Buoyancy Aids

How Does a Buoyancy Aid Function?

Buoyancy aids, commonly known as buoyancy vests or jackets, are crafted to provide exactly what their name implies: buoyancy when you're in the water. They are applicable to a variety of water activities, such as paddle boarding, serving as a crucial piece of safety equipment.

It's important to distinguish buoyancy vests from life jackets. Buoyancy aids are predicated on the assumption that the wearer can still manage to swim or remain afloat while expecting assistance. Consequently, they are best suited for activities near the shore with anticipated water immersion.

When selecting a buoyancy aid, you might notice the notation “50N” in the product details. This figure indicates the level of buoyancy the jacket offers. Generally, buoyancy aids provide 50N, whereas life jackets typically offer 100N or 150N.

Which Buoyancy Aid is Right for Me?

Each buoyancy vest is designed for flexibility and to allow ample freedom of movement. They are not tailored for specific sports, so it's essential to consider your personal swimming skills and the buoyancy level needed for your activity.

Determining the correct size requires knowledge of your weight and chest measurement. If you’re uncertain whether your vest is a proper fit, a useful test is to have someone attempt to lift the jacket by the shoulders after you put it on. If it moves up excessively (more than 5cm), it’s too loose, and you should either tighten it or choose a smaller size.

For those who require a product offering greater buoyancy, please check our Life Jackets section.