Personal Flotation Devices (PFD), also known as lifejackets, are an essential piece of equipment for water safety. These jackets provide extra buoyancy for unexpected swims and have saved many lives.
Type I PFDs provide the most flotation through integration of both Type II and Type III designs. These vests are geared towards open water conditions where rescue may take time. The foam collar will automatically flip most people so that their face is out of the water. The major downside to these vests is that they are very bulky, and thus tend to be hot and limit some range of motion.
Remember those classy, orange PFDs you always had to wear as a kid on group canoe rides? Those are Type II PFDs. These vests are the cheapest, lightest, and most versatile PFDs available. Geared towards slow rivers, lakes, and generally calm waters, they can turn an unconscious swimmer face up, providing valuable rescue time. Despite the fact that they are somewhat tight and hot, they do their job well and have the ability to fit a wide range of body types.
