Self Inflating Life Jackets

[Hookmaster]

I am thinking of getting one. Who has one and how do you like it? Are these set off by heavy rain?

[PierBridge]

They have become really popular and no the rain doesn't set them off. Some of the earlier models would go off when in storage if soaked but that's pretty rare.

I will say I like the impact protection from the standard life-jacket but on hot days I'll wear the inflatable which can't be beat for comfort and peace of mind if you go in the drink.

Mine are inflatable by immersion in the water, pull cord and self inflatable through blow tube if necessary.

If you don't like the regular bulky jackets or you just don't wear a life-jacket an inflatable is the way to go!

[gunflint]

If you're going to wear it they are great. What I don't like about them is that unlike a regular pfd you must be wearing it in in the boat you can't just have it within reach or you can get tagged. If I would have known that before I bought mine I wouldn't have spent the money. I know that you should be wearing one at all times but that's not realistic in most cases.

[BLACKJACK]

I'd be concerned that after years of sitting around the boat, in the sun, folded up, in a locker, etc. that the bladder wouldn't hold air when you really, really, really need it.

As an old Navy guy, a parachute rigger, I used to have to maintain flight crew equipment, including their inflatable life vests. Every 210 days we had to inflate them and let them sit for 24 hours. Maybe that was overkill but eventually those bladders will go bad.

I'll be sticking with my regular Sterns vest.

As an aside, I'm amazed how many fisherman don't wear their vests, even in the spring with cold water, or on rough water. I know it looks more cool hanging on your seat than on your back but when you hit your head as you fall over board.... And Yes I wear mine at all times.

[JohnMickish]

The bladder isn't exposed to anything other than the inside of the cordura cover. I have one and love it during the summer but use a regular one when it's cold for the extra layer.

If they didn't work, think of the liability issues, no company would be able to withstand the first lawsuit on a safety item that dosen't work.

When it's hot out they are outstanding, offerering freedom of movement for casting and allowing air circulation to stay cool.

[harvey lee]

If a person was to purchase one, is there one that one would consider the better one?

[CAMAN]

Mustang is probably the best for inflatables out there.

In regards to lifespan of the bladder, just like your standard PFD they do have a shelflife where they should be inspected and re-armed or replaced. Following the manufacturers instructions is very important to ensuring they work properly.

[PierBridge]

I have 3 different Stearns Inflatables that I'm happy with. Prices range from $99 to $169 for the ones I have. I know there are guys who have the Float Tech PFDs and swear my them. They do cost considerably more if memory serves me right they can cost upwards of $275.

[BLACKJACK]

If they didn't work, think of the liability issues, no company would be able to withstand the first lawsuit or a safety item that dosen't work.

That sounds like backward logic!! Most lawsuits come about because someone was hurt or died, who wants to be the guinea pig??!

[Ralph Wiggum]

I know there are guys who have the Float Tech PFDs and swear my them. They do cost considerably more if memory serves me right they can cost upwards of $275.

I've got three of the Float Tech systems. I like them. I couldn't see spending MSRP on them, though. I swung a killer deal on some closeouts and got them for $40 a piece 2 years ago