Patrick Gleason

[HRTV]

Hey Patrick,

I was wondering is this legal for Stock Outboard ? also will this suit float the entire body just like a standard racing jacket.

Suit

[sponsonhead]

Wrong color!

Hey Patrick,

I was wondering is this legal for Stock Outboard ? also will this suit float the entire body just like a standard racing jacket.

Suit

Hi Dan,

Nope. For one thing, it has to be 70% orange or yellow in color; and typically the capsule jackets have less flotation material in them. I also see that the manufacturer's certification tag does not indicate the class of the jacket (perhaps there is another tag in the jacket not shown). Per APBA General Safety Rule 3.B.b, it states:

"1) - The date of manufacture or the date of recertification. (yes)
2) The manufacturer’s or recertifier’s company name. (yes)
3) The type category (A, A-100, B or C) (no)
“A” For use in an open cockpit and by an unrestrained occupant.. Maximum boat speed is less than 100 mph.
“A-100” For use in an open cockpit and by an unrestrained occupant. Maximum boat speed is 100 mph or greater. A-100 may also be
used where A is required.
“B” For use by a restrained occupant of a cockpit, not necessarily employing supplemental life support equipment needing life jacket
accommodations.
“C” For use by a restrained occupant of a cockpit, that employs supplemental life support equipment."

Hope that helps,

R-19

[14-H]

Type A jacket requires some type of strap or buckle across the zipper. This one does not have that. It is definitely not a Type A jacket. Gleason is right: it is not legal. Ed.