After years of fine-tuning, the range of Vaikobi performance life jackets have been designed to cater to the unique range of motion, impact areas and storage requirements that differs between sports. While each of Vaikobi’s PFDs are different, they are all ISO 12402-5 certified (Level 50).
So, what are the differences between the Vaikobi PFDs; V4, VXPII, VXS and VXI Pro?
V4 OCEAN RACING PFD LIFE JACKET
Evolution of a Classic with the same Comfort and Breathability: Best for ocean sports like downwind paddling, ocean skiing and offshore kayaking
Following two years of collaborative design development and testing with top athletes, this new addition showcases enhanced versatility and utility to meet the diverse needs of ocean enthusiasts worldwide.
The V4 Life Jacket builds upon 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.
Crafted with a keen focus on performance and comfort, the V4 Life Jacket is engineered for greater versatility on the ocean. Whether going out for a training session or navigating challenging downwind conditions, this PFD offers unparalleled performance combined with the styling you would expect from Vaikobi.
The V4 Ocean Racing PFD offers a large pocket on the back of the lifejacket for our 1.5L Bladder as well as two smaller pockets on the front that fits our 500ml Bladder with hose guide tabs for quick, hands-free hydration on the water.
Available in Vaikobi's signature safety colours.
VXPII PFD LIFE JACKET
Next Generation of our Light, Safe + Fast VXP: 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 in 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 in check and out of your way. The result is a PFD that feels as clean to wear as it looks.
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 on the water. 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 - useful for both paddlers and sailors.
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 on the shoulder panels improves low-light visibility. Available in Vaikobi's signature safety colours.
VXS PFD LIFE JACKET
Sail On. The VXS PFD Has Your Back: 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 are looking for 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.
Storage is thoughtfully designed for on-water use. 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. Side entry keeps the front profile minimal and form-fitting from the moment you put it on.
VXI NEO PFD LIFE JACKET
Impact Protection: Best for high-speed watersports like wing foiling, wind surfing, performance sailing, tow foiling, kiting, surf ski paddling, jet skiing and wakeboarding.
This life jacket is an exciting addition to Vaikobi’s top-of-the-range collection - you’ll notice that it features in Vaikobi’s paddle and windsports collections. This is because it is designed for high-speed, performance-driven sports that might involve an athlete colliding with water at velocity.
Impact protection technology is designed to reduce and absorb potential blows to the torso. The adaptive foam padding and stretch neoprene construction adjust to your body shape, offering customised protection for the chest and back.
This lifejacket will move with the body (and stay in place) while keeping the wearer safe through the thrills and spills of adrenaline sports. The Vaikobi VXI Pro life jacket sits high on the chest and has a unique webbing harness loop which is optimal for sports like windsurfing, skiff sailing and kiteboarding. The secure velcro chest pocket on the front of the lifejacket is a great way to store essential items. The hydration bladder pocket on the back is good for long training sessions where you can’t keep a bulky water bottle handy.
Choose a minimal or highly visible design with our navy and fluro orange colour choices.
Want to know more about life jackets? Check out the product details under each of our PFD Lifejackets.
UPDATED: 2nd June 2026
