Abstract: A personal flotation device (PFD) comprises a front flotation portion overlaying an upper region of a wearer's chest and a rear flotation portion overlaying an upper region of the wearer's back. The front flotation portion is joined with the rear flotation portion along a transverse top edge of the PFD adapted to overlay shoulders of the wearer. A seat portion is adapted to extend between the wearer's legs and is substantially free of buoyant materials relative to the main flotation member. At least one fastening strap is releasably fastenable to retain the main flotation member in place on the wearer. A majority of buoyancy provided by the PFD is disposed above a horizontally extending reference axis which corresponds to a center of gravity of the wearer. At least one ballast weight may also be provided and is disposed below the reference axis.

Abstract: A personal floatation device comprises a wide buoyant collar hinged to a thoracic float. The collar has a front portion projecting forwardly under the chin of the wearer to cooperate with the thoracic float to limit forward tilting movements of the wearer's head. The hinge between the collar and the thoracic floater provides for the combination of the buoyancy of the collar and the thoracic float when a wearer fall face down in the water. The juxtaposition of the collar and the thoracic float contributes to rapidly pivot the wearer's head out of the water. A buoyant flap is articulated to a rear end of the collar so as to be only responsive to backward movements of the wearer's upper body.

Abstract: A personal floatation device comprises a wide buoyant collar hinged to a thoracic float. The collar has a front portion projecting forwardly under the chin of the wearer to cooperate with the thoracic float to limit forward tilting movements of the wearer's head. The hinge between the collar and the thoracic floater provides for the combination of the buoyancy of the collar and the thoracic float when a wearer fall face down in the water. The juxtaposition of the collar and the thoracic float contributes to rapidly pivot the wearer's head out of the water. A buoyant flap is articulated to a rear end of the collar so as to be only responsive to backward movements of the wearer's upper body.