The USCG classifies life jackets into Type I, II. III, IV and V categories. Most recreational jackets fall in Type III. Type V covers special use jackets, like inflatable and ones for rescue and commercial boating.

Low profile jackets are more compact, top-to-bottom, with thicker flotation panels; they provide great arm mobility. Flotation panels on Medium profile jackets cover more of the torso, but tend to have thinner panels. Flotation panels on High profile jackets also cover more of the torso, but have thicker panels for maximum flotation.