Life Jackets & PFDs

Life jackets and PFDs for paddling, fishing, towsports and family boating, in infant, child, youth and adult sizes. AIRHEAD, O'Brien, Connelly and Stohlquist cover everything from low-profile paddling vests and Neolite towsports vests to children's jackets with crotch straps and head support.

In Canada, the label matters as much as the fit. Every person aboard a pleasure craft needs an approved lifejacket or PFD of the right size, and Transport Canada also accepts certain devices certified to the ANSI/CAN/UL 12402 standards by a recognized body. Many listings here carry U.S. Coast Guard approval only, so confirm the Canadian approval on the label before counting a jacket toward your boat's equipment. Then match the chest size or weight range, pick large armholes for paddling, and choose a child model with a crotch strap and collar. Read our PFD and lifejacket guide and the canoe and kayak safety checklist.

Brands include AIRHEAD, O'Brien and SEACHOICE.

In this range: swim vests & float suits and storage.

Need help choosing? Read PFDs and life jackets in Canada.

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Life Jackets & PFDs: frequently asked questions

Are U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets legal in Canada?

Not on U.S. approval alone. Transport Canada asks boaters to look for a label showing approval by Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard or Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and it also accepts certain devices certified to ANSI/CAN/UL 12402 by a recognized certification body. Many newer labels list both countries, so read the label inside the jacket before you buy.

What is the difference between a lifejacket and a PFD?

In Canada, a lifejacket is designed to turn you onto your back so your face stays out of the water, even if you are unconscious, and comes only in red, orange or yellow. A PFD is less bulky and more comfortable for active use like paddling, but has limited turning ability. Either one counts if it is approved and fits the wearer.

How do I fit a child's life jacket?

Choose by the child's weight range on the label, then fasten every buckle and the strap between the legs. Lift the jacket by the shoulders: it should stay snug and not ride up over the chin or ears. Check the fit each season, since children move between weight ranges quickly.

Sources: tc.canada.ca · tc.canada.ca · laws-lois.justice.gc.ca

Our guides for this category

How to Dress in Layers for Canadian Cold During Outdoor Sport ·PFD vs Lifejacket in Canada: Labels, Sizing, Kids and Inflatables

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