Lifejackets

Why is wearing a lifejacket important?

A lifejacket significantly increases survival chances in the water by:

• Keeping you afloat
• Supporting your airway above water
• Reducing fatigue
• Improving visibility to rescuers

Even strong swimmers can struggle in cold water or rough seas.

How do you choose a lifejacket?

Lifejackets are divided into three main types:

Buoyancy Aids (50–100 N)

Lightweight foam vests ideal for calm or sheltered waters. They allow freedom of movement for activities like kayaking, dinghy sailing, or watersports. They help you float but do not guarantee your head stays above water if you are unconscious.

Foam Lifejackets (100–150 N)

Solid foam lifejackets that provide constant buoyancy without inflation. Reliable and maintenance-free, they keep your head above water and are suitable for general boating and inshore cruising.

Inflatable Lifejackets (150 N+)

High-buoyancy lifejackets with manual or automatic inflation, designed for offshore, long-distance, or professional use. They offer maximum comfort, mobility, and self-righting capability in emergencies.

What is the difference between a buoyancy aid and a lifejacket?

• Buoyancy aids assist flotation but require the wearer to be conscious and able to swim.
• Lifejackets are designed to keep an unconscious person’s face clear of the water.

Lifejackets provide a higher level of safety for offshore and open-water boating.

How much buoyancy does a lifejacket need?

Lifejackets are rated by buoyancy level (in Newtons):

• 50N: Buoyancy aids for sheltered waters
• 100N: Basic lifejackets for calm waters
• 150N: General offshore boating
• 275N: Extreme conditions or heavy clothing

Higher buoyancy provides more turning power and support.

How do inflatable lifejackets work?

Inflatable lifejackets contain a gas cylinder that inflates the bladder when triggered by:

• Water activation (automatic)
• Manual pull cord
• Oral inflation tube as backup

They should be serviced and checked regularly.