Understanding the Different Types of Inflatable PFDs
tips & tricks

Understanding the Different Types of Inflatable PFDs

4 minutes

Not all PFDs serve the same purpose, yet many people grab whatever’s available without a second thought. The truth is, the right PFD isn’t just about staying afloat—it’s about choosing gear that fits your environment, activity, and comfort needs. 

A paddler navigating tight waterways doesn’t need the same flotation as a mariner facing open seas, and a fisherman casting lines all day won’t want bulky, restrictive gear. Understanding the different types of PFDs ensures you get the right balance of mobility, safety, and performance. Here’s what you need to know before you gear up.

durable foam PFD for water sports

Why Choose Inflatable PFDs?

Inflatable PFDs have soared in popularity due to their lightweight design, ease of wear, and effective buoyancy. Unlike traditional foam PFDs, which are always ready to float, inflatables deploy when needed, offering a sleeker profile for better comfort and mobility. These features make them ideal for activities like sailing, fishing, and kayaking, where freedom of movement is essential.

Advantages of Inflatable PFDs:

  • Greater comfort during extended wear

  • Advanced buoyancy compared to foam PFDs

  • Compact design that offers better mobility

  • Ideal for a wide range of activities, including professional and recreational use

However, not all inflatable PFDs function the same way. They are designed with specific mechanisms suited to different water safety needs.

Inflatable PFD Types

Exploring the various types of PFDs will help narrow down the best inflatable option for your activity. These are the most common USCG-approved life jackets you’ll find today.

Hydrostatic Inflatable PFDs

At Mustang Survival, we have the exclusive distribution rights to Hammar® Hydrostatic inflators in North America. The Hammar® Inflator is equipped with a hydrostatic valve that inflates the PFD bladder when submerged in 10 cm (4 inches) of water and gives unique protection against inadvertent inflation in stormy conditions. 

Pros 

  • No inadvertent inflation in case of rain, spray, splash or humidity

  • No service requirements for the Hammar Inflator for 5 years.

Learn More About the Hammar Inflator

Automatic with Manual Backup

An automatic PFD is activated when water enters the detector and dissolves a water-soluble trigger. Upon firing, a mechanism will activate and pierce a CO2 cylinder. 

The air coming out of the cylinder will inflate the bladder of the lifejacket and create buoyancy. The automatic inflators we use include Halkey Roberts in North America and UML in the UK. 

Pros

  • Automatically inflates if the wearer is knocked unconscious

Manual 

A manual PFD—we use Halkey Roberts inflators—is activated when the user pulls a tab that then triggers the piercing of a CO2 cylinder. The air coming out of the cylinder will inflate the bladder of the lifejacket and create buoyancy.

Pros

  • No inadvertent inflation in case of rain, spray, splash, or humidity.

  • No need to pull if the situation is safe, avoiding unnecessary firing

Convertible  

A convertible PFD offers you the best of two worlds: automatic and manual inflation in one. An easy swap of the inflator cap on our Halkey Roberts convertible inflator allows the wearer to switch between modes based on activity and safety needs. 

The inflator cap can be stored in a purpose-designed pocket on Mustang Survival convertible PFDs, so wearers can change their minds and their inflation type at any time. 

Pros

  • One versatile PFD meets the needs of a wide variety of activities and conditions 

 Check out the 'how to' video below for a step-by-step on converting your MIT: 

Hybrid  

A hybrid PFD contains both foam construction and inflatable chambers. This type of dual flotation life vest provides the confidence of constant buoyancy in case of accidental submersion without the bulk of a foam-only model. 

A C02 cartridge in a manual Halkey Roberts inflator adds additional buoyancy when the situation requires it.  

Pros

  • Blends the security of foam with the slim profile of an inflatable

The Khimera, our hybrid PFD, shown here:

The Khimera, our hybrid PFD being used for water activities

Learn more about PFD Classifications

Understanding Changes in PFD Regulations

The way we classify USCG-approved life jackets has evolved. Traditional types like type I, type II, and type III PFDs are being phased out in favor of clearer, harmonized standards across North America. Here’s why:

  • Traditional PFD types didn’t always make sense to users. A type III PFD, for example, suited various tasks but wasn’t clearly distinguishable from a type II PFD in terms of usability.

  • Modern regulations, such as Levels 50 and 70, focus on comfort, mobility, and situational suitability. These improvements aim to increase compliance with water safety regulations and harmonize both TC and USCG.

The elimination of old classifications empowers users like you to choose PFDs based on activity and environment rather than outdated labels.

To learn more about these updates to regulations, check out our resource here

How to Pick the Right Inflatable PFD

Choosing the right inflatable PFD involves considering key factors like activity, water conditions, and personal preference. Here’s how to decide:

  • Activity Type: For fishing or sailing, prioritize comfort and extended wearability. For kayaking or paddleboarding, ensure your PFD allows freedom of movement.

  • Safety Standards: Look for USCG-approved life jackets to ensure compliance with water safety regulations. Choose hydrostatic or automatic inflators for high-risk activities.

  • Fit and Comfort: Ensure your PFD fits snugly and doesn’t restrict movement.

  • Versatility Needs: Opt for convertibles if you enjoy multiple water activities.

Inflatable PFD being used while fishing

Your Path to Smarter Water Safety

Inflatable PFDs are revolutionizing the way we stay safe on the water. From hydrostatic devices for stormy seas to hybrids that offer constant flotation, there’s a PFD for everyone. Understanding these types of PFDs ensures that you’ll always have the safety, comfort, and mobility you need. 

Along with our expert guidance, be sure to familiarize yourself with the exact outlines according to USCG and TC. 

Want to explore more options? Check out our wide range of expertly crafted inflatable PFDs designed for all water enthusiasts. 

Shop Inflatable PFDs Now

Back to Resources