Best wakeboard vests for 2022

Wakeboarding is an entertaining board sport that takes place on the water, which does not exclude the possibility of moderate and severe injuries. To protect yourself from impacts and provide support on the water, there are special hydrojackets that differ in models, material, and professional use. In some lines of well-known brands, there are rescue models that have a number of minuses, pluses, restrictions on use. The article presents a ranking of the best wakeboard vests for 2022.

Types of vests

Sports vests are divided into 2 main types:

1. Professional.
2. Rescue.

In turn, the models differ in material, the presence of a zipper and additional elements - segments that give special flexibility and convenience to the outfit.

Professional

Confident users choose thin vests that do not hinder movement and do not slow down the body during complex maneuvers on the water. Such models protect against water hammer, but practically do not keep the body on the water. The manufacturer chooses neoprene for professional models. Such vests are kept in water up to the chin, they are found in several versions:

• With a zipper - such a thing is easier to take off and put on. The right size will ensure a comfortable experience.
• T-shirt is a deaf model without fasteners and unnecessary details, which does not hinder movements and is not blown. Especially good in the cold season, due to its ability to save heat. It is bilateral. The price of this type is much higher than similar ones. A well-stretched jersey is often chosen for jet skiing and surfing.
• With inner belt. Usually found on vests equipped with a zipper. Provides excellent fit to the body. With a strong water hammer, it does not slip or ride up when performing heavy tricks.

It is important to bear in mind that the equipment for wakeboarding is significantly different from the equipment for similar board sports. So, for example, a vest for a jet ski is thinner and much shorter, which does not meet the safety standards for wakeboarding.

Rescue

Thinness, strong fit and reduced protective functions - this is what differs from a sports lifejacket. Also, rescue models have a certificate of conformity from the Coast Guard (American Association of Lifeguards). Such equipment is primarily protective. It will help not to go to the bottom when falling on big water, and also protect against blows. This is the view offered at the equipment rental station. Suitable for beginner riders, children and large companies, as in addition to strong protection it has the ability to adjust the size. The stylistic solution of modern models can be completely unpredictable, but most often the design is determined by color. A prerequisite is a bright and noticeable color (orange, yellow, all neon shades), however, such equipment is a base for beginners and is not suitable for experienced athletes. The reason for this is the stiffness of movements when performing tricks, the dimensions and heavy weight of the product.

This type of equipment is divided into groups according to the following features:

• the presence of size adjustment;
• weight, volumes;
• design;
• manufacturing material.

Life jackets have wide functionality, they are universal for all types of water sports.

Material

All types of vests are sewn from 2 types of material:

1. Neoprene
2. Nylon.

In addition to the difference in price, the main materials differ from each other in quality, comfort and wear resistance.

Neoprene

Models of this type are soft, elastic and strongly stretch. A prerequisite for buying neoprene products is a tight fit. Often, the consultant will suggest purchasing a smaller vest for a tighter fit. This is done so that the vest does not stretch and does not fall off during operation.Such models are more durable, but also cost 2-3 times more expensive than analogues. Such material is used by the best manufacturers who are not used to saving on quality.

Nylon

This is also a synthetic fabric, inferior to neoprene in elasticity and comfort. Models made of nylon are found in inexpensive lines of manufacturers of life and sports vests. Their price is well below the average cost of neoprene clothing. Such equipment is rigid and performs a powerful supporting function on the water, but this type of protection against impacts is weaker. Less comfortable than a neoprene vest.

Trainers recommend purchasing nylon models as a savings or for infrequent workouts.

Choosing a quality vest

An incorrectly chosen size of a vest, as well as its incorrect storage, care, will quickly bring the product into disrepair. And vice versa, having fulfilled all the conditions for the correct choice of size and conditions of care, they will extend the life of things up to 3-5 years.

Size selection:

• It is undesirable to order goods online if there is no confidence in the integrity of the manufacturer, and also if there is no table with sizes derived from calculations of body volumes.
• In offline stores, you can try on a product, compare one type or brand with another.
• The vest should fit snugly, models with a lock should be difficult to fasten, while there should not be a feeling of tightness in the chest. In this case, the seams may come apart.
• You can determine that the item is correctly selected by conducting a mini-test. To do this, you should seek the help of a consultant who will pull the vest up. If a hump has formed on the back, then the model is large in size, if it fits snugly against the body, the size is suitable.
• If the athlete's equipment includes a wetsuit, then it is worth making sure that the chosen vest is suitable for wearing together.

The life jacket is often adjustable, which does not require special scrupulousness in choosing the size.

The manufacturer takes into account the anatomical features of the body, so the weaker sex should choose a vest from a specialized women's line, and children, if height and dimensions allow it, from a children's line, respectively.

In the photo in the table you can see the characteristics for the size of a particular group of users:

Characteristics of a quality product:

• bright color;
• high level of buoyancy (indicated on the inner insert. Designation - N);
• strong fasteners, zippers;
• high thermal insulation;
• tightly stitched seams;
• no protruding threads;
• additional protective blocks for children's models.

The more divisions into models, the less stiffness of movements. The same can be said about models with clasps instead of a lock.

Care and storage

Like any wardrobe item, a wakeboard vest requires care and proper storage. Care requirements include:

• Drying equipment after each use.
• It is strictly forbidden to dry a thing over an open fire, stove, fire or on a hot radiator. In addition to fire, this can lead to destruction of the fabric, loosening of the threads, melting of the fittings or fasteners.
• No need to fold and fold the vest.
• Do not pack the model in a plastic bag.
• Storage is allowed only in ventilated rooms with acceptable humidity, in order to avoid the appearance of fungus and mold on the fabric.

It is advisable to attach a tag to the item with personal data, such as: full name, blood type and contact phone number of a loved one in case of an emergency.

Review of popular models of wakeboard vests

Below is a ranking of popular vest models for 2022. The review is based on consumer feedback. Acquaintance with the description will help not to make mistakes when choosing a product, and will also tell you what and what criteria you should pay attention to when buying.

Men's

FOLLOW SURF EDITION IMPACT MENS VEST

The Australian company Follow has created the first thin vest adapted for active training on a wakeboard. The ergonomic design follows the anatomy of the body, which significantly reduces discomfort during movement. Elastic neoprene does not constrain the body, comfortably fitting even protruding areas. Safety is provided by pads of foam in the chest and back. Fastened with a zipper, which allows you to quickly take off and put on equipment. Made according to CE standards. Suitable for professionals and beginners. Size range XS - XL. This is not life-saving equipment. Price from 6260 rubles. Design: dark blue with bright orange accents. Available for purchase online.

• ergonomics;
• high quality material and seams;
• suitable for all kinds of water sports.

• high price;
• pale color;
• short size range.

LIQUID FORCE FLEX COMP 2022

The Liquid Force brand is the largest manufacturer of wakeboarding equipment, which has been on the market for over 35 years. The sports vest considered in the review can be chosen in one of 2 options - in gray or black. The equipment protects against impacts, but does not serve as rescue equipment.The reversible model features a flexible design and 38 PVC foam-filled compartments to greatly reduce body stiffness while actively protecting against injury. Fastened with a zipper. Made from Flex-Span neoprene fabric that has 150% stretch. Price from 11000. Size range S - 2XL. Withstands weight up to 105 kg.

• new tailoring technologies;
• bilateral;
• wide size range.

• high price;
• dull colors;
• small load.

JETPILOT F-22 IMPACT

The California brand Jetpilot has been on the hydro equipment market for 25 years. During this time, the company, in addition to the production of jet skis, has expanded its range of related equipment. The most popular model was the F-22 IMPACT. The classic half-back style fits all body shapes for a comfortable fit. New Technologies Flex-Lite Ultra is the thinnest 2mm flexible neoprene with virtually no water absorption. This feature allows the athlete to keep the body dry, and the equipment does not have to dry for a long time. Multi-Density Core is a filler system - foam of different thicknesses and densities for strong protection without stiffness. Flex-Cell Technology - Each foam section is cut individually. They are all connected with neoprene for greater mobility. Design: black color with a bright orange stripe, print - company logo. Suitable for beginners and professionals. Price from 4949 rubles.

• new tailoring technologies;
• without unnecessary details;
• low price.

• main color: black;
• volume;
• size range up to XL.

Women's

Women's models differ from men's in anatomical features, the length of the product and the depth of fit in the chest area.The size range is varied, depending on the brand.

Luck Impact Black

The neoprene sports and life jacket of the Australian manufacturer "Jetpilot" is designed specifically for the anatomical features of women. It provides a tight fit. Thanks to the stretchy material, it creates a sense of security and does not restrict freedom of movement, while the structure of the model does not create unpleasant or painful sensations in the chest area. The style (shirt) provides a secure fit on all sides. Without lightning. Design: black color in a box with an inscription - brand logo. Size range XS - L. Price 4290 - 6500 rubles.

• high quality fabric;
• anatomical version of tailoring;
• low price.

• only black color;
• short range of sizes;
• narrow armhole.

WAKEBOARDING

This vest was created not by marketers, but by wakeboarders, based on personal preferences, conducting tests, identifying flaws in models and noting pluses. The vest provides 50 N buoyancy and withstands high impact loads while remaining lightweight and comfortable. Suitable for professionals, mastering new tricks and maneuvers on big water, as well as for riding all kinds of board and boat sports. Consists of 20 PVC blocks. The fabric is lycra and neoprene. 25% rubber, 75% butadiene rubber. In the abdominal area there is an additional belt on the lock-carabiner. The color is dark turquoise. Full length zip fastening for easy on and off. Sizes from 40 to 48. Price 5800 rubles.

• complies with EN ISO 12402-5;
• functionality;
• low price.

• pale color;
• short size range;
• rigid PVC inserts.

ION VEST LUNIS 2015

In this bright pink-blue neon reversible vest, the athlete will be visible from afar. Anti-shock equipment protects against strong impacts on equipment and water. The model (shirt) is not equipped with unnecessary details and a zipper. This provides a greater anatomical fit and practically does not hinder movement. Neoprene category L was used in the production. This type is the most durable and elastic. The vest is designed for professional athletes, as well as experienced wakeboarders. The products comply with the European standard (PPE Directive 89/686/EEC). Comfortable armhole and classic length ensure comfort throughout your workout. Size range up to XL. Price 6990 r.

• bright;
• bilateral;
• complies with CE standard

• absorbs water;
• high price;
• discomfort in the throat.

Baby

Children's models differ from adults, first of all, in a grid of sizes. Sometimes divided into types: for girls and boys. In general, such vests meet all safety requirements and are non-toxic. When choosing a vest for a child, you should not buy a model for growth, since it should also fit the body and fit in height, like an adult model.

Jobe Nylon Vest Youth 2022

The birthplace of the Jobe brand, which created this protective children's vest, is the Netherlands, and the manufacturer is China. The model is a novelty, which is made of budget nylon material, but is ISO certified. Buoyancy: 50 newtons. Panels with polyethylene foam protect against child's blows. The equipment is quickly lightened from the water thanks to the drainage holes. Bright design is to the taste of every child and parent. Models are presented in several bright colors.In addition, there are reflective strips on the shoulder. A big plus is the semi-automatic fasteners, which firmly fix the child's body in 3 places, while quickly fastening and unfastening. The fabric is easy to care for, it is not prone to mold, fungus, and is also non-toxic. Price: 3350 rubles. The product can be ordered online.

• low price;
• complies with ISO standards;
• bright, varied colors.

• from nylon;
• volume;
• weight limit - 60 kg.

NP HIGH HOOK

This children's vest is made of high buoyancy and durability foam. It is intended for boys and girls aged 3 to 16. The size range is divided into 2 designations:

1. JUNIOR. Weight: 25-40 kg, bust: 66 -76 cm.
2. YOUTH. Weight: 30-50 kg, bust: 76-86 cm.

The vest is made in 2, to choose from, bright colors - yellow and red. Of the features of the stylistic solution, one can note a large pocket with a zipper and reflective inserts. There are straps for a firm grip around the child's body, as well as comfortable hand openings and a special hole for a trapezoid hook. The vest allows you to stay on the water in an upright position, but is not suitable for a long wait for help. Price: 5400 rubles.

• multifunctional;
• lasting;
• bright, varied colors.

• high price;
• volume;
• weight limit 50 kg.

Conclusion

Wakeboarding is a pleasure, you can only feel completely safe. To do this, you should pay attention to a sports vest that performs several functions at once - protection from impacts, wind and water retention.The tips in the article will help you decide which vest is better to buy so as not to miss important points when choosing. A quality model will help maintain health and avoid serious injuries.