Glossary
Life jacket performance level
The number on newer life jacket labels (50, 70, 100, 150, 275) showing minimum buoyancy in newtons.
A life jacket performance level is the number shown on newer U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket labels, such as Level 50, 70, 100, 150 or 275. The U.S. Coast Guard (opens in a new tab) says the number is the device's minimum buoyancy, measured in newtons; 70 newtons equals about 15.74 pounds of buoyancy. Older labels use Types I, II, III and V instead, and you will still see both.
What the levels are meant for, per the Coast Guard:
- Level 50: competent swimmers near the bank or shore, or with help close at hand.
- Level 70: people with help close at hand or near shore; minimal bulk, not for long periods in rough water.
- Level 100: people who may have to wait for rescue, in sheltered water.
- Level 150: general use, including with foul-weather clothing; designed to turn an unconscious person face up.
- Level 275: offshore use in extreme conditions.
The Coast Guard also separates life jackets, which support you face up, from buoyancy aids, which need you to help keep your face out of the water. Most adults need only 7 to 12 pounds of buoyancy to keep their heads above water. See life jacket labels explained and how to choose a life jacket.
What you can do today: check the level or type on your jackets and make sure it suits the water you go on.