Types of lifejackets

Learn about the different types of lifejackets (also known as personal flotation devices).

Lifejackets: Choosing the right one to wear

Maritime NZ

Choosing the right lifejacket.

Lifejackets for kids

Maritime NZ

Choosing lifejackets for kids.

Open waters

There are two types of lifejacket available for open waters:

Type 401 - inflatable

Achieves buoyancy by either a:
- water-activated switch
- manual pull cord
May include a mouthpiece
Designed to keep the wearer vertical during unconsciousness
Comfortable and convenient to wear at all times
Must provide 150 newtons of buoyancy

Guidelines for inflatable lifejackets

Download nationally agreed guidelines to help choose the right inflatable lifejacket, and know how and when to service it.

Guidelines for inflatable lifejackets [PDF: 281kB, 5 pages]

Type 401 - semi-rigid

Achieves buoyancy by a semi-rigid foam
Designed to keep the wearer vertical during unconsciousness
Minimum buoyancy rating of 100 newtons (adult size)
Not suitable for continuous wearing on pleasure craft
Best suited for emergencies

National and international standards* that substantially comply with type 401: ANSI/UL 1123 and 1177 type I PFD offshore life jacket; AS 4758 level 150; ISO 12402-3; EN 396.

Inshore waters

Type 402

Must have a buoyant collar
Not designed to keep an unconscious person’s face above water
Provides at least 71 newtons of buoyancy (adult size)
Comfortable and convenient to wear at all times
Compatible with a crotch strap
Not suitable for rough conditions

National and international standards* that substantially comply with type 402: ANSI/UL 1123 and 1177 type II PFD near shore buoyant vest; AS 4758 level 100; AS 1512 PFD type I; ISO 12402-4; EN 395.

Specialist lifejackets and personal flotation devices

Type 403

No collar
Lower buoyancy rating when compared with other lifejackets
Lower levels of support and safety compared to other models
No reflective or bright materials
Necessary for some aquatic sports
Must have at least 53 newtons of buoyancy (adult size)

National and international standards* that substantially comply with type 403: ANSI/UL 1123 and 1177 type III PFD; AS 4758 level 50; AS 1499 PFD type 2; AS 2260 PFD type 3; ISO 12402-5; EN 393.

Buoyancy aid and wetsuit - Type 404

A wetsuit with added buoyancy in specific areas. These are very expensive and suitable for some sporting activities.

Buoyancy garment - Type 405

No collar
Lower buoyancy rating when compared with other lifejackets
Lower levels of support and safety compared to other models
Necessary for some aquatic sports
Has reflective material bright colours

National and international standards* that substantially comply with type 405: ANSI/UL 1123 and 1177 type III PFD; AS 4758 level 50; AS 1499 PFD type 2; AS 2260 PFD type 3; ISO 12402-5; EN 393.