After years of fine-tuning, the range of Vaikobi performance life jackets has been designed to cater to the unique range of motion, impact areas, and storage requirements that differ between sports. While each of Vaikobi's PFDs is different, they are all ISO 12402-5 certified (Level 50).
Before you choose a model, it helps to understand the basics: our guide to PFD buoyancy and performance levels explains what ISO 12402-5 (Level 50) means, and our guide to how life jackets work covers how flotation actually keeps you afloat. This article focuses on the differences between the specific Vaikobi models, so you can pick the right one for your sport.
Quick Comparison: The Vaikobi PFD Range
All four are ISO 12402-5 (Level 50) certified. Here's each in detail.
V4 Ocean Racing PFD Life Jacket
Best for ocean sports like downwind paddling, ocean skiing, and offshore kayaking.
Following two years of collaborative design development and testing with top athletes, the V4 showcases enhanced versatility and utility to meet the diverse needs of ocean enthusiasts worldwide. It builds on the success of its predecessor, the V3, the OG and a staple among the paddling and downwinding community.
The V4 features increased pocket space, including two front hydration pockets, one back hydration pocket, and tabs designed to secure essential equipment such as a VHF radio or PLB. The large back pocket fits our 1.5L Bladder, while the two front pockets fit our 500ml Bladder with hose guide tabs for quick, hands-free hydration on the water.
Whether you're heading out for a training session or navigating challenging downwind conditions, the V4 offers unparalleled performance combined with the styling you'd expect from Vaikobi. Available in Vaikobi's signature safety colours.
Shop the V4 Ocean Racing PFD.
VXPII PFD Life Jacket
Best for paddling, foiling, and sailing, especially where comfort, visibility, and hydration access matter.
The VXPII is the evolution of one of Vaikobi's most popular PFDs. It keeps everything that made the VXP a staple, the side entry, the breathability, the no-side-panel freedom, and builds on it with a sleeker profile, smarter storage, and more refined comfort details.
The most visible upgrade is the styling: streamlined shoulder straps, strap covers, and contrast black panels give the VXPII a faster, lower-profile look while reducing chafe and windage. Spandex webbing covers keep excess straps out of your way.
Storage gets a meaningful upgrade too. The large front pocket expands with a pleat detail to fit a 1L hydration bladder, with a tube opening at the top for hands-free access, while the rear pocket handles a 1.5L Bladder for longer sessions. Elastic attachment points on the front allow for accessories, lights, or additional hydration tube routing.
Large neck and arm openings, no side panels, and a high chest fit give you the full range of motion the water demands. Increased reflective detailing improves low-light visibility. Available in Vaikobi's signature safety colours.
Shop the VXPII PFD.
VXS PFD Life Jacket
Best for competitive sailors, foilers, and windsport athletes who need a close-fit, harness-compatible PFD.
The VXS is the next evolution of the VX Race PFD, refined for improved fit, performance, and storage while keeping the low-profile neoprene construction that sailors rely on. If you've outgrown the VX or want a step up in functionality without adding bulk, the VXS is the upgrade.
Low-profile neoprene panels sit smooth against the body and move with every tack and gybe. Stretch shoulder panels and scooped openings maximise comfort and freedom of movement, while a fine printed texture on the inner panel keeps rashies in place without being abrasive. The chest-worn design integrates cleanly with both waist and trapeze harnesses, no catching, no bulk between you and the boat.
The front pocket uses stretchy neoprene with double secure side-zip access for sailing essentials, while the rear pocket is built for our 1.5L Bladder when the session runs long. Adjustable side straps dial in a personalised fit, and side entry keeps the front profile minimal and form-fitting.
Shop the VXS PFD.
VXI Neo PFD Life Jacket
Best for high-speed watersports like wing foiling, windsurfing, performance sailing, tow foiling, kiting, surfski paddling, jetskiing, and wakeboarding.
The VXI Neo is designed for high-speed, performance-driven sports that might involve colliding with the water at velocity. Its impact protection technology is designed to reduce and absorb potential blows to the torso: adaptive foam padding and stretch neoprene construction adjust to your body shape, offering customised protection for the chest and back.
The VXI Neo moves with the body and stays in place while keeping you safe through the thrills and spills of adrenaline sports. It sits high on the chest and has a unique webbing harness loop, optimal for sports like windsurfing, skiff sailing, and kiteboarding. The secure velcro chest pocket stores essential items, and the hydration bladder pocket on the back is ideal for long training sessions.
Choose a minimal or highly visible design with our navy and fluro orange colour choices.
Shop the VXI Neo PFD.
Choosing Between Them
Once you've chosen your model, make sure it fits correctly, a well-fitted PFD is a safe PFD. See our PFD fit guide for step-by-step help.
Deciding between a PFD and an impact vest for high-speed sports? Our Impact Vest vs PFD guide breaks down the difference.
Adding hydration for longer sessions? Our hydration bladder guide covers which bladder fits which PFD and how to set it up.
Browse the full range of Vaikobi PFDs and life jackets.
