CO2 Inflateable Life Vests, which one is best?

[Perch Jerker]

I know this question doesn't pertain only to ice fishing, but to all fishing & outdoor water activities.

I'm looking for the best (most comfortable, least intrusive, quality) CO2 inflatable life vest. The ones that are like a thin vest/suspenders look and inflate when the handle is pulled.

I'm looking for something that I can wear for early ice if I hit a thin spot, early/late cold water fishing, duck hunting, etc. I never wear a 'regular' life jacket because of the bulk, but would wear an inflateable in these dangerous water adventures.

What brand is the 'best' out there and why?

Thanks,
PJ

[Bob Cunningham]

try Stearns or SOS either one is great. make sure you get the longer ones. the short ones aren't as comfortable. I would also look at the automatic ones. You can set them off yourself or if for some reason you are unable to they will inflate for you. They have a sensor that is covered and won't go off till the water gets to the sensor. rain won't set them off. I use them early ice and when I'm on a new body of water that I don't know about the current.

[mnrstrider]

Greatest single thing I purchased this year for fishing, I onlt got the on you have to inflate manually, which is would think is fine for winter, maybe not perfect for summer, but it's better than nothing.

[rod bender]

I also purchased one for the ice season. I bought the SOSpenders camo version on HSOList. There only seems to be one vender on HSOList which sells an older model that looks just like the new model but with a different name. It is for the average person and they are a little short but I talked with the SOSpender rep on the phone and he said you want them short, up around your rib cage for best protection. I figured for saving $60, I would buy it and would only be wearing it out and back in on early and late ice anyway.