Different Types Of Life Vests

Life vests or life jackets are a must when it comes to water recreation especially boating, skiing or using any type of water craft. They are also important for people who are just planning on swimming or lounging in the water, especially children or those who do not know how to swim.

When getting ready to spend time on the water you will want to make sure that all of your equipment is in working condition as well as making sure you have the right type and right amount of life vests for the type of water sport you will be participating in. There are several different categories that life vests are divided into depending on the water sport and the condition of the water you will be in.

Life jackets and vests are divided into three-five different categories including Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, Unrated, and Special Use. They are put into these categories based on their buoyancy weight and intended use. Type 1 life jackets are also labeled as offshore. These life jackets have the best ability of saving someones life if they are unable to swim or are injured and cant move in the water. Type 1 life vest have up to 22 pounds of buoyancy and are capable of turning a victim face up in the water. If you are going to be spending time in rough water or will be a great distance from shore consider spending some extra money on a Type 1 life vest.

Type 2 life vests are recommended for water sports enthusiasts who will be enjoying the water closer to shore or where the water is more calm and protected. While these life vests have a 15 pound buoyancy they are not as reliable as the Type 1 jackets for turning someone face up in the water. Type 2 vests many times come with a head rest but are less restrictive than a Type 1 vest.

The most common type and generally the kind of life jackets that most boaters and skiers use is the Type 3 life jacket. Type 3 life vests are usually the most comfortable, easy to wear, and provide plenty of movement for skiers or wake boarders. Your regular nylon or neoprene life vest is probably a Type 3. While they will keep up to 15 pounds of buoyancy they are not recommended for high risk life saving situations. Most of the Type 3 nylon or neoprene life vests are also very stylish and come in adult and childrens styles.

Make sure your next boating or water excursion is a safe one and that you are prepared with the right kind of life vest to fit your needs. Before purchasing life vests you should also look into the different types including nylon life jackets, a lightweight foam and neoprene life vest, or a life vest with a head rest or other safety features to see which will fit your specific needs.