Stearns PFDs Used in Canada

PFDs refer to Personal Flotation Devices, including life jackets and vests, that give people more buoyancy to stay afloat in water. Proper size and fit are important to the performance of PFDs. Stearns is a company that manufactures PFDs, several variations of which are used in Canada.

  1. Type I PFDs

    • Also classified as Off-Shore life jackets, these PFDs are best for all waters, the open ocean and rough seas or remote bodies of water where rescue may be slow to arrive. Of all PFDs, these float the best and are produced in highly-visible colors. They are typically bulky and uncomfortable. Stearns makes various Industrial and Government PFDs, such as those for the military, that can be classified as Type I. They are available in two sizes that fit most adults and children.

    Type II PFDs

    • Type II PFDs or Near-Shore Buoyant vests are for general boating activities, preferably for calm inland waters or where there is a good chance of rescue. These are less bulky than the Type I PFDs. Stearns produces many vests that are available in infant, child, youth and adult sizes.

    Type III PFDs

    • These are Floating Aids for general boating or specialized activity, such as fishing, water skiing, canoeing and kayaking. They are ideal for calm inland waters or spots where there is a good chance of being rescued quickly. Out of all PFDs, these are the most comfortable and have the same minimum buoyancy as Type II PFDs. Stearns manufactures a wide range of vests including boating life jackets, fishing life jackets and paddle sports life jackets.

    Type IV PFDs

    • Type IV PFDs are Throwable Devices which are ideal for calm inland water with heavy boat traffic, where there is always help nearby. These are suitable backup to wearable PFDs, but are not for non-swimmers or children, nor should they be used in rough waters for many hours. Stearns makes inflatable life rings, rescue bags and ring buoys in different sizes.

    Type V PFDs

    • Also known as Special Use Devices, these PFDs are only for special uses or conditions. Consumers will need to read the attached label for limits of use. These are the least bulky of all PFDs and are good for continuous wear. Stearns offers various vests such as board sailing vests, deck suits, canoe and kayak vests and work vests for commercial vessels.