yachting style jacket

The 6 Best Sailing Jackets

The 6 best sailing jackets are listed below.

• Best Overall : Helly Hansen Waterproof Jacket
• Best Lightweight : Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket
• Best Foul Weather Gear : Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit
• Best Heavy Duty : Gill Offshore Jacket
• Best For Women : Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat
• Best For Kids : Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket

When it comes to embarking on a sailing adventure, having the right gear is essential for safety and comfort.

The best sailing jackets are more than just marine outerwear; they are nautical performance jackets designed to withstand the rigors of seafaring conditions. These top-rated yacht coats offer not only protection from the elements but also a blend of style and functionality.

Sailboat foul-weather attire like this is indispensable for offshore sailing, providing windproof and waterproof qualities that keep sailors dry and comfortable. Whether you're coastal cruising or engaged in a high-stakes regatta, these premium marine jackets are your go-to choice. Their breathability ensures that even in demanding conditions, you stay comfortable, and their water-resistant properties make them the ideal choice for any boat deck attire. So, equip yourself with high-performance sailing wear, and set sail confidently with the best in sailing jackets.

A top sailing jacket will keep you warm and dry in harsh marine weather in winter months and warm on cooler summer evenings.

There are a number of top sailing jackets to choose from with each having its own strengths.

A good sailing jacket is one that protects you from the elements, is comfortable to wear and allows for a full range of movement.

In finding the greatest sailing jackets, we looked at different types from the best waterproof sailing jacket, yachting jackets, general boating jackets, professional sailors jackets and coastal jackets.

1. Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket

The best overall sailing jacket is the Men's Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket manufactured by the brand Helly Hansen in Oslo, Norway and sold worldwide. We rate this jacket 10/10.

Most retailers price the Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket between $150 to $170. The Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket weighs 645 grams. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

This jacket fits regular with space around the waist and chest area. It is neither an oversized fit or a slim fit.

It can be used for coastal sailing, offshore sailing, inshore sailing and as a general lifestyle jacket.

The Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket performance metrics are:

• Windproof : This jacket is windproof rated 13 - 30 CFM which means it is wind resistant and can protect against medium levels of wind
• Waterproofness : This jacket has a waterproofness protection range of 5000mm to <10,000 mm which means it offers medium waterproofness and can withstand moderate rain
• Breathability : This jacket has a breathability range of between 5,000g/m 2 to < 10,000 g/mm 2 which means it is breathable enough for moderate activity

The Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket is constructed of HELLY TECH Protection fabric system which is 100% polyester with the insulated polartec 100g fleece lining being of 100% recycled polyester, sealed seams, a high collar, adjustable hem and cuffs, two zipped hand pockets, a main zipper in the center to fasten the jacket up and the polyester material is treated with durable water repellency treatment (DWR).

The Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket design includes a "HH" logo on the front of the collar, a "HELLY HANSEN" logo on the back of the collar, a "HH" logo on the back of the left shoulder, a "HH" logo on the right arm and a "HELLY HANSEN" logo on the left arm near the cuff.

The Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket comes in 8 colors which are red, navy, black, bright white, racer blue, stone grey, blue and yellow.

The Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket comes in 9 sizes which are XS, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, 3x-Large, 4x-Large and 5x-Large. The chest size of this jacket ranges from 35.5 inches for the XS size jacket to 60 inches for the 5x-large. The sleeve length of this jacket ranges from 31 inches for the XS size jacket to 38.5 inches for the 5x-large.

With 9 different sizes, this jacket should fit most adult male body sizes.

The advantages of the Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket are:

• It fits comfortably : With the adjustable cuffs and hem, this jacket fits comfortably
• It is water repellent : This sailing jacket is water repellent with a water repellency treatment on the fabric that is great for preventing the salty sea water from sticking to the jacket when sailing
• It can be used for multiple activities : This jacket can be used for multiple activities including coastal sailing, offshore sailing and inshore sailing and it is not restricted to one activity
• It is durable : A Helly Hansen sailing jacket is high quality and durable and will last for 2 years
• It is wind resistant : This Helly Hansen jacket has a 13-30 CFM rating which means it is wind resistant and it will help prevent moderate wind from getting through the fabric

Two disadvantages of the Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Waterproof Sailing Jacket are there is no hood with this sailing jacket and the color of the jacket can fade over time.

Helly Hansen Sailing Jacket On Amazon →

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2. Columbia Glennaker Lake Packable Rain Jacket

The best lightweight sailing jacket is the Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket manufactured by the brand Columbia Sportswear and sold worldwide. We rate this jacket 9.9/10.

Most retailers price the Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket between $45 to $95. The price varies based on the size chosen. The Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket weighs 290 grams (10.2 oz.). It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

This jacket fits true to size with space around the waist and shoulders area.

It can be used for coastal sailing, inshore sailing and as a general lifestyle jacket. It can not be used for ocean sailing during harsh marine conditions.

The Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket is constructed of a hydroplus 100% nylon shell, hood stow in the collar, adjustable hem, drawcord adjustable hood, two zippered hand pockets, adjustable cuffs and a mesh lining.

The Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket design includes a "Columbia" brand name and logo on the front left chest area.

The Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket comes in 28 color options which include black, black/grill, blue jay/columbia navy, bluestone/ dark mountain, columbia grey/boulder, cordovan, deep marine, delta/shark, elderberry, electric turquoise/nimbus grey, harvester/shark, kelp/spruce, laser lemon/black, mango, metal/shark, mountain red/graphite, spruce, stone green, tusk/grill, night tide, red jasper, mosstone/shark, azul/collegiate navy, canyon sun/city grey, wildfire/shark, blue, columbia grey/mountain and thyme green/spruce.

The Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket comes in 22 sizes from small to 6-XL. The chest size of this jacket ranges from 36 inches for the smallest size jacket to 68 inches for the largest size which is 6-XL.

The sleeve length of this jacket ranges from 33 inches for the smallest size jacket to 41 inches for the 6-XL.

The waist size of this jacket ranges from 29 inches for the smallest jacket to 61 inches for the 6-XL jacket.

With 22 different sizes, this jacket should fit most adult male body sizes.

The advantages of the Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket are:

• It is climate pledge friendly : The Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket is Bluesign product certified which means this jacket is responsibly manufactured using safer chemicals and less energy
• There are many colors to choose from : This jacket comes in 28 different color options so there are plenty of colors for people to choose from to find their favorite
• It is lightweight : This jacket weighs just 290 grams (10.2 oz.) so it is lightweight to wear
• It is durable : This jacket is made of 100% nylon material which is extremely durable

One disadvantage of the Columbia Men's Glennaker Rain Jacket is it does not protect you against heavier rain.

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3.Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit

The best foul-weather sailing jacket is the Unisex Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit manufactured by the brand Navis Marine in China and sold worldwide. We rate this jacket 9.8/10.

Most retailers price the Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit between $150 to $180. The Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit weighs 1.9kg. It comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

This jacket fits true to size with space around the chest and neck area.

It can be used for coastal sailing, inshore sailing and ocean sailing during harsh weather conditions.

The Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit performance metrics are:

• Waterproofness : This jacket has a waterproofness protection range of 12,000mm which means it offers strong waterproofness and can withstand hard rain without rain seeping through the jacket material
• Breathability : This jacket has a breathability range of 6,000g/m 2 which means it is slightly breathable but not much moisture gets through the fabric

The Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit is constructed of 90% polyester, 8% polyurethane and 2% other fibers, 2 front YKK zippered pockets, 2 adjustable water seal cuffs, full front zip with a chin guard, a fully mesh-lined hood with elastic adjustment, adjustable elastic hem and 1 inner zip pocket.

The Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit design includes a round-shaped "Navis Marine" brand name and logo on the front left chest area.

It has a round-shaped "Navis Marine" brand name and logo on the upper thigh area of the left bib leg too.

The Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit comes in 3 colors which are blue, charcoal and yellow.

For the best visibility when sailing, we recommend the yellow color.

The Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit comes in 4 sizes which are small, medium, large and X-large. The chest size of this jacket ranges from 37 inches for the smallest size jacket to 47 inches for the largest size jacket.

The waist size of this jacket ranges from 31.5 inches for the smallest jacket to 41.5 inches for the X-large jacket.

The advantages of the Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit are:

• It will help to keep you dry : With a waterproofness protection range of 12,000mm, this jacket will keep you dry in the rain and wet weather ‍
• It is comfortable : The adjustable cuff straps, fit to size, warm pockets and chin pad help to keep people comfortable and warm during wet weather
• It is durable : The 90% polyester material is durable and this jacket will last for 3 years

One disadvantage of the Navis Marine Sailing Rain Suit is it can't be worn as a lifestyle jacket.

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4. GILL Offshore Jacket

The best heavy-duty sailing jacket is the Men's GILL Offshore Jacket manufactured by the U.K. brand Gill in Vietnam and sold worldwide. We rate this jacket 9.7/10.

Most retailers price the GILL Offshore Jacket between $250 to $350. The Men's OS2 Offshore Jacket weighs 3.26 pounds. It comes with the Gill Guarantee which is a limited lifetime warranty against defects.

This jacket fits true to size with space around the chest, waist and arms area.

It can be used for ocean sailing activities, offshore sailing, coastal sailing and long-term sailing trips.

The GILL Offshore Jacket performance metrics are:

• Waterproofness : This jacket has a waterproofness protection range of 20,000mm hydrostatic head which means it offers very strong waterproofness and can withstand extremely heavy rain without rain seeping through the jacket material
• Breathability : This jacket has a breathability range of 5,000g/m 2 which means it is not very breathable but not much moisture gets through the fabric

The GILL Offshore Jacket is constructed of 100% nylon main lining, 100% nylon mesh, 100% polyester fleece and 100% polyester reinforcement (2-layer laminated fabric), fully taped seams for a waterproof seal, a high-cut thermal collar that protects the face, a thermal fleece inner collar and chin guard, fully lined hi-vis hood with a 3-way adjustment system and internal fleece lined cord, 2-way zipper in the front center of the jacket, a zippered internal pocket, 3 prismatic reflectives, velcro adjustable cuffs with PU inner seals and 2 front pockets with 2 anti-corrosive YKK aquaguard water resistant zips.

The GILL Offshore Jacket design includes a "Gill" brand name on the outer front left chest area and a "Gill" brand name on the upper back of the jacket. There are 3 prismatic reflectives on this sailing jacket, one in the front center area, one on the upper left arm and one on the upper right arm.

The GILL Offshore Jacket comes in 4 colors which are bright red, black, dark blue/light blue and tango/dark blue.

For the best visibility when sailing, we recommend the bright red-colored jacket.

The GILL Offshore Jacket comes in 9 sizes which are extra small, small, medium, large, extra large, 2x-large, 3x-large, MT and XLT. The chest size of this jacket ranges from 34 inches for the smallest size jacket to 52 inches for the largest size jacket.

The waist size of this jacket ranges from 28 inches for the extra small jacket to 45 inches for the largest jacket.

The advantages of the GILL Offshore Jacket are:

• It protects against wind and rain : This jacket comes with a hood that helps to protect the head from wind and rain. The high collar design helps protect the face area from wind and rain too
• It has plenty of storage pockets : This jacket comes with 3 pockets with plenty of space to store items while sailing
• It is extremely waterproof : This jacket with a waterproofness protection range of 20,000mm is extremely waterproof and it will help keep rainwater or seawater out of the fabric

One disadvantage of the GILL Offshore Jacket is it can restrict mobility around the neck and face area due to its weight and design.

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5. Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat

The best sailing jacket for women is the Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat manufactured by the brand Helly Hansen in Oslo, Norway and sold worldwide. We rate this jacket 9.6/10.

Most retailers price the Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat between $70 to $90. The Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat weighs 590 grams. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

This jacket fits true to size with space around the chest, shoulders and arm area.

The Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat performance metrics are:

• Windproof : This jacket is windproof rated 0 CFM which means it is completely windproof and no wind will get through
• Waterproofness : This jacket has a waterproofness protection range of 20,000mmH20 which means it is completely waterproof against heavy rain
• Breathability : This jacket has a breathability range of <5,000g/m 2 which means it is only slightly breathable and not not much perspiration can get through this material

The Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat is constructed of a 100% polyurethane shell, Helox fabric construction, welded seams, a high collar and a hood, an adjustable shock cord at the hood, adjustable cuffs and bottom hem, two pockets with flap and rivets and a front placket with hidden snap button closure and YKK zipper in the center at the front of the jacket.

The Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat design includes a "HH" printed brand name on the front left chest area of the jacket.

The Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat comes in 3 colors which are yellow, catalina blue and black.

For the best visibility when sailing, we recommend the yellow-colored jacket.

The Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat comes in 5 sizes which are x-small, small, medium, large and x-large.

The bust size of this jacket ranges from 34 inches for the x-small size jacket to 42.5 inches for the x-large. The waist size of this jacket ranges from 27 inches for the x-small size jacket to 35.5 inches for the x-large.

The advantages of the Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat are:

• It will keep the rain off your body : This jacket is extremely waterproof and windproof which helps keep the rain and wind off your body
• It is comfortable to wear : This jacket is comfortable to wear with the jacket fitting true to size with plenty of space for mobility
• It offers added safety : The yellow colored jacket helps to stay visible on the water and makes it easier for other boaters to see you

One disadvantage of the Helly Hansen Women's Waterproof Raincoat is it is not very fashionable so if you are concerned about appearance, you may prefer to wear a different type of jacket when sailing.

Helly Hansen Women's Raincoat On Amazon →

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6. Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket

The best sailing jacket for kids is the Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket manufactured by the brand Hiheart in America and sold worldwide. We rate this jacket 8.9/10.

Most retailers price the Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket between $30 to $40. The Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket weighs 12 ounces. It is a lightweight jacket.

This jacket fits true to size with space around the chest, shoulders and waist area and a tighter fit around the wrist area.

It can be used for coastal sailing, offshore sailing, inshore sailing and as a general lifestyle jacket for children aged between 3 to 12 years old.

The Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket performance metrics are:

• Windproof : This jacket is windproof rated 20 CFM which means it is moderately windproof
• Waterproofness : This jacket has a waterproofness protection range of 3,000mmH20 which means it is slightly water resistant and will protect against light rain
• Breathability : This jacket has a breathability range of 10,000g/m 2 which means it is breathable enough for moderate levels of activity ‍

The Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket is constructed of 100% polyester shell material, cotton liner material with polyester sleeves, a zipper closure with velcro tabs in the front center area of the jacket, 2 front pockets, a hood, and 2 rib knit cuffs.

The Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket comes in 10 colors which are blue, dark navy, grey, green, orange, pink, purple, red, rose and yellow.

The Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket comes in 7 sizes which are 3T, 4T, 4 - 5T, 6-7 years, 7-8 years, 8-9 years and 10-12 years.

The advantages of the Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket are:

• It offers great mobility : This jacket is comfortable and offers great mobility so kids can perform moderate activities unimpeded by the jacket
• It has multiple color options to choose from : With 10 color options, there are plenty of options for kids to choose from. Some of the colors are bright which helps with visibility when sailing too
• It is comfortable : With a soft cotton liner, this jacket is comfortable for kids to wear

One disadvantage of the Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket is it is only slightly waterproof and will only protect against light rain.

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Top Sailing Jackets Comparison Table

What To Consider When Buying A Sailing Jacket

A good sailing jacket has 5 key attributes that make it well-suited for use on the water.

The 5 most important attributes to consider when buying a sailing jacket are:

• Waterproof and breathable material : A good sailing jacket should be made of material that is both waterproof and breathable. This will help keep you dry and comfortable in wet conditions while also allowing moisture to escape from the jacket, preventing you from getting too hot and sweaty
• Hood : A hood is essential for protecting your head from the wind and rain when sailing. Look for a sailing jacket with a hood that can be adjusted for a snug fit and that has a peak to help keep the rain out of your face
• Pockets : Sailing jackets should have plenty of pockets for storing items. Look for jackets with pockets that are easily accessible and that have secure closures to prevent items from falling out or from seawater or rainwater getting in
• Comfort and mobility : A sailing jacket should be comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time and should allow for a full range of movement so you can move freely while sailing
• Visibility : A good sailing jacket should help you stay visible on the water. Look for jackets with reflective details or bright colors that will make you more visible to other boats

Frequently Asked Questions About Top Sailing Jackets

Below are the most commonly asked questions about top sailing jackets.

What Are The Top Sailing Jacket Brands?

The top sailing jacket brands are:

• Helly Hansen
• Navis Marine
• Columbia Sportwear

How Much Do Top Sailing Jackets Cost?

The best sailing jackets cost $30 to $350.

What Is The Cheapest Top Sailing Jacket?

The cheapest best sailing jacket is the Hiheart Unisex Kid's Waterproof Jacket which costs between $30 and $40.

What Is The Most Expensive Top Sailing Jacket?

The most expensive top sailing jacket is the GILL Offshore Jacket which costs between $250 to $350.

• Multihull Sailor
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The Best Sailing Jackets for Every Type of Weather

A sailing jacket should be a staple of your outerwear apparel, whether you're an experienced fisherman, a casual sailor, or just somebody who lives in a coastal town. Thanks to the waterproof outer layer and heat-preserving inner layer, sailing jackets are the most essential items you can own when faced with difficult weather conditions. Lucky for you, we've done our best to compile a list of the best sailing jackets in 2024, bringing them to you in the form of this nifty buying guide. The  Helly-Hansen Mens Sailing Jacket is our favorite of the bunch for its sleek and durable design, but our other recommendations might also catch your eye. 

Our Top Picks For Sailing Jackets

• Best Overall: Helly-Hansen Mens Sailing Jacket Shop Now ➔
• Most Versatile: WindRider Waterproof Sailing Jacket Shop Now ➔
• Most Durable: Navis Marine Sailing Jacket Shop Now ➔
• Most Comfortable: Unisex PRO Neoprene Jacket Wetsuit Hoodie Shop Now ➔
• 1 Why You Need a Sailing Jacket
• 2 You spend a lot of time in coastal areas
• 3 You spend time at sea
• 4 You want something waterproof
• 5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Sailing Jacket
• 10 Color and style
• 11 Sailing Jacket Price Range

What are some of the best brand names for sailing jackets?

Can i wear my sailing jacket while skiing, how often should i re-proof my sailing jacket, are waterproof jackets unisex, related articles, the best sailing jackets of 2024, best overall.

Helly-Hansen Mens Sailing Jacket

The Helly-Hansen Men’s Crew Hooded Waterproof Sailing Jacket is one of the most popular designs from one of the best-selling sailing jacket brands in the world. With a fleece-lined collar, this item provides ample protection from the cold, while also fending off the elements with the durable water repellency treatment applied to the outer layer. 

Combine this with the fully seam-sealed design, and you start to understand why more people choose Helly Hansen over the rest of the competition. If you’re thinking of picking up your first sailing jacket, there are few jackets that can compare. The design, technology, and durability of this jacket make it our number one choice on this list. 

• 100% polyester
• Can be machine-washed without losing any water resistance
• Quick-drying and lined for comfort
• Comes with Helly tech protection against water and wind
• Price can rise to as much as $350 depending on the retailer

Most Versatile

WindRider Waterproof Sailing Jacket

The WindRider Waterproof Paddling Sailing Spray Top proves that sailing jackets and paddling jackets do not need to be big and cumbersome in order to be effective. In fact, this jacket joins the ranks of paddling jackets that are perfect for high-intensity watersports, such as rafting, surfing, and paddling. 

The jacket comes in two different colors (blue and green) and is complemented with an adjustable neck and wrists. In addition, WindRider has opted to give this jacket a pullover style, which allows you to get in and out within seconds. If you’re hot, all you need to do is unzip the top.

If you like to get active in the water, this should be the first jacket you consider purchasing.

• 100% waterproof outer layer
• Zipper pocket for secure protection of valuables
• Easy entry in and out of the jacket
• Adjustable wrists and neck
• Not ideal for foul weather or particularly cold days

Most Durable

Navis Marine Sailing Jacket

The Navis Marine Sailing Jacket with Bib Pants is as robust as sailing jackets get. Technically a foul weather jacket, this product features a nylon outer Seratex shell which has been carefully designed to be extra water-resistant while still allowing the body to release moisture and stay dry. 

The jacket is completed with storm flaps and fleece-lined pockets to ensure you are protected from the elements as much as possible. You also have the choice of four different colors – yellow, black, grey and navy – all of which cost the same price.

If you find yourself working out at sea, either as a fisherman or something else, this sailing jacket will soon become your most treasured possession.

• State-of-the-art Seratex outer layer
• Storm flaps and fleece-lined pockets
• Bib pants included
• Stow-in collar hood
• Very cumbersome compared to other sailing jackets

Most Comfortable

Unisex PRO Neoprene Jacket Wetsuit Hoodie

If comfort is your priority, the Unisex PRO Neoprene Jacket Wetsuit Hoodie is more than enough for your water adventures. Crafted with precision, this jacket doesn’t just keep you warm. It holds in your core body temperature even when you’re not in the water, ensuring you stay comfortable before, during, and after your water sports sessions.

Constructed with top-quality 2.5mm Dura-Flex neoprene, it doesn’t just ensure durability but sets the highest standards for sailing jackets. Whether you’re surfing, kitesurfing, boating, fishing, or sailing, this jacket has special features that make it indispensable for your water activities.

• Provides warmth in cold environments 
• Has a hood with drawstring and drainage holes
• Has two large pockets and a front zip
• Features hook-and-loop fastener wrist and expander strap
• Sizes may run small

The Ultimate Buying Guide to the Best Sailing Jackets

Sailing requires a special type of wardrobe to ensure you survive the open water unscathed. Regular clothes will get soaked and worn out, so it’s important that you invest in decent sailing apparel that will keep you protected and comfortable in every weather condition. Sailing boots and water-resistant watches are just some of the things you might need, but the number one item on anyone’s apparel list should be a sailing jacket. 

Why You Need a Sailing Jacket

There are a number of reasons why somebody would need a sailing jacket. Unsure if you fall into one of those categories? Allow us to clear some things up for you. Here are some reasons why a sailing jacket might be essential for you.

You spend a lot of time in coastal areas

Basically, the closer you are to the coast, the more likely you’ll need a sailing jacket. The weather can be unpredictable in these regions, so you always want to have a good, warm (not to mention waterproof) jacket available for any trip outdoors.

You spend time at sea

This goes without saying. The most obvious person who needs a sailing jacket is somebody who works on a boat or enjoys taking their own private boat out on the water on a regular basis. When you’re on the water, you can face very turbulent weather. A sailing jacket should be the first line of defense against the elements. 

You want something waterproof

Sailing jackets are multi-purpose. In fact, they can double as both your everyday coat and are reliable and waterproof for a variety of occasions. You can even wear a sailing jacket when you go skiing, provided it’s sufficiently warm and waterproof.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Sailing Jacket

Be sure to consider the following advice before you purchase your next sailing jacket. These considerations will make your shopping experience easier, and may even help you save some money in the process.

No matter the weather conditions, there will be a sailing jacket that is perfectly designed to match. The jacket you choose depends on where you plan on sailing. For example, coastal jackets are light and give the least coverage, usually intended for mild weather. 

Offshore jackets are a little warmer than the coast alternatives, designed for colder, wetter, and harsher conditions. Depending on the time of the year, you may need to break out your offshore jacket while you’re still on the mainland because of the temperamental nature of the weather in these areas.

Dinghy sailing jackets are aimed at sailors in smaller boats who need to make rapid flexible movements. These jackets are lightweight and dry quickly. Finally, foul weather gear is designed for the harshest conditions. If you sail regularly, it may be a good idea to have a foul weather jacket on your boat in case of a storm. Overall, all sailing jackets are waterproof jackets , but it’s a matter of choosing the right one for your lifestyle and activities. 

You want to ensure the sailing jacket has enough pockets to carry your belongings. You will want inner pockets for your valuables such as your wallet and phone. Outer pockets and fleece-lined pockets are essential for warming your hands. If you like the design of the jacket but feel it doesn’t have enough pockets, you can always buy an inner fleece with pockets to wear underneath, although this is a lot less convenient.

Many sailing jackets use polyester fleece lining to draw moisture away from the skin. Sailing is vigorous work and you are bound to sweat at some point. The jacket’s outer layer is water-resistant, keeping the sailor dry. Most jackets have multiple layers. It would be unwise to buy a sailing jacket without a fleece lining. This would lead to the sailor feeling cold and wet despite the water-resistant outer layer. 

You can always buy base layers separately to stay warm and reduce sweat.

Hoods may seem a bit cumbersome, as they can affect your peripheral vision. You can easily solve this problem by choosing a jacket with adjustable hood closures. Hoods are important when staying dry and comfortable. They also offer some protection from the wind and sea spray. Some hoods come with reflective tape so that you can easily be seen in the water should you fall overboard. Choosing a jacket with a foldaway hood allows you to enjoy the sun on occasion.

Color and style

There are plenty of new and stylish designs to choose from, with newer models making the most practical of jackets look like something you could wear on a night out. If you prefer a minimal style, there are plenty of jackets in black and navy that won’t make you stand out. But if you want to stand out for safety’s sake, a colorful jacket might do you good. 

Sailing Jacket Price Range

Sailing jackets can cost anywhere between $150 and $1300. This depends on the brand and the materials. Foul weather sailing jackets will cost more than a coastal jacket. 

Most sailing jackets will offer ample protection from the elements, but the price increases when you start factoring in specific design details, such as fleece linings and extra pockets.

People Also Asked

Some of the most popular brand names for men’s sailing jackets include Musto, Helly Hansen, Gill Marine, Henri Lloyd, and Hudson Wight. These names usually assure quality, but you should always check out a jacket’s specifications and see whether it is right for you.

Yes, you can. Foul weather jackets are designed for colder climates, and the layers mean you will barely feel any snow on your torso or midriff. That being said, we would strongly advise that you invest in a good set of base layers to go underneath your outfit if you plan on wearing a sailing jacket on your next skiing trip.

After some time, the DWR finish applied to your sailing jacket will eventually start to wear off. DWR is the chemical treatment that prevents your sailing jacket from absorbing moisture. Luckily, you can find these treatments at any outdoor retail store. Re-proof the jacket is a relatively straightforward process that you can do yourself at home. This should be done three or four times a year depending on how often you wear the jacket.

Some sailing jackets are unisex - such as our recommended Unisex PRO Neoprene Jacket Wetsuit Hoody - but this is not typical of the majority. In fact, most high-end sailing jackets will have been designed for a specific gender. This is because the fit of a sailing jacket plays a big part in both performance and durability. The jacket should fit comfortably on your body.

Article Contributors

Sail magazine review team.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

To ensure questions about product testing or a specific article are addressed, please contact [email protected]

11 Best Sailing Jackets in 2024: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Sailing Jacket for You

The best sailing jackets have to be pretty incredible items of clothing. Sailing exposes you to extreme weather conditions like almost no other sport and the demands on designers to create clothing that meet all of the various needs of sailors is huge.

We’re what you would typically call fair-weather sailors. I have absolutely no desire to head out to sea in the depths of winter. But even though we’re picking the very best weather windows to sail in, we still get caught out.

On a recent sail, we were taking breaking waves into the cockpit for 12 hours straight. It was cold, dark, and scary. Without our top-quality sailing jackets, we would have been seriously miserable – if not in danger of getting hypothermia.

The top outer layers for maximum protection in all weather conditions should be easy to move in, waterproof, and warm but with excellent moisture-wicking properties. They should provide cover for the head from the wind and rain without compromising visibility and be durable and long-lasting. That’s a long list!

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Not all jackets for sailing have been made equal. We’ve detailed the top features to look out for when making a purchase so that you can find a jacket that’s perfect for you and your individual needs.

We’ve also reviewed the very best ocean jackets for each category of sailing, whether you enjoy day sailing along the coast or are heading off to the North sea on a multi-day expedition.

Quick Guide

• Coastal jackets for men
• Coastal jackets for women
• Offshore sailing jackets for men
• Offshore sailing jackets for women
• Best sailing jackets for kids
• Features of the best outer layers

11 Best Sailing Jackets

We’ve broken down our top choices into coastal or inshore and offshore categories to help you choose the right jacket for the kind of sailing you’ll be doing. If in doubt, though, go for a jacket rated for off-shore or ocean sailing.

We’ve often experienced worse conditions along the coast than we have out at sea, so you really just never know when it comes to the weather!

The jackets listed below are all from reputable sailing brands, and we would highly recommend you stick to designers that know sailing clothes – outdoor jackets won’t cut it.

Best Coastal Sailing Jackets for Men

There are a few reasons why you might need a jacket for coastal sailing, even if you’re sailing on a beautifully sunny day.

Coastal sailing or inshore sailing can actually be some of the least predictable, with all sorts of strange wind and weather patterns coming off the land. You’ll need a jacket on hand at all times just in case.

A good inshore sailing jacket should be waterproof, windproof, and have a hood to protect you from the elements. It should also be comfortable to wear and allow you to move freely while sailing. Look for a jacket with reflective stripes or bright colors to help you stay visible in case of an emergency.

We’ve listed some of the best below!

#1 Helly Hansen Newport Regatta

Adam and I absolutely love our Newport Regatta jackets. They are the best coastal sailing jackets we’ve ever owned and we would recommend them to anyone.

They’re a little more expensive than some of the other coastal sailing jackets out there but for good reason – these are versatile jackets that we would actually feel happy using offshore on shorter passages as well as for coastal sailing.

The men’s design comes in three colour ways, so you can find a jacket suited to your style. They’re based on the heritage sailing jacket designs from the 1990s so they’re really fun and you do feel the part in them (only they’re using all the latest protective technology, and over 50% recycled materials!)

✅ Lightweight but protective

✅ Offshore features

✅ Very cool designs!

❌ We can’t find any!

✔ Buy the men’s Newport Regatta jacket here

#2 Helly Hanson Pier

Adam loves all his Helly Hansen sailing gear and this outer layer jacket is no exception. Helly Hansen makes gear to last.

We actually found some super old Helly Hansen sailing jackets on board when we bought the boat and they were still going strong – unfortunately they weren’t in our size so some lucky sailors benefitted from the marina charity!

The Pier 3.0 sailing jacket is the perfect choice for coastal cruisers. It features a high protective collar, adjustable double cuff seals, fleece-lined hand pockets, and SOLAS-approved reflectives for safety on and around the water.

It’s waterproof, windproof, breathable, and looks pretty cool too! Helly Hansen makes great sailing gear and this jacket is perfect for coastal cruising.

✅ Lightweight

✅ Durable and high quality

✅ Double cuff seals

❌ Hood can feel bulky when rolled

✔ Buy the Pier jacket now

#3 Musto Corsica BR1 Jacket

This is the perfect jacket for anyone who coastal sails and would be great for anyone looking for a multi-use jacket as it’s also perfectly suited to land life.

It’s a little more affordable than some of the other options on here but there’s no compromise on quality. This coastal sailing jacket is waterproof and lined with Arctec fleece that only retains 1% of its weight in water and keeps much of its insulating power even when wet.

The hem and cuffs are adjustable for a snug fit and there are multiple zip pockets, including an internal pocket with a headphone exit point.

✅ Lined for warmth

✔ Buy now on Amazon

Coastal Jackets for Women

#4 Helly Hansen Newport Regatta

Like the men’s design of the same name, these coastal sailing jackets are the best out there and Adam and I wear ours for almost every occasion (including trips to the pub or drinks on the beach!)

These jackets feel a little like an offshore jacket as they offer most of the same useful features, with reflective strips, high collars, and double cuff sleeves. I love the fleece lined hand warming pockets for when the wind picks up!

The fit on the women’s jackets is great, with a flattering shape but more importantly, the ability to move your arms easily without it riding up.

I like the length and found mine was a little longer than other sailing jackets I’ve owned, feeling more protective. I would opt for a size up if you want to layer up underneath.

The women’s design comes in three colour ways, so you can find a jacket suited to your style. They’re based on the heritage sailing jacket designs from the 1990s so they’re really fun and you do feel the part in them (only they’re using all the latest protective technology, and over 50% recycled materials!)

✅ Lightweight but protective ✅ Offshore features ✅ Flattering fit and designs

❌ No complaints here!

✔ Buy the women’s Newport Regatta jacket here

#5 Helly Hansen Pier

This smart-looking sailing coat is waterproof, windproof, and breathable, specifically made with sailing in mind. It’s high collar and fleece-lined pockets will keep you warm in chilly winds and it has adjustable cuff seals to keep you properly dry in a squall.

It features SOLAS-approved reflectives for safety on and around the water. We only have the men’s version of this jacket but it’s a solid favourite, and when it’s time to buy a new jacket for sailing then I hope this one is still around!

✅ Comfortable fit

#6 Gill Pilot Jacket

This is a great multi-use jacket for sailing that will look just as good off the boat as it does on. The women’s Pilot jacket is made from a 2-layer laminated fabric with a durable water repellent finish that’s incredibly soft to the touch.

It has an adjustable hood that tucks away into the collar and fully taped seams for extra protection. We know a sailor with the berry colour and it looks awesome!

✅ Comfortable and made to last

✅ Adjustable hood

❌ Not lined, so wear a decent mid-layer too if needed

✔ Buy now at West Marine

The Best Offshore Sailing Jackets For Men

Offshore sailing can be a beautiful and exhilarating experience. But it can also be dangerous, especially if you’re not properly prepared. That’s why it’s important to have the right gear when you head out onto the open water.

One of the most essential pieces of gear for any offshore sailor is a good jacket. A jacket will help you stay warm and dry in the event that you end up in the water. It will also provide protection from the sun and wind.

If you’re looking for a good offshore sailing jacket, make sure to check out the latest offerings from companies like Helly Hansen and Musto. These companies have a reputation for making high-quality gear that’s designed to withstand the rigors of offshore sailing.

We’ve listed some of the top offshore jackets below.

#7 Skagen Offshore Jacket

We love the fact that Helly Hansen has started to make products using recycled materials. It’s the first example we’ve seen in sailing jackets and we hope this trend is going to catch on! The Skagen men’s offshore jacket is made from 50% Oceanbound recycled materials.

It was designed with the help of professional sailors so you can be sure it has all the important features, and of course, it’s waterproof, breathable, and long-lasting too. This is an excellent choice.

✅ Comfortable to wear/not too heavy

✔ Get yours now from Helly Hansen

#8 Gill OS24

This is Gill’s flagship offshore sailing jacket, and it makes it obvious why they have such a great reputation as a serious sailing brand.

This is one of the best coats out there, made from all the best materials to ensure it’s rugged, waterproof, windproof, and breathable.

They’ve obviously packed in a ton of other features too, such as the long waist and sleeves to keep you dry as you move around, the lined high-visibility hood, and the internal seals on the wrists.

People’s one complaint with this jacket is the high-cut collar that can chafe the neck, but we see this as a small compromise for what is ultimately an incredible off-shore sailing jacket.

✅ High collar for wind protection

❌ Chafing from the extra-high collar

#9 Windrider Pro

This is a great all-weather sailing jacket that will keep you warm and comfortable in the worst of conditions. It has fully taped seams, a roll-a-way adjustable hood with a bill, and a double storm flap to keep the water out.

The fleece-lined collar is a nice touch for warmth and the large pockets are perfect for warming chilly hands! They’ve thought of the little details, such as an adjustable hem and inner cuffs, and reflective detailing, making this one of the best all-weather jackets for men.

✅ Double storm flap

✅ Heavy duty/durable

❌ Can feel a little restrictive

✔ Buy now from Amazon

The Best Offshore Sailing Jackets For Women

Here are our top picks for offshore sailing jackets for women. We love that sailing brands have increased the options out there for women – long may it last!

#10 Helly Hansen Salt Power Jacket

This Helly Hansen jacket breaks a few sailing jacket stereotypes, and we’re all for it! Traditionally, you’ll find sailing jackets in red, white, or blue (or some kind of variation on this), but this jacket is something you could definitely wear to the pub as well.

The Salt Power Jacket is fully lined, with fleece in the collar and pockets to keep you warm and dry. It comes down to your hips, which is one of my pet hates in sailing jackets – when they don’t cover your trouser/top gap and let all the cold in!

✅ High neck for added wind protection

✅ Lightweight and comfortable

✅ Excellent quality/durable

❌ Sizing can run small/short on some

✔ Buy now from Helly Hansen

#11 Gill Women’s OS24 Offshore Sailing Jacket

Just as with the men’s version, this offshore jacket really does top the competition. It’s made from tough, waterproof materials with the roughest days on the water in mind.

The long waist and sleeves mean you don’t risk getting wet as you move around and it comes with a high-visibility hood. The high collar keeps you snug in nasty winds!

✅ Comfortable

✅ Numerous pockets, including waterproof ones

❌ Slim line fit looks great but can be restrictive

#12 Women’s Skagen Offshore Jacket

This offshore sailing jacket was designed with input from professional sailors, you can be sure it has everything you’ll need in a sailing jacket!

It’s the same high quality as all the Helly Hansen products. Durable, waterproof, breathable, and with all the extra bells and whistles you’re after in a decent offshore jacket.

A real bonus to this jacket is the fact it’s made with 50% Oceanbound recycled materials. The interior has a 100% recycled, quick-dry, mesh lining. We love the fact Helly Hansen is attempting to go eco-friendly with this product, and hope this will continue as technology improves!

✅ Waterproof zip pockets

✅ Double cuff seams

✅ Comfortable and easy to put on

❌ Can feel a little heavy around the shoulders

The Best Sailing Jackets for Kids

The main challenge you’ll have when finding an ocean jacket suitable for children is actually getting them to wear it! Kids hate anything that feels uncomfortable or restrictive, so we’ve found the perfect jacket that’s comfortable and cool but doesn’t compromise on key features.

This jacket is designed with all the best features of Helly Hansen adult sailing jackets but in miniature! It’s waterproof, breathable, and warm. It includes hi-vis SOLAS reflectives, a packable and detachable hood, quick-dry lining, and a D-ring for a kill cord.

It’s also easy to move in and comfortable, which is super important for getting kids to actually wear their cold-weather gear!

How Do I Choose a Sailing Jacket? Most Important Features to Consider

In this section, we cover the features that are most important to look out for when choosing the right jacket for you. This will help you to make an informed choice and get the very best protection for your budget.

Offshore Sailing Jackets vs. Coastal Sailing Jackets

There are usually two types of sailing – coastal or offshore.

If you’re mostly a fair-weather sailor (like us currently!) sticking to in-season sailing mostly around coastal areas then a coastal outer layer is probably best for you.

A coastal jacket is usually lighter, making it cheaper and easier to store. Just because it’s cheaper and lightweight, though, it doesn’t mean you should compromise on the important features. Look for a coastal jacket that’s waterproof, windproof, and has a hood and reflective strips as a minimum.

The Helly Hanson Pier is the perfect example of a great coastal jacket option.

Offshore jackets are what you’ll want for exactly what the name implies – offshore sailing. You’re far more likely to experience bad weather, and rougher seas and be out in it for longer periods of time.

Offshore jackets are a must-have if you’re planning longer passages or a circumnavigation as you’re bound to get caught out in some less than ideal conditions and you’ll be warm and as comfortable as possible when you do!

Even if you aren’t planning longer passages, choose an offshore-rated jacket if you plan to sail in colder climates or off-season when you know the weather might take a turn. The Skagen Offshore jacket by Helly Hansen is a great ocean jacket option and has all the features you could want for longer passages.

Most Important Features to Look For in Your Sailing Jacket

These are some of the most important features to look out for when choosing the right jacket for you.

If you’re a seasoned sailor, you will know your cruising patterns and grounds better than anyone, so you’ll have a better idea of your personal taste and whether or not you’re happy to forego some of these features.

If you’re jacket hunting for the first time then make sure the option you go for has all of these features.

• adjustable hood
• lined pockets
• reflective panels/high-visibility colors
• fully taped seams
• adjustable cuffs
• waterproof pockets
• compatible with a life jacket

Most sailing jackets use nylon or similar fabrics for the outer shell, which needs to be strong and waterproof. Seams are usually taped for extra protection in the weaker areas and you’ll often find it also has a protective coating to add to the waterproof qualities.

Liners are typically polyester fleece because of their warmth properties and they’ll often be made from materials designed to move water away from the skin for sweat reduction.

Do You Need Pockets?

Pockets are so useful to have on a sailing jacket, especially when they’re waterproof. Many sailing-specific jackets have zippered internal pockets for protected storage of things like your wallet and phone that you don’t want to get wet or damaged.

Outside pockets often include zippered chest pockets and deep lower pockets with secure Velcro closures, often with fleece-lined hand warmer pockets behind them. It’s great to have somewhere warm to put your hands on a cold sail!

Another outer layer essential, especially for rainy weather and strong wind! You’ll want a hood to keep the wind, spray, and rain away from your head. Most sailing jacket hoods can be stowed in a collar pocket when not in use, and a fluorescent hood, often with reflective tape, for maximum visibility if you ever end up in the water.

The only problem with hoods is that they can limit visibility somewhat. If this is a big concern of your look for brands with adjustable hoods so you can change them to suit the weather conditions and your needs while sailing.

Extra considerations

• Check the size charts of the sailing brand manufacturer before you purchase. Sometimes they differ slightly from brand to brand.
• Sleeve length is something most don’t consider, until they find it’s too short and doesn’t provide adequate protection. All jackets listed here have decent long sleeves.
• For the worst conditions, consider having a dry suit to hand as part of your foul-weather wardrobe.
• Carefully consider your other wardrobe items too. Make sure you have decent cold weather sailing gear to wear as your middle and inner layers. Things like fleece jackets, sailing gloves and hats, and waterproof trousers will give better protection against the elements.

Hopefully, this has helped you find the best sailing jacket for your personal needs out on the water. Make sure you check out our essential sailing gear guide for more advice about must-haves for sailing!

And if you like what you’ve read then please do follow us on the social media channels below for more sailing and travel articles.

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Men's Salt Waterproof Windproof BreathableSailing Rain Jacket

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Highly-Searched Sailing Jacket: Navigate the Waters in Style & Comfort

Ocean Sailing Jacket 

Enjoy long days on the water with our range of men's sailing jackets. From versatile coastal jackets to professional-grade offshore sailing jackets, our trusted gear for men is perfect for high-speed racing or breezy coastal cruising. Navis Marine sailing jackets are renowned for quality worldwide. Every detail of our men's sailing jackets is specifically considered for life on the water. Learn more about what to wear sailing.

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

We Tested 20 of the Best Lifejackets for Boating and Sailing

• June 12, 2024

I took a group of 9 maritime professionals, sailors and sea survival experts and tested 20 of the best lifejackets on the market to find out what they're really like to use both in and out of the water.

With over 3.5 million people in the US alone participating in sailing each year, that’s a lot of opportunity for all kinds of unintended swimming, or unplanned early dismounting from our boats.

One of the most important things any sailor or boater can own is a life jacket.

All of the best lifejackets for boaters conform to a set of minimum ISO standards and are USCG approved, but how do you know which one is actually the best for your personal use and body type? Well, I and a few of my professional sailing colleagues went ahead and threw ourselves into a sea survival day of lifejacket testing. Not all lifejackets are the same, just as not all body shapes are the same.

How to choose the best lifejacket?

From their basic ISO rated start point, all lifejackets take on their own characteristics and design elements. The positioning of the CO2 inflation bottle, the shape of the bladder, the position of the crotch strap and the way it is attached, the location of the whistle, the position of the oral inflation tube and the location of the lifting strop. Some of our lifejackets on test also have sprayhoods and water activated strobe lights.

I comprehensively put these lifejackets through sea survival drills and shoreside scrutiny. To learn more about what the team tested and how we did it, go to the bottom of this buyers guide to see our crew doing their thing.

Each lifejacket has its own review page. If you want a more in-depth review, simply click through to read more.

A note from the Tech Editor: Fox Morgan The best lifejacket is the one you wear. (especially if it allows for onboard snacks)  Editors choices : At a glance  

Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket – Best women’s specific lifejacket  – Buy Now

Seago Seaguard 165N – Best budget friendly lifejacket – Buy Now

Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N pro – Best premium costal lifejacket– Buy Now

Spinlock 6D Deckveset – Best offshore lifejacket

Offshore Lifejackets 190N

The best lifejackets for boaters and sailors, spinlock deckvest 6d, highly commended best all round.

Specifications: Buoyancy: 170N or 275N, Colour: Black, pacific blue, tropic white, citrus yellow, black with HRS, pacific blue with HRS, tropic white with HRS and citrus yellow with HRS,  Features:170N autoinflation, harness release system, crotch strap, sprayhood, lumeon bladder illumination, automatic strobe light,  adjustable body height

Reasons to Buy: Its form-fitting sculpted design and bright colour of casing make this a stylish lifejacket. It has excellent elevated lighting and reflective visibility, good snug fit holding the user high in the water and good sprayhood. The harness release system is another good feature.

Reasons to Avoid: The bladder is a darker orange and may not be as visible as some of the brighter bladders available. The extra sculpting can make the lifejacket feel a bit stiff to wear and makes it heavy.

Verdict: This is an outstanding lifejacket with great performance across the score board. The standout features are the lighting, both elevated and lumeon, lighting the entire bladder. The essentials are labels and easy to find and this feels like a lifejacket that has really been designed with the user in mind. Every query has been answered. If we were challenged to find a way to improve this, we’re really not sure how we would.

Read the full Spinlock Deckvest 6D review

Mustang Atlas 190 lifejacket

Raises the bar in bladder design.

Specifications: Buoyancy: 180N, Colour: Black, Red/Black,Weight 1.2kg,  Features: Pro Sensor auto inflation, crotch strap, pram style sprayhood, automatic strobe light, smart bladder design

Reasons to Buy: Very comfortable, innovative bladder design, high freeboard, understated casing design

Reasons to Avoid: Conservative outer styling might not appeal to those who like to make a statement.

From the outside the casing looks pretty standard and dare I say it a bit bland. It doesn’t shout look at me, which I suspect will have as many nods of approval as there will be shrugs of where’s the pizzazz?

It has a smooth contoured shape to fit the body and once it’s on you can easily forget you’re wearing it. The back section is cut low and doesn’t impede on a collar or the back of your neck.

The weight is also distributed nicely across the whole body so there’s no hot spots. I tried this on over the top of a T-shirt and then later with a lightweight foul weather jacket and both options were comfortable.  The quick adjust side buckles are a familiar premium feature and the tail end excess is dealt with neatly with velcro loops.

Where the lifejacket really shines though is when it is deployed as an inflated bladder. The shape is really unlike all other lifejackets currently available. The bladder at the front is more pointed or conical, with additional wave baffles built into it. This acts doubly to make waves pass around you and those that hit directly are baffled by the webs. There’s an additional little “pillow” to raise your head further still and this gives a feeling of really being raised out of the water.

The sprayhood has a pram-style arch support which keeps it from collapsing on your head and keeps the plastic away from your face. It also makes it very easy to deploy and pull forward.  Two loops pull down and go over each bladder end.

They’ve thought about emergency beacon positioning too, though these were still being certified for use at the time of testing. There’s a dedicated area for a personal locator beacon or personal AIS beacon to attach to on the right-hand lower bladder section which is unencumbered by the sprayhood.

In the water I was able to scull backwards and maneuver really easily as there was plenty of room for arm articulation. I strongly believe that all other lifejacket manufacturers are going to have to up their game in terms of bladder design. The Mustang Atlas 190 DLX has set the bar very high indeed.

Buy it now from YouBoat

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence. Where indicated, items have been tested independently of manufacturers influence.

Baltic Force 

Specifications:  •  Size: Adult, Colour: Black, Features:Integrated safety harness with twin loops for attaching the safety line and detachable crutch strap.

Reasons to Buy:  The larger/longer bladder provides higher buoyancy and the smart outer casing looks stylish. It also comes in a range of specification levels to suit individual needs.

Reasons to Avoid: This test model version comes without a sprayhood or light which would be essential for any offshore or coastal use after dark. Make sure you opt for the higher spec model.

Verdict: This is without doubt a highly capable lifejacket. It fits well both shoreside and in the water. The extra buoyancy is noticeable in the longer bladder. We were unable to test the fully fledged offshore equipped lifejacket and if this lifejacket suits you, then make sure you opt for that extra specification.

Read the full Baltic Force review

Buy Baltic Force from tradeinn.com

Toni wearing Seago 3Dynamic 190N lifejacket

Seago 3Dynamic

Score 62/100

Specifications: Chest size: 55 to 140cm, Buoyancy: 300N, Colour: Carbon/black, Features: Double crutch strap, pro sensor firing head, neoprene collar,  harness included

Reasons to Buy:  This lifejacket looks smart and generally well sculpted to form fit. The bladder has a crossover design to stop waves funneling into your face.

Reasons to Avoid:  It is really difficult to re-pack after inflation/re-arming. It also has a poorly designed sprayhood, the light us poorly positioned and might be a bit snug on larger people.

Verdict: The Seago 3Dynamic looks to offer so much on paper but in practice we found it had one too many compromises for our tastes. It is comfortable, but repacking is a real faff. the buckle was fiddly and the sprayhood was subpar. A little more thought into the layout and practicalities of this lifejacket could turn it around though to be a solid contender.

Read the full Seago 3Dynamic review

Buy Seago 3Dynamic from eBay

worn by Anna

TeamO Backtow

Highest scoring on test.

Reasons to Buy:  This lifejacket has a smart sculpted design, excellent sprayhood and innovative design with backtow harness.

Reasons to Avoid:  If you deploy the backtow, you’re going to need to know how to put that back together or take it to a service centre.

Verdict: A truly excellent lifejacket with innovation at its heart and the user practicality forefront.  The complexity of the backtow element means that rearming it in a hurry, unless you’re a dab hand already and have practiced shoreside, might leave you reaching for the spare lifejacket and sending this one off for someone else to do it for you.

Read the full TeamO Backtow review

Buy TeamO Backtow from promarinestore.co.uk

Ocean Safety Sport Pro 170 ADV

Score 78/100

Specifications: Colour: Carbon / Sky, Features:  Pro sensor with indicator window,  spray hood, s torage pocket

Reasons to Buy: smart stylish design from a reputable brand, neat built in stowage pocket suitable for a PLB

Reasons to Avoid: small sprayhood feels claustrophobic and too tight around the head, the trigger toggle should have better stowage to avoid accidental trigger or to avoid unsafe tucking away by users.

Verdict: This is a comfortable, sturdy, good quality and relatively well specified lifejacket at a good price. It has some great features and comes as standard with the basic equipment for going out of sight of land at night. The crossover bladder is a good design to stop waves funneling into the face, but we would advise to upgrade the sprayhood and light position to have a better in-water performance should you ever need it.

Read the full Ocean Safety Sport Pro review

Buy Ocean Safety Sport Pro 170N ADV from marinestore.com

Spinlock Vito 170N Hammar

Specifications: Buoyancy: 170N, Features: Pylon Lifejacket Light™, Lume-On™, Toggle attachment point for optional Chest Pack (DW-PCC)

Reasons to Buy: One of the best sprayhoods we’ve tested, low profile lifejacket casing, Hammar trigger means you can use this in wild sailing conditions without accidental triggering.

Reasons to Avoid: Hammar trigger means re-arming this is a faff. Quite rigid construction, might not fit smaller people as adjustment will go as small as a size 8 European female.

Verdict: This is used by a variety of professional teams, including Volvo ocean racers. The Hammar trigger mechanism is a matter for you to decide if it’s right for you. They do sell the Vito with the pro sensor trigger too. The over the head donning is a love it or loathe it style and whilst it can feel very secure and the harness loop is excellent, passing this over your head, large collar and other foulies in a rush can feel a bit claustrophobic. The back is low cut though and the sprayhood is stowed in a back panel keeping the bulk away from the collar area. It is an excellent lifejacket and has scored highly in our early test scores. The full test review is coming soon,

Buy Spinlock Vito 170N Hammar from thewetworks.co.uk

Ocean Lifejackets 270N +

Spinlock deckvest 6d 275n.

Specifications: Buoyancy: 170N,  Features:  Pro sensor automatic inflation, spinlock harness release system, structured spray hood

Reasons to Buy:  It has a larger capacity bladder for superior righting and buoyancy. It can have HRS facility and is compatibility with other spinlock products.

Reasons to Avoid:  It feels noticeably larger/bulkier than a 190N. It might impede access to liferaft if you are a smaller person.

Verdict:  Our pool tester Phil noted how much confidence this lifejacket inspired in the water. The bladder is significantly larger and provides a much greater buoyancy and visibility. It is large though, so we don’t recommend this for day to day sailing. The weight of the lifejacket comes in at 1529grams, which is 200g more than the standard 170N deckvest. This might not seem a great deal but over the course of a day, wearing this might be quite fatiguing. Of course, if you are wearing a large immersion suit or other bulky clothes or dry suit for use in deep ocean conditions, you will be very glad of the extra this lifejacket offers.

 Buy Spinlock Deckvest 6D 275N from piratescave.co.uk

Coastal Lifejackets 150-180N

fitting and adjusting with Anna

Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket

Best women’s specific lifejacket.

Specifications: Size: Adult (one size), Colour: White or black, Inflate: Auto inflatable, 165n

Reasons to Buy: This lifejacket is cut for women and fits really well over foul weather clothes and light weight layers. It is comfortable and easy to move around in. It is easy to fasten in all conditions. It is easy to repack and easy to check the firing mechanism.

Reasons to Avoid: The bladder might be a bit tight around the neck when inflated wearing a large foul weather jacket collar and this can be uncomfortable.

Verdict: This is an excellent choice of lifejacket for women who do a host of boating activities. High praise from all who tried this lifejacket in the dry.

Read the full Baltic Athena review

Buy Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket from tradeinn.com

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Spinlock Deckvest Lite

Best coastal on test for everyday wear and general purpose water activity.

Specifications: Size: Adult (one size), Buoyancy: 170N, Material: Nylon, Colour: Black Graphite, Pacific Blue, Flow Green, New Bleach White, New Seagrass Green and New Mercury Red

Reasons to Buy: This is a smart looking lifejacket with a slimline feel. There are very few details to get caught or snag. The best feature are that it’s really easy to repack, fits smaller adult body types and has a high visibility bladder.

Reasons to Avoid: This might feel a little restrictive on some people with the over-the-head method of donning. It might not suit larger bodies.

Verdict: This no frills but stylish lifejacket performs well both off and on the water. It is great for everyday wear and is unobtrusive and easy to forget you’re wearing it.

Read the full Spinlock Deckvest review

Seago Seaguard 165N

Score 69/100

best budget lifejacket

Specifications: Size: Adult (one size), Buoyancy: 165N, Material: Nylon, Colour:  Navy/grey,

Reasons to Buy: Excellent value for money. The cross over bladder design works well. There’s room in the casing to add a sprayhood and light. It also comes in a version with a harness loop.

Reasons to Avoid: There are a few little snaggy areas where the straps or toggles could be tucked away better.

Verdict: We were very pleased with the performance of this lifejacket. Some would argue that it doesn’t look super stylish, but it doesn’t offend either. Where it excels is as a lifejacket in the water, and that’s where it really counts.

Read the full Seago Seaguard review

Buy Seago Seaguard from Pirates Cave

checking adjustment

Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N pro

“best premium coastal lifejacket”.

Specifications:  Size: Adult (one size), Buoyancy: 180N,  Colour:  Black,   Features: Soft loop D-ring for attaching harness

Reasons to Buy:  It’s a smart black lifejacket that will blend in with any outfit. If you’re all about minimal, understated style this is the lifejacket for you. Along with being fitted with sprayhood and light as standard, it also has a well designed wide bladder. It is very comfortable when worn day to day. Plus, it’s easy to adjust.

Reasons to Avoid:  At the end of the day unpacking and repacking will take a longer as the rearming the firing mechanism is really fiddly. If you fly regularly with this lifejacket, the CO2 bottle seal will be an annoyance.

Verdict: This is an excellent lifejacket, leading the way with coastal lifejackets that will take you offshore and into the night with its well positioned strobe light and nicely designed sprayhood. The thoughtful design is apparent throughout, but perhaps was taken one step too far with the CO2 bottle anti-unscrew seal feature making it a poor choice for frequent flyers but an excellent choice for people who worry about their CO2 bottles coming unscrewed.

Read the full Crewsaver Crewfit+ review

Buy Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N Pro from Marinestore

TeamO Micro lifejacket adjustment

TeamO Micro

Specifications: Size: Adult (one size), Buoyancy: 170N, Colour: Black/Orange, Black/Yellow and Blue/Yellow,  Features: U ltra light weight (approximately 900g),  a djustable waist belt and 170 Newtons of Buoyancy

Reasons to Buy: Super skinny lightweight lifejacket, one of the lightest on test at 860grams.

Reasons to Avoid: A bit of a pig to repack. Very basic with no room for add-ons such as a light or sprayhood

Verdict: The target market for the stylish TeamO Micro is likely to be for those who use RIBs, go day boating and motorboating and for other inshore sheltered water activities. If you want a lifejacket with the smallest footprint, then this may well fit the bill. If you are looking for a lifejacket that you can add to later with additional safety gear, then you might look elsewhere.

Read the full TeamO Micro review

Buy TeamO Micro Ultra Light from sheridanmarine.com

lifejacket worn by Alex

Ocean Safety Sport 170 ADV

Specifications: Colour: Navy, red and carbon,  Buoyancy: 170N,  Features:  Single crotch strap, side adjustment for bespoke fit and soft loop harness point for safety harness (harness version only)

Reasons to Buy:  One of the reasons to buy this option is that it’s a smart looking lifejacket. It’s also a ocean safety brand is well established and trusted with service centres readily available everywhere. Plus, it has a crossover bladder design.

Reasons to Avoid:  As per a previous test conducted on this lifejacket, it has suboptimal positioning of the CO2 canister on the curve of the bladder which causes it to rotate on inflation and jab into the chest or ribs of the wearer.

Verdict: Whilst there’s no doubt this is a good quality ISO rated lifejacket, it is smart and fits well, adjusts well and functions well in all aspects, however there’s no escaping its shortcomings in respect to the bottle position and the underwhelmingly small sprayhood.

Read the full Ocean Safety Sport review

Buy Ocean Safety Sport ADV from Ocean Safety (UK)

James wearing the lifejacket

Helly Hansen Sail Safe

Score 56/100

Specifications: Size: STD, Colour: Navy and alert red, Fiber content: 100% Polyamide, Features:  UML Water activated automatic inflation sensor

Reasons to Buy:  This option is lightweight and easy to stow. It has a no frills design, neat stowage for the crotch strap on the back of the life jacket straps.

Reasons to Avoid:  The performance was adequate in all areas but didn’t excel in any particular area.

Verdict: The Helly Hansen Sail Safe lifejacket is a lightweight coastal lifejacket with the ubiquitous HH branding. You get good performance all over but for the (relatively high) price it does feel that you are paying for a name and higher specified lifejackets are available at a lower price.

Read the full Helly Hansen Sailsafe review

Buy Helly Hansen SailSafe from hellyhansen.com

Toby wearing lifejacket

Waveline lifejacket

Score 61/100

Specifications:  Size: Suitable for weights above 40kg, Buoyancy: 165N, Material: 600D polyester outer shell and coarse polyester webbing, Features:Velcro closure cover and lifting loop

Reasons to Buy: This is the lightest on test and weighs just 800g fully armed. The flat profile is comfortable to wear. The velcro closure makes this life jacket really easy to check the arming mechanism and really easy to re-pack. It’s also very good value for money.

Reasons to Avoid:  If style is something you want to consider, this is probably not the option for you. There’s also nowhere to stow excess webbing after adjustment.

Verdict: The Waveline 165N auto lifejacket is an excellent budget option that works well in the water when inflated and is a no frills option for getting out on the water boating safely. A lightweight and simple lifejacket that is tried and tested the world over.

Read the full Waveline review

Buy Waveline 165N from eBay

Our previously tested lifejackets from 2017 Group test

Baltic 150 Race SL lifejacket

Read the full review for the baltic race sl lifejacket.

Specifications:   Size: ‎50-110 Kg,  Features: Anti tangle back, padded shoulders, integrated safety harness, etro-reflective patches, whistle and detachable crutch strap

Reasons to Buy:  It has good padding and a metal harness tether loop.

Reasons to Avoid:  The lifejacket’s smaller buoyancy meant a slower roll over time.

Verdict: The padding was comfortable, although the inflation tube and light assembly inside the lifejacket sat over the collar bone, which could create a pressure point over time. Unlike the longer bladder of the other Baltic lifejackets, this had a shorter, higher bladder with more rounded lobes. The standard Baltic hood had a good support arch, but the elastic straps tended to slip off the bladder. It also let spray in.

Buy it now on Amazon

Crewsaver Ergofit+ 190N lifejacket

Read the full review of crewsaver ergofit 190.

Specifications: Buoyancy: ‎190N,  Features: Three-layer cover, inflatable chin support, stainless steel buckle, AIS and MOB Lifesavers compatible

Reasons to Buy: Impressive buoyancy and has an excellent sprayhood.

Reasons to Avoid:  It’s a little rigid and bulky.

Verdict: If performance in the water is the most important aspect of a lifejacket, the Ergofit+ 190N was streets ahead of the other lifejackets tested. It was one of the fastest to inflate, but more importantly it was a good second or two ahead on the rotation test. It was very difficult for the tester to get onto their front to begin the test at all, and they spun over in close to one second. The Crewsaver Ergofit+ 190N also produced the best freeboard figures with up to 4cm more than some of the other lifejackets.

Buy it now on eBay (marinesuperstore)

Buy it now from Gael Force Marine

Helly Hansen Sailsafe Race 170 Auto lifejacket

Read the full review of the helly hansen sailsafe race.

Specifications: Buoyancy: ‎170N,  Features:  Hammar Hydrostatic pressure automatic inflation sensor, SOLAS approved Reflective elements, 5000N reinforced grab loop

Reasons to Buy:  The hammar has an auto activation function and is fast to inflate.

Reasons to Avoid:  The thigh straps might not be for everyone and its buckles slip too easily.

Verdict: Hammar inflation and an inspection window make checking and maintaining the lifejacket simple. It sits flat against the body but includes space to add in an MOB beacon or PLB. The thigh straps are slightly more complex to fit, they need to be snug so they don’t slip down and limit movement. The lifejacket was the fastest to inflate on test (2017) The hood is well-made with a supporting arch and good ventilation at the sides and front, and well-located reflective strips.

Buy it now on Hellyhansen.com

The back length is adjustable, one of only two lifejackets to offer this

Plastimo SL 180 lifejacket

Read the full review of the plastimo sl 170.

Specifications: Buoyancy: ‎180N,  Features: Double thigh support, retro-reflective tape, quick-closing zip

Reasons to Buy:  The adjustable back, good maneuverability in the water and storage for MOB built-in make this a good lifejacket for your yacht.

Reasons to Avoid:  It has a slightly disconcerting soft feel when inflated compared to other conventionally constructed lifejackets.

Verdict: With adjustable back length, (one of only a couple of lifejackets to offer this) and inspection windowvia dedicated zip opening and a separate stowage place for a personal beacon, this is a versatile lifejacket.

This jacket is designed to remain soft and flexible once inflated. We found this disconcerting initially as it felt like it had not fully inflated. The sewn-in sprayhood was easy to find with a string to pull forwards. The oral inflation tube was less simple to use.

Buy it now on tradeinn.com

Lifejackets group test – what we scored our lifejackets on

Adjust speed ease difficulty

Our testers checked how easy and quickly our lifejackets were able to change from full foulies, then down to a t-shirt then back again. The double adjuster was a popular method and was scored highly by our testers.

Fastening buckle ease with gloves

The ease with which we can fasten and unfasten the various buckles, including with gloves or cold hands. Seabelt style buckles were generally scored very highly.

Comfort men women body size

Front cross-over design

The cut and design of lifejackets varies a lot. From high cut waistcoat styles that suited the men or wider shouldered and taller people and the longer in the body cut lifejackets tended to suit a slimmer person with a waist for the lifejacket to cinch into.

Practicality . bulk snagging

Waistband stowage

Some lifejackets have been well thought through. What do we do with the long surplus piece of webbing? what about all the flappy strappy bits? Are they neatly stowed? Lifejackets that had better stowage of surplus dangly bits were scored highly.

Manual inflated view and fitment

We tried all of the lifejackets shoreside, manually inflated and looked for the essential gear, whether it fell readily to hand and how the lifejacket fitted around the body in its fully inflated lifejaclet mode. A couple of the lifejackets had top up tubes that were a bit of a stretch to reach and some were difficult to locate the whistle or lifting strop.

Ease of checking and repacking

Repacking the lifejacket

Some of our lifejackets just slipped back into their casing without a fuss, others didn’t want to go back in without a bit of a wrestle. The velcro closure lifejackets are the easiest and the tightly packed ones with all the bells and whistles required a little more consideration to careful tucking and folding. Most had easy access to check the arming mechanism within a few brief seconds.

Phil during the pool test with sprayhood deployed

Where a lifejacket was fitted with a sprayhood we scored it. Some sprayhood were considerably better designed than others. Of the coastal lifejackets on test the Crewsaver was outstanding.

Personal Beacon stowage

The offshore lifejackets should reasonably be expected to have adequate stowage provision for a personal locator beacon or AIS.  Some were much better equipped than others. The Ocean Safety Sport Pro ADV has a pocket built in, the Spinlock Deckvest 6D has an optional side pouch which is excellent.

In water testing

Plunge test

We tested every lifejacket in the pool and ran each one through basic personal sea survival drills, from manual inflation, auto inflation, swimming, rafting and climbing into a liferaft, we looked at the performance of all our best lifejackets for boaters in general use.

It is clear to see that all lifejackets are not made equal. Certainly not in how they feel from person to person.

Whilst all of our lifejackets on test performed well according to basic safety standards, they all have elements that could be tweeked and adjusted to be better functioning or designed and all of them have their unique selling points.

A final note from the Tech Editor : Fox Morgan My personal favourite lifejacket is the old Kru Sport, as it fits me so well. They no longer make this waistcoat style model, but the sprayhood and equipment storage capacity on this one is excellent. My AIS beacon fits on a webbing belt on the bladder. I familiarise myself with my lifejacket manually inflated once or twice a year or before every big offshore race. I inspect it on a regular basis and check the arming mechanism before every outing. Once you have chosen the best lifejacket that suits your needs, make sure you get to know it well. Not just in it’s rolled away form, but as a lifejacket, inflated. Know where your essential safety kit is stowed. Where is the whistle and lifting strop? Put your lifejacket on and feel around for them. Store this in your memory. The least sensible time to be doing this for the first time is when you actually need them.

Our lifejacket testing team were:

Alex :  Professional Skipper of traditional sailing vessels (Charlestown Harbour)

Paula : Chief at Charlestown Harbour

Toni : Ex RNLI lifeaboatman, Ex Brixham fisherman, Professional skipper and owner of traditional sailing and fishing vessels

Phil : Ex Lifeboatman, Ex Brixham fisherman, Ex Navy Chief Engineer, Principle sea survival skills training officer, Professional Skipper and University HE lecturer.

Anna :  Clipper Sailing Crew and experienced offshore sailor/racer

James : Retired GP and experienced offshore sailor/racer

Mike : Outward bound sailing instructor, poolside safety and drills at Western Maritime Training

Toby : Experienced sailor and dinghy racer, Senior writer at Future Marine Group

Fox : Professional sailing skipper, experienced offshore sailor/racer, Senior HE University lecturer, Tech Ed at Future Marine Group

Our lifejacket testing was held over several days.

Our dry testing day was hosted by Charlestown Harbour.

We tested all of our lifejackets for the ease of adjustment from wearing it over bulky clothes to t-shirts and then back to bulky clothes.

We looked at how easy or difficult our lifejackets were to fasten and unfasten and then try that again with cold hands or with gloves on.

We looked at the fitment of crotch straps and for any loose or dangling straps or toggles that might get snagged by accident when worn in a marine environment.

We manually inflated all of our lifejackets and assessed their onboard equipment and location. Some lifejackets have the minimum or lifting strop, whistle and top up tube, others have spray hoods fitted and lights. We assessed how easy those items were to find and use when wearing the lifejacket inflated.

Where suitable, we looked at where a personal locator beacon or personal ais beacon would fit on or within the lifejacket casing or bladder.

We packed away our lifejackets and assessed how easy or difficult they were to stow back into their casings. While we were doing this, we also looked at how easy it would be to rearm a lifejacket if it had been triggered.

Our Pool testing day was held in Plymouth Life Centre Diving Pool and organised by Western Maritime Training.

In the pool we had a liferaft set in place for us to run through standard sea survival drills and practice. Western Maritime Training kindly set the pool up for us as per standard STCW personal survival techniques training days .

We highly recommend that anyone who spends time heading out of sight of land for leisure or pleasure should consider doing this course.

While we were in the pool area, we assessed the manual trigger mechanism and auto inflate mechanism of lifejackets. How hard is it to pull the trigger to activate the gas canister or when auto inflating, did the lifejacket turn us over quickly?

We assessed the comfort of the lifejacket when inflated and how easy or difficult they are to readjust whilst in the water. such as tightening crotch straps or cinching in waistbands.

Where lifejackets were fitted with a sprayhood, we looked at how easy it was to locate and pull over the bladder, checking its effectiveness/practicality.

We formed a human safety circle and assessed what practical grab holds our lifejackets had, then we climbed into a liferaft, also checking for practical use and ability to physically handle a person giving them assistance to enter the liferaft.

After testing

We hung up our inflated lifejackets to dry and confirmed that all remained fully inflated for well over 48hours. In fact all of our test lifejackets remained inflated for two weeks, by which time only one of them had slightly started to soften.

What’s the scores?

Each lifejacket was independently scored by members of the testing team.

We took those scores and averaged them for each criteria.

We added up the individual element scores and converted this to a percentage rating.

Throughout the process all notes were taken from our testers and those comments can be seen in each review and within our buyers guide.

Note: all of our lifejackets tested conform to either  ISO 12402-3 (coastal/non harness) or iSO 12401 (harness versions), and this means that they all meet the basic safety standards you would expect from a lifejacket.

In order to conduct unbiased testing, our test team were given full freedom to test and evaluate the lifejackets presented to them on the tests days. their opinions are made in a professional capacity and skippers and end users of the products and are a result of direct hands on experience. this does not override any official safety rating or certification. legal disclaimer is available here.

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What to Wear Onboard to Sail in Style This Summer

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“I think it’s more creative,” he says, noting that velvet smoking jackets worn over turtleneck sweaters have become a staple on colder expeditions, with silk jackets and open-necked shirts playing a similar role in tropical climes. In addition, clients are more willing to embrace color. “Navy blue, burgundy, and green—it’s not just the traditional black-black.”

As ever, a ship’s port of call may determine dress norms. André Fayad, founder of the Miami-based bespoke operation Fayad & Co. , says that white- linen shirts and trousers are the local staple, whereas his clients in Manhattan Beach, Calif., have a penchant for pairing formal-styled Western shirts with removable-stud fronts with cowboy boots.

But sometimes there’s nothing so simple as following the rules. “You should always in these environments go for the best version of a classic option,” says Larry Curran, director of digital personal styling at Saks Fifth Avenue . “So, if this is a black-tie event on a yacht, you should be dressed in a similar fashion to how you would be for any black-tie event.” An exception, however, can be made for the shoes. “I think something with a rubber sole is appropriate,” he says, “as long as it is not sacrificing formality.”

If you can’t resist an individualistic flourish, Curran suggests sporting a brooch or perhaps a nautical accessory such as the yacht-club cuff links favored by his father. But, no matter how you style yourself on-deck, Curran has one request: socks, please.

“I think the days of no socks with tuxedos should be over,” he says, while acknowledging that passengers are typically asked to remove their footwear once aboard. “But I would hope that you’re all wearing socks if you’re asked to remove your shoes, regardless of where you are.”

Advice that’s always worth heeding, on land and at sea.

Eric Twardzik is a Boston-based freelance writer with a passion for classic menswear and classic cocktails. He has a deep reverence for things that get better with age, such as tweed jackets and…

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Best designer sailing jackets: 6 top options for yacht club style

• April 27, 2023

Sailing is about enjoying the elements, and to do this you need to be in kit which will protect you, but also be comfortable in. But we also want to be stylish. Luckily there are plenty of options out there which tick every box. Let's take a look at 6 of the best designer sailing jackets on the market right now...

We have all been in the position where an impromptu celebratory visit to the pub/restaurant/yacht club has been sprung upon us immediately after hitting the dock. Many have also witnessed the aftermath of crews still celebrating hours later, still in functional sailing clothing which doesn’t really belong on dry land.

Full thermal pyjamas can be excused on a very rare victorious occasion, and slightly more acceptable is the dance floor moves in leather sailing boots . I’m sorry to point out that a bowman still in dinghy boots and a harness at the bar has never, and will never, be a good look.

It must also be accepted that more needs to be done to protect our planet, so having a sailing jacket which works perfectly well in a multitude of environments really does make sense and also cuts down on the amount of stuff we have filling our wardrobes, and ultimately landfill. So buying quality and buying once really does make sense.

Luckily in sailing there has been a long tradition of combining style with elegance, not only in what we travel the seas on but also what we wear whilst doing so.

Whether a you’re a keen teen concerned about looking your best in your social updates or a seasoned cruiser who wants to hit the dock and head straight to that lovely little family run restaurant with the best local fayre and wine list, we are here to show you some of the best designer sailing jackets available.

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

6 of the best designer sailing jackets.

Prada Gore-Tex Pro Jacket

The kings of designer sailing jacket style

Reasons to buy

-Gore-tex construction -Worldwide leaders in design and fashion

Reasons to avoid

-Not in everyone’s budget

This fashion house is not only one of the world leaders but also has a long and connected history to yacht racing, particularly the most famous of sailing events – the America’s Cup .

Prada have been a major player in the AC for many editions and have always brought a game-changing level of class and style to every one of their campaigns. So where else would you look for the best designer sailing jacket?

Made from gore-tex, you can guarantee that the protection against the elements is as good as it can be. You can close out the weather with a full-length zip and using the adjustment on the hood and the bottom of the jacket, plus the branded cuff straps.

It’s hard to nail down why this jacket looks so much more stylish than others – but it really does. The subtle red stripe of the Prada logo is far from ‘in your face’ and this jacket certainly wouldn’t look out of place in the centre of any famous fashion centre.

Buy Women’s version at Prada.com

Buy the Men’s version at Prada.com

North Sails Sailor Jacket

Not just about performance

-Maximum Mediterranean style -Wide range of choices for every season -Same style for whole family

-Not the full range of colours for kids

North Sails have been concentrating on their clothing to enhance the status of mega brand within sailing. Certainly the performance range of their offshore sailing jackets is living up to its high standards.

The casual side to North’s clothing range has been popular in the beautiful coastal regions of the Med for many years, often seen whilst sat watching the world go by in the stylish centres of Portofino or Porto Cervo. There is even a flagship store next to the picturesque harbour in St Tropez.

But it’s not just about the trim Italian style of this classic versatile sailing jacket. The design comes in a various colors, but also with a choice of lining, a comfortable mesh for the warmer climates and a soft fleece inner for the colder regions. They even have a choice of outer shells if you need maximum rain protection or you are lucky enough to only be caught out by inclement weather on very rare occasions.

With specific options for women and also kids – you could kit the whole family out for a smarter look.

Buy the Men’s version at northsails.com

Buy the Women’s version at northsails.com

Buy the Kid’s version at northsails.com

Helly Hansen Crew Insulator 2.0

Warm outdoor experts option

-Very clean design -Lightweight and warm

-Not quite the same levels of waterproofing as others

These puffer-style thermal jackets have always been essential for outdoor activities, of which Helly Hansen is a market leader. Slowly but surely this style of jacket has morphed, reducing bulk and venturing down from the mountains to be a staple of many city landscapes.

Although not quite at the waterproof levels of some other featured jackets here, it does still deflect the odd shower and really does offer fantastic city appeal. A superb and fresh casual jacket, the Crew Insulator is able to handle both urban and ocean environments.

What it does do, it does extremely well. It’s very warm and lightweight and is also perfect as a thermal layer. A lovely tidy and clean-cut jacket, which easily looks at home onboard as it does strolling around the high street ashore, you would be hard pressed to find another designer sailing jacket that covers both categories so comfortably.

Code Zero Waypoint Jacket

An option for every colour

-Good price point -Ladies and Gents specific cuts

-Maybe not the widespread “label” appeal of some others

Code Zero’s DNA is firmly routed in sailing, with the management team often on site in many of the higher profile events in our sport. From that comes a built-in understanding of the needs of everyone from the active enthusiast upto the top pro.

With a clean and simple design, the Waypoint jacket has all that is necessary without any of the extra bulk and needless items weighing the jacket down.

Waterproof zips, panel taping, good breathability and a very decent hood make it an essential item for boating. With very subtle branding on the chest, it definitely looks up to the larger fashion brands for inspiration.

Another bonus is the huge range of colours available, in fact there is enough choice to match any colour of trousers, hull, shoes, eyes – you name it!

Buy the Men’s version at Code-Zero.com

Buy the Women’s version at Code-Zero.com

Henri Lloyd Consort 65 Jacket

The classic sailing jacket revisited

-A classic jacket rooted in history and adventure -Updated with modern fabrics but still the original look

-Not the best for the serious racers -No hood

At a time when adventure was really at the core of sailing, when the first colour film footage of extreme conditions from mid ocean could be witnessed ashore, when the washed-out coloured tones showed exactly how tough the famous 60s and 70s ocean pioneers had it, Henri Lloyd gave us the Consort jacket.

Now celebrating 60 years in the business, the team at Henri Lloyd are giving us updated versions of all the old classics, such as this sailing jacket, which is now regularly seen in the trendiest neighbourhoods around the planet. (something which certainly isn’t new to Henri Lloyd after several forays into pop culture fashion trends over the years).

The jacket, as worn in many an ocean passage, gives you great weather protection – but it does lack a hood. Its size and comforting coverage is great for a cooler days of cruising, but probably not quite as ideal for your racing bow team.

Sturdy zips and a storm flap to the front, combined with the velcro adjustable cuffs will help to keep the outside out. The quilted inside will keep you nice and cosy too.

This jacket doesn’t give you any options of colours, or linings, but when originally conceived there would not have been any choices anyway! It does however represent a time in our history of exploration and adventure with a classic, almost ageless, look.

Musto Snug Jacket 2.0

The sailing jacket which helped create an empire

-A classic with much support -Iconic 80s style – now coming back

-The look is now one of the most copied

Musto started as a sailing brand but adapted and filled the whole outdoor market, succeeding in every corner they occupy. A huge part of this dominance came from their understanding of what works well, and the Musto Snug is a classic example of this.

The 80s look really is flooding the streets and influencing styles once again. The latest item from this decade to get the reboot, the Musto Snug Jacket is still immediately recognisable 35 years on.

Moments after appearing on the scene it went on to dominate not just the latter 80s, but the 90s and beyond. This item really did start a revolution within sailing.

It can put up with a decent shower and can keep you warm. It looks good on the way to the yacht club and there is plenty of room for your essentials in the pockets (luckily mobile phones have become significantly smaller since the bricks that graced the 80s).

Good as an outer layer or under more specific wet weather gear, this design is still as versatile as it was when it first hit the waves.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated sailing page for more marine products.

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The North Ossetia - Alania Republic, Russia

The capital city of North Ossetia republic: Vladikavkaz .

The North Ossetia - Alania Republic - Overview

The Republic of North Ossetia - Alania is a federal subject of Russia located on the northern slope of the Greater Caucasus, part of the North Caucasian Federal District. Vladikavkaz is the capital city of the region.

The population of the North Ossetia - Alania Republic is about 688,100 (2022), the area - 7,987 sq. km.

North Ossetia republic flag

North ossetia republic coat of arms.

North Ossetia republic anthem

North ossetia republic map, russia, north ossetia republic latest news and posts from our blog:.

13 April, 2021 / Mountain Landscapes of the Republic of North Ossetia - Alania .

6 October, 2020 / The City of the Dead in Dargavs .

26 June, 2018 / Beauty of Mountainous Digoria in North Ossetia .

28 May, 2016 / Stunning nature of the Caucasus - climbing Stolovaya Mountain .

History of the North Ossetia - Alania Republic

From the first millennium BC, Koban culture was spread on the territory of present North Ossetia. It was named after the village of Koban located in Tagaur canyon, where ancient archaeological monuments were found. Since the 7th century BC, the Scythian tribes began to settle in the Central Caucasus.

Koban population assimilated among the Scythians and then the Sarmatians, some of whom switched to a settled agricultural economy. By the 2nd century AD, the Sarmatians of South-Eastern Europe and Central Asia united under a new name - the Alans. Like the Scythians, the Alans used Derbent pass and the passes of the Greater Caucasus for their raids.

In 372, the nomadic tribes of the Huns invaded Europe from Central Asia. This invasion was the reason of migration of the Alans to the most inaccessible mountain areas on both slopes of the Greater Caucasus mountain range. In the 6th-7th centuries, Alania was again a relatively powerful state with a dense network of well-fortified settlements, developed agriculture, trade and crafts. At the beginning of the 10th century, Orthodoxy became the state religion in Alania.

In the 12th century, Alania experienced the feudal period and was divided into principalities fighting against each other. They were unable to unite against the Mongols who invaded the region in the 13th century. In 1222, the Mongolian army defeated the Alanian army. In January 1239, after a three-month siege, the Alanian capital of Magas was captured. The Mongols ravaged the plain part of the country, but the resistance continued in the mountain areas.

More Historical Facts…

The final blow in a series of tragic events of the 13th-14th centuries was the invasion of the troops of Tamerlane in 1395. Almost all of the Alans were killed, the state of the Alans collapsed. The survivors took refuge in the mountains where they mingled with the local population of other language group and later became known as the Ossetians.

In the 15th-17th centuries, the Ossetians fought for survival in extremely cramped conditions of the mountains (the plain was occupied by Adygeyan tribes). In the 18th century, the Ossetians were in need for resettlement on the plane because of the extreme shortage of land. Ossetia was also important for Russia, as the region that controlled the strategic passes in the Caucasus.

In 1774, the territory of North Ossetia was among the first regions in the North Caucasus, which joined the Russian Empire. Vladikavkaz, founded in 1784, became the first Russian fortress in the area. In the 19th century, the Ossetians migrated from the mountains to the plains and outskirts of Mozdok.

In Soviet times, Ossetia was divided into two parts. The part north of the Caucasian ridge came under the jurisdiction of the RSFSR (present Russian Federation), the part to the south came under control of the Georgian SSR. In 1921, Ossetia became part of Gorskaya Soviet Republic. It received the status of an autonomous oblast in 1924. In 1936, it was reformed into North Ossetian Soviet Socialist Republic.

During the Second World War, fierce battles took place on the territory of the republic, the northern and western parts of North Ossetia were occupied by the Germans. In November, 1942, the German advance was stopped near Ordzhonikidze (Vladikavkaz). About 85,000 people were drafted into the Soviet Army in the republic and almost 45,000 of them were killed.

During the war, the territory inhabited by the Ingush, who were deported for “collaboration” with the Germans, was joined to North Ossetia. Empty villages were inhabited by the Ossetians from North Ossetia, the South Ossetian Autonomous District and inner districts of the Georgian SSR.

The Ingush, who returned home in the 1950s, were given back part of their former territory. Instead of Prigorodny district, which then belonged to North Ossetia, they received the land taken from Stavropol krai. But the Ingush demanded that the eastern part of Prigorodny district should be returned to them. In 1992, an armed conflict broke out because of territorial disputes.

In 1993, the region received a new name - the Republic of North Ossetia. In January 1995, it received its present name - the Republic of North Ossetia - Alania.

In the 1990s and in the early 21st century, several major terrorist attacks occurred on the territory of the republic related to the wars in Chechnya including the taking of hostages in the school #1 in Beslan in 2004. This terrorist act led to serious political consequences not only for the republic but also for Russia in general (the system of election of regional governors was abolished).

North Ossetia - Features

The territory of the Republic of North Ossetia - Alania stretches from north to south for 120 km, from west to east - 125 km. The highest peak is Mount Kazbek (5,033 meters). The Terek is the main river.

It is one of the most densely populated Russian regions. About half of the population lives in Vladikavkaz. The largest cities and towns are Vladikavkaz (298,800), Mozdok (41,000), Beslan (37,300), Alagir (19,400), Ardon (19,200). The national composition according to the 2010 census: Ossetians (64.5%), Russians (20.6%), Ingush (4.0%), Armenians (2.3%), Kumyks (2.3%), Georgians (1.3%).

The climate is moderately continental in the central part and foothills. The average temperature in January is about minus 3.2 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 20.4 degrees Celsius. The natural resources of the region include complex ores containing zinc, lead, copper, silver, dolomites, mineral water springs. Also there are several oil deposits. Forests cover about 22% of the territory.

The main industries of the republic are non-ferrous metallurgy, machine-building, mining (non-ferrous ores, construction materials), electronics, light, glass, food. Several large plants producing spirits are located in Vladikavkaz and Beslan.

Two main highways (Georgian Military Road and Transkam) pass through the territory of North Ossetia connecting Russia with the South Caucasus countries and the Middle East.

Tourism in North Ossetia - Alania

Since the middle of the 19th century, Ossetia was positioned as one of the tourist centers in the North Caucasus. The Soviet period was the next milestone in the development of a recreational complex of the republic. By the early 1990s, spa treatment and tourist-excursion services became an important part of the local economy.

Today, North Ossetia may serve as a basis for the creation of a large health resort agglomeration, comparable to well-known Sochi-Matsesta and the Caucasian Mineral Waters regions.

The geographical location of the republic allows to organize year-round ski resorts. In addition to traditional forms of recreation, there is great potential for the development of extreme forms of recreation, agricultural and ecological tourism. North Ossetian State Nature Reserve is located in the upper reaches of the Tsey, Ardon and Fiagdon rivers.

The rich historical heritage of North Ossetia is of great value. The republic has more than 1,500 historical and cultural monuments. Vladikavkaz trams are one of the oldest tram systems in Russia (1904).

North Ossetia republic of Russia photos

The beauty of the mountainous north ossetia - alania.

Mountain valley in North Ossetia

Author: Dmitry Zhmakin

The North Ossetia Republic scenery

Author: Ivan Diakonenko

Skiing in the North Ossetia Republic

Author: Yegorin Sergey

North Ossetia - Alania scenery

Horses in the Republic of North Ossetia - Alania

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