Choosing A 170N Or 275N Life Jacket

Choosing the right lifejacket is crucial for safety and comfort at sea, and at SendIt Sailing.com, we frequently discuss this topic with our customers at boat shows, in our stores, and through our Pro Support services. This article is inspired by the innovative work of Spinlock in the field of marine safety equipment.

Understanding Lifejacket Buoyancy and ISO Standards

Lifejackets worldwide adhere to ISO standards, which are international benchmarks for personal flotation devices. The two primary ISO certifications for lifejackets are 150N and 275N, denoting their buoyancy levels.

Spinlock, a leader in this field, has leveraged research and development to produce lifejackets with an inflatable bladder offering 170N of buoyancy. This level not only meets but exceeds the 150N ISO standard, offering enhanced safety and support.

170N Lifejackets: The Standard for Recreational Sailing

The 170N lifejacket, aligning with the 150N standard, is widely recognized in recreational sailing. It strikes a balance between comfort and buoyancy, ensuring safety without being overly intrusive. Designed to keep the wearer afloat at an optimal angle and height, it's a popular choice among offshore and ocean sailors, including participants in The Ocean Race and The Clipper Race. Its relatively lighter and less bulky design makes it ideal for prolonged wear.

275N Lifejackets: For Extra Buoyancy Needs

In contrast, the 275N lifejacket offers significantly more buoyancy, catering to situations where additional weight, such as tool belts or heavy equipment, is carried. While this extra buoyancy can be beneficial, the increased bulk and weight of the 275N lifejacket can be a drawback. It can be more challenging to swim in or to maneuver into a life raft. This is an important consideration for those who have experienced lifejacket use in sea survival courses.

Choosing the Right Lifejacket

While the 275N lifejacket has its place, the 170N is generally suitable for most people. It's the preferred choice for global sailing competitions like The Ocean Race and The Clipper Race.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does "N" in Lifejackets Mean?

"N" stands for Newtons, a unit of force measurement. Higher newtons indicate greater buoyancy.

Is There a Weight Limit for Lifejackets?

There's no specific weight limit. Lifejackets are designed to float individuals of various sizes and shapes. However, extra weight from equipment might necessitate a higher buoyancy lifejacket like the 275N.

Buoyancy Needs for Children

Spinlock's child lifejackets, like the Deckvest CENTO and NEMO+, are tested to 150N ISO standards but are scaled down for children. The CENTO offers 100N buoyancy, while the NEMO+ provides 45N for infants and 60N for older children.

Selecting the appropriate lifejacket is essential for safety at sea. Whether you're a recreational sailor or engaged in professional maritime activities, understanding the differences in buoyancy and the relevance of ISO standards is key to making an informed choice.