Life Jacket question?

Question

ok so when i go jet skiing im very rough and am always sure im gunna get hurt and i want a really good life jacket so make sure im safe, i have one thats nice but i need a new one for this summer. I want a really good one (i like the sea doo ones) on the expesive side and what type like 1 or 2 or so on. I mainly ride in a lake, a rough lake or maybe the ocean. Whats a good one if you know one and what type do you suggest?

Answer 1

To be honest with you, you don't NEED any fancy PFD (personal flotation device) for riding a wave runner or jet ski.  The special PFDs are mostly for wakeboarding, water skiing, and barefoot skiing.  They are specially made for comfort, back support, and can come without front buckles that can snag your handle or rope.  

I usually buy O'Neil vests because they are of the highest quality.  Overton's has a great selection, including this one:

http://www.overtons.com/modperl/product/...

which isn't as expensive as you suggested, but more than you'll ever need.

Answer 2

+1 on the suggestion for the Overton vest.   The only thing I would add to the the above answer is  you want to make sure the impact rating is higher than the maximum speed of your ski ( they come in 35mph, 50 mph and 80 mph ratings) The higher impact rating isn't going to give you any more protection than a lower rated one, it's just certified not to break apart on you  if you fall off the ski at for that particular speed rating. The neoprene jackets with zippered front  will give you more warmth than the cheaper closed cell foam/nylon ones with buckles, and are a little less bulky feeling.