Instant Poll: Which is the best type of PFD?

Vote for your preferred type below...

As with most things, there are pros and cons for the various types of PFDs worn by boaters and sailors. I’ve changed PFDs a few times, but in each case have opted for a Type 3 vest—the so-called “flotation aid” jacket most commonly seen on small boats.

These Type 3 vests will mostly keep you afloat, but they won’t turn most unconscious persons face up in the water like the safer Type 1 vests with the larger flotation collar. But the Type 3 vests come in many styles, with some (primarily designed for fishing) that include a lot of useful pockets. Of course these same pockets and protrusions can snag on cleats or other parts of the boat and potentially make re-boarding after capsize more difficult. Most type 3 sailboat racing vests are the other end of the spectrum, with sleek lines, few pockets, and not much to catch or snag.

This Chinook kayak vest from NRS looks comfortable and offers loads of convenient storage pockets. And there’s some additional safety in having gear and survival supplies on your person always.

Here’s the classic Type 1 vest designed to turn most unconscious persons face up in the water.

Maybe just as popular with sailors generally are the Type 2 inflatable vests. They also don’t turn the unconscious persons face up, but their slim profile make them about as comfortable as any vest could be. Some are also designed with an integrated harness to help keep sailors attached to the boat. Besides being more expensive, the huge potential “con” with the inflatable vests is the remote possibility they won’t auto inflate (or can’t be inflated) upon submerging. But another significant “pro” is that a fully inflated Type 2 vest will be substantially more bouyant than most normal vests with inherent flotation.

Here’s a nice Mustang Type2 inflatable vest with integrated harness

Here’s a sleek sailboat racing vest from Gill.

A less commonly seen option are so-called “float coats”—garments designed with built-in flotation. These Type 5 jackets typically meet the same flotation standards as Type 2 vests and are popular with cold-weather sailors who like the convenience and functionality of combining their outerwear and flotation.

Is this Mustang jacket clothing or flotation? It’s both!

What type of PFD do you wear? What do you see as the pros and cons? Let us know in the comments below. —Eds •SCA•