Life Vest Size Guide

Getting the size right is what makes a life jacket work. A vest that's too loose won't float you properly, so this page covers how to pick the right size. For the levels (L50, L50S and up) see The Breakdown: Life Vests, and for what you're legally required to wear where you ride, see our state-by-state guide.

What size life jacket do I need?

1. Check the weight rating. It's printed on the label inside the vest, along with the level. The vest needs to be rated for the wearer's weight so it has enough buoyancy.
2. Use the size chart on the product page. Sizes vary by brand, so a large in one vest isn't always a large in another. Go by the chart for the vest you're actually looking at.
3. Check the fit when you try it on. It should be snug, like a wetsuit.

The fit check

Most watersports vests are neoprene, and neoprene stretches about 5 to 10% once it's wet. So a vest that feels roomy on dry land will be loose in the water.

Try it on brand new and dry. Before you do it up, the two sides of the zip should sit about 5 to 10 cm apart, and the vest should have to stretch to close. If it zips up easily, it's too big. If you're between sizes, go tighter rather than looser.

There's a short video of the check in how to fit a life jacket.

Sizing kids

Weight rating first, so the vest has enough buoyancy for your child. Then check it's snug around the waist and through the shoulders.

Be careful with sizes bigger than they need, and never put a child in an adult vest. If the zip closes around the hips instead of the waist, there's too much room in the shoulders and the vest isn't safe. Shop kids life jackets.

Wrong size?

If it doesn't fit, we're happy to exchange it. See our returns and exchange policy, or get in touch and we'll help you pick the right size before you order.

Ready to choose?

Shop ski and wake life vests, mens life vests, womens life vests, kids life jackets or jetski life vests. More sizing help is in our size guides and calculators.