BLUESTORM Cirro 26 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket PFD - High

Our review of the BLUESTORM Cirro 26 finds it best suited for paddlers, anglers, sailboat crew, and recreational boaters who want a compact, comfortable Type V personal flotation device with strong buoyancy. The single biggest reason to buy is its reliable 26 lb inflatable chamber that delivers significantly more floatation than typical foam Type III vests while remaining adjustable and unobtrusive for active water use. The vest inflates automatically via a replaceable CO2 cylinder or manually with a pull cord, and it also offers an oral inflation tube for redundancy.

Key Features

• USCG Approved Type V: Provides the legal assurance of a certified life jacket suitable for many boating activities when worn as intended.
• Automatic and Manual Inflation: Inflates automatically on submersion using the included CO2 cylinder and can be triggered manually or by oral inflation if needed.
• High Buoyancy: Delivers 26 lbs of buoyancy, about twice the minimum of comparable Type III foam vests, improving flotation for conscious and unconscious wearers.
• Comfortable Fit: The long shell design and flat profile let the secure waist belt sit low and comfortable for paddling, fishing, or sailing.
• Adjustable Sizes: Fits chest sizes from 30 to 56 in so one model covers small through XXL with simple adjustments.
• Replaceable CO2: Comes with one CO2 cylinder and can be rearmed with BLUESTORM 24 gram Re-Arm Kit when used.

Who It's For

The Cirro 26 is ideal for people who do active water sports and need a compact, unobtrusive PFD that still offers strong performance, such as paddleboarders, kayakers, anglers, and day sailors who prefer an inflatable over bulkier foam vests. Its automatic inflation and redundant oral tube are useful for those who want added safety without sacrificing mobility.

This vest is not aimed at users who need a constant foam flotation presence for continuous deck work in heavy weather, or at those who prefer ultra-light ultralight emergency rigs with minimal buoyancy. If a specific commercial or heavy-duty offshore jacket is required, a different certified model may be more appropriate.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High 26 lb buoyancy gives noticeably better floatation than many Type III foam vests.
• Automatic and manual inflation options plus an oral tube provide reliable redundancy.
• Comfortable long shell design keeps the waist belt low for active movement.
• One size covers a wide range of chest sizes, simplifying selection.

Cons

• Build quality impressions are mixed among users, so finish and trim may not feel premium to everyone.
• As an inflatable PFD, it requires attention to CO2 rearming after deployment and periodic inspection.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The BLUESTORM Cirro 26 is a sensible choice for recreational boaters and watersport enthusiasts who want strong inflatable buoyancy in a comfortable, low-profile package. Its USCG approval, automatic/manual inflation options, and 26 lb floatation make it good value for those prioritizing safety and mobility, provided they accept the maintenance needs of an inflatable system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it inflate automatically?
Yes, it inflates automatically on submersion via the included CO2 cylinder and can also be activated manually or by oral inflation.

What sizes does the vest fit?
The Cirro fits chest sizes between 30 and 56 in, covering small through XXL with adjustable straps.

Can the CO2 cartridge be replaced?
Yes, the unit includes one CO2 cylinder and can be rearmed using the BLUESTORM 24 gram Re-Arm Kit.