What’s the Best Type of Life Jacket for You?
Choosing the right life jacket depends on where you’re heading and what you’re doing on the water. At Burnsco, we stock four types of buoyancy aids to suit different conditions and activities:
Foam Life Jackets
Reliable, easy-maintenance and ready to go: foam life jackets have inherent built-in buoyancy, ideal for inshore boating, general use, and situations that need simple durability; especially great for kids or occasional users.
Inflatable Life Jackets (Automatic or Manual)
Inflatable life jackets are lightweight and more streamlined and compact in shape than foam jackets, and thus more comfortable to wear for long periods. They’re great for fishing, sailing and cruising. You can pick from two types:
Automatic inflatables have sensors that trigger inflation once the wearer is submerged, offering peace of mind in unexpected situations — ideal for offshore boating.
Manual inflatables require the wearer to pull a cord to inflate, and are suitable for more controlled environments or experienced users. Both types need regular maintenance checks (see our inflatable lifejacket guide to read about keeping your jacket in lifesaving, working condition!).
Buoyancy Vests
Designed for active watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing and water skiing, buoyancy vests allow maximum freedom of movement. These vests will give you decent impact protection and flotation, but are suited to confident swimmers in sheltered waters, rather than for boating.
Waist Pouch Styles
Compact and lowkey, waist-worn inflatable PFDs are popular for paddleboarding and kayaking. They deploy when needed and are a great option when minimal bulk is a priority.
If you’re heading offshore, higher buoyancy-rated inflatables are typically the safest choice. For inshore, lakes, or high-movement activities, foam or buoyancy styles may be more practical.
Finding the Right Fit for Everyone on Board
Life jackets aren’t one-size-fits-all. They only work properly when they fit perfectly — and it’s crucial that every person on board has one fitted.
You’ll find the following boat life jackets at Burnsco:
- Infant and toddler life jackets with head support and crotch straps
- Junior and kids life vests
- Adult life jackets in multiple weight ranges
- Women-specific designs shaped for improved comfort and fit
- Pet life jackets to keep your four-legged crew members safe, too
Kids’ life jackets must always be correctly sized to their weight, not just their age. Adults should choose a snug fit that, once adjusted, won’t ride up when lifted at the shoulders. And don’t forget the dog! Pets can tire quickly in strong currents or cold water.
When everyone is properly fitted, you’re set up for a safer and more enjoyable day on the water.
What to Look for When Buying a Life Jacket
Not all life jackets are designed the same. Here’s what to consider before making your choice:
Buoyancy Rating (Newtons / N)
- 100N: Suitable for sheltered waters and general boating
- 150N: A versatile offshore option for most adult boating activities
- 165N–180N: Higher buoyancy for offshore conditions, heavier clothing, or rougher seas
Activity Type
- Fishing and cruising often call for lightweight inflatables you can comfortably wear all day
- Kayaking and paddleboarding suit flexible buoyancy vests or waist inflatables
- Water skiing and jetskiing require impact-rated buoyancy vests
- Sailing offshore may require higher buoyancy ratings and harness compatibility
Automatic vs Manual Inflation
Automatic inflatables provide added reassurance in emergencies. Manual models give the wearer control and can be preferred for certain watersports.
Harness Options
Some inflatable life jackets include integrated safety harnesses for clipping onto jacklines when sailing offshore.
Fit & Adjustability
Look for adjustable straps, secure buckles, and a snug fit that won’t shift in the water. A properly fitted PFD should feel secure but comfortable enough to wear all day.
Keep Your Life Jacket Ready with the Right Accessories
Maintaining your life jacket is just as important as choosing the right one.
Burnsco stocks a full range of life jacket accessories, including:
- Re-arm kits
- Replacement COâ‚‚ cylinders
- Safety lights
- Crotch straps
- Storage bags
- Replacement buckles and clips
Inflatable life jackets must be regularly inspected and re-armed after deployment. COâ‚‚ cylinders and firing mechanisms should be checked before each season and replaced as needed. Proper storage also helps extend the life of your safety gear.
A well-maintained life jacket is one you can rely on when it matters most.
Shop Life Jackets and Safety Gear at Burnsco
Whether you’re upgrading your safety setup or fitting out the whole family for summer on the water, Burnsco has the life jackets and marine safety equipment you need.
We stock lifejackets NZ-wide in-store and online. Don’t forget to check out more of our essential safety gear, including flares, man overboard gear, EPIRBs and other marine safety equipment.
Need help? Ask our friendly experts on 0800 10 20 41 or find your nearest store for advice on all things boating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are life jackets legally required in New Zealand?
Yes, on boats 6m or smaller, every person on board must wear a correctly sized, working lifejacket at all times. On larger vessels, it is still mandatory to carry suitable lifejackets for everyone, but they only need to be worn in situations of heightened risk.
The safest approach is simple: have one for everyone on board and wear it whenever conditions demand it.
How should a life jacket fit properly?
A life jacket should be snug and secure without being uncomfortable.
It should fit according to the wearer’s weight range, not just age or clothing size.
When fastened and adjusted, it shouldn’t ride up over the chin or ears when lifted at the shoulders.
All buckles, straps and zips should be secure and properly adjusted.
For infants and young children, features like crotch straps and head support are essential for correct positioning in the water.
If a life jacket feels loose or shifts easily, it’s likely too big. A properly fitted PFD is far more effective in an emergency.
How long does a life jacket last before it needs replacing?
The lifespan of a life jacket depends on its type, usage and how well it’s maintained.
Foam life jackets can last many years if properly cared for, but should be replaced if the foam becomes compressed, waterlogged, cracked, or if straps and buckles are damaged.
Inflatable life jackets require more regular inspection. COâ‚‚ cylinders, firing mechanisms and bladders should be checked at least annually, and always replaced after deployment.
As a general guide, if a life jacket shows signs of wear, damage, UV degradation, or no longer inflates and holds pressure properly, it’s time to replace it. Regular inspection before each season helps ensure your safety gear remains reliable.
How do I care for and store life jackets?
Proper care extends the life of your life jacket and ensures it works when you need it.
Rinse with fresh water after use, especially after saltwater exposure.
Allow it to dry completely before storage.
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place out of direct sunlight.
Avoid compressing foam life jackets under heavy gear.
For inflatables, check the CO₂ cylinder, firing mechanism and bladder regularly, and follow the manufacturer’s servicing guidelines.
A quick check before every trip and a more thorough inspection at the start of each boating season help keep your crew safe and your gear ready for action.
