Life Jackets

How to choose the right life jacket

Inflatable life jackets are rated for different levels or types which determine their buoyancy characteristics, visibility and intended use. Life jackets or PFDs that are primarily designed for smooth waters won't be very effective at keeping your head above water in rough open water or in coastal waters where weather conditions can be unpredictable. Boating safety is essential, and boaties are expected to follow boating safety laws, including wearing appropriate boating life jackets and buoyancy vests at all times while enjoying time on the water.

Browse the extensive Anaconda life jacket range online, or visit us in-store for first-hand appreciation of some of the best inflatable jackets on the planet. If you need an X-large life jacket, a kids' life jacket, a buoyancy vest or other personal flotation devices, check out the best safety equipment all available under one roof at Anaconda. Our wetsuits for board riders and water skiing enthusiasts are top of the range, while boaters, kayakers and water sports enthusiasts on open waters appreciate our lightweight and snug-fitting foam life jackets.

Type 1 or level 100 life jackets

Type 1 life jackets have ratings of Level 100 or above. These are an absolute minimum requirement whenever you venture out into open waters where rough weather conditions and the possibility of being stranded are more likely. Like our fishing life jackets, these are also recommended whenever you're boating alone. Compared to lower-rated life jackets, these are bulkier to help keep the body afloat for a considerable amount of time.

Aside from having inherently higher buoyancy ratings, type 1 PFDs are designed with collars to help keep your head above water even in rough seas and open waters. The design of these inflatable life jackets also helps keep your face up and away from the water even when you're unconscious. High visibility colours and special purpose reflective tape are also used to increase the chances of being spotted by search and rescue teams.

Some models also come with whistles built in to make calling for help and attracting attention much easier. Australia is a paradise surrounded by amazing waterways, so take advantage of Anaconda deals on personal flotation devices that meet Australian standards and enjoy your watersports to the max!

Type 2 or level 50 life jackets

Type 2 life jackets have a Level 50 rating and are well suited for inland waters or sheltered waters near the land where help is more readily available. PFDs with a Level 50 rating have less inherent buoyancy than those rated at Level 100 or more. Level 50 life jackets are also less bulky, making them more comfortable to wear even in non-emergency situations. Once in the water, however, you'll likely have to actively tread water in order to keep your head above water.

Using Type 2 PFDs in rough water will be extremely difficult and not recommended. These life jackets are also designed with high visibility colours to make search and rescue efforts much easier. Convenience features like storage pockets and special compartments for hydration bladders are also fairly common across Level 50 life jacket models from different brands.

Type 3 or level 50S life jackets

Type 3 life jackets with a Level 50S rating have the same buoyancy as Type 2 or Level 50 PFDs, but are not guaranteed to offer features such as high visibility colours and unassisted face up floatation. Nonetheless, what it lacks in safety, it makes up for in comfort and style. Level 50S life jackets typically allow for greater freedom of movement, which makes them an excellent choice for many types of competitive water sports, such as our range of water skiing life jackets. You'll also have more options when it comes to picking out styles, colours and designs ranging from kid-friendly prints to trendy patterns and colour combinations.

Find the Right Boat Accessories & Essential Supplies at Anaconda

Check out our range of life jackets from top recreational outdoor and water sports brands like Yak, Stearns, Body Glove and Jarvis Walker. For helpful tips on how to get the most out of your time on the water, check out our enjoying water sports blog or our guide to choosing snorkelling equipment.

Shop our entire range of inflatable life jackets and pfds online or visit us in-store today.