Type II: Near-shore Bouyancy Vests
A Type II, Near-Shore Buoyancy Vest is intended for calm, inland waters or where there is a good chance of quick rescue. Inherently buoyant life jackets of this type will turn some unconscious wearers to a face-up position in the water, but the turning is not as pronounced as with a Type I. This type of inflatable turns as well as a Type I foam jacket.

Type III: Flotation Aids
A Type III, Flotation Aid is good for users in calm, inland waters, or anywhere there is a good chance of quick rescue. The wearer may have to tilt their head back to remain in a face-up position in the water. The Type III foam vest has the same minimum buoyancy as a Type II. It comes in many styles, colors, and sizes and is generally the most comfortable type for continuous wear. Float coats, fishing vests, and vests designed with features suitable for various sports activities are examples of this type. This type of inflatable turns as well as a Type II foam vest.

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Type V: Special-Use Devices
A Type V, Special-Use Device is intended for specific activities and may be carried instead of another life jacket only if used according to the condition(s) for which it is approved, as shown on its label A. Type V provides the performance of a Type I, II, or III (as marked on its label) If the label says the life jacket is “approved only when worn,” the life jacket must be worn (except by persons in enclosed spaces) and used in accordance with the approval label to meet carriage requirements. Some Type V devices provide significant hypothermia protection. Varieties include deck suits, work vests, sailboarding vests, and sailing vests with a safety harness.
 
An Inflatable with Safety Harness is approved only as a Type V, Special-Use Device because its use to prevent falls overboard presents several risks. The U S Coast Guard has not assessed its potential for injury from suddenly stopping a fall and, in case of capsizing or sinking, the boat may take the wearer down, resulting in death. Do not attach the harness to the boat unless it is being worn with a tether of less than 6 5 feet in length with quick-release-under-load hardware. Read the safety harness section of the owner’s manual for intended use. Under no circumstances should the safety harness be used for any climbing activity. U.S. Coast Guard approval does not apply to this harness used under those circumstances.
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