Boat Life Jackets and Personal Flotation Devices
On your boat, life jackets, inflatable life vests, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are the most important pieces of equipment. Wholesale Marine carries an extensive stock of jackets and PFDs for every member of the family-pets included! Select from Onyx, O’Brien, HO Sports, Connelly, Hyperlite, and Texas Recreation. We proudly carry a variety of vest sizes at very competitive prices.
While regulations vary state by state, the United States Coast Guard has a requirement that there be an appropriately-sized life jacket for everyone on board and recommends that they be worn at all times. Wholesale Marine has your entire boat crew covered with high-performance life jackets, inflatable life vests, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) for men, women, teens, youth, children, infants, and dogs.
U.S. Coast Guard Approved Life Jackets
When selecting a U.S. Coast Guard Approved life jacket, consider the type of water you’ll be in and what activities you may be doing. Type I life jackets are the most buoyant and are ideal for situations where rescue may be slow. Type II life jackets are better suited for calm inland waters or for boating near-shore. For water sports and other activities, consider a Type III jacket for its superior range of motion.
Note on Life Jacket labeling:
- Life jackets labeled has Harmonized Approval means that they are approved by both the US Coast Guard and Transport Canada.
- Under the new approval system, Type III life jackets are slowly transitioning to being designated as "Level 70" buoyancy aids.
If your job requires commercial life jackets, float coats, or work suits, visit Wholesale Marine online for the best selection at guaranteed low prices. While onboard storage should be a consideration, it is important to not compromise your safety. We carry inflatable life vests in various styles, sizes, and colors. We haven’t forgotten about the fisherman or kayaker. Find a great selection of fishing and paddling life vests, too with an ultra-slim design to offer you safe flotation while not interfering with your range of motion.
Life Jacket Maintenance
It is recommended that every jacket be tested for buoyancy at least once a year. Jackets that have become waterlogged, leaky, or even faded, should be replaced. Be sure to check if your children have outgrown their life jackets before the start of the boating season; each PFD is clearly marked for its weight capacity. Remember that the best life jacket is one that is worn, so make sure that they are comfortable to wear.
Quality life jackets can be the best investment you can make as a boater. If you have any questions about life jackets, contact our customer service representatives for guidance. We’re here Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM EST at (877) 388-2628. Don't forget to ask about our Captain's Club Rewards program to find out how you can save on future purchases.