In this installment of “For the Sailor’s Gear Bag,” The Log dives into a mix of gear — some essential, some clever, all useful — to keep your sailing days smooth, safe, and enjoyable. Whether you’re prepping for a coastal cruise, a club race, or just a weekend on the water, these three items are worth a second look.
Safety First: A Smarter PFD
Let’s start with the most obvious but arguably most important piece of gear: the life jacket. But not just any life jacket. Chris Jester, sailing instructor and Newport Beach SailTime base owner, told The Log that the key to getting people to actually wear their PFDs is comfort. “Why a Type V inflatable Personal Flotation Device?” Jester asked. “Because it’s not bulky and people will actually wear it. It’s much more comfortable compared to the big orange thing no one wants to put on.”
Unlike traditional foam life jackets, inflatable PFDs are low-profile, lightweight, and easy to wear for long periods — making them ideal for sailors who need mobility, especially during races or offshore passages. They’re available online and in stores like West Marine. While more expensive than standard orange vests, the added comfort and safety are worth the investment.
However, Jester emphasized that ownership alone isn’t enough. “The common mistake sailors make is not making sure the CO2 cartridge is ready to work. When you first get it, you have to twist the cartridge into place and make sure you see the green mark,” he explained.
This type of PFD is beneficial for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Jester, who regularly participates in overnight races like the Newport to Ensenada, pairs his inflatable PFD with a tether and jack lines when conditions turn rough. “It could be a lifesaver,” he said.
Tidy Decks: A Better Boat Trash Can
Next up, something less glamorous but no less important: the boat trash can. Keeping your cockpit and cabin clean while underway — or after a long day at anchor — can be a challenge. That’s where purpose-built marine trash containers come in handy.
One standout option is the Redford Supply Co. Boat Trash Bag with Bottle Opener. Designed for small spaces, it’s comprised of tough 600D polyester and reinforced mesh, making it rugged enough to handle life aboard at up to 45 mph. It features an extra-wide 5.5” opening for easy disposal of cans, bottles, and paper waste.
But what makes this trash bag different is its zippered bottom, which allows boaters to empty it quickly and rinse it out without touching the mess. Foldable and compact when not in use, it stores easily in lockers or under seats. The built-in bottle opener stitched into the side is a bonus for sundown celebrations.
Compared to other options — like Amazon’s many generic mesh bags or the CaddyCan Portable Boat Trash Can, which features a hard-shell lid and can double as a gear tote — the Redford bag stands out for its simplicity, quick-clean design, and lower profile. While CaddyCan may offer more structure and multi-use appeal, the Redford bag shines in its minimalist execution and no-fuss cleanup.
Clean Up Your Act: Magic Boat Erasers
After a great day on the water, you’ll likely find yourself facing some familiar messes: muddy footprints, scuffs from docking, and salt stains. Instead of reaching for harsh chemicals, more boaters are turning to a surprisingly simple solution: boat-specific erasers.
Products like the SandShark Premium Boat Hull Cleaner and Better Boat Scuff Erasers offer an easy way to tackle dirt, grime, and stains without damaging your surfaces. Both products are made of textured cleaning foam, and they’re safe to use on fiberglass, vinyl, leather, metal, and gelcoat. There are no bleach-based ingredients, making them safe for both boat and user.
Ease of use is a major draw. Just wet the sponge, squeeze to activate, and wipe. They’re particularly handy on deck scuffs, interior vinyl seating, and even in the galley or head. The SandShark version touts a reinforced core for added durability, while Better Boat’s erasers come in multipacks for high-volume jobs.
Though both products are similar, SandShark is often praised for its performance on tougher stains and general longevity. Better Boat’s version, meanwhile, is slightly softer and more flexible, making it easier to reach into tight corners or around fittings. Either one is a practical addition to your post-sail cleanup kit.
From life jackets you’ll actually wear, to trash solutions that make clean-up effortless, to erasers that leave your deck sparkling, these products prove that smart gear can make sailing safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable. Keep an eye on future editions of For the Sailor’s Gear Bag — and if you’ve got a favorite piece of kit we should feature, let us know by emailing [email protected]!
