Home » How to fit a vest

Stay Secure. Ride Confident.

The right life vest isn’t just about safety—it’s about comfort, performance, and peace of mind. A proper fit keeps you protected without getting in your way, whether you're cruising, towing, or exploring open water.

A properly fitted life jacket is essential for safety. Follow these steps to find the best fit:

  1. Measure for Accuracy – Using a soft measuring tape, measure the widest part of your chest or belly while seated. Life vests are sized differently from regular clothing and should not be chosen based on personal fit preferences.
  2. Check the Manufacturer’s Label – Ensure the vest is designed for the wearer’s size and weight.
  3. Fasten Securely – Put on the vest and secure all buckles and the zipper (if applicable).
  4. Perform a Fit Test – Raise your arms straight overhead.
  5. Check for Movement – Have a friend gently lift the vest by the arm openings.
  6. Assess Fit – The vest should not ride up over the chin or face, and there should be minimal excess room around the openings. A properly fitted life jacket should feel like a second skin and stay flush against the body.
  7. Test in Water – For the best fit, try the life jacket in shallow water under safe, supervised conditions. A well-fitted vest should not ride up in the water—the shoulders should stay snug and not shift toward the ears.

We want to ensure every customer has the best experience on the water. The vests we carry undergo fit testing and are made with premium materials to maximize comfort, mobility, and durability.

For all watersports activities, we recommend using vests approved by the US Coast Guard or Transport Canada. These vests meet strict government standards set and monitored by UL, a company dedicated to ensuring safety, quality, and reliability.

When selecting and fitting a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, two key factors to consider are material and closure:

  • Neoprene Life Jackets: Soft and comfortable, neoprene vests offer a slight stretch when wet. They usually feature a front zipper along with two front buckles. A properly fitted neoprene jacket should feel snug when zipped, with the buckles allowing for additional adjustments. Always ensure a snug fit before getting in the water.
  • Nylon Life Jackets: Unlike neoprene, nylon vests do not stretch when wet, so their fit remains consistent in and out of the water. They typically lack a front zipper and instead have multiple buckles for a secure fit. Be sure to tighten all buckles as much as possible to achieve a proper fit.

Non-Coast Guard-approved vests, also known as comp vests, vary in fit between brands and do not follow standardized regulations. To ensure the best fit for your needs, we recommend carefully following fit guides for individual vests.