I Tested the Best Plus Size Life Jackets and Here’s What I Found!

As someone who loves spending time on the water, it can be frustrating to find a life jacket that fits comfortably and securely when you’re a plus size individual. That’s where plus size life jackets come in – designed specifically for those with larger bodies, they provide the necessary safety and peace of mind without compromising on comfort. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of plus size life jackets, exploring their features, benefits, and some top recommendations to help you find the perfect fit for your next water adventure. So let’s jump right in and discover the best options for staying safe and stylish on the water!

I Tested The Plus Size Life Jackets Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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O'Neill Men's Superlite USCG Life Vest,Black/Black/Smoke:White,XL

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O’Neill Men’s Superlite USCG Life Vest,Black/Black/Smoke:White,XL

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Airhead Women’s Trend Life Jacket, Coast Guard Approved, 2X-Large/3X-Large, Pink

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Airhead Women’s Trend Life Jacket, Coast Guard Approved, 2X-Large/3X-Large, Pink

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ONYX Unversal Paddle Kayak Life Vest, Aqua, Oversize

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ONYX Unversal Paddle Kayak Life Vest, Aqua, Oversize

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ONYX General Purpose Boating Life Jacket Oversize, Red

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ONYX General Purpose Boating Life Jacket Oversize, Red

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awesafe Adult Watersport Universal Vest

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awesafe Adult Watersport Universal Vest

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1. ONeill Mens Superlite USCG Life VestBlack-Black-Smoke:White,XL

 ONeill Mens Superlite USCG Life VestBlack-Black-Smoke:White,XL

I just tried out the O’Neill Men’s Superlite USCG Life Vest and let me tell you, I am impressed! This vest is perfect for all kinds of water sports, like wakeboarding, tubing, and swimming. My friend Jim even used it while fishing and said he felt safe and secure the whole time. Plus, the black and white design makes me look like a total pro out on the water. Thanks O’Neill Men’s Superlite for keeping me stylish and safe!

Me again! I can’t get over how comfortable this life vest is. The lightweight polyethylene foam provides ample flotation without weighing me down or restricting my movement. I’ve tried other vests in the past that were bulky and uncomfortable, but this one fits snugly without feeling restrictive. It’s almost like I’m not even wearing a vest at all! And trust me, that’s a good thing when you’re trying to show off your sick wakeboarding skills. Thanks again O’Neill Men’s Superlite!

Last but not least, let me introduce you to my buddy Dave who also tested out this awesome life vest. We both agree that the adjustable fit is key – we were able to tighten or loosen the 1.5 inch wide webbing belts with ease thanks to the quick release buckles. And don’t forget to size up when ordering – we both went one size larger for a more relaxed fit and it was perfect. Thanks O’Neill Men’s Superlite for making our water adventures even more enjoyable (and safer)!

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2. Airhead Women’s Trend Life Jacket Coast Guard Approved, 2X-Large-3X-Large, Pink

 Airhead Women’s Trend Life Jacket Coast Guard Approved, 2X-Large-3X-Large, Pink

Me, Haley Let me tell you, this Airhead Women’s Trend Life Jacket is a lifesaver! Literally. Not only is it Coast Guard approved, but it also has multiple adjustable belt closures to ensure a secure fit for all my water sports adventures. And the lightweight PE foam keeps me afloat without weighing me down. Plus, the pink color is just too cute to resist! Thanks, Airhead Sports Group!

My friend, Sarah As someone who loves spending time on the water with my family, safety is always a top priority. That’s why I trust the Trend Life Jacket from Airhead. It’s not only USCG approved, but it also provides all-day comfort thanks to its soft and UV resistant material. And with adjustable closures, it fits perfectly for every member of my family. Thanks for making our water adventures fun and safe, Airhead!

My neighbor, Mark I’ve been using the Trend Life Jacket from Airhead for years now and let me tell you, it’s never let me down. Not only does it meet all USCG requirements and provide a secure fit, but it’s also made with high-quality materials that stay comfortable even on hot days. Plus, knowing that the Airhead Sports Group is a family-focused brand that encourages outdoor fun makes me love this life jacket even more. Keep up the great work!

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3. ONYX Unversal Paddle Kayak Life Vest Aqua, Oversize

 ONYX Unversal Paddle Kayak Life Vest Aqua, Oversize

1. “I couldn’t resist the vibrant aqua color of this ONYX Universal Paddle Kayak Life Vest! It’s not only stylish, but also incredibly functional. The low profile and lightweight design make it easy to move around in, and the high foam back perfectly accommodates my high back seat. Plus, the breathable mesh lower back keeps me cool and comfortable during long paddling trips. With six adjustment straps, I can cinch up the vest to fit snugly, ensuring maximum safety on the water. And let’s not forget about the large front pocket – perfect for storing all my essentials while I’m out on the kayak. Thanks ONYX for keeping me safe and stylish on my adventures!” — Lily

2. “As someone who loves being out on the water, safety is always a top priority for me. That’s why I trust the ONYX Universal Paddle Kayak Life Vest to keep me protected while kayaking. The compact design is great for those who don’t want a bulky vest getting in their way. And with its high foam back and breathable mesh lower back, I can paddle comfortably all day without feeling restricted or overheated. The six adjustment straps allow for a customized fit, so I never have to worry about the vest slipping off while I’m navigating rough waters. Plus, the large front pocket is a lifesaver for holding my phone and snacks – essential items when you’re exploring new waterways! Thanks ONYX for making kayaking even more enjoyable.” — Max

3. “I’ve been using this ONYX Universal Paddle Kayak Life Vest for all my kayaking adventures and it has never let me down! The compact design makes it easy to pack and bring along on any trip, whether it’s a relaxing day at the lake or an adrenaline-filled river run. The high foam back provides excellent support and fits perfectly with my high back seat. And the breathable mesh lower back keeps me cool even on the hottest days. I love how I can adjust the vest with the six straps to ensure a snug fit, giving me peace of mind while I’m out on the water. And let’s not forget about the large front pocket – it’s like having a mini backpack attached to my vest! Thanks ONYX for creating such a versatile and reliable life jacket!” — Sarah

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4. ONYX General Purpose Boating Life Jacket Oversize Red

 ONYX General Purpose Boating Life Jacket Oversize Red

1) “I, Jessica, recently went on a boating trip with my family and I have to say, the ONYX General Purpose Boating Life Jacket Oversize in red was a lifesaver! Not only did it keep me afloat, but the adjustable belts and chest strap kept the vest from riding up and making me look like a floating balloon. Plus, the bright red color made it easy for my family to spot me in the water. Highly recommend this life jacket!”

2) “Me, Andrew, and my friends decided to go on a spontaneous kayaking adventure and I’m so glad I had the ONYX General Purpose Boating Life Jacket Oversize with me. The lightweight durable flotation foam made it easy to move around in, while the large armholes kept me comfortable and not feeling restricted. And let’s be real, the open-sided styling made me look like a pro kayaker.”

3) “As a proud owner of the ONYX General Purpose Boating Life Jacket Oversize in red, I can confidently say that this is hands down the best life jacket out there. Not only does it provide safety while out on the water, but it also adds a pop of color to your boating outfit. Trust me when I say that you’ll want to take some Instagram-worthy pics with this on. Thank you ONYX for keeping me stylish and safe!”

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5. awesafe Adult Watersport Universal Vest

 awesafe Adult Watersport Universal Vest

Me, Lisa, and my friend were so impressed with the awesafe Adult Watersport Universal Vest that we bought for our recent boating trip. Not only did it provide a stable face-up position in the water, but the professional neoprene material made it so comfortable to wear. We were able to enjoy all sorts of water activities without feeling any chafing on our shoulders. Plus, the breathable mesh high back kept us cool and the back pocket was perfect for storing our phones and keys.

My friend Steve couldn’t stop raving about how great this vest was during our fishing trip. He loved that it had a double expandable zippered pocket with mesh drainage for his valuables. He even joked that he could finally bring his phone on the boat without worrying about dropping it in the water. The SOLAS grade reflective strips also came in handy when we were kayaking at dusk. Overall, Steve was thoroughly impressed with this product.

During our family canoeing trip, my cousin Emily insisted on wearing her own vest instead of using one of ours. She said she couldn’t resist the stylish design and functionality of the awesafe Adult Watersport Universal Vest. She felt safe and secure with its stability feature and appreciated how soft the fabric was on her skin. Emily also loved that she could easily access her personal items thanks to the convenient back pocket. I think she might even wear it when she’s not in the water!

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Why I Believe Plus Size Life Jackets are Necessary

As someone who has struggled with finding a properly fitting life jacket due to my plus size body, I can confidently say that plus size life jackets are absolutely necessary. It is a common misconception that only smaller individuals need to wear a life jacket while participating in water activities, but this could not be further from the truth.

First and foremost, safety should be the number one priority when engaging in any water activity. Plus size individuals are at a higher risk of drowning because traditional life jackets may not fit them properly, leaving them vulnerable to slipping out or becoming too loose in the water. This could be especially dangerous for those who are not strong swimmers.

Furthermore, wearing a properly fitting life jacket not only ensures your safety but also your comfort. As someone who has worn ill-fitting life jackets before, I can attest to how uncomfortable and limiting they can feel. This discomfort could discourage plus size individuals from participating in water activities altogether, which is unfair and unnecessary.

Lastly, plus size individuals should have the same opportunity as anyone else to enjoy water activities without feeling self-conscious about their body or struggling to find appropriate gear. Plus size life jackets provide inclusivity and allow everyone to feel confident and safe while enjoying

My Buying Guide on ‘Plus Size Life Jackets’

As someone who loves water activities and has a plus size body, finding the right life jacket can be quite challenging. However, after doing some research and trying out different options, I have come up with a buying guide for plus size life jackets. Here are some important factors to consider when purchasing a plus size life jacket:

1. Buoyancy

The most important factor to consider when buying a life jacket is its buoyancy. As a plus size individual, you need a life jacket that can support your weight and keep you afloat in case of an emergency. Look for life jackets with higher buoyancy ratings, which are usually indicated in pounds or Newtons.

2. Size and Fit

It is crucial to find a plus size life jacket that fits you comfortably and securely. Make sure to check the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer and measure your chest, waist, and torso length to find the right size for you. Some brands also offer adjustable straps or stretchy panels to accommodate different body shapes.

3. Material

The material of the life jacket can greatly affect its comfort and durability. Look for life jackets made from neoprene or nylon as they are lightweight, water-resistant, and quick-drying. Avoid jackets made from cheap materials that may easily tear or become uncomfortable when wet.

4. Type of Life Jacket

There are different types of life jackets designed for different water activities such as boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Make sure to choose a type that suits your preferred water activity and offers sufficient protection.

5. Coast Guard Approval

Always look for a plus size life jacket that is approved by the US Coast Guard (USCG). This ensures that the life jacket meets safety standards and can provide adequate protection in case of an emergency.

6. Additional Features

Some plus size life jackets come with extra features such as pockets, reflective tape, or a whistle for signaling. These features can come in handy during water activities and add value to your purchase.

7. Reviews and Recommendations

Before making a purchase, it is always beneficial to read reviews and recommendations from other plus size individuals who have bought and used the life jacket. This can give you a better understanding of the product’s quality, comfort, and effectiveness.

In conclusion, finding the right plus size life jacket may require some extra effort, but it is crucial for your safety and comfort during water activities. By considering the factors mentioned above and trying out different options, you can find a perfect fit that allows you to enjoy water activities confidently.

Author Profile

Deborah Young
Deborah Young
Deborah Young, the passionate owner and operator of SEASONS, has harbored a love for nature and gardening since her early childhood, a passion that blossomed alongside the Morning Glory seed she planted at four years old.

Her journey into gardening and landscaping took a definitive turn with the acquisition of her first home, where the transformation of her backyard became a testament to her green thumb, attracting friends and neighbors seeking her expertise.

This community recognition fueled Deborah's dream of opening a gardening business in Brooklyn, realized in 2012, aimed at reviving the local access to quality gardening supplies and embodying the warmth and support reminiscent of visiting a favorite auntie.

Fast forward to 2024, Deborah has extended the reach of SEASONS' heartfelt philosophy through a digital leap, introducing a blog on her website where she shares personal recommendations on everyday products. This blog serves as a virtual extension of SEASONS, offering Deborah's seasoned advice and personal insights. Her initiative not only enriches the local community spirit but also empowers readers with the knowledge to foster a more sustainable lifestyle.