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Inflatable belt packs are popular for lounging, but they are the wrong choice — and often not legal — for tow sports. This is a safety distinction worth understanding clearly.
Why belt packs fall short for towing
A belt-pack PFD must be manually inflated and isn’t rated for high-impact water entry or for non-swimmers and kids. Hit the water at tow speed and you may be stunned or unable to deploy it. They’re not appropriate for tubing, skiing, wakeboarding, or wakesurfing.
What tow sports require
For anyone being towed, wear an inherently buoyant, Coast Guard-approved watersports life jacket (typically Type III) that floats you the instant you hit the water — no action required. Kids always wear a foam kids life jacket.
Know your rules
Regulations vary by state and situation, and many require a wearable approved PFD for each person plus specific rules for towing. Check your state and the U.S. Coast Guard, and when in doubt, wear the vest.