The Automatic Inflatable Life Jackets: Top Picks 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Automatic inflatable life jackets
Automatic inflatable life jackets

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Eyson® Inflatable Life Jacket Life Vest Basic Automatic/Manual

The Eyson® Inflatable Life Jacket is the most lightweight, durable and comfortable life jacket on the market. With an automatic/manual opening device, it's easy to control your buoyancy. The inflatable design is lightweight and durable for use at sea, or in shallow waters. This life jacket fits all adults under 330 lbs (150kg) and is perfect for anyone who wants something that's light-weight, easy to carry and comfortable to wear. Read Review

2. Runner Up: ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket

ABSOLUTE OUTDOOR Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket is a slim, comfortable inflatable life jacket that's ideal for warm-weather use. Designed to keep you cool in the water, it has a slender design that lets you move comfortably and easily. The light weight construction also helps maintain your balance and mobility as it floats on the surface of the water. Read Review

3. Best Versatile: Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket, Blue

The Onyx A/M-24 is an automatic/manual inflatable life jacket that converts from automatic to manual inflation. The soft and comfortable material makes it great for all users, and the stainless steel ring is a durable design, making it perfect for your next adventure. Read Review

4. Best Adjustable: ONYX A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket, Green

Never leave your life jacket behind again with these automatic/manual inflatable life jackets. With an automatic inflation and manual deflation, you can still use your air pump to get it around tight spaces. The size Adult universal is designed for both adults and kids. Read Review

When boating on any body of water, you need to make sure that everyone onboard is safe. Safety first. That’s why it’s so important to have automatic inflatable life jackets on board. These jackets can be set up in a matter of minutes and act as a secondary safety mechanism for anyone who falls overboard. How many lives have they saved? Inflatable life jackets are easy to use, even for children.

You just need to blow them up once with air and they will last for a long time. They also provide good protection from water and can help keep you afloat in the event of an emergency by keeping your head above water until help arrives. If you own a boat or are planning on buying one soon, read on to learn about our top picks for auto-inflatable life jackets.

Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 16 hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product. When it comes to finding the automatic inflatable life jackets, we believe Eyson® Inflatable Life Jacket Life Vest Basic Automatic/Manual is a worthy product to buy. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following.

Our Top Picks

  • CE Certificated & SOLAS Approved 3M Reflectors
  • This Life Jacket Buoyancy is 150N, Fits for Universal Adults under 330 lbs (150kg)
  • Reusable, washable and easy to air dry
  • Adjustable belt fit for adult and youth
  • Lightweight & durable fabric
  • This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
  • Inflates with manual movement of T-cord or automatically upon immersion in water
  • Lightweight, comfortable, slender design keeps you cool in warm weather
  • Soft neoprene neckline for all day wearing comfort
  • Durable fabric resists tears and punctures
  • Protective cover uses 200 denier nylon ripstop and 200 denier nylon oxford
  • Convertible from automatic/manual to manual only inflation
  • U. S. Coast guard approved type V life jacket/personal flotation device (PFD) with type III performance
  • Use A/M Rearming Kit 1352
  • Lightweight, comfortable, slender design keeps you cool in warm weather
  • Low profile design keeps you cool in warm weather
  • Mfg Part 132000-500-004-15
  • Age 16+, over 80 lbs.
  • Stretchable Flex-Back insert
  • Automatically inflates upon immersion in water or when the wearer pulls the "jerk to inflate" handle
  • Onyx 132000-400-004-18 a/M-24
  • Jacket, green, size Adult universal
  • Automatic/manual inflatable life
  • For 150N Buoyancy , with FAST shipping
  • Reusable, washable and easy to air dry
  • Lightweight & durable fabric
  • Adjustable belt fit for adult and youth under 330 lbs (150kg)
  • CE Certificated & SOLAS Approved 3M Reflectors
  • Protective cover uses 200 denier nylon rip stop and 200 denier nylon oxford
  • Low profile design keeps you cool in warm weather
  • Convertible from automatic/manual to manual only inflation
  • Low profile design keeps you cool in warm weather
  • Use A/M Rearming Kit 1352
  • Stretchable Flex-Back insert
  • US Coast Guard approved Type V life jacket with Type III performance
  • Protective cover uses 200 denier nylon ripstop and 200 denier nylon oxford
  • Convertible from automatic/manual to manual only inflation
  • Use A/M Rearming Kit 1352
  • ADJUSTS TO FIT chest sizes between 30” and 56”
  • 40 LBS OF BUOYANCY: 2.5x higher minimum buoyancy rating than Type III foam vest personal flotation devices
  • LARGE EASY-ACCESS ZIPPERED FRONT POCKET is great for storing sunglasses, fishing pliers, licenses, sunscreen during boating, fishing, kayaking, angling, sailing and other on-the-water activities
  • LIGHTWEIGHT, COOL AND COMFORTABLE: Life jacket’s ergonomic neoprene collar prevents chaffing, reduces moisture around the neck and dries quickly while 3D mesh through the shoulders, back, and waist conforms to the shape of the body and promotes air circulation
  • US COAST GUARD-APPROVED TYPE II PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD) inflates automatically upon water immersion via replaceable CO2 cylinder (includes 1 cylinder with purchase) or manually with a pull of the “jerk to inflate” cord or back-up oral inflation tube.
8 MOCOTONO Inflatable Life Jacket
Our Score:
8.7
MOCOTONO
  • Buoyancy: 150 N. Uses a 33 grams CO2 cartridge. Inflate in approximately 3-5 seconds. Fit for universal adults under 330 lbs (150 kg).
  • Our PFD is perfect for many recreational water sports and boating activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and sailing watercraft.
  • The life jacket is very slim and does not restrict movement. We also equipped it with a quick-release buckle for easily putting on and taking off. Adjustable strap webbing provides a universal size, we can adjust it up to 73 inches.
  • PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD) inflates automatically via replaceable CO2 cylinder (Comes with TWO CO2 cartridges,one is already in the life vest and one is for replacement.), when immersed in water. Or manually with a pull of the “jerk to inflate” cord. You can also use the backup oral inflation tube.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: CE Certificated. MOCOTONO is dedicated to addressing any product/service issues and is committed to delivering the best experience for all buyers.
  • QUICK BURST ZIPPER KEEPS VEST SECURE during heavy fishing, boating, sailing, angling or water activities, yet opens rapidly when inflated
  • US COAST GUARD-APPROVED TYPE II PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD) inflates automatically upon water immersion via replaceable CO2 cylinder (includes 1 cylinder with purchase) or manually with a pull of the “jerk to inflate” cord or back-up oral inflation tube.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT, COOL AND COMFORTABLE: Life jacket’s wide neck opening and ergonomic chassis shape hugs the body where needed to stay secure without riding up on your neck. The soft breathable collar prevents chafing, reduces moisture around the neck and dries quickly while 3D mesh through the shoulders, back, and waist conforms to the shape of the body and promotes air circulation
  • DUAL SIDE ADJUSTERS OFFER SNUG FIT for chest sizes between 30” and 56”
  • 40 LBS OF BUOYANCY: 2.5x higher minimum buoyancy rating than Type III foam vest personal flotation devices
  • Buoyancy: 150N, fits for Universal Adults under 330 lbs (150kg)
  • Reusable, washable and easy to air dry
  • CE Certificated & SOLAS approved 3M reflectors
  • Adjustable belt fit for universal adult & slender design keeps you cool in warm weather
  • Lightweight & soft neoprene neckline for all day wearing comfort

What to Look For in a automatic inflatable life jackets?

The automatic inflatable life jackets is influenced by a multitude of factors, including all those stated below. Depending on the sort of product, the learning process differs. We'll be ready to aid you and propose solutions since we're here to support you.

It's necessary to remember the following ones before selecting automatic inflatable life jackets:

CO2 Cartridges

Many inflatable PFDs come standard with a CO2 cartridge. The PFD is inflated by either manually pulling the cord, or when it enters the water.
The CO2 cartridge will need to be replaced after it has been inflated the life jacket. If your jacket is inflating frequently, this could be a costly ongoing expense.
Inflatable life jackets may require additional maintenance due to the use of air cylinders. This is because the cylinders need to be checked before use in order to ensure that they remain in good shape and are within their expiration dates.
The CO2 cartridge, which is essential for most inflatable life jackets is the one that makes them buoyant. The life jacket will not work without it.

Purpose

The type of activity you do in water will affect the life vest that you choose. Wearing inflatable vests while tubing, white-water rafting or wakeboarding is not recommended. Solid foam is best for these types of activities. Some inflatable vests have a more modern design than the older ones. They are less bulky and allow arms to move freely without being restricted. For activities such as kayaking or fishing, these vests might be more suitable. Some models can only be used by those who are proficient in swimming, so make sure you check.

Coast Guard Approval

Life jackets are approved by the US Coast Guard. There are several types of life jackets, depending on their level of buoyancy or the features.
The majority of life jackets used for recreational boating are either Type III, or Type V. They can be worn inshore and near shore but they're not suitable for high-impact watersports.
All inflatable life jackets are not approved by the US Coast Guard. It is important to choose a US Coast Guard approved PFD if your state has you wearing one.

Fit

While proper sizing is important, the amount of buckles and straps you have can affect the way the fit can be dialed in. You should consider buying universal-sized PFDs if you are purchasing life vests that will be worn by many people. Kevin Foley, Performance Tours Rafting, says that they have a variety of sizes, but the universal size will work for most bodies if it is properly fitted and adjusted.

Comfort

When you are looking for a life vest to wear, your weight and height will be important. However, other factors of the construction may also play a role in how it fits. Because you will be wearing it for long periods of time, comfort is crucial. Before you keep the vest, make sure it doesn't rub against your skin and any seams on your swimsuit.

Inflation Method

The inflation of inflatable personal flotation devices is either manually done or automatic. Some even offer both. Manual inflation allows you to swim without the PFD inflating and then you only need to pull the cord to pump the vest if you have to. Automatic inflation allows you to inflate the vest even if it is in danger, such as being unconscious, while you are in the water.

FAQs

What Size PFD Is Right For A Child?

Use the weight ratings to determine if life vests are right for your child or anyone else. Children who are very young or extremely light may do better with a kids' PFD. However, it is best to consult the weight ratings before you buy a vest and to try them in person if you can.

Do Life Vests Need To Be Cleaned?

Proper drying and storage are the most crucial steps in keeping your life vest in great condition. If your PFDs have been wet or damaged, dry them completely before you store them. It is best to keep a PFD from becoming moldy by storing it wet, or in damp areas such as a basement.
Hand wash the PFD with soap and warm water. Rinse thoroughly before drying.

What Do The Different Types And Ratings Signify?

US Coast Guard has a standard rating system which divides PFDs in five types. Type IV is throwable, so they won't be included in your product search. Other types can be distinguished by specific features or a minimum floating rating. Types II, III are both common vest types that have a minimum floating rating of 15.5 pounds. This is enough for most adults.
A separate rating system has "levels", which correspond to the level of flotation. You can find more information from the U.S. Coast Guard about choosing a life jacket.

Are Inflatable Life Jackets OK For Kayaking?

It depends on what type of kayaking it is. An inflatable PFD might be enough if you are planning to kayak in calm waters and near the shore. These might not work well for whitewater or sea kayaking.

Do Life Vests Help Keep People Warm In Cold Water?

The purpose of a PFD is to help keep you afloat. If you are going to be playing in extremely cold water, you might consider adding a wetsuit underneath the life vest. Although wetsuits perform differently, they can provide warmth that will keep your body warm if you are immersed for more than 30 seconds in cold water. They can also help you stay above the water, even though they are not designed to replace a personal flotation device (PFD).

Can A Life Vest Pop?

Although inflatable vests are susceptible to puncturing, they often have durable fabric at the exterior that prevents such accidents. Solid foam vests that are not inflatable cannot be deflated. Avoid inflatable vests for whitewater rafting, where punctures are likely to occur.

Overall, we will research and update new info for the list of automatic inflatable life jackets regularly. On a frequent basis, please check our websites for the latest changes and updates.

Aside from automatic inflatable life jackets, we can bail you up. If you want further support, please do not hesitate to contact us.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

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