Type I

Type I PFDs are pretty recognizable. These lifejackets are most commonly found in the form of the blocky orange foam pads you may have encountered if you’ve been on a boat for commercial purposes. The reason these PFDs is so prevalent is that they’re so effective. Type I PFDs will keep an unconscious body afloat face up meaning they’re the closest thing to an actual ‘life jacket’ that you can find. The main drawback to a Type I PFD is that they’re usually bulkier and less comfortable than other types, but if you’re willing to invest a little more money you can find Type I PFDs that fit as comfortably as any other class of flotation device.

Type II

Type II PFDs have less bulk than their Type I counterparts, but also make a trade-off in terms of flotation. These flotation devices are usually most effective in situations where the water is calm, and relatively flat. Because these will not flip you face up, Type II PFDs are best for strong swimmers. The largest advantage to a Type II PFD is that they’re more comfortable, and allow the wearer a greater range of motion, which is good when you’re trying to tie those tricky fishing knots.

Type III

Type II PFDs have less bulk than their Type I counterparts, but also make a trade off in terms of flotation. These flotation devices are usually most effective in situations where the water is calm, and relatively flat. Because these will not flip you face up, Type II PFDs are best for strong swimmers. The largest advantage to a Type II PFD is that they’re more comfortable, and allow the wearer a greater range of motion, which is good when you’re trying to tie those tricky fishing knots.

Type IV

Type IV PFDs fall out of the range of ‘life jacket’. These devices are easily recognizable on most boats as the iconic orange ‘lifesavers’ that will hang in plain sight. The purpose of a Type IV PFD is to help retrieve a swimmer or passenger who has fallen overboard, and pull them back to safety. If you’re going to have one of these on your boat, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with emergency retrieval techniques so you can use this device quickly and confidently if the need arises.

Type V

Type V PFDs aren’t so much a class of their own as a designation for purpose built flotation devices. Type V PFDs range from water skiing lifejackets, to cold water survival suits. These PFDs come with a dual classification to indicate whether it has the flotation capabilities of a Type I, II, or III device, which will dictate how experience a swimmer you should be to use a given Type V PFD.

Now that you know more about PFDs hopefully you’ll be able to easily identify the type of flotation device that will best fit your boating needs! Make sure you’re always equipped with enough personal flotation devices for all of your passengers, and remember to be safe out on the water, and have fun!