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The 8 best paddle board life jackets 2024?

by Laura

paddle board life jacket sup
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A paddle board life jacket is indispensable and can save lives in case of doubt. Beginners in particular often fall off the wobbly boards when stand up paddling. But even advanced SUP riders should never underestimate the power of the water.

Safety first:

BeyondSurfing has spent 13 hours researching and comparing the best products 2024 for you.

The best paddle board life jacket 2024?

In a hurry? Our favorite paddle board life jacket:

Helly Hansen Sport Comfort Vest*
What characterizes the offer?

  • 3 different colors
  • Ideal for water sports
  • Soft foam
  • ISO certified
  • Front pocket
  • Stabilizing back section
  • Modern design

“The paddle board life jacket is relatively inconspicuous. I like the freedom of movement in it. After a while, you don’t even notice that you’re wearing the vest.” – Tobias K. (★★★★★)

Paddle board life jackets Checklist

  • Models: Paddle board life jackets need a generous arm opening. This is the only way to paddle. A life belt is also an option for confident swimmers. It inflates at the touch of a button in an emergency.
  • Service life: Regular care extends the life of the product. A swim vest must be serviced every 10 years.
  • Design: Many designs are gender-neutral. Paddle board life jackets with sewn-on reflectors make you more visible to other water sports enthusiasts.
  • Size: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to find the right size.
  • Safety: Non-swimmers need a special life jacket. You should only go on SUP tours when accompanied.

Tip: You can find the best SUP boards 2024 here.

The top paddle board life jackets in 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. Helly Hansen Sport Comfort Vest

Advantages

  • 3 different colors
  • Ideal for water sports
  • Soft foam
  • ISO certified
  • Front pocket
  • Stabilizing back section
  • Modern design

Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for non-swimmers

Summary

The Helly Hansen paddle board life jacket offers plenty of room for movement. The fabric is very soft and flexible. The manufacturer has a lot of experience in the field of clothing for water sports.

This is reflected in the material. Sophisticated details round off the overall picture. The flexible shoulder sections allow undisturbed pendulum movements. The chest pocket for valuables is a great extra.

The product is ISO certified and made of polyester foam. This offers greater comfort than conventional filling material. The back section is reinforced to keep the body upright. This prevents incorrect posture.

Conclusion

Helly Hansen offers a top class swim vest with this product. The model is ideal for SUP sports.

Non-swimmers must wear a life jacket and take part in water sports with a companion.

Product details

Size: XXS – XXL | Material: Polyamide | Weight: 522 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 84% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The elastic straps adapt perfectly to the movement of the paddle. The breast pocket is extremely practical as it is waterproof. It is ideal for storing keys or valuables. The vest has a high-quality finish and fits the body perfectly. The short cut allows for a comfortable sitting position. The color does not fade. The price-performance ratio is exceptionally good. Creating them is child’s play.

Around 11% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

A customer has received the wrong product. Another finds the belly button-free fit uncomfortable. A crotch strap is missing. Not everyone likes the large brand lettering.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the yellow model neon or normal yellow?
It is a striking neon yellow for greater safety.
What size is suitable for a 10-year-old child?
This depends on the weight of the child. It is better to choose more buoyancy than too little.

2. leader buoyancy aid with CE marking

Advantages

  • 4 Designs
  • ISO certified
  • Safety reflectors
  • Easy to create
  • Freedom of movement
  • Ergonomic foam
  • Two-way zipper

Disadvantages

  • Only one belt
  • Not for children under 30 kg or non-swimmers

Summary

The Leader brand paddle board life jacket complies with current EU standards. It is also ISO-certified and available in 4 different designs. Each vest is fitted with silver reflectors.

The swim vest is designed for people with a body weight of 30 – 90 kg. The chest circumference can be up to 112 cm wide. The zipper on the front is a two-way system. This increases comfort. The vest can be opened slightly at the bottom for a comfortable fit.

This SUP buoyancy aid is ideal for stand up paddling and other water sports thanks to the deep arm cut-out. It offers optimum freedom of movement with a high level of safety.

Conclusion

SUP fans who value comfort and design are well advised to choose this paddle board life jacket. Thanks to the attached reflectors, it is also suitable for waters with heavy traffic or poor visibility.

The vest is not suitable for children and non-swimmers. The latter prefer a product that is explicitly advertised as a SUP lifejacket.

Product details

Size: 66 – 112 cm chest circumference | Material: PE foam and polyester | Weight class: 30 – 90 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 90 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The designs are beautiful and the dark version in particular is understated and elegant. A large bust fits easily. The armholes offer sufficient freedom of movement. The vest can be used for various water sports.

Pack size and weight are small. This makes transportation easier. The vest sits comfortably against the skin and can easily be worn with just a swimsuit underneath. Delivery by the manufacturer is very fast and problem-free. The buoyancy is high and users are kept comfortably afloat.

Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The jacket makes it difficult to swim naturally. The inner parts can come loose and press on the throat. The strap on the stomach can be uncomfortable. The vest would be safer if it had a leg strap.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is a man weighing just over 100 kg safe with this swim vest?
Yes, the paddle board life jacket is only described up to 90 kg payload, but some reviewers describe that they had enough buoyancy with higher weight.
Can non-swimmers use it to practise swimming?
Yes, the first attempts are secured with this vest. For further training, it is better to use water wings. The swim vest straightens the swimmer too much.

3. Baltic swim vest Aqua

Advantages

  • Fits children and adults
  • Does not restrict movement
  • Manufacturer with experience
  • Durable material

Disadvantages

  • Not for non-swimmers
  • Not faint-proof

Summary

The SUP buoyancy aid from Baltic covers a weight load of 30 to 90 kg and more in 4 sizes.

The cut-out for the arms leaves enough space for all the movements involved in SUP riding. The strap can be closed at the waist with a click fastener.

The range of sizes is something special on the market:

The vest can even be used by children and people with a very large girth without any problems. Customer reviews confirm this.

Conclusion

The sizes are suitable for customers of all sizes and weight classes. There is also the right color for every taste.

The product is not suitable for absolute non-swimmers.

Product details

Size: N/A | Material: PE foam and polyester | Weight load: 30 – 90+ kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The swim vest also supports heavy users. The material is comfortable against the skin and offers plenty of freedom of movement. The strap is variably adjustable and can be adapted to different body shapes. Swimmers with little experience are kept well on the surface. This also applies to children. A good price-performance ratio and customer recommendations create a positive impression overall.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is this model suitable for snorkeling tours?
Yes, but swim vests restrict movement more than other buoyancy aids.
Does this swim vest also carry unconscious people above water in emergency situations?
No, because it is a life jacket and not a life jacket. The head is carried independently.

4. Jobe Universal swim vest

Advantages

  • 3 straps for perfect fit
  • 4 different designs
  • ISO certified
  • Ergonomic kayak float bag
  • Flexible sides for all body shapes
  • Ventilation
  • Freedom of movement

Disadvantages

  • Unsuitable for non-swimmers and children under 50 kg
  • Straps could rub against bare skin

Summary

The paddle board life jacket is produced by the experienced manufacturer Jobe. The one size fits all can be used for different purposes. There are 4 different designs to choose from.

The vest has cut-outs on the sides. As a result, it adapts to all body shapes. The model complies with the European standard and is ISO-certified. The lightweight PE foam filling has good buoyancy. Nevertheless, the tare weight remains low.

The paddle board life jacket is equipped with 3 straps. They are individually adjustable. Two of the lower straps are fastened with a loop. This prevents them from sliding upwards.

Conclusion

The swim vest adapts perfectly to any body shape. The open sides allow ideal freedom of movement when SUPing.

The model is neither suitable for small children nor for non-swimmers.

Product details

Size: 85 – 125 cm chest circumference | Material: PE foam and polyester | Weight class: > 50 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 83% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

One buyer describes the swim vest as carrying a 14-year-old girl and a tall adult equally well. It adapts to the shape of the body and allows sufficient freedom of movement. The low weight is practical for transportation.

It can be used for various water sports. The design is appealing. The colors ensure better visibility. The look makes a high-quality impression. The price-performance ratio is very good.

Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The product arrived too late. One buyer had to cancel a SUP tour as a result.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Which dress sizes correspond to the vest sizes?
The swim vest fits people with clothing size S – XL.
Is the model also suitable for a snorkeling tour?
Yes. However, the manufacturer recommends a neoprene model for snorkeling.

5. MESLE One-Size Sportsman swim vest

Advantages

  • 5 different colors
  • Straps for flexible adjustment
  • ISO certified
  • Freedom of movement

Disadvantages

  • Unsuitable for non-swimmers

Summary

The swim vest from the manufacturer Mesle is suitable for men, women and children. The model is available in two sizes and four colors.

The vest is equipped with 3 straps. They run individually through a loop and cannot slip. The individual adjustability allows the swim vest to adapt perfectly to your body shape.

Ventilation is good even on sunny days. There is no “sauna effect”. The vest is designed for kayak or wakeboard sports and also offers safety and comfort on SUP trips.

Conclusion

Customers who prefer a flexible fit opt for this model. The ideal companion for a stand up paddle trip.

The cut-out on the arms is not suitable for very muscular or wide arms. Non-swimmers are better off using a life jacket.

Product details

Size: One Size | Material: 210D Nylon | Weight: 40 – 70+

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 82% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Delivery is speedy and buyers recommend the product to others. Some are so satisfied that they have given the swim vest away several times. The straps and fasteners are of high quality. The buoyancy is strong enough for many water sports. The body is well ventilated even at high temperatures. The vest does its job as a buoyancy aid.

Around 10% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The product is rather wide. The product information on the vest is incorrect: according to ISO certification, the load capacity is only valid up to 20 kg. The product description is therefore misleading. The product information on load capacity is not clear.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the model rather large or small?
The vest is larger. However, it is adjustable thanks to the straps and therefore fits well.
Does the vest also fit a 118 cm chest?
Yes, this is easily adjustable with the straps.

6. Restube inflatable floating buoy

Advantages

  • Two colors
  • Extremely handy
  • Absolute freedom of movement
  • Incl. Key compartment
  • One size fits all
  • Good visibility
  • High quality material
  • Trigger is also a signal whistle

Disadvantages

  • Only for good swimmers for protection
  • High purchase price
  • Disposable CO2 cartridges required

Summary

The Restube Sports buoy is a small, rectangular bag that packs a punch. There is an inflatable life buoy inside. It is connected to a CO2 cartridge and can be inflated at the touch of a button.

This concept offers the ultimate freedom of movement. It is only inflated if you capsize or find yourself in an emergency situation. The trigger is also a whistle to generate distress signals.

The product is simply worn like a fanny pack. There is also a compartment for your keys or other valuables. The material is durable and very robust TPU and nylon.

Conclusion

Experienced swimmers who want to protect themselves in an emergency will find the best combination of safety and freedom of movement in this product.

The product is only suitable for experienced swimmers and the inflation technique must be practiced on land. Children and non-swimmers reach for a different product.

Product details

Size: One size | Material: Nylon and TPU | Weight: 281 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Delivery is lightning fast and the product gives you a safe feeling on the SUP. The sea in particular is unpredictable and, in case of doubt, this small part can save a life. The material is very high quality. The manufacturer’s concept is innovative and ingenious. The customers all recommend the product to others. Attached to the sail or board, the Restube ensures even better visibility.

Around 0% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

So far there are no critical reviews of this product.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

How strong is the buoyancy?
70 N buoyancy keeps an adult person on the surface of the water.
Is it possible to dive with the product?
No, it is a kayak float bag that is only used on the surface of the water.

7. Lalizas solid lifejacket 100N

Advantages

  • EU safety standards
  • Ergonomically shaped
  • Freedom of movement
  • Striking colors and signal whistle
  • Many sizes

Disadvantages

  • No color selection

Summary

The Lalizas swim vest meets all current safety standards. The freedom of movement is ideal for SUP riding.

The vest is made from a special polyester blend that is waterproof. This prevents the swim vest from becoming soaked and prevents holes and tears. The ergonomic shape of the vest supports you during water sports.

The swim vest is produced in sizes for toddlers and adults with a large body circumference.

Conclusion

A cheap paddle board life jacket for children and adults who practice SUP as a hobby.

Product details

Size: 3 kg – 90+ kg | Material: Polyester | Weight: 600 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 92 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The vest is a little tight but the workmanship is very good. The price-performance ratio is reasonable and the fasteners are bombproof. The reflective logo increases safety. In an emergency, there is even a small whistle to attract attention. One customer weighs 110 kg and is very satisfied with the vest. Children feel comfortable in the swim vest. Delivery is fast and reliable.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

8. Secumar Jump buoyancy aid

Advantages

  • Upholstery of the body
  • Especially for advanced SUPers
  • Reflective strips
  • Zippered pocket for valuables
  • Experienced manufacturer
  • For children and adults
  • Free movement

Disadvantages

  • Unsuitable for non-swimmers
  • Only one color available
  • Slip-on entry more cumbersome than front closure

Summary

This swim vest has been manufactured on the basis of Secumar’s many years of experience. The slip-on entry replaces the zipper to prevent bruising. This is worthwhile for wild SUP rides in the waves.

There are different versions for children from 30 kg body weight and adults up to 120 kg. The padding provides a comfortable feel and does not restrict movement when paddling.

A practical front pocket can safely store valuables. The side fasteners allow adjustment to different body shapes.

Conclusion

Customers who use their SUP in the waves or on wild rivers choose this product. The body is also protected in the event of a fall.

The model is not a lifejacket and is unsuitable for non-swimmers. The slip entry has advantages and disadvantages.

Product details

Size: N/A | Material: SECU-Foam multi-layer soft foam and polyester | Weight load: 30 – 120 kg

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 93% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The swim vest is ideal for stand up paddle boarding and sailing. The freedom of movement is huge, just like the price-performance ratio. There is also a practical storage compartment for valuables. The product can be put on and taken off quickly. The design is fashionable. The fit is also suitable for children. The adjustable straps adapt to weight fluctuations and growth. Customer service is also praised several times. The material and workmanship are of high quality.

Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The vest pinches the neck of some buyers. One reviewer complains about the complicated delivery – but the product itself is flawless.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the product odorless?
Yes, the vest has no inherent odor.
What is the difference between a buoyancy aid and a lifejacket?
A buoyancy aid keeps the body on the surface of the water, but the head must be carried independently. A lifejacket, on the other hand, saves you even if you faint.

Bestsellers: The most popular paddle board life jackets

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-12-04)

Buy paddle board life jackets:
How to make the right decision

I always thought that a paddle board life jacket was unnecessary on the SUP. But ever since I got into trouble once in a strong current, I never go out without my vest.

Adrian Neumann ★★★★★
(Water sports enthusiast from Munich)


A woman recently had an accident with her SUP on Lake Wörthersee(source). Many such fatal accidents can be prevented by swimming aids (study on the safety of swimming aids).

What many people don’t know:

In Switzerland, paddle board life jackets are already mandatory on the SUP.

Safety first:

BeyondSurfing’s buying guide gives you the knowledge you need to harmonize comfort, design and safety.

What you need to consider when buying a paddle board life jacket (incl. Checklist)

When looking for the best paddle board life jacket, you need to pay attention to these features:

  • Swim vest type
  • Size
  • Weight class
  • Comfort

Which paddle board life jacket is the right one?

This is what distinguishes a paddle board life jacket from other models:

  • Compactness
  • good buoyancy
  • certified according to EN ISO 12402-5 / 12402-6
  • slim cut for plenty of freedom of movement when paddling

Also interesting:

What size paddle board life jacket?

Only a well-fitting swim vest ensures safety in the water. You should therefore read the manufacturer’s measurements carefully, as swim vests do not have standardized sizes.

Test whether paddling movements are possible in the swim vest without any problems. This is how it works:

  • Mimic paddling movements while standing like on the SUP.
  • Turn the body in all directions.
Good to know: Special sizes are available from many manufacturers for special body shapes.

The weight class?

Did you know that the user’s weight affects the safety of the swim vest?

The paddle board life jacket must be labeled for your weight:

Only if the swim vest is labeled for your weight does it offer enough buoyancy. A body weight of 53 kg is sufficiently secured with a swim vest for 50 – 60 kg and not 40 – 50 kg.

The comfort?

Especially in summer, the swim vest fabric touches bare skin or is only separated from it by thin fabric.

Test the feel on your skin before buying. Does the material chafe or do you react to it with intolerance? Then choose a different model.

Pro tip: Experienced SUP riders opt for vests without zippers.

How do I put on my paddle board life jacket?

Follow these instructions for a secure fit:

  1. Pull the vest over your shoulders and arms.
  2. Close the zipper and/or the clips at the front and in the crotch.
  3. Tighten the straps from bottom to top, starting at the hips.
  4. Put on tightly enough to prevent slipping without cutting off the air or severely restricting freedom of movement.
  5. The straps on the upper body must not be pulled so tight that the swim vest is pulled upwards.

This allows you to test whether the vest fits correctly:

  • Stretch your arms towards the sky and have an accompanying person pull the swim vest upwards. (This imitates the buoyancy effect of water).
  • The swim vest must not slide up too much.

Well-known brands and manufacturers?

There are manufacturers who specialize in paddle board life jackets for water sports such as SUP. These include, among others:


Secumar, Helly Hansen, Leader and Baltic


Care tips for your paddle board life jacket

Every product that is intended to protect your health must be carefully cared for. Most manufacturers supply care instructions with the swim vests.

Increase the longevity of your paddle board life jacket with these tips:

  • Rinse under running water after each use. This is especially true after contact with salty water – e.g. a SUP tour in the sea.
  • For particularly thorough cleaning: Fill a bucket with mild soap and fresh water and immerse the vest.
Caution: Never leave the vest to dry in direct sunlight.

Swim vests compulsory?

Commercial SUP rentals are legally obliged to provide customers with paddle board life jackets. The equipment with swim vests is checked during the licensing process. In Switzerland, there is a general obligation to wear a paddle board life jacket on the SUP board.

Regular maintenance is essential

Your paddle board life jacket remains a lifesaver when you:

  • Test automatically inflatable swim vests before each use.
  • Always replace the swim vest after approx. 10 years.
  • Have the product serviced every 2 years (often offered by the manufacturer).
  • Detect damage at an early stage.
Important: Only a regularly checked paddle board life jacket guarantees sufficient protection on the SUP.

How does a life belt actually work?

Experienced swimmers can also protect themselves with a life belt such as the one from Restube. The following video shows you how it works:

Did you know? Consumer Reports and Öko Test have not yet published paddle board life jackets tests.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about paddle board life jackets

Which paddle board life jacket to use for SUP?

For SUP, you need a paddle board life jacket that does not restrict your paddling movement. The vest must also be well ventilated so that you don’t get too warm in summer.

Do I have to wear a swim vest when stand-up paddling?

A swim vest is not obligatory in Germany but is a sensible recommendation. In nature, unforeseen situations can always arise and, in case of doubt, a buoyancy aid will save your life.

Where do I buy a paddle board life jacket?

There is a large selection of products on Amazon. You can find swim vests at sporting goods retailers such as empty.

How expensive are paddle board life jackets?

Good paddle board life jackets cost upwards of $ 20. The price increases with additional accessories and high-quality material.

How much does a paddle board life jacket weigh?

A paddle board life jacket weighs at least 400 g. The higher your body weight, the heavier the kayak float bag in the swim vest.

How much buoyancy should a paddle board life jacket have?

Paddle board life jackets are buoyancy aids that have 8 Newtons of buoyancy per 10 kg of body weight. An adult should choose a swim vest with at least 50 N.

Which paddle board life jacket for SUP?

The best swim vests for stand-up paddling are models that allow a high degree of freedom of movement and are not cut too short for stand-up paddling. The three best models are:

  1. Helly Hansen Rider
  2. YAK High Back B/Aid
  3. Palm Meander High-Back

Is it compulsory to wear a SUP life jacket?

There is no legal requirement to wear a life jacket for stand-up paddling. However, the operator, leaseholder or owner of a stretch of water may make it compulsory to wear a swim vest.

The organizer or rental company can also make life jackets compulsory at events or for rental.

What to look out for when buying a paddle board life jacket?

When buying a swim vest, make sure that it allows enough freedom of movement in the arm and shoulder area for paddling.

Especially swim vests for paddling in a standing position should not be too short at the waist and slightly longer at the back for reasons of comfort.

The swim vest straps should be adjustable to prevent the vest from riding up when jumping into the water.

Conclusion: The most popular paddle board life jackets reviewed

A trip on the SUP is fun for beginners and pros alike. Nevertheless, water is and remains an unpredictable element.

Your paddle board life jacket should be able to do this:

A modern swim vest keeps you safe, is comfortable, offers sufficient freedom of movement and looks good. Nowadays, comfort and design are no longer mutually exclusive when making a purchase decision.

Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

*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.

Laura

Beach and snorkeling expert
Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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