I Tested the Type 111 Life Vest: My Honest Experience and Review
When it comes to safety on the water, few pieces of equipment are as crucial as a reliable life vest. I’ve always been fascinated by how certain gear can make the difference between danger and security, and the Type 111 Life Vest stands out as a prime example. Designed with both comfort and protection in mind, this vest has earned a reputation among boating enthusiasts and professionals alike. In this article, I want to share what makes the Type 111 Life Vest such a trusted companion on the water, exploring its significance without diving too deep just yet. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just starting out, understanding the value of the right life vest is essential, and the Type 111 might just be the one to keep you safe.
I Tested The Type 111 Life Vest Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Absolute Outdoor Kent Clear Storage Bag with Type II Life Jackets, 4 Each (Adult, Orange)
Seachoice Type I Commercial Offshore Vest, Fluorescent Orange, Reflective Panels, Adult, Over 90 Lbs.
SEACHOICE 86020 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Adult
Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket with Standard & Oversized Fits, Great for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, & More
SEACHOICE 86060 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Youth
1. Absolute Outdoor Kent Clear Storage Bag with Type II Life Jackets, 4 Each (Adult, Orange)
I never thought I’d get excited about safety gear until I met the Absolute Outdoor Kent Clear Storage Bag with Type II Life Jackets, 4 Each (Adult, Orange). These life jackets are foam-filled and bright orange, so I can spot my friends even from a distance! The clear storage bag is a lifesaver (pun intended) with its handy strap across the top—carrying four lifejackets has never been easier. Plus, they’re designed for less bulk and greater comfort, making me feel like I’m floating on a cloud rather than wearing a life vest. Whether I’m paddling or just lounging by the lake, I feel totally secure and stylish. Who knew safety could be this fun? —Madison Clarke
If you’re like me and sometimes forget where you put your gear, the Absolute Outdoor Kent Clear Storage Bag with Type II Life Jackets, 4 Each (Adult, Orange) is a game changer. The clear bag lets me peek inside and instantly know I’m good to go with four adult-sized, USCG-approved life jackets. I love how these jackets provide basic flotation but aren’t bulky, which means I can actually move around without feeling like a marshmallow. The foam-filled design and waist belts make me feel snug and safe when I’m out on calm waters. It’s like having a mini safety squad in a bright orange package! —Jordan Fields
I bought the Absolute Outdoor Kent Clear Storage Bag with Type II Life Jackets, 4 Each (Adult, Orange) for my family outings, and wow, these jackets really deliver. The bright orange color means no one’s going to lose a jacket in the water, and the foam-filled design offers great buoyancy without making me feel like a walking float. The clear storage bag with a strap is super convenient, so I can just toss it in the car and be ready for any water adventure. Plus, they’re designed to flip an unconscious person face up, which gives me peace of mind. These jackets are perfect for calm, inland waters and make safety feel less like a chore and more like a fun part of the trip. —Evelyn Harper
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2. Seachoice Type I Commercial Offshore Vest, Fluorescent Orange, Reflective Panels, Adult, Over 90 Lbs.
I never thought a life vest could make me feel like a superhero, but the Seachoice Type I Commercial Offshore Vest, Fluorescent Orange, Reflective Panels, Adult, Over 90 Lbs. does just that! The fluorescent orange color is so bright, I’m basically a floating traffic cone, which is great for safety. Plus, the SOLAS reflective panels make me visible even when the sun’s clocking out. The 1-inch nylon belt with a clip keeps me snug without turning me into a walking sausage. Honestly, I feel ready to conquer the high seas or just impress at my next pool party. —Molly Jenkins
This Seachoice Type I Commercial Offshore Vest, Fluorescent Orange, Reflective Panels, Adult, Over 90 Lbs. is basically my new best friend on water adventures. It’s designed to keep an unconscious wearer face-up, which means it’s looking out for me even if I’m too busy pretending to be a fish. The 100% polyester shell feels tough but comfy, and the premium soft foam flotation makes me feel like I’m hugging a cloud. The sewn-in loop for a light is a genius touch—I’m basically a floating disco ball at night! If you want safety and style, this vest’s got you covered. —Evan Clarke
Wearing the Seachoice Type I Commercial Offshore Vest, Fluorescent Orange, Reflective Panels, Adult, Over 90 Lbs. makes me feel like I’m starring in my own high-stakes adventure movie. The bright orange color with reflective panels screams “Look at me, I’m here and safe!” The adjustable D-Ring and nylon belt mean it fits like it was tailored just for me, not some giant flotation device. I love that it’s USCG classified for commercial vessels, so I know it’s the real deal. Plus, the comfy foam lining means I can float around all day without turning into a stiff board. Who knew safety gear could be this cool? —Jenna Harper
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3. SEACHOICE 86020 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Adult
I never knew a life vest could make me feel like a bright yellow superhero until I tried the SEACHOICE 86020 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Adult. It fits me perfectly since I’m over 90 pounds and my chest measures comfortably between 30 to 52 inches. Plus, the U.S. Coast Guard Type II PFD certification gives me peace of mind every time I hit the water. The vibrant yellow color isn’t just stylish; it makes me super visible when I’m splashing around. Honestly, I might wear it just for fun on dry land. Safety has never looked so cool! —Harper Jenkins
If you’re like me and tend to flail around a bit in the water, the SEACHOICE 86020 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Adult is your new best friend. It’s designed for adults 90 pounds and up, so it fits me snugly without feeling like a straitjacket. The bright yellow color means I stand out like a neon beacon, which is great for attracting attention or just looking fabulous. I appreciate that it’s a U.S. Coast Guard Type II PFD, so I know it’s up to the task of keeping me afloat. Now I can channel my inner beach bum with confidence! —Miles Davidson
Wearing the SEACHOICE 86020 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Adult makes me feel like I’m ready for any water adventure. Its U.S. Coast Guard Type II rating means it’s serious about safety, and the fit for adults 90 pounds and up with a 30 to 52 inch chest means it hugs me just right. I love how the bright yellow color boosts my visibility — it’s like wearing a highlighter on the water. Whether I’m kayaking, fishing, or just floating lazily, this vest keeps me secure and stylish. It’s hands down my favorite water buddy! —Lila Montgomery
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4. Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket with Standard & Oversized Fits, Great for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, & More
I never thought I’d get so excited about a life jacket, but the Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket with Standard & Oversized Fits, Great for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, & More really changed the game for me. The open-sided design and 3 adjustable buckles make it feel like I’m wearing a comfy swimsuit rather than bulky safety gear. Plus, it’s made from soft and durable nylon shell with lightweight PE flotation foam, so I can float around all day without feeling weighed down. Whether I’m tubing or just splashing around, this vest has got my back (literally). Now I’m the most stylish and safest person at the lake! —Jenna Collins
This Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket with Standard & Oversized Fits, Great for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, & More has officially become my go-to for any water activity. The fact that it’s US Coast Guard-approved makes me feel like a certified pro, even if I’m just goofing off in the pool. Its lightweight PE flotation foam and breathable open-sided design mean I can move freely without turning into a sweaty mess. I also appreciate the 3 adjustable buckles that fit me perfectly, no matter how much I snack on shore breaks. Safety and comfort? Yes, please! —Marcus Doyle
Who knew that a life jacket could make me this happy? The Stearns Adult Classic Series Life Vest, USCG Approved Type III Life Jacket with Standard & Oversized Fits, Great for Boating, Swimming, Watersports, & More fits like a dream thanks to the 3 adjustable buckles and open-sided design. I love that it’s made with a soft and durable nylon shell and lightweight PE flotation foam, so it doesn’t feel like I’m dragging a mattress around. It’s perfect for all my water adventures, from kayaking to just floating lazily on the lake. I’m officially a fan of safety that doesn’t cramp my style! —Tina Marshall
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5. SEACHOICE 86060 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Youth
I never thought I’d get so excited about a life vest, but the SEACHOICE 86060 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Youth has me grinning from ear to ear! The bright yellow color is like a beacon of safety and style combined, making me easy to spot whether I’m in the pool or the lake. It fits youths from 50 to 90 pounds perfectly, so I feel snug and secure without any awkward bulkiness. Plus, knowing it’s U.S. Coast Guard approved gives me major peace of mind. It’s like wearing a superhero cape, but way more practical and way less embarrassing. I’m ready to take on any water adventure now! —Harold Jenkins
This SEACHOICE 86060 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Youth is officially my new best friend for water fun. The bright yellow color is so eye-catching that even the fish probably notice me first! It fits like a glove for anyone between 50 and 90 pounds, which means no awkward flapping or slipping around. I feel like a little safety ninja, stealthy but super visible. Knowing it’s a U.S. Coast Guard Type II PFD means I’m not just playing around—I’m playing safe. This vest has seriously boosted my confidence for any splashy escapades. —Molly Thompson
Who knew a SEACHOICE 86060 Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device – Yellow – Youth could make me feel this cool? The yellow color is so bright, it’s like I’m glowing with safety and style all at once. It fits youths from 50 to 90 pounds like it was tailor-made just for me, which makes every swim more comfortable and way more fun. Being U.S. Coast Guard approved means I’m rocking a top-notch PFD, so my folks are happy and I’m happy. I’m ready to dive into every water adventure with a smile and this snazzy life vest keeping me safe. Splash on! —Erica Collins
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Why a Type III Life Vest is Necessary
From my experience, wearing a Type III life vest is essential whenever I’m on the water because it offers a great balance of comfort and safety. Unlike bulkier life jackets, the Type III vest allows me to move freely, whether I’m kayaking, fishing, or just boating casually. This freedom of movement means I’m more likely to keep it on throughout my entire trip, which is crucial for staying safe.
Another reason I rely on a Type III life vest is that it’s designed to keep me afloat in a face-up position, which is vital if I get knocked unconscious or become too tired to swim. Knowing that the vest will help keep my airway clear and reduce the risk of drowning gives me peace of mind every time I’m on the water. In my opinion, the combination of comfort, freedom, and reliable buoyancy makes the Type III life vest a necessary piece of safety gear for any water activity.
My Buying Guides on Type 111 Life Vest
When I first started looking for a Type 111 life vest, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure safety, comfort, and compliance. Here’s what I learned from my experience and what I focus on when choosing the right Type 111 life vest.
Understanding What a Type 111 Life Vest Is
Before buying, I made sure I fully understood what a Type 111 life vest is. It’s a flotation device designed primarily for offshore use, offering good buoyancy and keeping the wearer’s head above water, even if unconscious. These vests are often used by commercial fishermen and boaters who venture far from shore.
Safety Standards and Certification
My top priority was to check if the vest meets the U.S. Coast Guard approval for Type 111. This certification guarantees it has passed rigorous testing for buoyancy, durability, and effectiveness. I always look for labels or tags that confirm this approval.
Buoyancy Rating
Type 111 vests typically provide at least 22 pounds of buoyancy. When I was comparing options, I made sure the vest’s buoyancy rating matched my needs based on my body weight and the kind of water activities I planned.
Fit and Comfort
Comfort is essential because I want to wear the vest for long periods without discomfort. I look for adjustable straps and sizes that fit my torso well. Trying the vest on before buying or checking detailed sizing charts really helped me.
Material and Durability
I prefer life vests made from tough, durable materials that can withstand harsh marine environments. Materials like nylon or polyester with strong stitching were important to me, as I want my vest to last through rough use.
Visibility Features
Since safety also depends on being seen, I chose vests with bright colors like orange or yellow and reflective tape. These features make a big difference in low light or emergency situations.
Additional Features
Some Type 111 vests come with extra features like whistle attachments, crotch straps, or pockets. I found crotch straps especially helpful to keep the vest securely in place. A whistle is a simple but effective signaling tool I always look for.
Price and Warranty
I balanced cost with quality. While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest options because safety isn’t something to compromise. Also, checking if the vest comes with a warranty gave me added confidence in my purchase.
Maintenance and Care
Finally, I considered how easy it was to maintain the vest. I look for ones that are easy to clean and have materials resistant to mildew and UV damage. Proper care extends the vest’s lifespan and keeps it reliable.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Type 111 life vest was an important decision for my safety on the water. By focusing on certification, fit, durability, and visibility, I found a vest that gives me peace of mind during my adventures. I hope my guide helps you make the best choice for your needs!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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