Shown here is a personal flotation devices (PFD) pertaining to the period around the second world war. 

The first functional PFDs were invented in 1854 by the Royal Navy and made out of cork. These original life vests had some problems thought, as they were very bulky and not optimally buoyant. 

These complaints were addressed In the 1920s, when the cork was replaced by kapok. This vegetable material proved to be more buoyant, lighter, and flexible. 

These kapok vests were partially phased out in the 1940s by the “Mae West” PFD and fully 1960s with the invention of foam. 

This particular kapok vest shown here is likely from the interwar period. It features eight pouches filled with kapok, a simple zipper to close the front, and straps to connect the sides. 

Very interesting and rare iteration. Pictured on the last slide are some similar vests used during the second world war. 

Size: One size
Condition: used
Colour: green