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Updated on 4/24/2024
By Abigail Scott
I'm Abigail Scott, an author, adventurer, and mother of three. When I'm not navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood, you can find me tackling the turbulent waters as a professional whitewater kayaker or scaling impressive rock faces as a climbing guide. The rush of adrenaline, whether from kayaking or climbing, is a feeling I cherish deeply. But the thrill doesn't stop there; I capture the breathtaking allure of nature through my lens as a professional photographer. And when I'm not submerged in the wild, my software engineering skills amplify my outdoor pursuits, allowing me to harness technology in unique ways. Through my writings, whether articles or blog posts, I share not just my adventures but my heart, hoping to spark a flame of inspiration in others to break boundaries and experience the world's wonders.
Learn More about Abigail Scott
I purchased the O'Neill Men's Reactor USCG Life Vest for myself and I am extremely satisfied with its performance and quality. This life vest is USCG Approved and serves as a Personal Flotation Device, making it perfect for wake sports, waterskiing, tubing, and swimming.
One of the standout features of this life vest is its segmented foam core and anatomical flex points, which allow for unrestricted movement. I found this to be crucial while engaging in water activities as it provides a comfortable and natural range of motion.
Another aspect that impressed me is the quick release safety buckles and heavy-duty front zipper, which create an unparalleled sense of security. I felt confident knowing that the vest would stay securely in place during my water adventures.
The minimal bulk design of this life vest is a major advantage as it allows for full mobility without feeling weighed down. Additionally, the expansion panels ensure a comfortable and snug fit for extended periods of wear.
Comparing the O'Neill Men's Reactor USCG Life Vest to the O'Neill Assault Life Vest, I noticed a few key differences. Firstly, the assault vest zips a couple of inches higher than the reactor vest. Secondly, the assault vest comes with two blocks of extra padding for lower back support. These blocks are about 1/2-3/4 of an inch thick, providing added comfort for those with lower back issues. It is important to note that I measured myself and my son and ordered the corresponding sizes listed in the neoprene size chart, and the vests were spot on to the chart.
I also want to address the weight limit of this life vest. I purchased the XXL size as a gift for my nephew who was about 5'9" and weighed close to 300 lbs (he has since lost weight). The XXL size fit him perfectly. However, if you are looking for a life vest for someone much taller and weighing about 350 lbs, I would recommend opting for the XXXL size. Rest assured, this life vest is of excellent quality.
Regarding its approvals, this O'Neill Men's Reactor USCG Life Vest is approved by Transport Canada.
Finally, for those concerned about its buoyancy for a larger person, I can confidently say that it will keep a 340 lb man afloat without any issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the differneces between this one and the Oneil Assult life vest?
I purchased the reactor life vest for myself and the assault life vest for my son. I see two big differences. With the two side by side; 1) the assault vest looks to zip a couple inches higher than the reactor vest. 2) the assault vest comes with two blocks of extra padding for lower back support. The blocks themselves are only about 1/2-3/4 of an inch thick so I could see the benefit in that if you lower back issues. I wouldn’t take the assaults lower back support into account while measuring either. I did measure myself and my son and got the corresponding sizes listed in the neoprene size chart and the vest were spot on to the chart. Use a cloth tape measure and order accordingly.
Weight limit
I got the XXL for a present for my nephew who was about 5'9" and weighed close to 300 lbs (he has since lost weight) and it fit him perfectly. I think if you are looking for someone who is much taller and weighs about 350, I would recommend the XXXL for sure. This item is good quality though and would recommend.
Is this transport Canada approves?
Yes
Will it keep 340lb man afloat
Yes
