Unterschied Schwimmweste vs. Rettungsweste – kann man eine stylische Schwimmweste auch auf dem Boot verwenden?

Difference between life jacket and life jacket – can you use a stylish life jacket on a boat?

Anyone who is out on or in the water with children is often faced with the question: Do we need a life jacket or a life jacket?
Especially when it comes to stylish models that match your outfit and are functional at the same time, the question quickly arises: Can I simply use a cool life jacket for the boat?

We'll explain the key differences and tell you when which vest is the right choice.

What is a life jacket?

A life jacket is primarily a learning aid .
It helps children learn the correct swimming technique in the water by supporting the body without restricting freedom of movement.
It is not a rescue device and is not designed to turn an unconscious person onto their back.

Typical areas of application:

  • Swimming pool
  • Beach and shallow water
  • Playing in the pool

  • Swimming training in the lake

What is a life jacket?

A life jacket is an approved safety product for emergencies.
It has sufficient buoyancy to automatically turn a person – even unconscious – onto their back so that their mouth and nose remain above water.
Life jackets are certified (e.g. according to ISO or DIN standards) and are mandatory on board many boats.

Typical areas of application:

  • Boat trips
  • Sailing
  • Water sports with increased risk

  • Situations where quick help is not available

Are you allowed to wear a life jacket on the boat?

In short: No – not as a replacement for a life jacket.
A life jacket is not suitable for emergency situations.
A certified life jacket is mandatory on the boat as soon as you are on open water.

But:
Many parents also use a life jacket – for example, while children are splashing around in the harbor basin or when swimming from a boat in calm seas.
In this case, it serves its purpose as a learning and playing aid and can look stylish at the same time.

Conclusion

  • Life jacket: perfect for learning to swim, playing & splashing
  • Life jacket: essential for safety on the boat

  • Anyone who goes out on the water with children should always keep both in mind – safety comes first, and style is the nice extra.

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