Level Six has just unveiled a new line of ultralight PFDs built to the U.S. Coast Guard’s new Level 50 standard, which for the first time, allows buoyancy aids with 50 newtons (about 11 pounds) of flotation to meet harmonized requirements in the U.S. and Canada. The company is currently pushing 24 different models through the rigorous Coast Guard certification process, with ten of those debuting in spring of 2027 and 14 more on deck.
While the U.S. Coast Guard certified the Level 50 standard in 2025, Canada didn’t sign off on them until March 2026. But before that, Level Six founder Stig Larsson, who learned to appreciate ultralight life jackets more than 30 years ago on the World Cup whitewater circuit, began the process to add the lightweight and flexible life vests to their line.
The new life jackets will come in both slimmed-down Level 50 versions and floatier Level 70 models, both similar to the slalom racing vest Larsson wore on the World Cup circuit with free shoulder movement and minimal bulk.
The models Level Six will debut next spring include the women’s Mattawa and men’s Thompson front-entry touring vests in multiple sizes and colorways.
A New Class of Life Jacket
The Coast Guard approved the new type of PFD with less flotation based on a simple premise: Life jackets only work if they’re worn.
The agency approved the slimmed-down new standard, but only if boaters wear it. Stuffing a Level 50 life jacket under the bungee of your paddleboard isn’t enough. The price for choosing a more stylish, flexible and cool PFD is that you have to wear it to meet legal requirements.
“Level 50 life jackets are recommended for people who are comfortable in the water,” says U.S. Coast Guard safety specialist Scott Szczepaniak. “They’re not for crossing the North Atlantic in the wintertime. But that 11 pounds of buoyancy worn is better than the 16 pounds of buoyancy clipped onto a seat.”
Level 50 does not describe one jacket shape or one sport. It defines a minimum performance rating. Manufacturers are expected to market versions for powerboating, fishing, sailing, personal watercraft, and towed watersports as well as multiple paddling disciplines.
“Across the whole range, we wanted to go for comfort and full range of movement first,” Larsson said. “That was the number one. You’ve got to want to wear it.”
Level 50 Life Jacket FAQ
The Coast Guard adopted the Level 50 standard in 2025. It lets manufacturers make lighter, more comfortable PFDs for skilled swimmers and protected water.
What is a Level 50 life jacket?
A Level 50 buoyancy aid, sometimes called a Level 50 life jacket, is a low-profile personal flotation device. It meets the Coast Guard’s Level 50 standard and supplies at least 50 newtons of buoyancy.
Does a Level 50 jacket count as my required life jacket on a boat or paddlecraft?
Yes, but only when you wear it. Carrying one aboard does not satisfy the requirement.
Who should use a Level 50 life jacket?
Level 50 PFDs suit good swimmers on protected water with rescue nearby. Their lower profile gives users more comfort and movement than many Level 70 jackets.
Can children wear Level 50 PFDs?
Yes. Children may legally use approved Level 50 buoyancy aids. They should be good swimmers and remain on protected water.
Are Level 50 life jackets available now?
Level Six expects to begin delivering its first 10 models to dealers in March 2027.
Why is it called a Level 50 buoyancy aid?
The name refers to flotation measured in newtons. A Level 50 PFD supplies 50 newtons, or about 11 pounds, of buoyancy. A Level 70 jacket supplies 70 newtons, or about 16 pounds.
Is a Level 50 aid as safe as a Level 70 life jacket?
A Level 70 jacket has more buoyancy in a direct comparison. A Level 50 aid provides suitable flotation for its intended setting. That means a good swimmer, protected water, and help close by. The safer choice is a properly fitted jacket worn for the full outing.
Which activities suit Level 50 buoyancy aids?
Manufacturers plan activity-focused models for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing, fishing, motorboating, personal watercraft, wakeboarding, and wakesurfing. Users should remain in protected water and within quick reach of rescue.