You technically can wear a life jacket snorkeling, but a snorkel vest will provide you with a better experience. One possible drawback to this one is that there is no inflation behind the head. The budget-friendly Rrtizan Inflatable Snorkeling Vest features a classic horse collar design with adjustable crotch and waist straps. The Best Waterproof Bags & Cases for Snorkeling. Make sure at least one adult is overseeing and supervising any children who are snorkeling or near the water's edge. Bottom line: The Jetty provides a comfortable, customizable fit that most people find is worth the extra money. If youre planning a trip that involves snorkeling, its a good idea to have some swimming lessons and learn to swim first. to make sure and buy one that fits them correctly. It uses a left side zipper and a neoprene back to keep it in place. 
Having this back piece will provide some protection from over-exposure to the sun. Scuba Choice lists a minimum age of 18 months for the product, but most parents wait until their children are at least five or six years old before taking them snorkeling.2. It comes in different colors. This vest comes in hi-viz fluro orange, and is available in a one-size-fits all for adults. It also includes a convenient security pocket to store small items, a feature which reviewers loved. Pockets are an option 
Copyright 2006-2022 Galen Piehl & Nicole Atkins Snorkeling jackets have fabric on the back ranging from a thin mesh layer to neoprene for added warmth and protection. Even so, there a several predisposing medical factors that increase the likelihood of suffering an illness or dying while snorkeling. 
The vest is a great pick for frequent snorkelers and has a neoprene layer on the back for added warmth, comfort, and protection. The best snorkeling destinations for beginners and non swimmers may not have the most active aquatic life to see and interact with (e.g. Make sure you avoid rough waters and strong currents and never swim alone. The Scubapro Cruiser Vest is an excellent choice with high-quality materials and durable construction. snorkel vest, lightly inflated, should turn you on to your back, and 
{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}, Check the price at Wildhorn Outfitters Now. The vest comes in a single color option (black with bright blue accents) and is one of the more stylish options on the market. 
Have a look at the best quality and most popular full face snorkel masks here. Rebecca lives next to the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and snorkeling tours. Snorkel vests, on the other hand, allow you to swim freely with your head in the water and easily view the marine life below. Some of these have pockets for personal items. They Don't Do Much Good UninflatedYour snorkel vest should be lightly inflated in the water to be life saving. While there are cheaper snorkel vests on the market, the WildHorn Jetty offers a good balance between comfort, durability, and cost. A day of snorkelling for non swimmers may raise some safety concerns. The side panels are made of stretchy spandex and prevent the webbing from rubbing on your skin, and the jacket-style design protects your back from sunburn. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. There are also adjustable shoulder straps, which provide a more customized fit. Your weight is used to help figure out how much buoyancy is required to stay afloat. So, should a non-swimmer wear a snorkeling vest? If for any reason you need to rest or float on the surface, people generally turn over and float on their back, making the fluorescent front side of this vest very easy to see. This vest comes in a single size that fits children weighing up to 100 pounds. You can buy a snorkeling set online for less than 100. The waist and crotch straps are squeeze-style" side-release buckles. They have a large hook & loop secure pad as well as easy-access adjustable side and shoulder straps for a fully customized fit. The Scuba Choice Kids vest is a good option. If you forget to rinse it off after swimming, salt water will cause the product to smell. So, a device which aids buoyancy, and allows you to peer face-down in the water, would be more ideal for snorkel swimmers. If youre just looking for a low-cost vest to improve your safety and confidence in the water, the Rrtizan Inflatable Snorkeling Vest is a simple, easy-to-use product that will keep you afloat. So, if your vest has a crotch strap, use it, and keep it snug enough. Cruiser Diving Vest. Scubapro, https://scubapro.johnsonoutdoors.com/bcds/bcds/cruiser-diving-vest. Snorkel vests provide additional buoyancy and make it easier to float on the waters surface when snorkeling. Many strong swimmers and experienced snorkelers also find that wearing a snorkel vest makes their outing more comfortable, relaxing, and enjoyable. Make sure it fits correctly for that purpose. Make sure youre prepared for anything First Aid, Boat and Survival Kits, Compact and warm travel blankets better than sleeping bags, The Best Beach Bags, Totes, Coolers & Daypacks Top Trends this Season, The Best Travel & Holiday Accessories Youve Never Heard Of. Full face masks hit the snorkeling market a few years ago and they continue to improve each year. I feel SO much more confident in going out on the water with this snorkel vest. 
snorkeling jacket or vest. What Happens If You Go Unconscious?If you are unconscious or exhausted, a Snorkeler's Guide is reader-supported. There are a ton of companies that make these, but the Scuba Choice snorkel vest is a good product that people like, at an affordable price. Measure your waist and check this measurement against the sizes below. Full face masks take a lot of the negatives out of snorkeling. 
So, learners will most likely have a better experience in shallow, calm water conditions than those requiring you to have competent swimming skills. What Is a Snorkel Purge Valve & Are They Worth It? You can read read more about Sharon on the About Us page. Unlike a snorkeling vest, a life jacket is designed to keep you upright with your head out of the water. 
All rights reserved. The vest is easy to inflate and deflate to the desired level using the oral inflator, although kids may need their parents help with this. Although a lot of people can swim, swimming in the ocean can be a completely different beast, especially if you don't do it often. Endurance swimming or into laps? definitely get one. Can You Breathe Underwater With a Dry Snorkel? Buddy teams will usually be in pairs when they go scuba diving or snorkel diving. The Scuba Choice Youth Snorkel Vest is a budget-friendly option that will help keep your children safe and allow you to keep track of them more easily. However, when used consistently in salt water, CO2 cartridges tend to corrode. Sometimes the back fabric is a thin neoprene that ads warmth. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Doing so will also help to build up your confidence without tiring yourself out. There is a downside to wearing a life jacket when snorkeling. A snorkel vest will help you stay afloat, especially if you become fatigued or distressed. While there are cheaper snorkel vests on the market, the WildHorn Jetty offers a good balance between comfort, durability, and cost. We may earn a small commission on purchases made through them. 
If youre planning to use your snorkel vest often and are willing to pay more for a premium product, this vest will provide you with superior comfort and durability. This durable, high-quality snorkeling vest is an excellent option for anyone planning to snorkel frequently or willing to spend a bit more for an improved experience. It has a neoprene back, two big pockets with mesh drains and strap closures. 
All equipment or clothing used in salt water needs to be rinsed in fresh water and allowed to dry between each use. You might think a snorkeling vest is a great way to keep a non-swimmer afloat and safe when snorkeling. Go without at your own risk. Non swimmers can snorkel safely after becoming familiarized with the safety equipment and basic gear essentials. It's made from durable 420-Denier material with an EVA coating. This Our basic guide for novice snorkelers suggests, and strongly recommends, joining an organized tour for your first experience in open water. Using this vest will improve your enjoyment of snorkeling allowing for longer swimming periods before resting. Totally recommend this product to new and experienced snorkelers alike. Practice slow, relaxed, breathing through the plastic snorkel tube with your face looking about a 45% angle ahead (i.e. When comparing to other snorkel vests that have the strap that runs from the back of the vest to the front of the vest between the legs, many people complain these are just as uncomfortable. The reality is, we're talking about snorkel vests. Its worth checking that there is somewhere nearby that rent out life jackets, but you shouldnt have a problem in any popular snorkeling destinations. You can choose between two bright color optionsneon yellow or purpleboth of which increase your childs visibility in the water. This snorkel vest is designed to keep you upright and stable when in the water. Whether you want to buy a snorkeling vest for an upcoming vacation or for your snorkeling adventures at home, weve got you covered with the best snorkeling vest for every budget. But great safety device to ensure you are safe while having fun. strap you attach around your back and between your legs to secure it. After comparing many different products, weve selected WildHorn Outfitters Jetty Inflatable Snorkel Vest at Amazon, as the best snorkeling vest overall. Since the vest fits over the head with a single zipper closure on the side and lacks a crotch strap, you want it to fit very snugly when dry to minimize riding up in the water. The annual statistics for fatalities caused by snorkeling-related activities are relatively low - compared to many other sports. where they can stand up). At around $70 MSRP, the Jetty is significantly more expensive than our budget pick, but most purchasers found it to be well worth the investment. This is unfortunate, but for a non-swimmer, it really is worth the slightly awkward experience for a much safer experience. Note: Wearing a snorkel vest around your waist 'upside down' can keep your body bobbing in a vertical position (e.g. It fit better than the ones provided by the resort. Try to use a tour operator that caters for families and beginners. These are the top-rated vests currently available and both will assist with your buoyancy while snorkeling. Life Saving Reasons to Use a Snorkel Vest. It's a game changer! A large wave can still crash over your head and currents can move you around. We also offer our recommendation for a life jacket for snorkeling. Finally, I offer a recommendation for a life jacket to use whilst snorkeling. Some of these don't require a crotch strap. These cookies do not store any personal information. Use a Ski Belt or Water Noodle?Some people choose to wear a ski belt, which is basically a belt with built in flotation. 
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. So a snorkeling vest really isnt a good idea for non-swimmers. With sizes ranging from small to extra-large, the Jetty accommodates diverse body types and will fit most adult snorkelers without restricting movement or riding up. Keys etc. This vest has a quality zipper on the left-hand side with a Velcro strap piece to keep the zipper closed and locked in position. Please log in again. In addition to snorkeling, WildHorn recommends their product as a flotation aid for low-impact water sports like stand up paddleboarding and swimming. Since the spring-loaded inflator valve closes automatically when you finish inflating the air chamber, you dont need to worry about accidentally deflating your vest. I can't recommend these highly enough. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Bottom line: The Scuba Choice Youth Snorkel Vest is a lightweight and easily packable piece of snorkeling gear that will help keep your kids safe without breaking the bank. Even competent swimmers can get tired. Use only use snorkel vest if you already know how to swim and understand how to use them. You might also want to check out a few more related articles that I have linked to below. However, it doesnt offer the extra visibility that neon-colored vests provide. However, the vest does not interfere with swimming or movement in the water and is otherwise quite comfortable. The login page will open in a new tab. The Jetty is not as compact as other models but is still easy to travel with and will support you on many snorkeling outings on holiday and at home. Horse collar vests consist of an inflatable tube that fits over the head with adjustable waist and crotch straps to hold the vest in place. 
You will most likely receive closer attention and proper in-water supervision. It has a single sided entry point which makes it easy and quick to get on and off. Your snorkel vest should provide a snug fit without restricting movement or riding up. What you need to know before buying. They are USCG approved and wearers have had positive experiences when snorkeling. If youre just looking for a snorkel vest to use a few times on vacation, youll probably be happier with the best all-around WildHorn Jetty or budget-friendly Rrtizan vest. Like other models, the Scubapro Cruisers oral inflator and dump valve on the front allow for easy flotation control in the water. And the Typhoon Snorkeling Vest is another good option that also gives you a pocket at a higher price. If it does ride up a little, it's not enough to bother most people - this is just something to be aware of. With both types you manually inflate it with a tube on your chest. 
Make sure the mask and snorkel are a snug fit. We read snorkeling news from around the world, and There are many life saving reasons to use a snorkel vest, and a number of other benefits as well. As I mentioned earlier, when you snorkel, you ideally want to lie flat with your head in the water. Hence, the basic kit consists of a dive mask, a pair of diving fins, and a snorkel tube. Even with a life jacket, things can still go wrong in the open ocean. You almost forget it is on. This is exactly what you want if you are a non-swimmer and get into trouble in the water. WildHorn Outfitters Jetty Inflatable Snorkel Vest, https://www.uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/life-jacket-wear-wearing-your-life-jacket.php, https://scubapro.johnsonoutdoors.com/bcds/bcds/cruiser-diving-vest, https://www.subea.com/how-to-go-snorkeling-with-children, Top pick: WildHorn Outfitters Jetty Inflatable Snorkel Vest, Budget pick: Rrtizan Inflatable Snorkeling Vest, High-end pick: Scubapro Cruiser Skin Dive Safety Snorkel Vest, Childrens pick: Scuba Choice Youth Snorkel Vest, Life Jacket Wear / Wearing Your Life Jacket.. Initially, the vest may feel tight or that there's not a lot of room but once you are in the water and have it inflated, it is true to size. 
We don't use them. Heres what you need to know. In some swimming locations, snorkel vests are required by law for safety reasons. Wondering how to take your Snorkeling to the next level? This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Snorkelers, surfers, swimmers, and boaters wear personal and recreational flotation devices. keep your face out of the water. The latest articles, guides, and resources, sent to your inbox monthly. Many tour boat operators insist on their guests wearing one while snorkeling. Whether youre taking a break in the water or gazing down at the underwater world, the Jettys balanced flotation provides excellent stability. Being a competent swimmer will put you in a much better position. Instead of straps, it has fabric on If you experience a problem that is a result of defect in materials or workmanship, Wildhorn Outfitters warrants your Jetty for the lifetime of the product and will repair or replace your vest at no charge. Your child may be more comfortable using this snorkel vest over a rash guard with a high neck design. 
Some reviewers cautioned that the straps are very long and recommended shortening them by tying a knot or using the supplied rubber bands. It has a small pocket in the front. And they are bulky, making swimming more difficult. As with all Neoprene products, you can place the vest in the sun to dry for short periods, but it should be stored for longer periods in a ventilated, shaded area. Or in a similar fashion, folks use a foam pool noodle for flotation. Once you're back on the surface, you can inflate the vest in seconds to your desired buoyancy level. Some users, especially tall snorkelers, commented that the crotch strap could be annoying or uncomfortable. Therefore, our final snorkeling tip for non swimming beginners relates to some general survival techniques, when in or around a body of water. But, a swim team in snorkeling usually has at least three members in the group. Some people have mentioned that it feels like it rides up slightly when inflated and floating. To find your size, measure around the broadest part of your chest and refer to the size guide to determine whether you need small (30-36), medium (36-40), large (40-44), or x-large (44-48). With four different sizes available, this snorkel vest accommodates various body types and is suitable for teens and adults. If you are strong swimmer, and are not concerned about any health issues, then it may be fine to go without one. If you do decide to snorkel as a non-swimmer, the rest of this post explains why its a good idea to wear a full life jacket and not just a snorkeling vest. You may find that inflatable water wings or polystyrene noodle tubes work best for small children when they are splashing around in a swimming pool. Whether you go for the best overall WildHorn Jetty, budget-friendly Rrtizan, high-end Scubapro Cruiser, or kids size Scuba Choice vest at Amazon, your new vest should allow you to snorkel with ease on your next outing. Then Ill explain why a snorkeling vest isnt suitable for non-swimmers and they should wear a full life jacket instead. Even if you plan on booking a guided snorkeling tour on your vacation, its a good idea to come prepared with snorkel vests for your family. Below are the most common incidents where a vest could have made the difference. You are not a strong swimmer, don't float easily, and for children, You have a heart attack or other health problem while in the water, You are stung by a jelly fish and are slightly paralyzed, You get stuck in a current and get exhausted, A bright colored vest is very visible from boats that could hit you, You don't want to get as tired treading water, You can use the belt and pockets for valuables, They give confidence and allow you to relax. Thanks to its quality materials, superior comfort, range of sizes, and value for money, the Jetty Inflatable Snorkel Vest from WildHorn Outfitters earned our pick as the best snorkel vest for most people. If you need more buoyancy, blow air into the tube and continue adding air until you feel comfortable. If you do decide to buy a life jacket, the ONeill SuperLite Life Vests have great reviews on Amazon. type has an inflatable tube that goes around your neck, and it uses a I was able to use various levels of flotation assistance as I learned to snorkel. Children should have basic swimming skills if they want to try snorkeling, but using a snorkel vest keeps them afloat, improves safety, and provides parents with peace of mind. Newbies may also be unfamiliar with the proper boating etiquette and other activities carried out at sea. After logging in you can close it and return to this page. Because this vest weighs only 0.62 pounds and folds up nicely into an included mesh bag, its perfect for travel. not directly down). Made of durable nylon and stretchy neoprene, the Scubapro Cruiser offers a snug, comfortable fit. This seems to depend on the fit though. The buddy system used by snorkelers also allows for the so-called 'one up - one down' skin diving method. Whenever a non-swimmer snorkels, its vital that they take the right safety precautions. Traveling snorkelers may prefer the low-cost Rrtizan vest, while frequent snorkelers can splurge on the high-quality Scubapro Cruiser. BLACK FRIDAY / CYBER MONDAY SALES - USE CODE 'BFCM25' & SAVE 25% THIS WEEKEND! The vest is inflated by blowing into the tube. Non-swimmers are wise to limit their snorkeling to shallow water areas (e.g. Check their sizing charts and read reviews to see if they run small or large. Even so, the different types of PFDs offer variances in the level of protection and convenience.
While jacket-style vests can be tricky to fit, this straightforward, one-size-fits-all vest is suitable for snorkelers weighing between 80 and 220 pounds. Choosing the right snorkeling vest can help you stay in the water longer with less effort and make you feel more secure, relaxed, and confident. Large kids and teens may fit into adult models, but smaller children will need a specialized vest. You may feel buoyant excitement mixed with fearful nervousness. It does this because it has buoyancy on your chest and behind your head, depending on the brand. For kids under 100 pounds, the Scuba Choice Youth Snorkel Vest is a quality option at an affordable price. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Alternatively, you may purchase a PFD with a CO2 cylinder like the Hyde Wingman Inflatable Life Jacket at Amazon, but bear in mind that these types of flotation devices are not specifically designed for snorkeling. Because they offer additional support, snorkel jackets are a better choice for non-swimmers. Even strong swimmers and experienced snorkelers can benefit from wearing one. 
Standard will fit anyone weighing between 100+ pounds. The vest rolls up and weighs only half a pound, making it easy to travel with. 
During a buddy system for snorkeling, two friends will swim around in the water, while a third member of the team will monitor from the shoreline or on board the boat. You might feel a bit dorky wearing one, but you would be a smart dork (and there are options that are more flattering). 
The snorkeling vest is built-to-last. Non-swimmers are unfamiliar with the basics of staying afloat. So, these tips and practical advice will be helpful if you haven't snorkeled before. All Rights Reserved, The vests boat tours give you are worn out and leak, This Instead, we suggest a full life jacket. Body Bobber Neoprene Saddle (pictured below), Fins (also called flippers): You will use booties or thick socks with, Always snorkel in a group, and preferably one that has a high number of competent swimmers or someone experienced at. They will be unsure about using propulsion techniques in water. This blog post contains affiliate links from Amazon, which means we receive a small commission on any sales made via those links. The safety vest is made from 1/8" Neoprene. Bottom line: Whether youre new to snorkeling and dont want to invest in expensive equipment, or youre just looking for a cheap snorkeling vest to use on vacation, this no-frills option from Rrtizan will keep you afloat and give you peace of mind in the water. The Jetty Inflatable Vest is available in 4 sizes. 
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