Life Vests

Bigstick 74 · June 14, 2017, 11:08:09 AM

I am in the market for a couple new life vests as the ones I have are worn out. Not interested in the inflatable models. Any and all suggestions would be appreciated.

Princeton_Man · June 14, 2017, 11:30:34 AM

If you're simply looking for decent price and something for running on the water the soft foam vests are good. I left my inflatables at home a couple years ago and had to buy one at the lake. I think it's a Mustang, cost $30 and zips. Actually pretty comfortable.

I prefer my inflatables though.

Bigstick 74 · June 14, 2017, 03:30:06 PM

Thanks for your input! I do not like the inflatables as I know someone who was ejected out of his bass boat and the inflatable was thrown off him because of the high speed. I will stick to the other styles.

Mike Cork · June 15, 2017, 08:49:55 AM

BPS makes a very comfortable vest. I have to carry vest jackets because in Louisiana the inflatables don't count unless worn. Occasionally, if it's raining, I'll break out the vests. Very please with them.

Bud Kennedy · June 15, 2017, 09:25:22 AM

I have been using Sterns vests for many years. My practice is that if the big motor is running then the vest must be on and the kill switch attached. I have considered an inflatable for those hot summer months but just did not want to part with the outlandish money they want for them. I find the sterns vest to be comfortable and easy to wear so that will do me for now. On rough water conditions the vest always stays on even when on deck slinging lures. Too many folks just don't wear their PFDs claiming they are not comfortable and besides the law just says you have to have them on board. This is not logical thinking in my book. PFDs and Kill Switches don't work if you don't use them.

Oldfart9999 · June 15, 2017, 03:21:05 PM

There are comfortable zip up vests out there, try them on to see which you prefer. I prefer the inflatable, they are the most comfortable especially in hot weather.
Rodney

Donald Garner · June 15, 2017, 04:57:42 PM

There's lots to choose from. Make sure you try them on and find the one that fits comfortably. I have both kind Auto Inflatables and the zip up / buckle up vest type. I wear the vest type mostly when its raining and cold outside. All the other times I wear the Auto Inflate.

spetro · June 18, 2017, 10:34:36 AM

...and one more thing, and this is a must for everyone! Take out any valuables that are in your pockets. Jump in fully clothed with your vest on. This will allow you to know the feel, the swim-ability, and the fit, prior to an emergency situation. Sounds nutz but it is mandatory in USCG crew training, and for good reason!

Wizard · August 13, 2017, 05:01:27 PM

Pick the type of vest that will turn you face up if unconscious. At 40 mph. hitting the water is feels like hitting concrete.

Team KaRu · January 06, 2018, 10:08:05 AM

After the unfortunate FLW event this week on Lake Okeechobee please read some of the posts in this topic regarding Life Vests.

loomisguy · January 06, 2018, 10:24:24 AM

I wear the mustang auto inflatable. I like the comfort of the inflatables but I woundnt have one that didn't have the auto inflate feature .

Oldfart9999 · January 06, 2018, 04:52:06 PM

The new inflatables, especially the automatic are much improve over the early ones. I find them comfortable even in hot weather and when you're on the Great Lakes you want to have it on at all times!!!
Rodney

topdsm0138 · January 06, 2018, 06:53:04 PM

I just use one I got at Dick's by Field n Stream. It's got mesh & neoprene shoulders and flotation around the waist. I keep it on while on the boat because it doesn't get hot or uncomfortable at all for me. My son has one as well.

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