Exposure to the elements seems the most common reason I've found in my research of what causes personal flotation devices to wear out.
Personal Flotation Device
In the US, it's called a personal flotation device, or "PFD".
Children must wear personal flotation devices at age 12 and younger.
90 percent
The Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is seriously recommended when the weather is rough.
Because, especially if you can not swim, the device will keep you afloat if you fall in the water and prevent you from drowning.
Any/all children need to wear flotation devices when on board a personal pleasure craft. Everyone should wear one just out of common sense.
A PFD takes some time to fit properly, especially in an emergency
A PFD takes some time to fit properly, especially in an emergency
Children under 10 years of age
In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) mandates that all individuals on vessels under 16 feet in length must wear a USCG-approved personal flotation device (PFD) while underway. Additionally, children under 13 years old are required to wear a PFD at all times on recreational boats, unless they are in an enclosed cabin. Specific regulations may vary by state, so it's important to check local laws as well.
In Virginia, the approved personal flotation device (PFD) for ski participants and personal watercraft operators is a Type III PFD, which is designed for general boating and water sports. It must be Coast Guard approved and properly fitted to the wearer. Additionally, all individuals being towed behind a boat must wear a PFD at all times while skiing or using personal watercraft.