Buoyancy & Safety: Designed to turn an unconscious person face-up in the water to maintain clear airways.
Offshore Jackets (Type I): Provide the most buoyancy, suitable for open or rough waters.
Near-Shore Vests (Type II): Designed for calmer, inland waters where quick rescue is likely.
Flotation Aids (Type III): Comfortable for activities like kayaking, but with less buoyancy.
Inflatable PFDs: Compact and comfortable for all-day wear; inflate automatically in water or manually.
Materials: Typically, traditional foam models are durable and require less maintenance, while neoprene offers a softer, form-fitting feel.