A manual inflatable life jacket worn as a slim waist pack. People pick it for paddleboarding and hot days when a foam vest feels like too much.
Specs
- Inflation: manual pull, 16 g CO2 cartridge
- Buoyancy: 17 lb inflated by CO2, up to 26.5 lb with the oral tube
- Approval: U.S. Coast Guard Type V with Type III performance (retailer listings; check the label for approved uses)
- Fit: adult universal, waist up to 52 in (retailer listings)
- Age and weight limit: listings differ (16+ and over 80 lb vs. adults 90+ lb); check the label
- Donning: belt pack must be pulled over the head after inflation
- Rearming: separate M-16 rearming kit
- Price on maker site: $109.99 (Oct 2026)
What reviewers say
We found no in-depth independent test. Retail listings stress the very low profile and easy rearming, which is why it shows up on so many paddleboards. The maker site has only three owner reviews, mixed. The main criticism is that it takes action from the user: you must pull the cord, then slip the bladder over your head, which is hard if you are hurt or panicked. One owner was also surprised it needed setup before use and a kit to reuse. Inflatables are generally not for non-swimmers or kids.
Good
- Very low profile and cool to wear
- Does not get in the way of paddling
- Can be rearmed after use
Not so good
- Manual: does nothing until you pull the cord
- Must be put on over the head after inflating
- Not for children or weak swimmers
- Rearming kits add cost
Who it's for
Confident adult swimmers on paddleboards or calm water who want legal flotation with little bulk. Skip it if you are a weak swimmer, paddle cold water, or want hands-free foam flotation.
Sources
Last checked 2026-10-19. Specs from the maker; review notes summarized in our own words.