Life Vests & Personal Flotation Devices

(446 products)

The USCG has fully transitioned to the New Performance-Based Level System (Levels 50, 70, 100, 150, and 275). This replaces the old "Type I–V" labels with clearer icons that indicate buoyancy and "turning ability" (the ability to turn an unconscious person face-up).

At Anchor Express, we stock the latest 2026-compliant gear from Mustang Survival, Onyx, First Watch, and Full Throttle.

Performance Levels: Choosing the Right Gear

Level	Performance Icon	Best Application
Level 50	Inner-circle arrow	Low-profile vests for competent swimmers in calm, near-shore waters. No turning ability.
Level 70	Standard Wave	The "Everyday" vest. Ideal for fishing, kayaking, and general boating near help.
Level 100	Ocean Wave	For rougher waters where rescue may not be immediate. Provides more turning ability.
Level 150	Blue/White Icon	High-buoyancy Offshore gear. Reliable for turning most wearers face-up even in choppy seas.

Boating Supplies Category Description

Having a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Life Vest or PFD for every person on board is not just a safety best practice—it’s the law. At Anchor Express, we provide a curated selection of the industry's most reliable flotation devices, from ultra-slim manual inflatables for tournament anglers to high-buoyancy offshore vests for blue-water cruisers.

Our 2026 collection features the latest Performance Level labels, ensuring you stay compliant with the newest USCG standards. Whether you are looking for the extreme comfort of the Mustang Elite series, the rugged durability of First Watch work vests, or fun, safe designs for infants and youth, Anchor Express is your partner in marine safety.

Legal Requirement Quick-Check

Children: Federal law requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while the vessel is underway (exceptions apply for enclosed cabins).
Maintenance: For Inflatable PFDs, always check your Re-Arm Kit expiration date. If the indicator is red, your vest will not satisfy carriage requirements.