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Stay Safe


Whether you're new to your sport or a seasoned pro, Vaikobi watersports safety gear is designed to give you the confidence to push your limits. Our PFDs, impact protection gear, and accessories keep paddlers, foilers and sailors safe and confident.

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DESIGNED TO PERFORM

Risks of injury vary from sport to sport, and change under different conditions. Vaikobi PFDs, safety gear and accessories are engineered to protect you from the specific risks of your sport, designed to be comfortable enough that you'll actually wear it and reliable enough that you can trust it when you need it most.

  • Stay afloat comfortably - Vaikobi PFDs are so low-profile and comfortable you forget you're wearing one, with sport-specific designs for paddling, sailing, foiling, and high-impact watersports. ISO 12402-5 certified and available in high-vis colours so you're easy to spot in the water
  • Stay connected to your craft - Vaikobi leashes keep you attached to your ski or board in open water no matter what the ocean throws at you, with a 2-piece calf leash for one-handed connection past the breakers and a fixed leash for a simple, strong hold in all conditions
  • Stay protected on impact - the Impact Protection Series uses EN 812 certified moulded 6mm low-rebound foam and heavy-duty Cordura to reduce the risk of injury during foiling, kitesurfing, and high-speed PWC without restricting your movement or compromising comfort
  • Stay in control in an emergency - the Torque Quick-Release Harness is developed with Olympic and World Champion sailors to release instantly when you need it, with full adjustability for extended time on the wire and robust stainless steel components built for the long term

 

Not sure what accessories you need for your sport? Explore our accessories and build a system that matches how you use the water.

FAQs
What is a PFD life jacket?

A PFD (personal flotation device) is a certified safety garment designed to keep you afloat in the water. All Vaikobi PFDs are certified to ISO 12402-5 (Level 50), which means they're built above the minimum buoyancy required for watersports including kayaking, surfski paddling, dinghy sailing, SUP, and foiling. When selecting a PFD, Vaikobi recommends sizing by chest measurement rather than weight — a correct fit ensures maximum comfort, freedom of movement, and performance in an emergency. Read our complete guide to how to choose the right PFD for you.

Why does my Vaikobi PFD show a different Newton rating to 50N?

All Vaikobi PFDs meet ISO 12402-5 (Level 50), providing 50 Newtons of buoyancy relative to your body weight. Because lighter users need less lift to achieve 50N, the actual lift rating varies by size:

V4 Ocean Racing PFD:

  • XS: 40N lift
  • S and above: 50N lift

VXP / VXS / VXI:

  • XS and S: 40N lift
  • M: 45N lift
  • L and above: 50N lift

Always size by the weight guide on our website rather than the listed lift rating, as this ensures full 50N compliance, which matters if your PFD is being checked at a race or event. Note that Level 50 PFDs are designed for conscious, active users in sheltered waters. For offshore or rough conditions, a higher buoyancy rating may be more appropriate. Read more in our guide to PFD buoyancy levels and safety.

What is a Level 50 PFD / life jacket?

A Level 50 PFD (also known as a Level 50 life jacket or buoyancy aid) provides 50 Newtons (N) of flotation and is the most widely used buoyancy rating for watersports - ideal for kayaking, dinghy sailing, SUP, and paddling in sheltered waters where rescue is readily available. It's designed to keep a conscious, active person afloat while allowing the freedom of movement needed for performance sport. Read more in our guide to PFD buoyancy ratings and what they mean for your safety.

How does the quick release skiff harness work?

The Vaikobi Torque Quick Release Harness uses a pin and quick release tab mechanism that can be activated when not under load — keeping you securely hooked in while trapezing or manoeuvring, but allowing fast release in an emergency. Read more in our complete guide to the QR skiff harness.

What is the difference between a PFD and a life jacket?

PFD, life jacket, buoyancy vest, buoyancy aid, and life preserver are all terms used interchangeably around the world - they all refer to the same type of safety garment designed to keep you afloat in the water. The key difference worth knowing is that not all PFDs are equal: buoyancy ratings vary from Level 50 (suitable for inshore watersports) through to Level 150+ (designed for offshore and rough water conditions). Choosing the right one depends on your sport and the conditions you paddle or sail in. Read more in our guide to the difference between a PFD and a life jacket.

Do life jackets expire?

Life jackets don't have an official expiry date, but they do degrade over time with regular use and UV exposure - so it's important to inspect yours regularly. Check for signs of wear including damaged buckles, faded fabric, or compressed foam before every season. Find out exactly what to look for in our guide to life jacket expiry dates.

Why do I need polarized lenses for watersports?

Protecting your eyes from UV rays is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term vision and eye health — and it's especially critical for watersport athletes. Water reflects sunlight directly up into your face, significantly increasing UV exposure compared to everyday activities on land. Polarized lenses block this reflected glare, improving visibility on the water and reducing eye strain during long training and racing sessions. Read our beginner's guide to polarized sunglasses and UV protective eyewear.