Which type of Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is safe for a skier to wear?

A Personal Flotation Device (PFD) Type 2 is especially suitable for a skier due to its design which offers excellent buoyancy and provides a level of comfort and mobility necessary for activities such as water skiing. PFD Type 2 is designed to turn a person face up in the water, which is crucial for safety after a fall, while still allowing the wearer sufficient freedom of movement to ski effectively.

While type 1 PFDs offer the highest buoyancy and are suitable for offshore use, they can be bulky and restrictive, making them less appropriate for the agility needed in skiing. PFD Type 3s, while designed for various activities, may not guarantee the flip to a face-up position as consistently as Type 2s do, which is especially important in dynamic water skiing situations. Because safety while engaging in such activities is paramount, Type 2 is the recommended choice.