Type 1 (Off-Shore Life Jacket) Bulky, but floats you the best. Best floatation for open, rough or remote waters. Turns most unconscious wearers face-up in the water.
Type II (Near-Shore Buoyant Vest) Yoke type, less bulky then Type I and more comfortable. Good for calm, inland waters. This vest will turn most unconscious wearers face-up in the water.
	Type III (Flotation Aid) Good floatation for calm, inland waters with good chance for fast rescue. Generally the most comfortable to wear. Gives freedom of movement. Not for rough water. Wearer may have to tilt head back to avoid face-own position in water, which can contribute to exhaustion and hypothermia.
Type IV (Throwable Device) Good back-up to wearable life jacket. Some can be used as seat cushions. Not for unconscious persons or non-swimmers.
Type V (Special Use Devices) Approved for the activities listed on the label. Some are approved for white water rafting, board sailing, etc. This type also includes new hybrid PFDs with foam floatation and an inflatable chamber. Type V Hybrid PFDs are as comfortable to wear as a Type III but when fully inflated have the floatation performance of a Type II or better. Total Inflatable PFDs are not Coast Guard approved if they have the approval number listed on the label. These PFDs are only for use by adults.