Buoyancy Aids and Life Jackets Range

Buoyancy aid or lifejacket: what's the difference?

The two families are set apart by their buoyancy level, measured in newtons (N) for a reference wearer of 70 kg. Below 100 N you have a buoyancy aid (50N and 70N, EN ISO 12402-5 standard): it keeps you afloat but assumes you can swim and hold your own head above water. From 100 N upwards you have a true lifejacket, the only device able to turn an unconscious person onto their back and keep their airway clear. For kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing and rafting, where falls are frequent but the bank is close, a foam buoyancy aid remains the most practical and comfortable choice for paddling.

Choosing the right buoyancy aid

The right buoyancy level

• 50N: recreation on calm water, lakes and family sessions. Light and low-profile.
• 70N: whitewater, sea, expedition and intensive use. Extra buoyancy with full freedom of movement.
• 100N and above (lifejacket): children under 30 kg, non-swimmers, maximum safety.

Cut and adjustment

A good paddling vest is shorter than a classic jacket so it won't ride up when you sit, cut away under the arms with wide armholes. Adjust it to your chest size using the side straps: it should sit snug without restricting breathing or your paddle stroke. Always check the CE mark and the EN ISO 12402 standard, along with the stated weight range.

Our buoyancy aid and lifejacket range

Aquadesign manufactures the full chain, from recreation to professional rescue:

• 50N buoyancy aids: Slider, Zoom, Upano and the Kaaki fishing model, ideal for recreation and beginners.
• 70N buoyancy aids: Trek, Twist Club, Centre, Trisuli and Outdoor, built for whitewater and heavy use.
• 140N buoyancy aids: the Expédition models, dedicated to rafting and big rivers.
• Children's lifejackets: Piko and Kid 100N to protect the youngest paddlers.
• Dog flotation vests: take your companion out safely.

Whitewater, rafting and rescue: our technical vests

On whitewater, wearing a vest is compulsory and the cut makes all the difference. Our 70N models such as the Centre Club and the Rescue are made for the river: abrasion-resistant Cordura fabric, high-density PVC foam and plenty of adjustment for a perfect fit through the rapids. For rafting, the 140N Expédition vests deliver the extra reserve buoyancy suited to high flows. Round out your safety kit with our rescue range (throw lines, releasable tow systems, knives) for supervision from Class III.

Kitting out a club, watersports centre or authority

Our Club and Pro ranges are designed for rental and shared use: rugged foam, reinforced stitching, minimal upkeep and colour-coded sizing spotted at a glance. As a manufacturer, we offer trade pricing and direct after-sales support to clubs, rental bases, instructors and local authorities. Need to equip a fleet of fishing, kayak or canoe-kayak vests? Contact us for a quote matched to your volume.

Why choose Aquadesign

A French brand, Aquadesign has been developing its vests since 1988 for the most demanding rivers. We favour durable materials, certified buoyancy that meets CE / EN ISO 12402 requirements and field-tested design, far from low-cost products. Choosing Aquadesign means the expertise of a whitewater specialist and responsive after-sales service.

Frequently asked questions about buoyancy aids and lifejackets