The sheer variety of life jackets available might surprise some boaters. Models include those created specifically for boaters who like to paddle, fish, perform tricks at the end of a towrope, or cruise in cold waters. The Mustang Catalyst jacket ($350) featured at the top left of this page, for example, is built for cold-water boating. The following provides a primer so you know what to look for if you seek a specialty life jacket for your boating adventures.
Mustang Survival MIV 10
Fishing
This MIV 10 inflatable fishing vest from Mustang minimizes weight and discomfort while casting. A mesh liner offers a cool fit, and six large pockets carry safety gear and fishing tackle. A D-ring holds clippers, and a sheepskin patch secures flies and hooks. Manual inflation means you can wade with it or fish in soaking rain or spray; it won't inflate unless you pull the cord. mustangsurvival.com
SUP
You want larger armholes and a shorter body, like the way this O'Brien SUP Vest is cut, for maximum ease of motion when paddling a stand-up paddleboard. Features such as adjustments for waist, sides and shoulders help maximize effective paddling, and zipper pockets stow essentials. obrien.com
West Marine Dynamic Move Paddle Sports Life Jacket
Kayak
Roomy armholes and slim shoulder straps minimize bulkiness so your arms have full range of motion. The short-cut design sits higher on your torso for less restrictive movement around your midsection while sitting. Reflective material increases visibility. There's a lash tab for a sheath knife or other items, and it has expandable zipper pockets. westmarine.com
Lifeline Comp Vest
Performance Boating
So-called "100 mph jackets" like this Comp Vest from Lifeline are the choice of many performance boaters. The collar diverts water, so it can't catch under the helmet. It incorporates special impact-reducing flak material. It has extra-wide 1 1/2-inch leg and chest straps, and D-rings for kill switches on both sides. Available in custom colors and designs. lifelineracegear.com
Watersports
Flex and fit mark top watersports life vests such as the Ronix One Capella CGA. It is U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type III, so it counts against your carriage requirement. It features cylindrical construction, asymmetrical segmentation and a water-resistant liner. ronixwake.com
Mustang MIS230-HR
Offshore Cruising
An immersion suit (aka Gumby suit) like Mustang's MIS230-HR can keep you afloat and alive in even the coldest waters. It includes a watertight face seal, built-in harness, and 5 mm neoprene layer for flotation as well as protection against hypothermia. mustangsurvival.com
