaries. No matter the shape of the inflated sections, they all have printed directions describing how to repack them into their Velcro-encased fanny packs. The NRS Zephyr is fairly easy to use, packing down into a simple three-sided Velcro pouch. It is our favorite belt model, and it stood out for its useful pocket, large enough to fit a phone, and the inclusion of a D-ring to secure a fin or car key. The Onyx M-16 is easier to fold, as it's a simple rectangle, but requires you to slide the end covers on, which takes some practice to get right. While the Onyx M-16, Mustang Survival Minimalist Belt, and Astral Airbelt 2.0 all take widely available 16g CO2 cartridges, the Zephyr requires a 24g version, which is harder (and more expensive) to replace.
With the pull of a tab, the low profile NRS Zephyr will self inflate providing users with 27.8 lbs of buoyancy.
Credit: Sara James
Flotation
The US Coast Guard has updated its PFD rating system, with all newer life jackets sporting a Performance Level rating of 50, 70, 100, or 150 rather than the Type I, II, or III coding previously employed. The jackets must also state if they will roll over an unconscious swimmer and what activities they are not designed for.
Newer life jackets use Performance Level numbers rather than the Type I, II, III classifications of yesteryear.
Credit: Sara James
The primary purpose of all of these products is to keep you afloat, so flotation is, unsurprisingly, a crucial metric in this review. These jackets are not designed for people recreating far away from potential rescue, and they will not float a helpless body or turn an unconscious swimmer. Basic swimming skills are still required to use these PFDs safely. That said, with USCG certification standards, all approved life jackets will at least meet the same minimum standard of approximately 15 pounds of flotation.
Still, we researched the design flotation advertised for each model of life vest and compared it against the results from our in-house testing. Finally, we donned each model and hopped into the water ourselves, comparing how floating felt in a real-world scenario. All the life jackets met the required minimum flotation (as you would expect); what surprised us was how some models significantly outperformed their advertised flotation.
We put the flotation of every one of these vests, jackets, and belts to the test by floating and swimming in them.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Historically, most US manufacturers certify their PFDs with the same flotation rating, regardless of the size in which you purchase it. This is because although the outer shell may be larger, they use the same amount of internal foam construction. NRS has changed things up with their new updated models, such as the Chinook, Vapor, and Ninja, utilizing a graded sizing, with smaller sizes having slightly less flotation than larger sizes. All meet the new USCG standards for Performance Level 70, which is approximately equivalent to the previous standard of a Type III PFD.
When deployed, the inflatable devices report to deliver the most flotation, with the NRS Zephyr standing far above the crowd with 27.8 pounds of flotation from their 24g cartridge. The Astral Airbelt has 22 pounds of buoyancy, and the Mustang Survival Khimera has 20.5 pounds of flotation (7.5 foam buoyancy and 13 pounds additional buoyancy added when the cell is inflated). The Mustang Minimalist, Onyx M-16, and Bote Inflatable Belt all came in close behind with 16.9, 17, and 16.5 pounds, respectively. The Bote and Onyx can be topped up with secondary oral inflation.
It is important to note that all these inflatable devices are designed to deliver more buoyancy than the full foam life jackets we tested. Once activated, none of the inflatable options were as comfortable as the vests for actually floating and swimming in the water. Given that in an emergency you may need to actually swim to your safety, this is an important aspect to take into consideration.
The Layla's even foam distribution delivers a comfortable floating experience.
Credit: Sara James
When worn in the water, the Astral YTV 2.0 , Layla, and Kokotat Hustle outshine most of the competitors, as they deliver a more secure fit and don't tend to ride up when you are swimming. That said, there isn't a widespread difference in scores here because every PFD is designed — and guaranteed — to provide at least the minimum amount of flotation as defined by the USCG.
It is imperative to be aware that the type of inflatable PFD belts we tested requires manual activation. If you forget to pull the tab or can't access it for some reason, no flotation is provided. For example, a capsized kayaker may have to tread water for a moment before they can initiate this process, so it is essential that all users of these belts are strong swimmers.
Nothing like a day of testing out on beautiful Lake Tahoe.
Credit: Sara James
Conclusion
From river trips to evening lake floats, a life jacket is a critical piece of equipment designed to help save your life. Whether you are a college athlete, a nervous swimmer, or even a dog, a life jacket is one piece of gear that should not be overlooked. According to the American Boating Association, over 80% of all boating fatalities happen to people who aren't wearing a PFD. We think it's worth finding a life jacket you can wear without counting down the minutes until you can take it off. With your comfort and safety in mind, we've tested some of the top flotation wearables to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. We hope our efforts help you find your perfect PFD to stay above water and happy, no matter where your adventures take you.
