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Best Snorkel Vests

Updated December 2018
Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Scubapro
Cruiser Snorkeling Vest
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Bottom Line

For protection while snorkeling and diving, this adjustable buoyancy snorkel vest is not only comfortable, but includes a handy pocket to store needed items.

Pros

Those new to snorkeling and diving find this vest gives them more confidence, especially while ocean swimming. Neoprene on back keeps the sun off. Easy to inflate and deflate, even while on the water, and air doesn’t leak out. Doesn’t add a lot of bulk.

Cons

Some consumers feel the sizing is a bit off, and suggest ordering a size up from normal. On the expensive side for casual users.

Scuba Choice
Adult Snorkel Vest with Name Box
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Bottom Line

A great equipment addition for pros and beginners alike, this neon yellow snorkel vest makes it easy to stay visible while out on the water.

Pros

Removable strap fits securely around the waist and crotch to keep vest from riding up when it's inflated. Quick release valve allows for fast deflation of air. Packs compactly for vacations. Size fits fairly large users; some over 200 lbs. say it wears comfortably.

Cons

Straps might take some time to adjust; if not done correctly, vest will ride up and obstruct face.

Best Bang for the Buck
Rrtizan
Adult Inflatable Snorkel Vest
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Bottom Line

Even newbie snorkelers can feel comfortable with this inexpensive, best-selling vest that's easy to inflate and use, making it perfect for most water-based adventures.

Pros

Comes in multiple colors. Takes up little space in luggage when deflated, so you can bring your own vest instead of renting one at a dive shop. Fits a wide range of body sizes, up to 220 lbs. Includes mesh bag for transport and storage.

Cons

Should not be used for paddle boarding, which requires a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

SealBuddy
Inflatable Snorkel Vest
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Bottom Line

Everything a snorkel vest needs, including 3 neon color options for superior visibility, an easy-to-access mouthpiece, and a secure fit for larger children and adults.

Pros

Comes with a sturdy mesh bag that can store not only the vest, but other equipment and swim suits. Folds up small; some users who cruise keep it in a purse so it's always accessible. Divers and snorkelers love its lower price point.

Cons

Larger users feel that straps just aren't long enough. Several stated that there were no directions included and had to look them up online.

Promate
Snorkel Vest Jacket
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Bottom Line

Instead of a "1-size" snorkel vest, this version offers 4 sizes for a customized fit to create a more relaxed and comfortable dive experience.

Pros

Size from junior/small up to XL, with most reporting the vest fit as expected; maximum weight is 240 lbs. Tube is situated for easy inflation. Provides plenty of buoyancy and doesn't leak. Even those who aren't strong swimmers report feeling more secure wearing the vest.

Cons

Multiple users don't like how the crotch strap fits, feeling it could be longer. Others state that the waist strap will not fit larger mid-sections.

How we decided

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

  • 37 Models Considered
  • 8 Hours Researched
  • 1 Experts Interviewed
  • 309 Consumers Consulted
    • Zero products received from manufacturers.

    We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

    Why trust BestReviews?
    BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
    BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.
    BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.

    Snorkel vests are life-saving vests with padding strategically placed to help keep you comfortable during a dive. The style of these vests looks a little bit like a horse shoe. They include floatable padding that supports your torso. The ideal snorkel vest allows you to keep your head at an appropriate distance from the surface. It also allows you to relax and enjoy the snorkeling experience longer and with more comfort. When choosing a snorkel vest, you may want to consider a bright color to make you more visible on the water. Some are inflatable, which makes them easier to pack in your vacation luggage or to store when not in use. Double check the weight restrictions on the vest to make sure it will keep you afloat.

    The team that worked on this review
    • Enid
      Enid
      Editor
    • Melinda
      Melinda
      Web Producer
    ×

    Scubapro

    Cruiser Snorkeling Vest

    Scubapro

    Cruiser Snorkeling Vest

    For protection while snorkeling and diving, this adjustable buoyancy snorkel vest is not only comfortable, but includes a handy pocket to store needed items.
    $64
    ×

    Scuba Choice

    Adult Snorkel Vest with Name Box

    Scuba Choice

    Adult Snorkel Vest with Name Box

    A great equipment addition for pros and beginners alike, this neon yellow snorkel vest makes it easy to stay visible while out on the water.
    $18
    ×

    Rrtizan

    Adult Inflatable Snorkel Vest

    Rrtizan

    Adult Inflatable Snorkel Vest

    Even newbie snorkelers can feel comfortable with this inexpensive, best-selling vest that's easy to inflate and use, making it perfect for most water-based adventures.
    $0
    ×

    SealBuddy

    Inflatable Snorkel Vest

    SealBuddy

    Inflatable Snorkel Vest

    Everything a snorkel vest needs, including 3 neon color options for superior visibility, an easy-to-access mouthpiece, and a secure fit for larger children and adults.
    $11
    ×

    Promate

    Snorkel Vest Jacket

    Promate

    Snorkel Vest Jacket

    Instead of a "1-size" snorkel vest, this version offers 4 sizes for a customized fit to create a more relaxed and comfortable dive experience.
    $21

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