WEST MARINE
Action Reflex Life Vest

Comments about West Marine Action Reflex Life Vest:

My grandchildren came to the lake for a visit and they loved the lifejacket. They used it for all water activities without any issues, boating, jumping off boat, waterskiing, tubing, Kayaking. They said it was comfortable and we never once had to convince them to put it on. They loved it and we loved the sense of security it gave us.

Comments about West Marine Action Reflex Life Vest:

Great for older kids

Comments about West Marine Action Reflex Life Vest:

I spent 30 minutes at a West Marine store trying on the different life vests. I primarily needed a life vest for recreation such as trolling small lakes and floating smooth rivers. Comfort was the most import quality for me. If it wasn't comfortable, I knew it wouldn't get worn. I found three options to be the most comfortable. First, the Onyx fishing vests were great. However, they tended to have high collars or fleece lining. These would be excellent on chilly days, but not necessarily in bright sunshine in mid-afternoon in August. The other comfortable options were the Cruiser life vest (model #12027041) and the Action Reflex (model #10997369). For some reason, the Cruiser isn't listed under the recreational life vests online. I discovered it by visiting the store, but you can find it online by searching for "Cruiser", or the model number. The Cruiser was much lighter and less bulky than the Action Reflex. For example, the Action Reflex has flotation pads on the side panels, and thicker front/back panels. The Cruiser lacks the side panels and is thinner. Buoyancy specs were not listed for either jacket. It feels like the Cruiser might be less buoyant, but that's fine for my intended usage where rescue will arrive quickly. In the end, I chose the Cruiser vests. I found them to be very comfortable and they are simple to put on (I am 5' 11" w/ 38" chest). Just a single zipper in front, plus straps on the side that can be tightened/loosened to fit. No other clasps or fancy features like multiple pockets that I didn't need. The only drawback with the Cruiser is that its limited to three sizes. For a younger child, I bought the Action Reflex. The Action Reflex is a worthy fallback, and the extra buoyancy might be preferable for a small child.

Comments about West Marine Action Reflex Life Vest:

Used for lake sailing. Very comfortable and well ventilated.

Comments about West Marine Action Reflex Life Vest:

I bought one of these for each of my two favorite sailing crew members, my sons. They have admired a similar life jacket of another frequent crew member. I shopped and found the best deal at West Marine online.