Introduction to Life Jacket Types and Labels

Traditional U.S. Coast Guard labels identified the life jacket’s type: I, II, III, or V.

The new harmonized labels provide a graphic and a number. The number indicates a minimum performance that is closely tied to buoyancy, measured in newtons. One Newton (N) equals 0.225 pounds.

• Level 70 devices are currently accepted in the United States and in Canada.
• Level 50 and Level 100 devices are expected to be accepted sometime in 2026.