Types of PFDs
Here is a graphical explanation between a lifejacket and a buoyancy vest.
PFD Type ratings are being phased out and replaced with new standard ratings that better deal with materials and buoyancy. However for now until this phase-out is complete internationally, it is prudent to know the below because it still works. If your country is not using “Types” take note of the recommended use of the PFD and use accordingly. There is not any necessary shape or design that defines a Type – when purchasing you just need to know the type used and see the rating listed on the PFD.
Type I PFD: Offshore Life Jacket
Type I PFDs are designed for use in rough or remote waters where rescue may be delayed. They provide the highest level of buoyancy and are intended to turn most unconscious wearers face-up in the water.
Type I Inherently Buoyant
Best Use
- Offshore boating and commercial vessels operating in open or rough seas.
- Ideal for activities far from shore where rescue could take some time.
Requirements
- Required on passenger vessels operating in the high seas, coastal waters, or large bodies of water.
- Also required on commercial fishing vessels and other inspected vessels operating in similar conditions.
Advantages
- High Buoyancy: Provides 22 pounds (for adults) of buoyancy, which is the highest among PFDs.
- Turns Unconscious Wearers Face-Up: Designed to turn an unconscious person face-up, minimizing the risk of drowning.
- Durability: Made of robust materials to withstand harsh marine environments.
Disadvantages
- Bulkier and Less Comfortable: Can be cumbersome and restrict movement, making it less comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Less Suitable for Active Water Sports: The bulk and design are not ideal for activities that require a lot of movement.
Versions
- Inflatable Versions: Some Type I PFDs are available in inflatable versions. These are often used on commercial vessels where high buoyancy is required, but bulk and comfort are considerations.
- Hybrid Versions: There are hybrid Type I PFDs that combine foam and inflatable elements to balance comfort and buoyancy.
- Must be Worn: Hybrid and Inflatable versions must be worn if they are to be considered as meeting the legal requirements for having a PFD onboard.
Type II PFD: Near-Shore Buoyant Vest
Type II PFDs are designed for calm, inland waters where quick rescue is likely. They provide less buoyancy than Type I PFDs and are intended for use in situations where the wearer can be easily reached.
Best Use
- Ideal for general boating activities near shore, such as on lakes, rivers, and bays.
- Suitable for areas where immediate rescue is expected.
Requirements
- Commonly used on recreational boats operating in inland waters.
- Not typically required on commercial vessels unless they operate exclusively in calm, near-shore environments.
Advantages
- Less Bulky: Less cumbersome than Type I, providing more comfort and better mobility.
- Economical: Generally more affordable than Type I PFDs.
- Turns Some Wearers Face-Up: Can turn some unconscious wearers face-up in the water, though not as reliably as Type I PFDs.
Disadvantages
- Lower Buoyancy: Provides only 15.5 pounds of buoyancy, which is less than Type I.
- Not for Rough Waters: Less effective in turbulent or rough waters and not suitable for offshore use.
Versions
- Inflatable Versions: Type II PFDs are typically not available in inflatable versions.
- Hybrid Versions: Rare, as Type II PFDs are primarily designed to be simple, foam-based devices for near-shore use.
Type III PFD: Flotation Aid
Type III PFDs are designed for conscious users in calm, inland waters. They are meant to be comfortable for long periods and are suitable for situations where quick rescue is expected.
Type III Inherently Buoyant
Best Use
- Ideal for water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and fishing.
- Suitable for recreational boating where mobility and comfort are essential.
Requirements
- Commonly used for recreational boating and are not generally required for commercial vessels unless specified for certain activities.
Advantages
- Comfortable and Versatile: Designed for ease of movement, making them comfortable for long wear and active water sports.
- Variety of Styles: Available in a wide range of styles tailored for different activities.
- Good for Active Users: Provides enough buoyancy (15.5 pounds) to keep a conscious person afloat and comfortable.
Disadvantages
- Does Not Turn Unconscious Wearers Face-Up: Not designed to turn an unconscious person face-up in the water, which could be a disadvantage in some emergency situations.
- Less Buoyant Than Type I: Provides less buoyancy, making it unsuitable for rough waters or offshore use.
Versions
- Inflatable Versions: Type III PFDs are available in inflatable versions, offering greater comfort and freedom of movement. They must be manually or automatically inflated to provide buoyancy.
- Hybrid Versions: Hybrid Type III PFDs are available, combining foam and inflatable elements for a balance of comfort and safety.
Type V PFD: Special Use Device
Type V PFDs are special-use devices designed for specific activities. They must be worn according to the manufacturer’s instructions to be effective and to meet regulatory requirements.
Type V Inflatable
Best Use
- Tailored for specific activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, deck work, and other specialized water activities.
- Used when a specialized PFD is required, as specified by regulations or activity-specific needs.
Requirements
- Must be worn to be considered a legal PFD. These PFDs are typically required for specific uses as outlined by the U.S. Coast Guard or other regulatory bodies.
- May be required on certain commercial vessels or for certain activities, depending on the nature of the operation.
Advantages
- Activity-Specific Design: Provides buoyancy and comfort tailored to the specific needs of the activity, enhancing performance and safety.
- Versatility: Available in various styles and designs to suit a wide range of activities and user preferences.
Disadvantages
- Must Be Worn to Be Effective: Unlike other PFDs, Type V devices are only counted as legal PFDs if worn, making them less versatile in situations where users might not wear them continuously.
- Limited General Use: Because they are designed for specific activities, they may not be suitable for general boating or other unexpected situations.
Versions
- Inflatable Versions: Many Type V PFDs are available in inflatable versions, particularly for specialized activities that benefit from compact and comfortable designs.
- Hybrid Versions: Some Type V PFDs are hybrids, combining foam and inflatable elements to suit specific requirements and activities.
Summary
Each type of PFD—Type I, II, III, and V—has its own best uses, advantages, and disadvantages, and is suited for different boating conditions and activities. Understanding these differences helps boaters choose the right PFD for their needs and ensures compliance with safety regulations. The availability of inflatable and hybrid versions adds flexibility and comfort for various water activities, enhancing safety without compromising convenience.
Throwables
TYPE IV are throwable Ring Buoys and Boat Cushions. Regulations cover that there must be a number of these on board as well. Usually, for recreational boats, the requirement is only 1 but prudent operators should assess if their boat should carry at least 1 spare – if you lose one then that means you are carrying none and operating outside of regulations with the associated consequences.
A Type IV is not to be included in the count of one PFD for each person on board
A Type IV Throwable PFD
Buoyancy Ratings
Having said all the above, the U.S. Coast Guard is transitioning from the traditional PFD classification system (Types I, II, III, IV, and V) to a new labeling system based on buoyancy ratings measured in Newtons. This change aims to align with international standards, simplify PFD selection, and provide clearer information about the flotation performance and intended use of each device. The new labels focus on performance levels, making it easier for users to choose the right PFD for their needs. Existing PFDs with the old labels remain acceptable, but new products will adopt the updated system.
PFDs/life jackets are graded with a buoyancy rating that lists the amount of buoyancy force a PFD can hold expressed in units of newtons (N). Force is used rather than weight because force is a constant whether submerged in water or not, whereas our weight changes if we are submerged in water. On Earth (out of water) one Newton force is about 1/10th of a kilogram.
Life jackets are rated in the following Buoyancy Rating Categories:
275 N—150 N—100 N—50 N
For example, a 150 N life Jacket provides 150 N of floating force. If a rock on the bottom of the ocean weighed 14 kg on a submerged weight measurement scale, then a 150 N-rated life jacket would hold it afloat—barely. A 15 kg rock with a 150 N life jacket would have neutral buoyancy.
A 200-pound (91-kilogram) man requires about 10 pounds (4 kilograms) of buoyancy. The math here uses the person’s body makeup of 80 percent water (neutral buoyancy) and 15 percent fat (positive buoyancy). 4 kg converts to 40 newtons. Thus, the 150 newtons are plenty for the average person and considered the minimum for an adult in offshore conditions.
The decision now comes down to comfort, purpose, and anti-drowning assistance.
Children
Here is an infant/child life jacket that has an automatic roll onto the back feature.
Here is a demonstration. Of note – the father was much more comfortable to dump the toddler’s head completely under than the mother. LOL.
Offshore use requires much more thought and investigation. Make sure however that your PFD comes with a D-ring to clip into safety jack lines.
We have posted additional information about the care and use of inflatable PFDs if you care to learn more on our blog site here:
Above the adult is wearing a Type V inflatable PFD while the Child is wearing a Type III comfortable PFD.
