| or Call: 763-263-9835

Tweet Us!

USCG Approvals

U.S.C.G. Approval Definitions


What is TYPE I US Coast Guard Approval?

  • Off-Shore Life Jacket: This jacket is best for open, rough or remote water, where rescue may be slow coming. It floats you the best and turns most unconscious wearers face-up in water.
  • Inflatable PFD's: These have two chambers, indicate when CO² cylinder is empty, and inflate automatically when submerged.

What is TYPE II US Coast Guard Approval?

  • Near Shore Buoyant Vest: This jacket is good for calm, inland water, or where there is a good chance of fast rescue. It turns some unconscious wearers face-up in water.
  • Inflatable PFD's: These jackets inflate automatically when submerged, and are suitable for many rough water uses.

What is TYPE III US Coast Guard Approval?

  • Flotation Aid: This jacket is generally the most comfortable type for continuous wear, and it's good for calm, inland water, or where there is a good chance of fast rescue. It is available in many styles, including vests and flotation jackets.
  • Inflatable PFD's: These jackets will keep unconscious wearers face up after inflation.

What is TYPE IV US Coast Guard Approval?

  • Throwable Device: This device is for calm, inland water with heavy traffic, where help is always nearby. Some can be used as a flotation cushion. This device can be thrown to someone.

What is TYPE V US Coast Guard Approval?

  • Special Use Devices: These devices are only for special uses or conditions. They are made for specific activities; see PFD label for limits of use. Varieties include boardsailing vests, deck suits, pullover vests, work vests, some hybrid PFD's, and others.
  • SOME TYPE V PFD'S ARE APPROVED ONLY WHEN WORN.

Trusted by the Best

  • US Coast Guard
  • USCG Auxiliary
  • Air Force
  • Navy
  • Army
  • Marines
  • NASA
  • FBI
  • Homeland Security
  • First Responders
  • Police
  • Firemen
  • Sheriff
  • Aviation
  • Industrial Marine
  • Oil Rigs
  • Commercial Fishermen
  • Recreational Fishermen
  • Sailors
  • Boaters
  • Paddle Sports
  • Water Sports
  • Hunters