Our verdict
The Kent Throwable Flotation Cushion is a solid, no-frills Type IV flotation device that satisfies Coast Guard requirements while providing dependable buoyancy in emergencies. Its rugged vinyl shell and bright color make it a practical addition to any boat's safety kit, though it's best used as a supplemental device alongside proper life jackets.
Why it made the list
- Coast Guard approved safety
- Highly visible orange design
- Durable throwable flotation device
Pros & cons
What we like
- Meets Coast Guard carriage requirements
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Durable construction resists water damage
- Highly visible for quick rescue spotting
- Affordable safety solution for boats
Watch out for
- Not suitable for children or non-swimmers
- Bulkier than some inflatable alternatives
- Foam may compress slightly over years of use
- Limited to throwable use only, not wearable
Spec sheet
| Type | USCG Type IV |
|---|---|
| Material | Vinyl-coated nylon shell |
| Buoyancy | 18 lbs minimum support |
| Dimensions | 17 x 15 x 2 inches |
| Color | International Orange |
Features at a glance
- USCG-approved Type IV throwable device
- Closed-cell foam core for buoyancy
- Vinyl-coated nylon shell for durability
- Grab handle straps for easy retrieval
- Bright orange high-visibility color
Full review
The Kent throwable flotation cushion is a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device designed to be kept aboard any recreational boat for immediate use in a man overboard situation. Built with a durable vinyl outer shell and dense closed-cell foam filling, this cushion resists water absorption and provides reliable buoyancy that keeps a person's head and shoulders above the waterline until they can be pulled to safety or reach the boat. Its compact, square shape makes it easy to toss accurately over distance, even in windy or choppy conditions, giving boaters a fast response option when seconds matter.
Beyond its emergency function, the Kent throwable flotation cushion doubles as comfortable seating on deck, gunwales, or dock boxes, making it a practical addition rather than a piece of equipment that sits forgotten in a locker. The sturdy carrying straps sewn into the seams allow it to be gripped firmly by someone in the water or used to secure the cushion to a rail or cleat so it stays within reach during a cruise. Reinforced stitching along the edges resists fraying from sun exposure and saltwater, helping the cushion maintain its structural integrity through repeated seasons of use on sailboats, pontoons, fishing boats, and small runabouts alike.
Meeting USCG Type IV requirements, this throwable device is a staple for boaters who want to stay compliant with federal safety regulations while equipping their vessel with gear that performs when truly needed. The bright, high-visibility color options make the cushion easy to spot in the water, reducing search time during a rescue attempt, while its lightweight design ensures it won't add unnecessary bulk to a boat's safety kit. Whether stored at the helm, clipped near the stern, or placed within quick reach of the cockpit, the Kent throwable flotation cushion offers marine enthusiasts a dependable, multipurpose safety accessory built to support both everyday boating comfort and critical emergency response.
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Kent Throwable Flotation Cushion
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