A steering error, a breaker out of nowhere or a wrong step when mooring: There are many ways to fall into the water. Anyone wearing a lifejacket in such situations usually gets off lightly. However, it's easy to get lost in the huge selection of different models and types. To help you find the one that suits you, we have tested a number of lifejackets.
Before making a purchase, the first question is what you want from the waistcoat.Where do you sail and in what conditions? Will only one person use the lifejacket later? How tall and heavy is the future wearer? These criteria are decisive for the requiredBuoyancy of the waistcoat. It is calculated in Newtons (N). According to the ten-part standard DIN EN ISO 12402, a distinction can be made betweenBuoyancy aids (from 50 N) andLife jackets (from 100 N) differentiate between the two. The former are only suitable in the immediate vicinity of the shore, for example in the harbour basin or as aRegatta waistcoats for dinghy sailors who are already expecting a shower before casting off.Important: They are not faint-proof and offer hardly any protection.
The situation is different for theAutomatic waistcoats from 150 Newton off. Within a few seconds of falling into the water, a tablet dissolves in the waistcoat and releases a taut spike. This then pierces the gas cartridge and inflates the waistcoat. If the mechanism is triggered, the tablet and cartridge must be purchased again. This can also happen if the waistcoat gets wet unintentionally. To prevent this from happening, it may be necessaryChildren It may make sense to wear a simple buoyancy aid in the harbour. The automatic waistcoat can then be put on at sea.
This is where life jackets come into play, which can only be labelled as such if their buoyancy exceeds 100 newtons. 100-N waistcoats at least have buoyancy bodies in the neck to keep the wearer's head above water. However, this does not necessarily mean that they have gas cartridges. Not enough to keep the head of an unconscious person safely above water.
Waistcoats with 150 Newton can do this for sea and coastal areas. They keep overboard vessels afloat without their influence.
150-N waistcoats
We tested 14 lifejackets in the 150 Newton class.
It is striking that the standards always refer to the behaviour of the waistcoat when wearing swimwear - which has little to do with reality. This is because wet, heavy sailing clothing and air pockets can have a noticeable effect on the buoyancy of the waistcoat. That's why we tested them in full gear. Only three waistcoats scored "good" or "very good", fortunately there were no total failures. Nevertheless, thehigh-priced models were not always convincing.
The test winner: Strong, easily adjustable straps and wide buoyancy bodies: The "Arkona 220" model from Secumar impressed our testers. No other waistcoat in the test was able to offer so much freeboard and safety. This comes at a price. At 142 euros, the "Arkona 220" is almost three times as expensive as comparable models from other manufacturers.
275-N-Vests
275-N waistcoats are designed for survival in the heaviest weather and on the high seas. Logically, this is reflected in their weight, size and price. A rarity a few years ago, all manufacturers now offer such a maximum model.We tested twelve waistcoats in this class.
Many of the buoyancy giants come with spray caps to protect the wearer from water and weather. However, they should not stick to the wearer's face and prevent them from breathing. Incidentally, it's not just the waistcoats that are explosive in this segment: many models command impressive prices. Satisfactory results are available for as little as 100 euros.
The test winner:The 275N "Scout 3D" waistcoat from Secumar was able to hold its own against all competitors. The spray cap and detachable fleece collar stood out positively as extras. There is even space for an AIS transmitter (not included). The Scout 3D exudes quality and keeps the person overboard in a stable and secure position. That is "very good". However, at more than 400 euros, the waistcoat also has a proud price tag.
Children's waistcoats
The range of children's waistcoats is clearer. The 275 Newton models are not available for them, otherwise the little ones would float on the water like corks. That leaves the 100- and 150-Newton candidates to choose from. Particularly important:precise fit and comfort. Because only a waistcoat that is worn can save lives in an emergency. This is why it is important to minimise weight and have a well-functioning safety mechanism.
We tested eight life jackets for children - and significant differences in quality were identified.
The test winner:Once again, the best model comes from Secumar: the test winner is called Secu Kids Survival Mini, but costs 200 euros. The floats offer a lot of freeboard, and with a pirate sticker the waistcoat also looks cool. The slightly larger "Secu Kids Survivaljunior" model also scored well.
Regatta waistcoats
Solid-fibre lifejackets with buoyancy chambers on the front and back are much simpler than the releasing lifejackets. They have to fulfil other requirements, but alsoNo complete security offer. Rather, the focus is on robust fabric and durable floats so that the waistcoat works well even after dozens of capsizes and pull-ups on the side of the boat.
Freedom of movement is also crucial. Under no circumstances should the waistcoat interfere with manoeuvres in the already tight cockpit or even chafe through the wetsuit worn underneath. Manufacturers offer different sizes to ensure the right fit.We tested a total of 21 of these regatta waistcoats.
The test winner is called "Jump" and once again comes from Secumar. The solid-fibre waistcoat is lightweight and fits well. Even if the Velcro straps for adjustment are not the best solution: The overall impression is harmonious. In addition, the price-performance ratio of the "Jump" is unbeatable. While other suppliers sometimes charge three-figure sums for buoyancy aids, the "Jump" regatta waistcoat costs barely 40 euros.
Even if other topics often take centre stage when instructing a new crew: Putting on a lifejacket incorrectly can cost lives, for example if a person who has gone overboard slips out of the straps that are too loose during a rescue attempt. The following applies to these: adjust them as tightly as possible and make absolutely sure that they are not twisted. Skippers should also pay particular attention to theRegular maintenance lay. Information about this is provided by a sticker on the waistcoat, similar to the TÜV seal on a car.Every two years the waistcoats have to be inspected. Even a green light in the inspection window of modern waistcoats does not change this.
The overall service life is not extended by repeated maintenance. Most manufacturers recommend theExchange after ten years.In the event that the waistcoat is accidentally triggered, it is advisable to have a suitable replacement set with cartridge and tablet on board.
