Buying a Personal Flotation Devices

A personal flotation device (PFD), also known as a life jacket, life vest, or life preserver, is a vital tool for keeping yourself and others safe while boating. Everyone traveling on your boat should wear a well-fitting PFD. If you’re having trouble finding a PFD that works for you, this guide from the experts at Clews & Strawbridge can help.

PFD Types

Personal flotation devices can be inflatable, inherently buoyant, or some hybrid of the two. There are five primary PFD types, though you should keep in mind that the US Coast Guard (USCG) has specifically approved only some of these types for boating.

Type I PFD

The biggest and bulkiest PFDs fall under the Type I category. These flotation devices are specifically designed for rough seas. While bulky and somewhat uncomfortable, they automatically turn the wearer face-up in the water, something that can save your life if you fall overboard in a storm. 

Type II PFD

While Type II PFDs won’t turn the wearer to face upward in the water, they are much more comfortable to wear. This, and the fact that Type II PFDs are some of the most affordable PFDs on the market, make them perfect for general usage. If waters are relatively calm and rescue is expected to be fast, these PFDs should provide ample protection. 

Type III PFD

Type III PFDs are your most comfortable option when it comes to wearable flotation devices. They are closer to buoyant clothing than traditional life jackets and require that the wearer lift their head up to stay above water. While not a good choice for long-term survival in the water, Type III PFDs can still offer helpful features like extra pockets and protection against hypothermia. 

Type IV PFD

Type IV PFDs (also known as life preservers and lifebuoys) are throwable ring-shaped PFDs often used near pools or on ships. While not a substitute for a wearable PFD, it can be useful in rescue efforts. Make sure that your Type IV PFD is close at hand rather than stowed under a seat so that it can be thrown at a moment’s notice. 

Type V PFD

Type V PFDs are personal flotation devices specifically designed for certain activities, such as water skiing, whitewater rafting, and cold-weather hunting. They may resemble a Type I, II, or III PFD, depending on the style. Type V PFDs often have special features tailored to the activity they are meant to be used for. 

PFD Guidelines & Care

It’s important that any PFD used on your boat fall be US Coast Guard approved. Individual states sometimes have their own laws regarding PFD usage, but USCG rules apply in places where no other law is given. Inspect your PFDs once every year to ensure that they are still functional. Store them long-term in a dry place out of direct sunlight. 

For more on PFDs or to shop our inventory of boats, visit Clews & Strawbridge. Our dealership in Frazer, Pennsylvania offers convenient access to communities like West Chester and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We also offer parts ordering, servicing, and financing.