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Mustang Survival Leads the Way in New PFD Regulations with Cutting-Edge Innovation

As regulatory bodies in North America move toward a harmonized approach to personal flotation device (PFD) classifications, Mustang Survival is at the forefront of industry adaptation. With the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) phasing out traditional ‘Type’ designations in favor of ‘Level’ classifications and Canada adopting the same levels, Mustang Survival is helping consumers navigate these changes while delivering industry-leading innovations in life-saving equipment.

Recognizing the complexity of these updates, Mustang Survival has published a comprehensive article breaking down the key changes in PFD regulations, including the transition from performance-based ‘Type’ classifications to buoyancy-based ‘Levels’ such as Level 50, 70, and 100. These updates aim to enhance safety, increase usability, and encourage more consistent wear of life jackets across a variety of water-based activities.

"The move to Level classifications represents a significant shift in the way PFDs and life jackets are certified and used, and it’s critical that boaters understand what these changes mean for them," says Gordon Colby, Mustang Survival’s Certification Manager and a member of the Technical Committee for 1123 Personal Flotation Devices. "As a manufacturer dedicated to safety and performance, we are committed to ensuring that consumers have access to clear, accurate information to make the best choices for their needs."

Exceeding performance - the Elite 190 PFD

Mustang Survival has developed the new Elite 190 Inflatable PFD that exceeds the performance requirements of Level 70 while remaining within the Level 70 classification. This advancement underscores Mustang Survival’s leadership in the industry and commitment to exceeding safety standards while maintaining the comfort and usability that users demand.

“We’re proud to be among the first manufacturers to push the boundaries of flotation technology,” adds Colby. “Our new Elite 190 Inflatable PFD provides 188N (42 lbs) of buoyancy and performance without sacrificing mobility and wearability—key factors in ensuring PFDs are actually worn when they’re needed most.”

Understanding the key changes in PFD regulations

The new regulatory framework introduces several important changes, including:

• No New "Type" Approvals: While existing approvals that may refer to "Type" remain valid for legal carriage requirements (i.e., what must be carried on a boat to meet regulations), no new Type classifications will be issued to PFDs entering the market.
• Level 50 Accepted: The U.S. Coast Guard will now approve Level 50 devices alongside Level 70. These lower-buoyancy PFDs must be worn to meet legal carriage requirements on a boat.
• Level 100 Defined for Commercial Use: Devices in this category will be approved specifically for commercial applications and are designed to establish an airway-protected position in the water.

(Note: Levels 50 and 100 are under consideration by Transport Canada but not yet implemented.)

This new harmonized TC/USCG certification sets a minimum performance standard. The actual buoyancy, measured in Newtons, can vary significantly within each level. It is now up to the manufacturers to provide information and consumers to educate themselves about the appropriate performance of PFDs or life jackets for each specific activity and the environment in which that activity will take place.

To support consumer understanding, Mustang Survival has created an easy-to-read graphic outlining these regulatory changes and how they impact boaters. The graphic is available for download alongside the full article, which can be accessed ​here.

A trusted resource in the flotation industry

With decades of experience designing high-performance PFDs and life jackets for recreational and professional users, Mustang Survival remains a trusted resource for safety education and innovation. As the industry adapts to these new regulations, Mustang Survival will continue providing expert guidance to ensure boaters make informed decisions about their safety gear.