Inflatable best advice sought

[bob mac]

Cabela's vs. Stormy Seas, any opinions. Cabela's looks more comfortable. Thank in advance.

[Adam-Albino]

<P><FONT color=black face=Verdana,Geneva size=2>I assume you mean Inflatable life vests? I have the Cabelas one with the fly box pockets on either side. I wear it at all times now in place of my regular flats pack. I bought mine last Spring after I took a spill in the fall of 98 down in RI.</FONT></P>
<P><FONT face=Verdana size=2>The only negative is the zipper slides on the pockets are made of white metal and will corrode fairly fast. I have to keep them clean or they get stiff.</FONT></P>
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[Jim W]

I have the SOSpenders that have a zippered and velcro flap pocket on each side. They were a Father's day present, guess they want to keep me around for a while longer. I know they were purchased at Old salt in Hingham. There was quite a selection and the prices were competitive with mail order if you include shipping and handling. Check out the link http://www.sospenders.com/

[FishHawk]

One thing to think about is would you have time to pull the handle in a panic situation? I wouldn't ware one in a kayak for example. Just my .02.

[marvin]

<P><FONT color=blue face=Verdana,Geneva size=2>I've got the Cabela's manually activated suspenders version (w/o pockets- although I'm trying to figure out a way to attach some that won't result in punctures or weakened fabric) which I use with a chest pack.&nbsp;&nbsp;I love it for my kayak, where a regular PFD is way too bulky.&nbsp; It's also one of my&nbsp;"must have" items for night wading. &nbsp; The ripcord handle is pretty accessible, so I don't think finding it in adverse circumstances should be too hard.&nbsp; </FONT></P>
<P><FONT color=blue face=Verdana,Geneva size=2>0.02, Marvin</FONT></P>
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[Adam-Albino]

I agree with Marvin. I don't believe there is any major problem with accessing the rip cord.

One thing to note, the USCC has finally started to approve "automatic" vests that inflate when they hit the water.
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[Dave Boucher]

I got the Stearns vest a couple of years ago and although I have not had to use it, it has been relatively comfortable and held up well. If you fish in the hot weather or don't carry much) the SOSpenders might be the better choice though as the vests can get warm, having a layer of plastic inside. The Stearns is VERY well constructed however, lot's of pockets and very adjustable, with ample movement for casting...Also comes with a rod loop, which is very handy for futzing with terminal tackle.

There has been some debate about inflatable PFD's but I don't see the harm..


Dave

[TomDunlap]

I don't see the harm either, better than what I've been using... nada! guess I maybe should rethink that. Tom

[bass3six]

Most interesting thread.....I've been considering inflatable suspenders as well, because I'm in the process of deciding which kayak to purchase.

Quick question.....I know PVD's are mandatory for canoes in Massachusetts now. What about kayaks? Are they mandatory? Are the flotation suspenders condidered a PFD? Don't get me wrong...as I will wear something. I used to be a very capable swimmer being an ex-scuba diver. But, I won't fool myself. I know that I am in NO WHERE NEAR the shape I was 10-15 years ago! Back then, I believe I could have survived an emergency situation. Now, I'll gladly take the necessary precautions!! Certainly not saying that a PVD guarantees protection against stupidity!!

[PeteSorensen]

My wife bought me one for father's day a few years back. It came from Henry Weston Outfitters, Orvis Brand. It is a full fly vest with a rip cord and a manual inflation tube. Mike Powers has been abusing his for years and it is still in pretty good shape. Lots of pockets, front and back.

[BluesCruiser]

Take a look at the new SOSpender belt-vest it is the size of a fannypack very light with a ripcord and self inflator. around $50.00 great for kayaks never even know its there.

[Bob Parsons]

I have the Stearns auto inflate. One day I was wading and forget I had it on when I bent over to pick something off the bottom.......whoooosh.

For wading and yaks go manual. Auto is good in a boat in case you get ejected.