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Regatta Gear: The Leaders in Yachting Gear and Sailing Apparel

Welcome to regatta gear, makers of high-quality sailing and yachting clothing..

Formed over 15 year ago, Regatta Gear has outfitted some of the world’s biggest racing circuits with sailing gear and clothing that keeps up in even the most demanding of situations. With apparel designed especially for both men and women, we have created great fitting pieces made from durable, high-quality materials.

Located right by the water in Newport Beach, we are constantly inspired by the water and the ocean. With a deep understanding of the needs of those constantly in the water, we have created collections of yachting and sailing clothing that is stylish, comfortable, and durable. Regatta Gear also specializes in creating customized team yachting apparel. Our finalized personalized gear will be suited exactly for your team’s functionality, and culture. We have a variety of custom colors, materials, and designs for you to choose from.

Here we only do one thing, and we do it well—the absolute best yachting and clothing gear on the market, with an affordable price point for everyone.  

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If you’re looking for a high performance inshore or offshore sailing jacket to keep you comfortable and dry, whether you’re enjoying the coast, racing in regattas or crossing the Atlantic, our extensive range of inshore and offshore sailing jackets for men and women provide a wide choice of options covering all price points. Browse our full technical waterproof clothing  selection from established brands like  Musto ,  Gill,   Helly Hansen and Pelle Petterson to find the perfect sailing outfit. Be sure to check out our range of sailing suits  too, if you’d like to save on the cost of buying a jacket and  waterproof sailing trousers .

Need help finding the right sailing jackets for your sailing expeditions? Check out our experts’ guide to the best sailing jackets for men and women .

Showing 1–36 of 75 results

Musto MPX Pro Offshore Jacket for Women 2021

Musto BR2 Sport Jacket

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Musto Men’s BR1 Channel Jacket 2024

Helly Hansen Pier 3.0 Jacket 2024

Musto Men’s BR1 Solent Jacket 2024

Gill OS2 Offshore Jacket 2024

Musto Sardinia Jacket 2.0

Musto BR2 Offshore Jacket 2.0 for Women 2024

Musto HPX Ocean Jacket 2022

Gill OS3 Mens Coastal Jacket 2023

Musto HPX Gore-Tex Pro Ocean Jacket 2024

Helly Hansen Skagen Offshore Jacket for Women 2024

Musto BR1 Inshore Jacket For Women 2022

Helly Hansen Skagen Offshore Jacket 2024

Helly Hansen Pier 3.0 Jacket for Women 2024

Musto Evolution GTX Shore Jacket

Musto Corsica Jacket 2.0

Musto MPX Gore-Tex Pro Race Jacket 2.0 2024

Musto LPX GTX Smock

Gill OS2 Offshore Jacket For Women 2024

Helly Hansen Womens Aegir Race Jacket 2.0 2024

Gill OS1 Ocean Smock

Musto Women’s BR1 Channel Jacket 2024

Gill Pilot Jacket 2024

Helly Hansen Aegir Ocean Jacket 2024

Helly Hansen Aegir Race Jacket

Helly Hansen Aegir Race Jacket For Women

Gill OS3 Womens Coastal Jacket 2023

Helly Hansen Aegir Race Jacket 2.0 2024

Musto LPX Jacket GTX

Musto BR1 Inshore Jacket 2022

Musto MPX Gore-Tex Pro Race Offshore Smock 2.0 2024

Helly Hansen Womens Newport Inshore Jacket

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

The best waterproof jacket for your next ocean voyage

• lilyanderson
• November 8, 2023

Everything you need to know about the outerwear that is going to keep you warm and dry wherever you are at sea.

From inspecting the deck for damage to checking the shroud and cotter pins are in good condition, there’s nothing worse than inspecting your yacht without the best waterproof jacket.

When you’re up against some drizzle, a shower or a storm, even the best sailing jackets won’t compete if the waterproofing isn’t up to scratch. With so many options available, you might find it challenging to select the one that meets your specific needs.

Whether you’re searching for the best lightweight waterproof jacket or a waterproof jacket for racing, we’ve put a spotlight on market-leading options so you aren’t steered in the wrong direction.

Best waterproof jacket at a glance

Best waterproof jacket with quick-drying lining –  Gill OS3 Coastal Jacket Best waterproof jacket for heavy rain –  Musto BR2 Coastal Jacket Best lightweight waterproof jacket – Zhik INS200 Coastal Sailing Jacket

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Gill OS3 Coastal Jacket

Best waterproof jacket with quick-drying lining

Specifications: Weight – 2,000g | Sizes – S-XXL | Choice of colours – 3 | Materials – Nylon, Polyester, XPEL

Reasons to buy: It has fully taped seams, hi-vis hood with a two-way adjustment system and a non-absorbent and quick-drying lining. Reasons to avoid:  In colder climates, you’ll want to add a base layer or two.

Gill’s lightweight OS3 fabrics use a fundamentally more sustainable material than the long-running industry standard durable water-repellant (DWR) coatings. These have been used for decades to improve waterproofing. Did you know it’s what makes the water bead off a new jacket?

However, DWR finishes are typically based on fluoropolymers that have toxic by-products which persist in the environment. Instead, Gill’s OS3 range uses a plant-based finish that performs the same function as the DWR coating.

The OS3 jacket is made of a two-layer fabric with a non-absorbent, quick-drying lining. It has a high-visibility hood, adjustable cuffs with PU inner seals, and an internal storm guard. It’s available for men and women.

Buy it now from Amazon

Musto BR2 Coastal Jacket

Best waterproof jacket for heavy rain

Specifications: Weight – Undisclosed | Sizes – S-XXL | Choice of colours – 2 | Materials – Polyamide, Polyester

Reasons to buy: It features a double storm flap, fluorescent hood and fleece-lined handwarmer pockets. Reasons to avoid:  At the pricier end for a waterproof jacket.

This is an ideal mid-range jacket from one of the big-name manufacturers. The two-layer fabric has a significantly higher level of water resistance than inshore products. The higher wet abrasion resistance means that the fabric stays drier for longer which is ideal for when you’re working out on the deck in the rain.

The articulated cut ensures freedom of movement and there’s a double storm flap, fluorescent hood and high fleece-lined collar.

There are also fleece hand warmer pockets, plus two cargo pockets, an internal zipped pocket and a sunglasses pocket. The reflective detailing shows up clearly at night and there are double waterproof cuffs.

Buy it now from Musto

Zhik INS200 Coastal Sailing Jacket

Specifications: Weight – 510g | Sizes – S-XXL | Choice of colours – two | Materials – Vecta, Polyurethane

Reasons to buy: It has three-layer fabric with taped seams, it is fully waterproof and features adjustable cuffs. Reasons to avoid: It is relatively expensive for a coastal jacket.

There’s a lot to be said for choosing the best inshore jacket you can find. It will be lightweight, comfortable to wear, very easy to move around in and is likely to see a lot of use.

Zhik’s INS200 and 300 series are arguably the most carefully designed of all. Both are made of an impressive three-layer fabric with taped seams and have a sculpted fit that minimises excess material.

Decathlon Tribord Sailing Jacket Offshore 900

Best waterproof jacket with a face guard

Specifications: Weight – Undisclosed | Sizes – XS-XXXL | Choice of colours – 3 | Materials – Polyamide, Polyurethane, Polyester, Elastane, Rubber

Reasons to buy: As well as being a competitively priced for an offshore jacket, it was developed with ocean racing skippers Jean-Baptiste Daramy, Achille Nebout, Romain Le Gall and Léo Bothore. It also has a reinforced bottom for improved durability. Reasons to avoid: The women’s version doesn’t include a face guard.

This French company develops and retails its own brand products, but doesn’t change its ranges unnecessarily merely to suit the whims of fashion. The result is long-lasting gear at very competitive prices.

This is the firm’s top-specification offshore jacket, made from a three-layer fabric with four times the waterproofing rating of typical inshore products.

It also has a high collar, adjustable hood with rigid visor, double sleeve seals and two hand warmer pockets. In addition, there are two cargo pockets and a further secure and drier pocket under the storm flap.

Buy it now from Decathlon

Helly Hansen Aegir Race Jacket

Best waterproof jacket for racing 

Specifications: Weight – 1,050g | Sizes – XS-XXL | Choice of colours – 2 | Materials – Polyamide, Polyester

Reasons to buy: It is machine washable, available in a wide range of sizes from S to XXL and is fully taped seams. Reasons to avoid: The large sizing prioritises width over height.

This range was developed with serious ocean racing in mind, with considerable input at the design stage from professional sailors, including the Mapfre team in the last edition of the Volvo Ocean Race .

The Aegir Race Jacket is a premium choice for deep water races that last several days, such as the Rolex Fastnet Race and the Newport-Bermuda.

Smaller pockets and zippers compared to the standard Aegir products create a sleek and light design that makes it easy to move around. A four-layer fabric with a very high level of waterproofing is used and attention to detail is excellent.

Buy it now from Helly Hansen

Gill OS1 Ocean Smock

Best premium waterproof jacket

Specifications: Weight – Undisclosed | Sizes – XS-XXL | Choice of colours – 2 | Materials – Nylon, Polyester

Reasons to buy: The Ocean height collar with a concealed, wrap-around face guard. It has a shackle tool and PLB attachment point. Alongside this, it has features such as the deep cargo pockets with secure closure and hand warmer pockets behind. Reasons to avoid: The premium features on this coat come with a premium price.

Did you know that smocks work much better than jackets for really serious work? Granted, they are not as easy to put on or take off, but the neck seal and lack of a front zip means they are intrinsically far more waterproof.

An additional advantage is that, unlike a big and heavy jacket, they don’t restrict movement which is a plus if you need to wear it while doing repair work on your yacht. The Gill’s OS1 also has all the elements you would expect in a serious ocean specification jacket.

Details such as the high-lined collar, first-class hood, hand warmer pockets and reinforced bottom section make it stand out from others on this list. It also benefits from neoprene cuff and waist seals to keep the water out in testing conditions.

How to choose the best waterproof jacket

Checking how waterproof a jacket is isn’t as simple as you would think. Until you’re out of the open water, you never really know how well the garment will perform until you’re up against the elements.

That said, there are a few features you can look out for to select an option that is waterproof and breathable. We recommend packing a lightweight jacket for a hotter climate or a warm choice for cooler conditions.

Before purchasing, look into if the jacket is made from waterproof material as some coats feature a waterproof coating that isn’t as durable. We’d also recommend checking that it has taped seams and waterproof zips as this is an area where water can get in.

A final tip is to measure the dimensions of the waterproof jacket so it will fit you correctly. More coverage should reduce the amount of water able to squeeze through to the next layer.

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Collection: products, coast jacket - in12j, coast trousers - in125 or os32t, gill cargo bag - l002, gill compact bag - l003, gill dinghy top - 4358 or 4310 or 4350, gill inshore lite jacket - in32j or in31j or in10j, gill inshore lite waist pants - in32t or in10t, gill os1 (was atlantic) trouser, gill os1 jacket - os11j, gill pro dinghy salopettes - 4359 or 4351, gill pro drysuit - 4802, gill pro drysuit - 4804, harness rescue multi-tool - mt008, hot tamale glove non - removable liner - 465, hot tamale glove removable liner - 465, marine tool - mt007.

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• Windbreakers

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Tommy Hilfiger Men's Lightweight Waterproof Regatta Bomber Jacket

Big & Tall

Product details

About this item.

• Made from sustainable materials
• Designed to be light, super versatile, and ready to take on whatever Mother Nature throws at you, Tommy Hilfiger’s essential waterproof jackets for men keep the elements out in classic Tommy style.
• MADE FOR THE RAIN: Tommy Hilfiger’s waterproof mens bomber jacket features a lightweight, water-resistant nylon shell to keep you dry without the weight, while the protective packable hood can be tucked away into the collar on sunnier days.
• COMFORT FIRST: A mesh lining enhances breathability and gives this mens rain jacket an extra comfortable feel.
• ALL IN THE DETAILS: Clever design makes Hilfiger’s rain jackets for men essential on the go, including reverse front pockets that keep hands (and wallets) dry to hook and eye inner pockets and a rib lined collar to keep warmth in and wetness out.

From the manufacturer

• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 22.01 x 10.2 x 3.35 inches; 1.44 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ 78J8336-001
• Department ‏ : ‎ mens
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ January 6, 2024
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Tommy Hilfiger
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C5N6RHLB
• #125 in Men's Windbreakers

Looking for specific info?

Product description.

Layer up in this men's jacket from Tommy Hilfiger when the weather calls for added protection. Lightweight and waterproof. Zip front closure. Mock collar with packable hood. Slight waist open pockets; interior pocket with hook-and-loop closure.

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the appearance, fit, quality and comfort of the jacket. For example, they mention it looks great, feels comfortable and is waterproof.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the fit of the coat. They say it has an accurate size, and is a perfect fit. Some customers also mention that the width is fine but the length barely reaches their waist.

"I’m a big boy and this jacket comes in big and tall sizes . Looks good, feels good and best of all it’s warm! You can tell that it’s high quality too...." Read more

"The product fits fine but after about the fifth or sixth use the zipper began to jan and it is very frustrating to wear since the teeth of the..." Read more

"Great quality and great fit " Read more

"Only one complaint width is fine but length it barely reaches waist , Other than that it's a solid jacket." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the coat. They mention that it looks good, feels good, and is warm. Some say that it's stylish, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down.

"...I found that the X-Large is perfect for me. The jacket looks great , feels comfortable and is waterproof...." Read more

"I’m a big boy and this jacket comes in big and tall sizes. Looks good , feels good and best of all it’s warm! You can tell that it’s high quality too...." Read more

" Love the style and keeps the wind away but isn't water/rainproof hood soaks up rain and eventually the back part" Read more

"This jacket is super nice , feels good, is warm and long enough not to be a dress, but actually fits...." Read more

Customers like the quality of the coat. They mention that it is well designed, made of strong material, and has a hoodie.

"...This is a lightweight jacket; it does not have a heavy lining . It is perfect for spring and fall weather." Read more

"...You can tell that it’s high quality too. I didn’t know Tommy sold big and tall products I will be shopping them in the future...." Read more

"Other than the loose threads jacket is okay" Read more

" Quality is excellent and NOT made in China." Read more

Customers like the waterproofness of the coat.

"...The jacket looks great, feels comfortable and is waterproof . The hood that stores in the collar came in handy on a rainy day just last week...." Read more

"Light weight, warm and water resistant " Read more

" Water proof and very well made." Read more

" Really waterproof ..." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the jacket. They mention that it looks great, feels comfortable, and is waterproof.

"...The jacket looks great, feels comfortable and is waterproof. The hood that stores in the collar came in handy on a rainy day just last week...." Read more

"...Looks good, feels good and best of all it’s warm! You can tell that it’s high quality too...." Read more

"This fits well and is comfortable . It is also waterproof like it says...." Read more

"This jacket is super nice, feels good , is warm and long enough not to be a dress, but actually fits...." Read more

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

We Tested 16 of the Best Lifejackets for Boating and Sailing

• December 15, 2023

We tested 16 of the best lifejackets under £300 to find out what they're really like to use both in and out of the water

With over 3.5 million people in the US alone participating in sailing each year, it’s more important than ever to understand the fundamentals when it comes to being in the open water. One of the most important things any sailor or boater can own is a life jacket. Yes, all of the best lifejackets for boaters conform to a set of minimum ISO standards and are USCG approved, but how do you know which one is actually the best for your personal use and body type?

How to choose the best lifejacket?

From their basic ISO rated start point, all lifejackets take on their own characteristics and design elements. The positioning of the CO2 inflation bottle, the shape of the bladder, the position of the crotch strap and the way it is attached, the location of the whistle, the position of the oral inflation tube and the location of the lifting strop. Some of our lifejackets on test also have sprayhoods and water activated strobe lights.

I comprehensively put these lifejackets through sea survival drills and shoreside scrutiny. To learn more about what the team tested and how we did it, go to the bottom of this buyers guide to see our crew doing their thing.

Each lifejacket has its own review page. If you want a more in-depth review, simply click through to read more.

A note from the Tech Editor: Fox Morgan “I have a confession. I’ve been on boats since I was 4 years old  and it took until I was 32 before I started to wear one regularly. I was commuting to and from my boat daily in some cold and dangerously tidal waters.  A friend and sailing instructor saw me rowing in the dark late at night and reminded me that I will only ever fall in once if I don’t wear a lifejacket.  It was the wakeup I needed. I never go out without one now. In fact I have several for a variety of types of boating I do. My offshore one has a handy pouch for a knife and beacon, but I fill it with snacks sometimes.  The best lifejacket is the one you wear. (especially if it allows for onboard snacks) At a glance

Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket – Best women’s specific lifejacket  – Buy Now

Seago Seaguard 165N – Best budget friendly lifejacket – Buy Now

Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N pro – Best premium costal lifejacket– Buy Now

Spinlock 6D Deckveset – Best offshore lifejacket

Coastal Lifejackets 150-180N

The best lifejackets for boaters and sailors.

fitting and adjusting with Anna

Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket

“best women’s specific lifejacket”.

Specifications:

•  Size: Adult (one size)

•  Colour: White

•  Inflate: Auto inflatable

Reasons to Buy: This lifejacket is cut for women and fits really well over foul weather clothes and light weight layers. It is comfortable and easy to move around in. It is easy to fasten in all conditions. It is easy to repack and easy to check the firing mechanism.

Reasons to Avoid: The bladder might be a bit tight around the neck when inflated wearing a large foul weather jacket collar and this can be uncomfortable.

Verdict: This is an excellent choice of lifejacket for women who do a host of boating activities. High praise from all who tried this lifejacket in the dry.

Read the full Baltic Athena review

Buy Baltic Athena Auto Inflatable Lifejacket from tradeinn.com

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Fox adjusting

Spinlock Deckvest Lite

“best coastal on test for everyday wear and general purpose water activity”.

•  Buoyancy: 170N

•  Material: Nylon

•  Colour: Black Graphite, Pacific Blue, Flow Green, New Bleach White, New Seagrass Green and New Mercury Red

Reasons to Buy: This is a smart looking lifejacket with a slimline feel. There are very few details to get caught or snag. The best feature are that it’s really easy to repack, fits smaller adult body types and has a high visibility bladder.

Reasons to Avoid: This might feel a little restrictive on some people with the over-the-head method of donning. It might not suit larger bodies.

Verdict: This no frills but stylish lifejacket performs well both off and on the water. It is great for everyday wear and is unobtrusive and easy to forget you’re wearing it.

Read the full Spinlock Deckvest review

Buy Spinlock Deckvest Lite from Amazon

Seago Seaguard 165N

Score 69/100

“best budget friendly lifejacket”

•  Buoyancy: 165N

•  Colour:  Navy/grey

Reasons to Buy: Excellent value for money. The cross over bladder design works well. There’s room in the casing to add a sprayhood and light. It also comes in a version with a harness loop.

Reasons to Avoid: There are a few little snaggy areas where the straps or toggles could be tucked away better.

Verdict: We were very pleased with the performance of this lifejacket. Some would argue that it doesn’t look super stylish, but it doesn’t offend either. Where it excels is as a lifejacket in the water, and that’s where it really counts.

Read the full Seago Seaguard review

Buy Seago Seaguard 165N from Amazon

Buy Seago Seaguard from Pirates Cave

checking adjustment

Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N pro

“best premium coastal lifejacket”.

•  Buoyancy: 180N

•  Colour:  Black

•  Features: Soft loop D-ring for attaching harness

Reasons to Buy:  It’s a smart black lifejacket that will blend in with any outfit. If you’re all about minimal, understated style this is the lifejacket for you. Along with being fitted with sprayhood and light as standard, it also has a well designed wide bladder. It is very comfortable when worn day to day. Plus, it’s easy to adjust.

Reasons to Avoid:  At the end of the day unpacking and repacking will take a longer as the rearming the firing mechanism is really fiddly. If you fly regularly with this lifejacket, the CO2 bottle seal will be an annoyance.

Verdict: This is an excellent lifejacket, leading the way with coastal lifejackets that will take you offshore and into the night with its well positioned strobe light and nicely designed sprayhood. The thoughtful design is apparent throughout, but perhaps was taken one step too far with the CO2 bottle anti-unscrew seal feature making it a poor choice for frequent flyers but an excellent choice for people who worry about their CO2 bottles coming unscrewed.

Read the full Crewsaver Crewfit+ review

Buy Crewsaver Crewfit+ 180N Pro from Marinestore

TeamO Micro lifejacket adjustment

TeamO Micro

•  Colour: Black/Orange, Black/Yellow and Blue/Yellow

•  Features: U ltra light weight (approximately 900g),  a djustable waist belt and 170 Newtons of Buoyancy

Reasons to Buy: Super skinny lightweight lifejacket, one of the lightest on test at 860grams.

Reasons to Avoid: A bit of a pig to repack. Very basic with no room for add-ons such as a light or sprayhood

Verdict: The target market for the stylish TeamO Micro is likely to be for those who use RIBs, go day boating and motorboating and for other inshore sheltered water activities. If you want a lifejacket with the smallest footprint, then this may well fit the bill. If you are looking for a lifejacket that you can add to later with additional safety gear, then you might look elsewhere.

Read the full TeamO Micro review

Buy TeamO Micro Ultra Light from sheridanmarine.com

lifejacket worn by Alex

Ocean Safety Sport 170 ADV

•  Colour: Navy, red and carbon

•  Features:  Single crotch strap, side adjustment for bespoke fit and soft loop harness point for safety harness (harness version only)

Reasons to Buy:  One of the reasons to buy this option is that it’s a smart looking lifejacket. It’s also a ocean safety brand is well established and trusted with service centres readily available everywhere. Plus, it has a crossover bladder design.

Reasons to Avoid:  As per a previous test conducted on this lifejacket, it has suboptimal positioning of the CO2 canister on the curve of the bladder which causes it to rotate on inflation and jab into the chest or ribs of the wearer.

Verdict: Whilst there’s no doubt this is a good quality ISO rated lifejacket, it is smart and fits well, adjusts well and functions well in all aspects, however there’s no escaping its shortcomings in respect to the bottle position and the underwhelmingly small sprayhood.

Read the full Ocean Safety Sport review

Buy Ocean Safety Sport ADV from Ocean Safety (UK)

James wearing the lifejacket

Helly Hansen Sail Safe

Score 56/100

•  Size: STD

•  Colour: Navy and alert red

• Fiber content: 100% Polyamide

•  Features:  UML Water activated automatic inflation sensor

Reasons to Buy:  This option is lightweight and easy to stow. It has a no frills design, neat stowage for the crotch strap on the back of the life jacket straps.

Reasons to Avoid:  The performance was adequate in all areas but didn’t excel in any particular area.

Verdict: The Helly Hansen Sail Safe lifejacket is a lightweight coastal lifejacket with the ubiquitous HH branding. You get good performance all over but for the (relatively high) price it does feel that you are paying for a name and higher specified lifejackets are available at a lower price.

Read the full Helly Hansen Sailsafe review

Buy Helly Hansen SailSafe from hellyhansen.com

Toby wearing lifejacket

Waveline lifejacket

Score 61/100

•  Size: Suitable for weights above 40kg

• Material: 600D polyester outer shell and coarse polyester webbing

•  Features:Velcro closure cover and lifting loop

Reasons to Buy: This is the lightest on test and weighs just 800g fully armed. The flat profile is comfortable to wear. The velcro closure makes this life jacket really easy to check the arming mechanism and really easy to re-pack. It’s also very good value for money.

Reasons to Avoid:  If style is something you want to consider, this is probably not the option for you. There’s also nowhere to stow excess webbing after adjustment.

Verdict: The Waveline 165N auto lifejacket is an excellent budget option that works well in the water when inflated and is a no frills option for getting out on the water boating safely. A lightweight and simple lifejacket that is tried and tested the world over.

Read the full Waveline review

Buy Waveline 165N from eBay

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence. Where indicated, items have been tested independently of manufacturers influence.

Offshore lifejackets 190n, spinlock deckvest 6d, “highly commended best all round”.

• Buoyancy: 170N or 275N

• Colour: Black, pacific blue, tropic white, citrus yellow, black with HRS, pacific blue with HRS, tropic white with HRS and citrus yellow with HRS

•  Features:170N autoinflation, harness release system, crotch strap, sprayhood, lumeon bladder illumination, automatic strobe light,  adjustable body height

Reasons to Buy: Its form-fitting sculpted design and bright colour of casing make this a stylish lifejacket. It has excellent elevated lighting and reflective visibility, good snug fit holding the user high in the water and good sprayhood. The harness release system is another good feature.

Reasons to Avoid: The bladder is a darker orange and may not be as visible as some of the brighter bladders available. The extra sculpting can make the lifejacket feel a bit stiff to wear and makes it heavy.

Verdict: This is an outstanding lifejacket with great performance across the score board. The standout features are the lighting, both elevated and lumeon, lighting the entire bladder. The essentials are labels and easy to find and this feels like a lifejacket that has really been designed with the user in mind. Every query has been answered. If we were challenged to find a way to improve this, we’re really not sure how we would.

Read the full Spinlock Deckvest 6D review

Buy Spinlock Deckvest 6D from marinesuperstore.com

Mustang Atlas 190 lifejacket

“raises the bar in bladder design”.

Specifications: 

• Buoyancy: 180N • Colour: Black, Red/Black • Weight 1.2kg •  Features: Pro Sensor auto inflation, crotch strap, pram style sprayhood, automatic strobe light, smart bladder design

Reasons to Buy: Very comfortable, innovative bladder design, high freeboard, understated casing design

Reasons to Avoid: Conservative outer styling might not appeal to those who like to make a statement.

From the outside the casing looks pretty standard and dare I say it a bit bland. It doesn’t shout look at me, which I suspect will have as many nods of approval as there will be shrugs of where’s the pizzazz?

It has a smooth contoured shape to fit the body and once it’s on you can easily forget you’re wearing it. The back section is cut low and doesn’t impede on a collar or the back of your neck.

The weight is also distributed nicely across the whole body so there’s no hot spots. I tried this on over the top of a T-shirt and then later with a lightweight foul weather jacket and both options were comfortable.  The quick adjust side buckles are a familiar premium feature and the tail end excess is dealt with neatly with velcro loops.

Where the lifejacket really shines though is when it is deployed as an inflated bladder. The shape is really unlike all other lifejackets currently available. The bladder at the front is more pointed or conical, with additional wave baffles built into it. This acts doubly to make waves pass around you and those that hit directly are baffled by the webs. There’s an additional little “pillow” to raise your head further still and this gives a feeling of really being raised out of the water.

The sprayhood has a pram-style arch support which keeps it from collapsing on your head and keeps the plastic away from your face. It also makes it very easy to deploy and pull forward.  Two loops pull down and go over each bladder end.

They’ve thought about emergency beacon positioning too, though these were still being certified for use at the time of testing. There’s a dedicated area for a personal locator beacon or personal AIS beacon to attach to on the right-hand lower bladder section which is unencumbered by the sprayhood.

In the water I was able to scull backwards and maneuver really easily as there was plenty of room for arm articulation. I strongly believe that all other lifejacket manufacturers are going to have to up their game in terms of bladder design. The Mustang Atlas 190 DLX has set the bar very high indeed.

Baltic Force 

•  Size: Adult

• Colour: Black

•  Features:Integrated safety harness with twin loops for attaching the safety line and detachable crutch strap.

Reasons to Buy:  The larger/longer bladder provides higher buoyancy and the smart outer casing looks stylish. It also comes in a range of specification levels to suit individual needs.

Reasons to Avoid: This test model version comes without a sprayhood or light which would be essential for any offshore or coastal use after dark. Make sure you opt for the higher spec model.

Verdict: This is without doubt a highly capable lifejacket. It fits well both shoreside and in the water. The extra buoyancy is noticeable in the longer bladder. We were unable to test the fully fledged offshore equipped lifejacket and if this lifejacket suits you, then make sure you opt for that extra specification.

Read the full Baltic Force review

Buy Baltic Force from tradeinn.com

Toni wearing Seago 3Dynamic 190N lifejacket

Seago 3Dynamic

Score 62/100

•  Chest size: 55 to 140cm

•  Buoyancy: 300N

• Colour: Carbon/black

•  Features: Double crutch strap, pro sensor firing head, neoprene collar,  harness included

Reasons to Buy:  This lifejacket looks smart and generally well sculpted to form fit. The bladder has a crossover design to stop waves funneling into your face.

Reasons to Avoid:  It is really difficult to re-pack after inflation/re-arming. It also has a poorly designed sprayhood, the light us poorly positioned and might be a bit snug on larger people.

Verdict: The Seago 3Dynamic looks to offer so much on paper but in practice we found it had one too many compromises for our tastes. It is comfortable, but repacking is a real faff. the buckle was fiddly and the sprayhood was subpar. A little more thought into the layout and practicalities of this lifejacket could turn it around though to be a solid contender.

Read the full Seago 3Dynamic review

Buy Seago 3Dynamic from eBay

worn by Anna

TeamO Backtow

“highest scoring on test”.

Reasons to Buy:  This lifejacket has a smart sculpted design, excellent sprayhood and innovative design with backtow harness.

Reasons to Avoid:  If you deploy the backtow, you’re going to need to know how to put that back together or take it to a service centre.

Verdict: A truly excellent lifejacket with innovation at its heart and the user practicality forefront.  The complexity of the backtow element means that rearming it in a hurry, unless you’re a dab hand already and have practiced shoreside, might leave you reaching for the spare lifejacket and sending this one off for someone else to do it for you.

Read the full TeamO Backtow review

Buy TeamO Backtow from promarinestore.co.uk

Ocean Safety Sport Pro 170 ADV

Score 78/100

• Colour: Carbon / Sky

•  Features:  Pro sensor with indicator window,  spray hood, s torage pocket

Reasons to Buy: smart stylish design from a reputable brand, neat built in stowage pocket suitable for a PLB

Reasons to Avoid: small sprayhood feels claustrophobic and too tight around the head, the trigger toggle should have better stowage to avoid accidental trigger or to avoid unsafe tucking away by users.

Verdict: This is a comfortable, sturdy, good quality and relatively well specified lifejacket at a good price. It has some great features and comes as standard with the basic equipment for going out of sight of land at night. The crossover bladder is a good design to stop waves funneling into the face, but we would advise to upgrade the sprayhood and light position to have a better in-water performance should you ever need it.

Read the full Ocean Safety Sport Pro review

Buy Ocean Safety Sport Pro 170N ADV from marinestore.com

Spinlock Vito 170N Hammar

• Buoyancy: 170N

•  Features: Pylon Lifejacket Light™, Lume-On™, Toggle attachment point for optional Chest Pack (DW-PCC)

Reasons to Buy: One of the best sprayhoods we’ve tested, low profile lifejacket casing, Hammar trigger means you can use this in wild sailing conditions without accidental triggering.

Reasons to Avoid: Hammar trigger means re-arming this is a faff. Quite rigid construction, might not fit smaller people as adjustment will go as small as a size 8 European female.

Verdict: This is used by a variety of professional teams, including Volvo ocean racers. The Hammar trigger mechanism is a matter for you to decide if it’s right for you. They do sell the Vito with the pro sensor trigger too. The over the head donning is a love it or loathe it style and whilst it can feel very secure and the harness loop is excellent, passing this over your head, large collar and other foulies in a rush can feel a bit claustrophobic. The back is low cut though and the sprayhood is stowed in a back panel keeping the bulk away from the collar area. It is an excellent lifejacket and has scored highly in our early test scores. The full test review is coming soon,

Buy Spinlock Vito 170N Hammar from thewetworks.co.uk

Ocean Lifejackets 270N +

Spinlock deckvest 6d 275n.

Full review coming soon…

•  Features:  Pro sensor automatic inflation, spinlock harness release system, structured spray hood

Reasons to Buy:  It has a larger capacity bladder for superior righting and buoyancy. It can have HRS facility and is compatibility with other spinlock products.

Reasons to Avoid:  It feels noticeably larger/bulkier than a 190N. It might impede access to liferaft if you are a smaller person.

Verdict:  Our pool tester Phil noted how much confidence this lifejacket inspired in the water. The bladder is significantly larger and provides a much greater buoyancy and visibility. It is large though, so we don’t recommend this for day to day sailing. The weight of the lifejacket comes in at 1529grams, which is 200g more than the standard 170N deckvest. This might not seem a great deal but over the course of a day, wearing this might be quite fatiguing. Of course, if you are wearing a large immersion suit or other bulky clothes or dry suit for use in deep ocean conditions, you will be very glad of the extra this lifejacket offers.

 Buy Spinlock Deckvest 6D 275N from piratescave.co.uk

Our previously tested lifejackets from 2017 Group test

Baltic 150 Race SL lifejacket

Read the full review for the baltic race sl lifejacket.

•  Size: ‎50-110 Kg

•  Features: Anti tangle back, padded shoulders, integrated safety harness, etro-reflective patches, whistle and detachable crutch strap

Reasons to Buy:  It has good padding and a metal harness tether loop.

Reasons to Avoid:  The lifejacket’s smaller buoyancy meant a slower roll over time.

Verdict: The padding was comfortable, although the inflation tube and light assembly inside the lifejacket sat over the collar bone, which could create a pressure point over time. Unlike the longer bladder of the other Baltic lifejackets, this had a shorter, higher bladder with more rounded lobes. The standard Baltic hood had a good support arch, but the elastic straps tended to slip off the bladder. It also let spray in.

Buy it now on Amazon

Crewsaver Ergofit+ 190N lifejacket

Read the full review of crewsaver ergofit 190.

•  Buoyancy: ‎190N

•  Features: Three-layer cover, inflatable chin support, stainless steel buckle, AIS and MOB Lifesavers compatible

Reasons to Buy: Impressive buoyancy and has an excellent sprayhood.

Reasons to Avoid:  It’s a little rigid and bulky.

Verdict: If performance in the water is the most important aspect of a lifejacket, the Ergofit+ 190N was streets ahead of the other lifejackets tested. It was one of the fastest to inflate, but more importantly it was a good second or two ahead on the rotation test. It was very difficult for the tester to get onto their front to begin the test at all, and they spun over in close to one second. The Crewsaver Ergofit+ 190N also produced the best freeboard figures with up to 4cm more than some of the other lifejackets.

Buy it now on eBay (marinesuperstore)

Buy it now from Gael Force Marine

Helly Hansen Sailsafe Race 170 Auto lifejacket

Read the full review of the helly hansen sailsafe race.

•  Buoyancy: ‎170N

•  Features:  Hammar Hydrostatic pressure automatic inflation sensor, SOLAS approved Reflective elements, 5000N reinforced grab loop

Reasons to Buy:  The hammar has an auto activation function and is fast to inflate.

Reasons to Avoid:  The thigh straps might not be for everyone and its buckles slip too easily.

Verdict: Hammar inflation and an inspection window make checking and maintaining the lifejacket simple. It sits flat against the body but includes space to add in an MOB beacon or PLB. The thigh straps are slightly more complex to fit, they need to be snug so they don’t slip down and limit movement. The lifejacket was the fastest to inflate on test (2017) The hood is well-made with a supporting arch and good ventilation at the sides and front, and well-located reflective strips.

Buy it now on Hellyhansen.com

The back length is adjustable, one of only two lifejackets to offer this

Plastimo SL 180 lifejacket

Read the full review of the plastimo sl 170.

•  Buoyancy: ‎180N

•  Features: Double thigh support, retro-reflective tape, quick-closing zip

Reasons to Buy:  The adjustable back, good maneuverability in the water and storage for MOB built-in make this a good lifejacket for your yacht.

Reasons to Avoid:  It has a slightly disconcerting soft feel when inflated compared to other conventionally constructed lifejackets.

Verdict: With adjustable back length, (one of only a couple of lifejackets to offer this) and inspection windowvia dedicated zip opening and a separate stowage place for a personal beacon, this is a versatile lifejacket.

This jacket is designed to remain soft and flexible once inflated. We found this disconcerting initially as it felt like it had not fully inflated. The sewn-in sprayhood was easy to find with a string to pull forwards. The oral inflation tube was less simple to use.

Buy it now on tradeinn.com

Lifejackets group test – what we scored our lifejackets on

Adjust speed ease difficulty

Our testers checked how easy and quickly our lifejackets were able to change from full foulies, then down to a t-shirt then back again. The double adjuster was a popular method and was scored highly by our testers.

Fastening buckle ease with gloves

The ease with which we can fasten and unfasten the various buckles, including with gloves or cold hands. Seabelt style buckles were generally scored very highly.

Comfort men women body size

Front cross-over design

The cut and design of lifejackets varies a lot. From high cut waistcoat styles that suited the men or wider shouldered and taller people and the longer in the body cut lifejackets tended to suit a slimmer person with a waist for the lifejacket to cinch into.

Practicality . bulk snagging

Waistband stowage

Some lifejackets have been well thought through. What do we do with the long surplus piece of webbing? what about all the flappy strappy bits? Are they neatly stowed? Lifejackets that had better stowage of surplus dangly bits were scored highly.

Manual inflated view and fitment

We tried all of the lifejackets shoreside, manually inflated and looked for the essential gear, whether it fell readily to hand and how the lifejacket fitted around the body in its fully inflated lifejaclet mode. A couple of the lifejackets had top up tubes that were a bit of a stretch to reach and some were difficult to locate the whistle or lifting strop.

Ease of checking and repacking

Repacking the lifejacket

Some of our lifejackets just slipped back into their casing without a fuss, others didn’t want to go back in without a bit of a wrestle. The velcro closure lifejackets are the easiest and the tightly packed ones with all the bells and whistles required a little more consideration to careful tucking and folding. Most had easy access to check the arming mechanism within a few brief seconds.

Phil during the pool test with sprayhood deployed

Where a lifejacket was fitted with a sprayhood we scored it. Some sprayhood were considerably better designed than others. Of the coastal lifejackets on test the Crewsaver was outstanding.

Personal Beacon stowage

The offshore lifejackets should reasonably be expected to have adequate stowage provision for a personal locator beacon or AIS.  Some were much better equipped than others. The Ocean Safety Sport Pro ADV has a pocket built in, the Spinlock Deckvest 6D has an optional side pouch which is excellent.

In water testing

Plunge test

We tested every lifejacket in the pool and ran each one through basic personal sea survival drills, from manual inflation, auto inflation, swimming, rafting and climbing into a liferaft, we looked at the performance of all our best lifejackets for boaters in general use.

It is clear to see that all lifejackets are not made equal. Certainly not in how they feel from person to person.

Whilst all of our lifejackets on test performed well according to basic safety standards, they all have elements that could be tweeked and adjusted to be better functioning or designed and all of them have their unique selling points.

A final note from the Tech Editor : Fox Morgan My personal favourite lifejacket is the old Kru Sport, as it fits me so well. They no longer make this waistcoat style model, but the sprayhood and equipment storage capacity on this one is excellent. My AIS beacon fits on a webbing belt on the bladder. I familiarise myself with my lifejacket manually inflated once or twice a year or before every big offshore race. I inspect it on a regular basis and check the arming mechanism before every outing. Once you have chosen the best lifejacket that suits your needs, make sure you get to know it well. Not just in it’s rolled away form, but as a lifejacket, inflated. Know where your essential safety kit is stowed. Where is the whistle and lifting strop? Put your lifejacket on and feel around for them. Store this in your memory. The least sensible time to be doing this for the first time is when you actually need them.

Our lifejacket testing team were:

Alex :  Professional Skipper of traditional sailing vessels (Charlestown Harbour)

Paula : Chief at Charlestown Harbour

Toni : Ex RNLI lifeaboatman, Ex Brixham fisherman, Professional skipper and owner of traditional sailing and fishing vessels

Phil : Ex Lifeboatman, Ex Brixham fisherman, Ex Navy Chief Engineer, Principle sea survival skills training officer, Professional Skipper and University HE lecturer.

Anna :  Clipper Sailing Crew and experienced offshore sailor/racer

James : Retired GP and experienced offshore sailor/racer

Mike : Outward bound sailing instructor, poolside safety and drills at Western Maritime Training

Toby : Experienced sailor and dinghy racer, Senior writer at Future Marine Group

Fox : Professional sailing skipper, experienced offshore sailor/racer, Senior HE University lecturer, Tech Ed at Future Marine Group

Our lifejacket testing was held over several days.

Our dry testing day was hosted by Charlestown Harbour.

We tested all of our lifejackets for the ease of adjustment from wearing it over bulky clothes to t-shirts and then back to bulky clothes.

We looked at how easy or difficult our lifejackets were to fasten and unfasten and then try that again with cold hands or with gloves on.

We looked at the fitment of crotch straps and for any loose or dangling straps or toggles that might get snagged by accident when worn in a marine environment.

We manually inflated all of our lifejackets and assessed their onboard equipment and location. Some lifejackets have the minimum or lifting strop, whistle and top up tube, others have spray hoods fitted and lights. We assessed how easy those items were to find and use when wearing the lifejacket inflated.

Where suitable, we looked at where a personal locator beacon or personal ais beacon would fit on or within the lifejacket casing or bladder.

We packed away our lifejackets and assessed how easy or difficult they were to stow back into their casings. While we were doing this, we also looked at how easy it would be to rearm a lifejacket if it had been triggered.

Our Pool testing day was held in Plymouth Life Centre Diving Pool and organised by Western Maritime Training.

In the pool we had a liferaft set in place for us to run through standard sea survival drills and practice. Western Maritime Training kindly set the pool up for us as per standard STCW personal survival techniques training days .

We highly recommend that anyone who spends time heading out of sight of land for leisure or pleasure should consider doing this course.

While we were in the pool area, we assessed the manual trigger mechanism and auto inflate mechanism of lifejackets. How hard is it to pull the trigger to activate the gas canister or when auto inflating, did the lifejacket turn us over quickly?

We assessed the comfort of the lifejacket when inflated and how easy or difficult they are to readjust whilst in the water. such as tightening crotch straps or cinching in waistbands.

Where lifejackets were fitted with a sprayhood, we looked at how easy it was to locate and pull over the bladder, checking its effectiveness/practicality.

We formed a human safety circle and assessed what practical grab holds our lifejackets had, then we climbed into a liferaft, also checking for practical use and ability to physically handle a person giving them assistance to enter the liferaft.

After testing

We hung up our inflated lifejackets to dry and confirmed that all remained fully inflated for well over 48hours. In fact all of our test lifejackets remained inflated for two weeks, by which time only one of them had slightly started to soften.

What’s the scores?

Each lifejacket was independently scored by members of the testing team.

We took those scores and averaged them for each criteria.

We added up the individual element scores and converted this to a percentage rating.

Throughout the process all notes were taken from our testers and those comments can be seen in each review and within our buyers guide.

Note: all of our lifejackets tested conform to either  ISO 12402-3 (coastal/non harness) or iSO 12401 (harness versions), and this means that they all meet the basic safety standards you would expect from a lifejacket.

In order to conduct unbiased testing, our test team were given full freedom to test and evaluate the lifejackets presented to them on the tests days. their opinions are made in a professional capacity and skippers and end users of the products and are a result of direct hands on experience. this does not override any official safety rating or certification. legal disclaimer is available here.

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Thursday Briefing

Signs suggest that Israel will likely invade Rafah.

By Daniel E. Slotnik

Israel’s invasion of Rafah seems inevitable

After weeks of delays, negotiations and distractions, Israel appeared to hint this week that its assault of Rafah was all but inevitable .

Israeli warplanes bombed Rafah this week, and an Israeli official said that if an invasion began, civilians would be relocated to a safe zone on the Mediterranean coast.

Israel insists that invading Rafah, a southern city where more than a million Gazans are sheltering, is necessary to eliminate the militants hiding in a network of tunnels there and to ensure the release of hostages. The U.S. has pushed back against Israel conducting a major military operation there without a detailed plan to protect civilians.

At the moment, Hamas is bottled up in southern Gaza, heavy fighting has mostly subsided, a cease-fire remains possible and delaying helps placate American officials who are against the invasion. Some analysts have even suggested that Israel may never invade Rafah and that the threat is merely leverage against Hamas during negotiations.

But most officials and analysts said that an assault on the city was not a matter of if, but of when.

UNRWA: Germany said it would resume funding for the main U.N. agency aiding Gazans after an independent review found that Israel had not provided evidence that members of the agency were tied to Hamas.

Hostage: Hamas released a video showing Hersh Goldberg-Polin , an Israeli American dual citizen held hostage by the group. Goldberg-Polin was badly wounded during the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

Biden said weapons will flow to Ukraine ‘within hours’

President Biden signed a long-delayed $95.3 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan yesterday, saying that weapons would be bound for Ukraine “within hours.”

“It’s going to make the world safer,” Biden said. “And it continues America’s leadership in the world.”

Senator Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky who is the chamber’s minority leader, was crucial to helping the aid pass after months of congressional gridlock because of isolationist Republicans.

The package also includes $1 billion in humanitarian aid for Gaza and $15 billion in military aid for Israel. Biden reiterated that his commitment to Israel was “ironclad,” even though there is a growing backlash to American support for Israeli forces in Gaza.

More Ukraine news:

Here’s how the aid could help Ukraine .

The U.S. last week secretly shipped a new long-range missile system to Ukraine .

Life continues in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, despite a devastating bombing campaign .

Arizona charged Trump allies in an election interference case

Rudy Giuliani, Mark Meadows, Boris Epshteyn and several others who advised Donald Trump during the 2020 election, as well as the fake electors who tried to keep him in power after he lost, were indicted in Arizona yesterday .

The indictment includes conspiracy, fraud and forgery charges, related to alleged attempts by those charged to overturn the 2020 election results. Trump, who is on trial in Manhattan, was named as an unindicted co-conspirator.

MORE TOP NEWS

London: Several runaway military horses galloped through the streets yesterday, turning an ordinary rush hour into a spectacle.

U.S.: Tense scenes of protest against the war in Gaza continued at universities across the country. Mike Johnson, the House speaker, said during a visit to Columbia University in New York that “ there is an appropriate time for the National Guard ” to end protests. Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, described pro-Palestinian protesters as “ antisemitic mobs .”

Myanmar: The country’s military junta recaptured the town of Myawaddy , an important trading hub on the border with Thailand, reversing a victory from resistance soldiers.

Diplomacy: Antony Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, began a three-day trip to China as tensions over trade, territorial disputes and national security threaten to derail relations.

NATO: About 90,000 NATO troops have been training in Europe this spring to prepare for a clash between Russia and the West that they hope will never come .

Spain: Pedro Sánchez, Spain’s prime minister, said that he was considering resigning after a judge opened an investigation into whether his wife, Begoña Gomez, had abused her position.

TikTok: U.S. lawmakers and aides spent nearly a year secretly drafting and bulletproofing a bill to force the sale of the social media company.

Meta: Profits for Facebook and Instagram’s parent company more than doubled in the first quarter of 2024. The company said it planned to spend billions of dollars more on its artificial intelligence efforts .

British Soccer

Premier League: Luton Town F.C. jumped into the highest level of English soccer , revamping its town’s image.

Undefeated: The Queens Park Ladies, an under-12 girls’ soccer team in Bournemouth, England, won all 22 of its matches , all against boys’ teams.

MORNING READ

A growing crew of virtual-assistant apps combine artificial intelligence and human labor to help parents manage their family lives.

These apps are styled like cutesy helpmates, with names like Yohana, Ohai and Milo. My colleague Amanda Hess tried Yohana , finding “that the busywork I might delegate to a machine is actually more human, and valuable, than I realized.”

CONVERSATION STARTERS

A pricey painting: “Portrait of Fräulein Lieser,” a long-lost 1917 painting by Gustav Klimt, sold yesterday for 35 million euros to an unnamed buyer.

Meta style: Silver chains. Shearling jackets. Mark Zuckerberg, the company’s chief executive, has ditched his gray T-shirts for clothes that suggest “the kinder, gentler face of technology,” our chief fashion critic writes .

Eternal scaffolding: New York’s protective barriers can stand over sidewalks for years .

SPORTS NEWS

The UEFA Youth League: So much more than a teenage Champions League .

Proposal to change tennis: The Grand Slams present their premium tour plan .

Formula 1 safety cars: How they work and ideas for improvements.

ARTS AND IDEAS

Debating ‘tortured poets’.

“The Tortured Poets Department,” Taylor Swift’s lengthy excavation of her recent relationships, is not as universally loved as some of her other albums. Our pop music critics discussed the album’s sound, themes and reception.

“This feels like an album designed for her top 5 percent of listeners — the ride-or-dies who will defend her every move and pore over her every lyrical clue,” said Lindsay Zoladz, who reviewed the album. “Everyone else seems either puzzled or underwhelmed by it as a whole. But Swift is someone who thrives off feeling underestimated and misunderstood, so maybe the mixed reception of this album will be the creative rocket fuel that launches her into her next era.”

Here’s the rest of our critics’ conversation .

RECOMMENDATIONS

Cook: A simple miso roasted salmon can be both sustenance and self-care.

Read: “ The Paris Novel ,” by Ruth Reichl, is a rich ode to the city’s food scene.

Consider: Some nasal sprays can lead to dependence.

Listen: Check out some of the best songs from members of this year’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class .

Exercise: These earbuds won’t fall out during your workout.

Play the Spelling Bee . And here are today’s Mini Crossword and Wordle . You can find all our puzzles here .

That’s it for today’s briefing. Thank you for spending part of your morning with us, and see you tomorrow. — Dan

You can reach Dan and the team at [email protected] .

Daniel E. Slotnik is a general assignment reporter on the Metro desk and a 2020 New York Times reporting fellow. More about Daniel E. Slotnik

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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