Wakeboarding is a sport that grew out of random actions on the water, and quickly became very popular. Riding a wakeboard behind a speeding board provides the thrill, excitement and wild emotions that few sports out there can offer. It's no wonder that many people, young and old, want to try it out. Those lucky enough to live near a beach sometimes make it a professional sport. There's even a Wakeboarding Foundation that helps new people get into this activity. But before you go plunging head first into the sea, it's good to review some of the safety equipment as a starting step, and among that equipment stands the life vest. Here's what you need to know about wakeboarding life vests.
First, you need to understand what wakeboarding is, and the risks involved. When you're on a wakeboard, a solid board made of foam or honeycomb that's barely wider than you, and going at the speed of a moving car, being dragged by a boat, the risk is not insignificant. What typically happens is that you lose control of the board, and plunge head first into water. Normally, that's fine, assuming you can swim. But chances are you'll be in the ocean, rather far from the people in the boat, alone with the waves. A good life vest in this case is crucial. You also can't necessarily use a typical emergency life vest, because those tend to be uncomfortable when worn for long periods of times.
There are many types and models of life vests. They also come in many designs and colors. Some of them are approved by the US Coast Guard, and typically display a "USCG Approved" logo. These are tested for quality control, and it could be a factor that influences your buying choice. Another factor to keep in mind is the material used for the vest. Not all wakeboarding life vests are made of the same thing. Some use neoprene fabric, while others use nylon. Typically, neoprene vests are more comfortable than nylon, because they are softer. They also offer an easier freedom of movement. However, nylon vests will usually be less expensive. So it's a trade off you need to work with.
Of course, life vests also come in many sizes, and some are made specifically for men or women, so you need to make sure you buy the right one. The vest should fit you comfortably, but when you pull on the shoulder, your head shouldn't go through the opening, otherwise you risk losing the vest when floating out there. Overall, wakeboarding life vests are quite useful, and needed as a precaution. They aren't that expensive, and well worth getting if you intend to try the sport.
