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In an effort to improve water safety and reduce preventable drownings, regulators have introduced changes aimed at making flotation devices more accessible and appealing to wear. By focusing on comfort, clarity, and ease of use, the goal is to increase the number of people who consistently wear personal flotation devices, helping to create safer experiences on the water. So, what do these changes actually mean for users? Let's dive in.
The History of PFD Classification in the U.S. and Canada
For years, the United States and Canada have used different systems to classify personal flotation devices (PFDs). In the U.S., the Coast Guard categorized PFDs by "Type" (such as Type II or Type III), while in Canada, there was a distinction between PFDs and life jackets. These classifications tried to outline suitability for certain activities and most importantly in-water performance—life jackets turn an unconscious person face-up, a PFD will keep an unconscious person afloat but won’t necessarily turn them face-up.
The Move Toward PFD Standardization
Recognizing the need for a harmonized approach, industry leaders, the U.S. Coast Guard, and Transport Canada began working in the mid-2000s to develop common standards for designing, building, and certifying PFDs across North America. By 2018, both regulatory bodies had removed outdated classifications and introduced Level 70 as a harmonized standard, allowing a single approval label for use in both countries. While additional levels (50, 70, 100, and 150) were proposed, only Level 70 was implemented at the time.
Key 2025 PFD Regulation Changes
Now, in 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard is introducing another major rule change. Here are the key takeaways:
- No New "Type" Approvals: While existing approvals that may refer to "Type" remain valid for legal carriage requirements (i.e., what must be carried on a boat to meet regulations), no new Type classifications will be issued to PFDs entering the market.
- Level 50 Accepted: The U.S. Coast Guard will now approve Level 50 devices alongside Level 70. These lower-buoyancy PFDs must be worn to meet legal carriage requirements on a boat.
- Level 100 Defined for Commercial Use: Devices in this category will be approved specifically for commercial applications and are designed to establish an airway-protected position in the water.
What Do the New PFD Regulations Mean for Boaters?
Approval does not necessarily mean a device is the best choice for every user. The role of the U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada is to ensure devices meet legal requirements, but they do not specify which PFD is best suited for particular activities (i.e. kayaking, sailing, fishing, etc.) or environments (i.e. coastal, offshore, inshore, etc.). Under the new performance classification system, buoyancy levels in PFDs are no longer tied to a user’s size but reflect skill level, environment, and expected rescue time. While Level 50 (L50) devices focus on mobility and comfort for swimmers, Level 70 (L70) offers a range of buoyancy and in-water support for tougher conditions. However, approval levels only set a minimum performance standard. The actual buoyancy, measured in Newtons, can vary significantly within each level. For example, Mustang’s Elite 190 PFD is approved as L70 but provides 190N of buoyancy, surpassing the minimum requirement.
That responsibility to choose the right device falls on manufacturers, retailers, and ultimately, the end user. Boaters should consider their specific needs—such as activity type, water conditions, and personal comfort—when choosing a PFD. While regulations ensure baseline safety, selecting the right device for the right environment is key to staying safe on the water.
How to Choose the Right PFD for Your Needs
When selecting a PFD, consider the following factors:
- Activity Type: Are you kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or sailing? Different PFDs provide varying levels of mobility and comfort.
- Buoyancy Level: Choose between Level 50 or Level 70 based on how much flotation assistance you need and refer to icons that indicates suitable uses such as a towrope handle, PWC, towed tube, or whitewater canoe. A slashed circle over an icon means the life jacket is not suitable for that activity.
- Fit and Comfort: Ensure your PFD fits snugly and allows for proper movement.
- Safety Features: Some PFDs provide additional support for airway protection, which is crucial in situations where there is a risk of unconsciousness, rough or open waters, or potentially long rescue times.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
With these new regulations, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about the latest safety standards. Whether you're a recreational boater or a professional mariner, choosing the right PFD can make all the difference.
Stay informed, stay safe, and choose wisely!
Looking for more information? Check out our other PFD resources:
