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Life Jackets and Personal Floatation Devices

(218 products)

To comply with Coast Guard regulations and keep your passengers safe, you should always keep the right life jackets aboard your boat. PartsVu carries a wide range of life jackets and PFDs from top-rated boating safety equipment suppliers like Kwik Tek, Stearns, Onyx Outdoor, Seachoice, First Watch, Full Throttle, and more.

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  • Seachoice - Re-Arming Kit For Inflatable Vests - 33G -Manual - 85830 - 85710

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Re-Arming Kit For Inflatable Vests - 33G -Manual - 85830 - 85710

    $14.93
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  • Taylor Made - Vinyl Coated Foam Life Ring - Orange with White Rope - 20" - 363

    Taylor Made

    Taylor Made - Vinyl Coated Foam Life Ring - Orange with White Rope - 20" - 363

    $89.24 $95.95
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  • Seachoice - Re-Arming Kit For Inflatable Vests- 24G - Manual - 85800 - 85700

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Re-Arming Kit For Inflatable Vests- 24G - Manual - 85800 - 85700

    $14.93
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  • Seachoice - Foam Safety Cushion - 15" x 15" x 3.5" - Red - 44940

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Foam Safety Cushion - 15" x 15" x 3.5" - Red - 44940

    $19.48
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  • Seachoice - Foam Safety Cushion - 15" x 15" x 3.5" - Blue - 44930

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Foam Safety Cushion - 15" x 15" x 3.5" - Blue - 44930

    $18.97
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  • Spider by Hydro Spider with Type IV Throwable (combo) - Complete Throwable Lifesaving Device - Built with 550 Paracord

    Hydro Spider

    Spider by Hydro Spider with Type IV Throwable (combo) - Complete Throwable Lifesaving Device - Built with 550 Paracord

    $89.99
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  • Taylor Made - Vinyl Coated Foam Life Ring - White with White Rope - 20" - 360

    Taylor Made

    Taylor Made - Vinyl Coated Foam Life Ring - White with White Rope - 20" - 360

    $101.47
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  • Seachoice - Universal Type II Life Vest - Adult - Orange - 85520

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Universal Type II Life Vest - Adult - Orange - 85520

    $13.40 $14.99
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  • Seachoice - Foam Safety Cushion - 15" x 15" x 3.5" - Yellow - 44900

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Foam Safety Cushion - 15" x 15" x 3.5" - Yellow - 44900

    $19.48
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  • Seachoice - Type II Life Vest 4-Pack with Bag - Adult - Orange - 85510

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Type II Life Vest 4-Pack with Bag - Adult - Orange - 85510

    $75.57
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  • Seachoice - Type I Commercial Offshore Vest - Adult - Flouro Orange - 85900

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Type I Commercial Offshore Vest - Adult - Flouro Orange - 85900

    (0)
    $72.98
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  • Seachoice - Universal Type II Life Vest - XL - Orange - 85580

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Universal Type II Life Vest - XL - Orange - 85580

    $14.40 $15.99
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  • Onyx Re-Arm Kit f/3200 24 Gram A/M Inflatable PFD - 135200-701-999-12

    Onyx Outdoor

    Onyx Re-Arm Kit f/3200 24 Gram A/M Inflatable PFD - 135200-701-999-12

    $30.17 $37.99
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  • Seachoice - Foam Safety Cushion - 15" x 15" x 3.5" -  White - 44920

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Foam Safety Cushion - 15" x 15" x 3.5" - White - 44920

    $19.48
    Learn More
  • Taylor Made - Vinyl Coated Foam Life Ring - White with White Rope - 24" - 361

    Taylor Made

    Taylor Made - Vinyl Coated Foam Life Ring - White with White Rope - 24" - 361

    $128.50
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  • Spider by Hydro Spider - Throwable Lifesaving Device - Built with 550 Paracord - Attaches To Standard USCG Type IV Flotation Device

    Hydro Spider

    Spider by Hydro Spider - Throwable Lifesaving Device - Built with 550 Paracord - Attaches To Standard USCG Type IV Flotation Device

    $69.99
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  • Seachoice - Type II Life Vest 4-Pack with Bag - Adult - Yellow - 86010

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Type II Life Vest 4-Pack with Bag - Adult - Yellow - 86010

    $75.57
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  • Onyx - Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket - Blue - 132000-500-004-15

    Onyx Outdoor

    Onyx - Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket - Blue - 132000-500-004-15

    $163.78 $189.99
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  • Swift Water Spider by Hydro Spider - Throwable Lifesaving Device - Built with 750 Paracord & Metal Buckles

    Hydro Spider

    Swift Water Spider by Hydro Spider - Throwable Lifesaving Device - Built with 750 Paracord & Metal Buckles

    $99.99
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  • Seachoice - Type V Inflatable PFD - 33G Manual/Auto - Blue/Black - 85840

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Type V Inflatable PFD - 33G Manual/Auto - Blue/Black - 85840

    $157.99
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  • Sea Choice - Type I Commercial Offshore Jacket - Youth - Flouro Orange - 85940

    SEACHOICE

    Sea Choice - Type I Commercial Offshore Jacket - Youth - Flouro Orange - 85940

    $71.57
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  • Onyx - Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket - Pink - 132000-105-004-14

    Onyx Outdoor

    Onyx - Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket - Pink - 132000-105-004-14

    $163.78 $189.99
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  • Onyx - M-16 Manual Inflatable Belt Pack - Adult Universal - Grey - 130900-701-004-19

    Onyx Outdoor

    Onyx - M-16 Manual Inflatable Belt Pack - Adult Universal - Grey - 130900-701-004-19

    $115.71
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  • Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Child - 86140

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Child - 86140

    $34.73
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  • Sea Choice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Child - 86150

    SEACHOICE

    Sea Choice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Child - 86150

    $34.73
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  • Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - XL - 86250

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - XL - 86250

    $34.73
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  • Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest -Youth - 86180

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest -Youth - 86180

    $34.73
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  • Seachoice - Type II Deluxe Childrens Vest - Youth - Red/Yellow - 86120

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Type II Deluxe Childrens Vest - Youth - Red/Yellow - 86120

    $42.88
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  • Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Youth - 86190

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Youth - 86190

    $34.73
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  • Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Adult Universal - 86220

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Adult Universal - 86220

    $34.73
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  • Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - XL - 86240

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - XL - 86240

    $34.73
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  • Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Adult Universal - 86230

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Delux Geneal Purpose Boat Vest - Adult Universal - 86230

    $34.73
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  • Seachoice - Type II Deluxe Childrens Vest - Infant - Red/Yellow - 86100

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Type II Deluxe Childrens Vest - Infant - Red/Yellow - 86100

    $48.21
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  • Seachoice - Type II Deluxe Childrens Vest - Child - Red/Yellow -  86110

    SEACHOICE

    Seachoice - Type II Deluxe Childrens Vest - Child - Red/Yellow - 86110

    $34.79
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  • Cal-June - Jim-Buoy Closed Cell Foam G Style Life Ring With Webbing Straps - White - 30" - GW30

    CAL JUNE BOUYS

    Cal-June - Jim-Buoy Closed Cell Foam G Style Life Ring With Webbing Straps - White - 30" - GW30

    $154.19
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  • Cal-June - Jim-Buoy Closed Cell Foam Life Ring With Rope Molded Into Core - White - 20" - GWX20

    CAL JUNE BOUYS

    Cal-June - Jim-Buoy Closed Cell Foam Life Ring With Rope Molded Into Core - White - 20" - GWX20

    $128.90
    Learn More

Life Vests and PFDs resources and Information

PartsVu is thrilled to offer a broad selection of life vests and personal floatation devices to keep you and your passengers safe out on the water. Shop boat safety equipment from top manufacturers, like Kwik Tek, Stearns, Onyx Outdoor, Seachoice, First Watch, Full Throttle, and more. Need help picking the right life jacket for you? Check out this helpful guide on our blog titled PFD 101: Selecting the Right Life Jackets.

Looking for more boating and marine products? Check out our complete selection of Products and Accessories or shop our broader categories of Boating Accessories and Boating Safety Equipment and Boat Safety Equipment, Lifejackets, & Personal Floatation Devices. Or shop Life Jackets and Personal Floatation Devices by category, including:

Life Jackets and Personal Floatation Devices FAQs

What are the US Coastguard guidelines concerning life jackets?

While you must refer to the boating regulations within your state, minimum U.S. federal law requires a life jacket to be carried for each person on board. In states where no children’s life jacket law is in place, a U.S. Coast Guard interim rule requires children under 13 on moving boats to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket that fits. Personal flotation device (PDF) guidelines are provided by the U.S. Coast Guard:

  • Type I PFDs/Offshore Life Jackets – Best for all waters including open ocean, rough seas, or remote water, where rescue may be slow.
  • Type II PDFs/Near-Shore Buoyant Vests – For general boating activities and good for calm, inland waters, or where there is a good chance for fast rescue.
  • Type III PFDs/Flotation Aids – For general boating or the specialized activity that is marked on the device such as water skiing, hunting, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and others. Good for calm, inland waters, or where there is a good chance for fast rescue. These PDFs are designed to complement the given watersport.

PartsVu offers a wide range of life jackets. See the links below for our most recommended or click here to view our complete selection.

What is the difference between life jackets and PFDs?

First, let’s break down the general differences between the terms ‘life jacket,’ ‘life vest,’ and ‘PFD.’ Simply put, all life jackets and life vests are wearable PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices), but not all PFDs are life jackets, vests, or wearable, for that matter. A PFD is simply any device used to help a person stay afloat. This includes ring buoys, buoyant cushions, and inflatable belts. PFD designs include wearable and non-wearable styles, different types, and different performance levels.

How Do PFDs Work?

Standard PFDs use foam to stay afloat, though inflatable and hybrid designs are common as well. 

Inflatable PFDs rely on CO2 cylinders. They inflated either manually, by pulling on a string, or automatically through exposure to water. The primary benefit of inflatables is that they tend to be lightweight and less bulky than other options. However, you always run the risk of a malfunction if the inflatable isn’t in proper condition. More on this later. 

Regardless of their composition, the function of any PFD is to provide buoyancy if you unexpectedly find yourself in the water. Some are designed to simply assist the user in swimming. Others are designed to flip the wearer upright and allow them to breathe, even if they’re unconscious. Fatigue, injury, cold, or simply being a weak or non-swimmer are all conditions that may necessitate extra help.

What are the different types of PFDs?

Inherent PFDs (Also Known as Standard PFDs)

Standard PDFs are those that get their buoyancy from foam, offering built-in, constant flotation. These come in wearable and throwable styles and are ideal for swimmers and non-swimmers alike. They come in a full range of sizes. Sizes include infant, child, youth, and adult. Some are designed specifically for water sports.

Inflatable PFDs

As mentioned, Inflatable PFDs rely on CO2 cylinders that can be inflated either manually or automatically. These are a compact and comfortable option but have some drawbacks. Inflatable life jackets aren’t recommended for those who can’t swim or those who are weak swimmers. In addition, only adult sizes are available.

While these PFDs can meet Coast Guard requirements, there are a couple of stipulations. The device must be in a good condition. It must have a full CO2 cylinder with all green status indicators. Additionally, inflatable PFDs are only considered a legal form of flotation by the USCG when you’re wearing them.

Hybrid PFDs

Hybrid PFDs are a reliable option, as they offer compact design with built-in flotation as a backup. Hybrids come in youth, child, and adult sizes, but aren’t available for infants. A good option for people of all swimming abilities and often designed with water sports in mind, hybrid PFDs are a smart option for many boaters. 

Special Purpose PFDs

PFDs that don’t exactly fit into the previous categories include options such as belt packs and some vests/jackets. They may be inherent, inflatable, or hybrids. These special purpose devices are designed for specific activities, such as kayaking, wakeboarding, windsurfing, or other water sports. They may not have Coast Guard approval for use outside of those activities.

How do I select the right life jacket for my child?

A properly fitted life jacket is one that fits snugly on your child’s body while remaining comfortable. If at its tightest the life jacket is loose or gaps anywhere on your child, it is too big. On the opposite end, if the jacket is difficult to get into, the jacket is too small. It’s important that you find the right fit for your child for two key reasons. First, a snug fit means that the life jacket won’t be able to slip off in an emergency. Second, a comfortable fit means that your child will quickly grow accustomed to wearing it, and will be more likely to keep it on and stay safe (even when you’re not looking!). 

Each company’s sizing will run differently, but are generally based on chest and waist measurements. Be sure to take your child’s measurements into account, and take new measurements each year to ensure the best fit. 

After selecting the size of the life jacket, do a test fit well before heading out on the water. This will allow you to exchange the jacket if it is ill-fitting or uncomfortable. If possible, do this at a swimming pool so that your child can get used to wearing it in the water, get a feel for how it works, and make any necessary adjustments to the straps. 

Each life jacket will be a little bit different, but the following steps apply to most:

  1. Slip the jacket over your child’s head and zip the front zipper all the way up to their neck
  2. Fasten the bottom buckle, securing the jacket to their waist
  3. Tighten or loosen the jacket using the adjustment straps on either side. 
  4. At this point, the jacket should be snug. However, if the jacket has leg straps, adjust these as an added precaution to prevent the life jacket from riding up. 
  5. To double-check the fit, attempt to lift your child by the jacket’s shoulder straps. If the vest comes up past their chin, the jacket needs to be tighter or a smaller size needs to be purchased.
  6. If a pool or calm body of water is available, have your child practice floating face up while wearing their life vest. Ensure that the straps stay in place and that the jacket effectively keeps your child’s head above water.