How Long Will A Life Vest Last?

[ttranger]

I have some old foam type life vests. They have been worn, but never in the water. Do they eventually "go bad" - how long would you keep them?

[rchavis]

Do like the old Bill Dance commercial .Throw them in the Pool or lake ,if they float they are good.

[billnorman1]

If they say R M S Titanic, don't use them.

[Javelin389]

I'd say as long as they aren't ripped anywhere, and the buckles are good, they should be fine.

[fishon396]

I don’t think there is a expiration date on them there is just thin sheets of foam in most of them

[billnorman1]

Don't be ashamed to pull real hard on the straps and such to make sure they won't rip off.

[Mark Perry]

The label on inside is designed to fade over time. When irs faded and xan no longer be read it is supposed to be discarded.

[ScottOz]

If they say R M S Titanic, don't use them.

[fr8dog]

Rips, tears, corrosion, broken straps will make them ‘not in good condition’ according to what I’ve read. Don’t quote me on this but I think if you try to patch or repair one it is also bad.

I just checked my older Stearns vests this AM for the labels. All look good. Thanks Mark, never thought of that.

[Ranger Rod]

This is my understanding as well.

The label on inside is designed to fade over time. When irs faded and xan no longer be read it is supposed to be discarded.