Spinlock Deckvest Cento Junior PFD
Best lightweight inflatable lifejacket for young sailors aged 8 to 15.
The Spinlock Deckvest Cento Junior PFD is an ultra-lightweight and low-profile inflatable lifejacket designed specifically for junior sailors between the ages of 8 to 15 years old, fitting users weighing 20-50 kgs (45-110 lbs.). This PFD aims to upgrade protection by moving away from bulky, uncomfortable traditional lifejackets. It features a compact and lightweight form-fitting shape, a lightweight easy-adjust belt, and a single crotch strap for security. Inflation is automatic via a UML Mk 5 system, which uses a water-activated paper coil that dissolves to release a spring, puncturing the CO2 cylinder (20g included). The lifejacket is rated as a Junior 150N Category Lifejacket Harness (100N Actual buoyancy). You can enhance its functionality by adding optional extras like the Pylon Light™, Lume-On™ bladder illumination lights, a sprayhood, or integrating an AIS MOB1 unit. The product weighs 850g. By registering your Deckvest through their Through Life Support (TLS) program, you can extend the product warranty to 5 years and receive prompts for winter care, storage, and pre-season safety checks.
$189.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 533
#2 in Life Jackets
Price vs Category Average
+34%
Above average
Who it's for
- Parents prioritizing maximum safety for young sailors
- Active juniors needing freedom of movement while sailing
- Families seeking a secure, custom fit for smaller children
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers preferring affordable foam alternatives
- Caregivers wanting a low-maintenance, grab-and-go safety solution
- Skeptics uncomfortable relying on mechanical inflation systems
Performance breakdown
Ergonomic Comfort
Low-profile design eliminates the bulkiness typical of traditional junior lifejackets.
Safety Versatility
Modular attachments allow for easy upgrades like lights and AIS integration.
Inflation Reliability
UML Mk 5 system provides proven, automatic water-activated deployment.
Fit Adjustability
Lightweight belt system ensures a secure, tailored fit for growing sailors.
Maintenance Support
Through Life Support program offers excellent long-term care and warranty.
Weight Efficiency
Featherlight construction prevents fatigue during long days on the water.
Key Specs
Junior 150N Category Lifejacket Harness (100N Actual)
45-110 lbs. weight range
Recommended for juniors approximately 8 to 15 years old
CO2 Cylinder
20g
Weight
850g
Know before you buy
The Cento is specifically engineered for junior sailors aged 8 to 15, fitting users who weigh between 20kg and 50kg (45-110 lbs). It is designed to replace bulky foam jackets with a more comfortable, low-profile fit that encourages kids to actually wear their safety gear.
It uses a UML Mk 5 inflator, which features a water-activated paper coil. When submerged, the coil dissolves, releasing a spring that punctures the 20g CO2 cylinder to inflate the bladder instantly.
Yes, the design is modular. You can easily attach a Pylon Light™ for visibility, Lume-On™ bladder illumination, a sprayhood for rougher conditions, or integrate an AIS MOB1 unit for tracking.
TLS is Spinlock's registration program that extends your product warranty to five years. It also provides helpful reminders for winter storage, pre-season safety checks, and maintenance tips to ensure the lifejacket remains in top condition.
Yes, it features a soft loop harness attachment point. This allows junior sailors to clip into safety lines while on deck, providing essential security without the weight of traditional metal D-rings.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$189