Every Stohlquist PFD design is designed to meet the specific and unique fitting and performance needs of boaters. The design undergoes meticulous testing and revision in a lengthy process to meet very tight specifications, peticular designer preferences, and refined to become capable to meet the rigorous testing od Underwriters Laboratories and Coast Guard specifications. Each unit is hand made with attention to all details. We place bar tacks (an effective strength stitch) at all stress points. All seams are sewn once and then sewn again-- double stitched for strength and safety. Tensioning straps, buckles, and zippers are all strength tested before they leave the factory.

Prep all starts and finishes with the foam. Only the top grade foam specially formulated to be the softest, lightest and most buoyant for its weight. It's not too stiff, won't degrade over time or lose buoyancy. No cutting corners to compromise safety, fit and performance. The Stohlquist vest foam has long life, excellent memory and is shaped to wrap around your body with its unique softness.

Each foam blank is shaped by hand to give it the perfect combination of fit and performance. Lastly, we create chambers that enable the foam to fit close, yet provide independent movement and give you the widest range of motion.