Mustang Survival Pioneers Innovation Amid Shifting PFD Regulations
Vancouver, BC – As North American regulatory bodies move toward a unified standard for personal flotation device (PFD) classifications, Mustang Survival is leading the way in helping both the industry and consumers adapt. With the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) transitioning from traditional “Type” classifications to new “Level” designations—and Canada aligning with the same framework—Mustang Survival is at the forefront of educating users and advancing life-saving PFD technology.
To help demystify the regulatory changes, Mustang Survival has released a detailed article outlining the move from performance-based “Type” categories to buoyancy-based “Levels,” such as Level 50, Level 70, and Level 100. These updates are designed to improve safety, enhance comfort, and encourage more consistent use of life jackets across a broader range of water activities.
“The move to Level classifications represents a significant shift in how PFDs and life jackets are certified and used, and it’s critical that boaters understand what these changes mean for them,” says Gordon Colby, Certification Manager at Mustang Survival 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.”
Elite 190: Raising the Bar in Level 70 Performance
Highlighting its commitment to innovation, Mustang Survival has unveiled the new Elite 190 Inflatable PFD—an advanced life jacket that delivers buoyancy and performance beyond what is required for Level 70 classification, without compromising comfort or mobility.
“We’re proud to be among the first manufacturers to push the boundaries of flotation technology,” Colby adds. “Our new Elite 190 Inflatable PFD provides 188 Newtons (42 lbs) of buoyancy while maintaining exceptional wearability—two critical factors in ensuring PFDs are actually worn when they’re needed most.”
Key Changes to PFD Regulations Explained
The new harmonized regulations introduce several important shifts:
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End of New “Type” Approvals: Existing PFDs labeled with “Type” designations are still legal for carriage, but new PFDs will now be certified under the Level system.
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Level 50 Now Recognized: The USCG has approved Level 50 PFDs for use, though these must be worn to meet carriage requirements.
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Level 100 Clarified for Commercial Use: These PFDs are designed to support airway protection in the water and are primarily intended for commercial marine environments.
(Note: Levels 50 and 100 are still under review by Transport Canada and not yet approved for Canadian waters.)
This new TC/USCG harmonized standard introduces a minimum performance threshold for each level. However, buoyancy can still vary widely within each level. As a result, manufacturers must clearly communicate performance specifications, and consumers are encouraged to understand which PFD is best suited to their specific activity and water conditions.
To support this learning curve, Mustang Survival has published a downloadable infographic that simplifies the new classifications and highlights what boaters need to know. The full article and visual guide are available on the company’s website.
Trusted Expertise in Water Safety
With a longstanding reputation for designing high-performance flotation gear for recreational, military, and commercial use, Mustang Survival continues to be a go-to resource for safety education and product innovation. As the industry transitions to these new standards, the company remains committed to helping boaters make informed, confident decisions about their personal safety equipment.
About Mustang Survival
Pioneer in the design and manufacture of lifesaving solutions since 1967. Mustang Survival is committed to the protection and enhancement of those who push themselves to extremes, whether for work, duty, or to escape the daily grind. www.mustangsurvival.com
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