Top 5 Wearable Life Jackets
** Affiliate disclosure. This web site is supported by its awesome audience. When you click or purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

On this page we are going over the top wearable life jackets. We are primarily looking for safety but also comfort. If a life jacket is not comfortable you won’t want to leave it on. For that reason most of the life jackets in our top 5 list are uninflated until they hit the water or are manually activated.
Check out the list below.
Absolute Outdoor Onyx

The Nitty Gritty
- Mid level price $100 – $150
- Inflates in water or when manually pulled.
- Fits larger individuals well (300 pds).
- No reflective material on life jacket.
- US Coast Guard Approved.
- Comes in multiple colors.
Absolute Outdoor Onyx Details
The Absolute Outdoor Onyx Life Jacket has a comfortable neoprene neckline and soft inflation handle. It is suitable for adults over 80 lbs and automatically inflates when the wearer is immersed in water. The inflatable jacket has a jerk-to-inflate handle and auto/manual inflation options. It is light weight and has a low profile. Although it is a bit expensive, it is worth the price.
The Absolute Outdoor Onyx is a top selling life jacket on the market. It offers excellent protection and comfort. It is compact in size and has dual inflation mechanisms that make it ideal for most anglers. The vest inflates automatically or manually, making it easy to deploy when you are submerged in water. Its 22.5 lb buoyancy keeps you comfortable and safe in water, no matter the temperature. READ MORE
Mustang Survival Corp Inflatable PFD

The Nitty Gritty
- Higher price range $250 – $300
- Inflates under water pressure not in rain.
- Bright Fluorescent Inflation Cell
- Works well for larger individuals.
- US Coast Guard Approved.
- Inflates underwater or by manual activation.
- Stays secure in high winds still opens easily for flotation.
Mustang Survival Corp Inflatable PFD
The Mustang Survival is a top of the line inflatable PFD with hydrostatic inflator technology. It is made of ANSI-approved high-visibility materials that police, traffic controllers, and EMS wear. The new T3 version is the brightest, sturdiest inflatable yet! This is a great option for those who are working in low-light conditions and need a high-visibility PFD.
When choosing a PFD, you’ll want to choose one that is USCG-approved and crafted to the highest standards. An award-winning HIT system is essential, and the automatic, inflating Mustang Survival’s Inflatable Life Jacket features this patented technology. It offers the best combination of safety and convenience. You’ll also enjoy low maintenance and minimal inflator maintenance with the HIT technology. READ MORE
Bluestorm Gear Atmos 40

The Nitty Gritty
- Midlevel price range $150 – $200
- US Coast Guard Approved
- Large zippered front pouch for phone, keys, etc.
- Hi level of buoyancy for larger individuals.
- Inflates when immersed in water or by manual activation.
- Comes in multiple colors.
- 1 YR warranty.
Bluestorm Gear Atmos 40
The USCG-approved Bluestorm Gear Atmos 40 Life Jacket is an inflatable model perfect for kayaking, sailing, and general boating. Its air chamber makes it easy to wear and is perfect for general boating. It comes in a variety of colors to match any outfit. If you’re in need of a new life jacket, this one is an excellent choice. If you’re in the market for a new one, consider the Atmos 40.
The USCG-approved Bluestorm Atmos 40 collection is an inflatable Type II life jacket that has been designed for unexpected use in the water. Its ergonomic design and quick drying ability make it a comfortable and efficient choice for a variety of water activities and everyday use. It also features a 3D mesh collar to reduce neck moisture and chafing. Its USCG-approved ATMOS 40 has a streamlined design that’s comfortable to wear all day. READ MORE
Onyx M-16 Unisex Belt Life Jacket

The Nitty Gritty
- Low price range $60 – $90
- Less cumbersome, belt.
- Manual activation only.
- Has a fail safe breath tube for inflation.
- Once inflated has a strap to go around neck.
Onyx Unisex M-16 Belt Life Jacket
Onyx M-16 Belt Pack Manual Inflatable Life Jacket: This type V PFD is approved by the US Coast Guard and is approved for men and women who paddle. This is a great life jacket for boaters and allows total freedom of movement. This product features an oral inflation method and is compatible with most types of SUP. This model comes with a single use CO2 cartridge, which you will need to replace after each inflation.
Onyx M-16: This belt life jacket is easy to wear and a great choice for those who want a low-profile design that is comfortable to wear. It is lightweight and attached to the wearer, so it stays out of the way until you need it. The Onyx M-16 is U.S. Coast Guard approved and fits adults from 30″ to 52″ chest. It is also available in a large-size, which is a bonus for anyone who wants a small, emergency-ready life jacket. READ MORE
NRS Raku Fishing Lifejacket

The Nitty Gritty
- Low price range $60 – $90
- Less cumbersome, belt.
- Manual activation only.
- Has a fail safe breath tube for inflation.
- Once inflated has a strap to go around neck.
NRS Raku Fishing Lifejacket
The NRS Raku fishing vest is a traditionally designed lifejacket. It has an open, ventilated thin back and is made to fit any seat. The NRS Raku is certified under the new PFD certification system, so it is approved to use on a boat’s seat. Its traditional design is a good fit for many fishermen. The vest is comfortable and easy to put on and remove.
This PFD is made specifically for anglers. It has five pockets, a tool holder pocket, and two accessory pockets with hook-and-loop closures. The design is perfect for a kayak or raft because of its thin, ventilated back and breathable construction. It is also US Coast Guard-certified, so it will protect you in the event of an emergency. It is also comfortable, ensuring the best fit. READ MORE

Rick is the head writer at MaydayMarine.com Rick creates product review and ranking content in the maritime industry. His focus is mainly on safety offshore at MayDayMarine.com