Celebrating American Manufacturing
Every October, Manufacturing Month shines a light on the innovation, craftsmanship, and commitment that fuel the U.S. industry. For Switlik, this celebration runs year-round. Since 1920, Switlik has proudly designed and built all its products in Trenton, NJ, maintaining full control over production to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality.
While many companies outsource, Switlik’s American-made manufacturing allows the brand to innovate faster, respond to customer feedback, and maintain the level of reliability that defines its mission: to build life-saving equipment that performs when it matters most.
From Concept to Craftsmanship
All Switlik products are created with the same purpose: to save lives. Whether it’s a life raft, aviation life vest, or customizable dry suit, each design goes through a precise process that blends engineering, field feedback, and extensive testing.
The production floor is more than an assembly space; it’s a laboratory of innovation. Every seam, seal, and material choice is tested for durability and performance. By keeping manufacturing under one roof, Switlik ensures that every piece of gear is not only functional but mission-ready.
Why In-House Manufacturing Matters
1. Complete Quality Control:
Switlik’s facility gives the team full oversight from material sourcing to final inspection. This ensures each product meets rigorous internal and international standards.
2. Rapid Innovation:
Direct communication between designers, engineers, and production teams allows Switlik to quickly refine and test new ideas, like the U-Zip-It™ Entry System and X-Back Life Vest Lineup, and the company’s new array of customizable dry suits.
3. Built for Real-World Conditions:
Because Switlik collaborates with professionals in aviation, marine, military, and rescue sectors, feedback from experienced operators directly influences design. When operators request more mobility or an optimized fit, those changes can move from idea to implementation without delay.
The Signature Features Behind Every Suit
Switlik’s dedication to quality manufacturing is reflected in its Signature Features, each engineered for performance in extreme environments:
● U-Zip-It™ Entry System: Enables quick, unassisted entry and greater freedom of movement.
● X-Back Adjustment System: Reduces bulk and maintains comfort and safety in the seated position.
● Underarm Flotation System: Provides face-up flotation and improved mobility to swim forward in the water.
These aren’t just design details; they’re results of a century-long commitment to continuous improvement made possible by in-house manufacturing.
Looking Ahead: Manufacturing with Purpose
Manufacturing Month is more than a celebration; it’s a reminder that how things are made matters. At Switlik, every stitch represents decades of expertise, American craftsmanship, and a promise to the professionals who rely on their products every day.
From its roots in parachute design to today’s life-saving survival gear, Switlik continues to define what American manufacturing excellence looks like.
Learn more about Switlik’s manufacturing philosophy and explore the latest innovations at switlik.com.
