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Life Jacket Types & Designs

Types of Personal Flotation Devices

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) also known as PFDs or lifejackets, save lives. It's as simple as that.

It's why the U.S. Coast Guard requires that PFDs be carried onboard all vessels. They are the most important piece of safety equipment on your boat, and you should wear one whenever you're boating.

When you're choosing a PFD, you need to make sure that:

  • It is the appropriate type for your boating location and activity;
  • It is the right size and has enough buoyancy to support you in the water; and
  • It is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard
PFD Type Best For Disadvantages Notes
woman wearing a personal flotation device; type I offshore life jacket

Type I: Offshore Life Jacket

All waters, especially open, rough, or remote waters where rescue can be delayed Large and awkward; difficult to swim in

Adult size: 22 lb. of buoyancy.

Child size: 11 lb. of buoyancy.

Will turn unconscious wearers to face-up position.

person wearing a personal flotation device; type II near-shore buoyant vest

Type II:
Near-Shore Buoyant Vest

Calm, inland waters where there is a good chance of rescue May not turn some unconscious wearers face-up

Adult size: 15 1/2 lb. of buoyancy.

Child size: 11 lb. of buoyancy.

Infant size: 7 lb. of buoyancy.

Will turn some unconscious wearers to face-up position.

man wearing a personal flotation device; type III flotation aid

Type III: Flotation Aid

Calm, inland waters where there is a good chance of rescue Wearers must put themselves in face-up position

Same buoyancy as Type II.

examples:

Float coat, fishing vest, water sport vest

dog holding a personal flotation device in mouth; type IV device

Type IV: Device

All waters where help is present Not designed to be worn; intended for use in waters with heavy boat traffic

Designed to be thrown and grasped until rescued; never worn.

examples:

Cushions, ring buoys, horseshoe buoys

man wearing a personal flotation device; type V special use device

Type V: Special Use Device

Specific activities; check approval condition on label Some Type Vs are designed for cooler climates and others are approved only when worn

Some Type V devices provide hypothermia protection.

examples:

Deck suits, work vests, boardsailing vests